bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incidence of Vitamin Deficiency after Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass in a University Hospital Setting
Authors: Clements Ronald H. , Katasani Venkata G. , Palepu Rajendra , Leeth Ruth R. , Leath Teresa D. , Roy Brandon P. , Vickers Selwyn M.
Published: June 2020

Vitamin deficiency after gastric bypass surgery is a known complication. The purpose of this study was to measure the incidence of vitamin deficiency after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass in a university hospital setting. All patients who underwent laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass from January 2002 to December 2004 and completed a 1- and 2-year follow-up after surgery were selected. Of the total 493 patients, 318 (65%) had vitamin results at 1-year follow-up. Of the 366 eligible for the 2-year follow-up, 141 (39%) had vitamin results. Patients were further grouped based on gender, race, and Roux limb length, and incidence of vitamin deficiencies were studied. The incidence of vitamin A (retinol) deficiency was 11 per cent, vitamin C was 34.6 per cent, vitamin D25OH was 7 per cent, vitamin B1 was 18.3 per cent, vitamin B2 was 13.6 per cent, vitamin B6 was 17.6 per cent, and vitamin B12 was 3.6 per cent 12 months after surgery. There was no statistical difference in the incidence of vitamin deficiencies between 1 and 2 years. In univariate and multivariate logistic regression of 1- and 2-year follow up, black patients (vitamins A, D, and B1 for 1 year and B1 and B6 for 2 years) and women (vitamin C at 1 year) were more likely to have vitamin deficiencies. Vitamin deficiencies after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass are more common and involve more vitamins, even those that are water soluble, than previously appreciated. Black patients tend to have more deficiencies than other groups. The bariatric surgeon should be committed to the long-term follow-up and care of these patients. Further prospective and randomized studies are necessary to provide appropriate guidelines for supplementation.
Utility of Liver Function Tests after Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Authors: Kaldor Amy , Akopian Gabriel , Recabaren James , Alexander Magdi
Published: June 2020

Many surgeons routinely obtain liver function tests (LFTs) after all laparoscopic cholecystectomies. Others argue that LFTs provide no useful information and add time and expense to the patient's hospitalization. This purpose of this study was to determine if routine postoperative LFTs predict complications. One hundred ninety-nine consecutive patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy were included in the analysis. Nine (4.5%) patients had postoperative complications: eight with retained common bile duct stones and one with a cystic duct stump leak. All were diagnosed with postoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. Only four of the nine patients had hyperbilirubinemia. Overall, 39 patients had postcholecystectomy hyperbilirubinemia, with four (10%) patients having complications (three retained stones and one had a bile leak). For the entire study population, there was no difference between pre- and postoperative total bilirubin and aspartate aminotransferase levels (0.6 vs 0.6 mg/dL; P = 0.623 and 25 vs 41 U/L; P = 0.111, respectively). There was a statistically significant difference in pre- and postoperative alanine aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase (31 vs 50 U/L; P = 0.003 and 95 vs 90 U/L; P = 0.001, respectively). Postoperative elevations in liver function tests are frequently seen after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. These elevations do not predict postoperative complications. LFTs should be obtained only when clinically indicated.
A Pitfall of Protracted Surgery in the Lithotomy Position: Lower Extremity Compartment Syndrome
Authors: Chow Cassandra E. , Friedell Mark L. , Freeland Michael B. , Dejesus Samuel
Published: June 2020

Although the lithotomy position is frequently used in urologic, gynecologic, and colorectal surgery, the potentially devastating complication of lower extremity compartment syndrome is not widely recognized. The authors report a 50-year-old woman who underwent 8 hours of colorectal surgery in the lithotomy position. After surgery she complained of bilateral calf pain and was noted to have episodes of ventricular tachycardia. After emergency dialysis for hyperkalemia, she required bilateral four-compartment calf fasciotomy. Prevention of compartment syndrome and its sequelae, when using the lithotomy position, requires minimizing the duration of time in lithotomy. If protracted surgery in lithotomy is necessary, the patient should be carefully monitored for compartment syndrome postoperatively. Urgent four-compartment fasciotomy is the treatment of choice if a compartment syndrome is clinically suspected.
Lumbar Hernia Repaired Using a New Technique
Authors: Di Carlo Isidoro , Toro Adriana , Sparatore Francesca , Corsale Giuseppe
Published: June 2020

Lumbar hernia is uncommon and occurs in Grynfeltt's triangle on the left side, more frequently in men than in women. Acquired lumbar hernias are the result of iliac crest bone harvest or blunt trauma and seat belt injuries in road accidents. Many surgical options have been reported for repairing this hernia through primary closure of the defect or through use of aponeurotic or prosthetic materials. The Dowd technique is the technique most often used. The authors describe a patient with posttraumatic inferior triangle lumbar hernia who underwent laparoscopy and, 10 days later, laparotomy. Both procedures failed. Finally, a novel lumbotomic surgical approach was used, involving the Dowd technique and prosthetic mesh. The patient was free of recurrence 3 months after the procedure.
CMV Colitis Mimicking Recurrent Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Report of Three Cases
Authors: Rezania Dorna , Ouban Abderrhman , Marcet Jorge , Kelley Scott , Coppola Domenico
Published: June 2020

The association between cytomegalovirus infection and inflammatory bowel disease challenges both the clinician and the pathologist to establish the correct diagnosis and to prescribe the most appropriate form of therapy. To understand this association the authors report three patients who presented with signs and symptoms mimicking reactivated inflammatory bowel disease who responded poorly to aggressive treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. Microscopic examination, in all three cases revealed numerous nuclear and cytoplasmic viral inclusions, as demonstrated by cytomegalovirus immunohistochemistry, as well as histologic findings consistent with inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis and/or Crohn's disease). Because the clinical pathologic features of cytomegalovirus colitis and inflammatory bowel disease often overlap, and because of the possible coexistence of cytomegalovirus colitis with idiopathic colitis, the possibility of cytomegalovirus infection should be always considered, so that the most appropriate therapy can be instituted for these patients.
Polypoid Spindle Cell Carcinoma of the Esophagus
Authors: Koury Jadd , Vossough Sima , Choe Jin K. , Kim Steve H.
Published: June 2020

Rare histologic variants of esophageal cancer account for about 5% of cases. As its name suggests, polypoid spindle cell carcinoma of the esophagus (carcinosarcoma, pseudosarcoma) is comprised of both epithelial and spindle cell elements. The nomenclature reflects both the historical controversy over the lesion's cell of origin as well as its characteristic fungating intraluminal growth pattern. The authors report a case of polypoid spindle cell carcinoma of the esophagus that was preoperatively diagnosed as a visceral sarcoma.
Penetrating Gastric Ulcer Presenting as a Subcapsular Liver Abscess
Authors: Venkatesh Kota R. , Halpern Andrew , Riley Lee B.
Published: June 2020

This report describes a subcapsular liver abscess secondary to a penetrating gastric ulcer. The initial read on the CT scan misinterpreted the abscess cavity as an opacified loop of bowel, although it was very conspicuous on a retrospective review. A penetrating gastric ulcer was identified with esophagogastroduodenoscopy and the subcapsular liver abscess was subsequently detected using MRI. Although the conventional treatment of this condition is surgery, successful management was accomplished with a combination of percutaneous drainage, Helicobacter pylori eradication, and acid-suppressive therapy. A review of the literature is provided, including associated cases and the diagnostic modalities used in the evaluation of this condition. This case illustrates how one can arrive at the correct diagnosis with the use of multiple complementary modalities of investigation.
Maintenance of Certification
Authors: Rhodes Roberts
Published: June 2020

Maintenance of Certification® (MOC) is the most recent stage in the evolution of specialty board certification. Driven by increasing concerns over the quality and safety of medical care, MOC represents a change in the frequency and the nature of the requirements of existing recertification. Under MOC, the every 10-year snapshot of professionalism, participation in continuing medical education, and medical expertise that are part of current recertification will become a more continuous process. MOC adds the assessment of practice performance to these measures and represents a philosophical change as well as a requirement change. The focus of these assessments is for improvement rather than judgment. The extent to which MOC succeeds will reflect surgeons’ ability to improve the quality of care through voluntary efforts.
What Happens to Patients who Do Not Follow-Up after Bariatric Surgery?
Authors: Harper Jason , Madan Atul K. , Ternovits Craig A. , Tichansky David S.
Published: June 2020

Loss of follow-up is a concern when tracking long-term clinical outcomes after bariatric surgery. The results of patients who are “lost to follow-up” are not known. After bariatric surgery, the lack of follow-up may result in less weight loss for patients. This study investigated the hypothesis that there are differences between patients who do not automatically return for their annual follow-up and those that do return. Patients who were greater than 14 months postoperative after laparoscopic gastric bypass were contacted if they had not returned for their annual appointment. They were seen in clinic and/or a phone interview was performed for follow-up. These patients (Group A) were compared with patients who returned to see us for their annual appointment (Group B) without us having to notify them. There were 105 consecutive patients, with 48 patients who did not automatically return for their annual appointment. Only six of these patients could not ultimately be contacted. There was no difference in preoperative body mass index between the two groups. Percentage excess body weight loss was greater in Group B (76 vs 65%; P < 0.003). More patients had successful weight loss (defined as within 50% of ideal body weight) in Group B (50 [88%] vs 28 [67%]; P < 0.02). We found that a significant number of patients will not comply with regular follow-up care after laparoscopic gastric bypass unless they are prompted to do so by their bariatric clinic. These patients have worse clinical outcome ( i.e., less weight loss). Caution should be taken when examining the results of any bariatric study where there is a significant loss to follow-up.
Migration after Open Mesh Plug Inguinal Hernioplasty: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Jeans Sarah , Williams Gethin L. , Stephenson Brian M.
Published: June 2020

Migration has been highlighted as a serious complication of open inguinal hernia repair with the “plug-and-patch” technique. We used an English language Medline search from 1995 to 2006. Review of the literature found that three cases showed poor surgical technique, one case did not show true migration, another was a case of the wrong operation being done, and in the final case, the patient was in overall very poor health. Mesh plug migration after open inguinal hernia repair can be avoided if proper attention to detail is used at the time of initial repair.
Repair of a Combined Femoral Pseudoaneurysm and Arteriovenous Fistula Using a Covered Stent Graft
Authors: Kendrick Aaron S. , Sprouse L. Richard
Published: June 2020

Our purpose was to demonstrate clinical efficacy of covered stent use in the peripheral vasculature. A 68-year-old man was transferred from an outlying hospital for evaluation and treatment of a pulsatile mass in his right groin after cardiac catheterization. Imaging with duplex ultrasound and diagnostic arteriogram demonstrated a 6-cm pseudoaneurysm (PSA) of the right superficial femoral artery (SFA) and an arteriovenous fistula (AVF) of the SFA and the profunda vein. Using a covered stent extending from the proximal SFA across the origins of the AVF and PSA, complete exclusion was attained. Follow-up ultrasound at 6 weeks revealed a patent stent, no AVF, and thrombosis of the PSA. Endovascular treatment of peripheral lesions (AVF/PSA) in an elective to semi-elective setting offers patients a safe, less invasive treatment option to consider over traditional open surgery. Consequently, a formidable reduction in incision length, wound infection, and postoperative immobility can be expected.
Fasciotomy Closure Using Simultaneous Vacuum-Assisted Closure and Hyperbaric Oxygen
Authors: Weiland Dennis E.
Published: June 2020

Fasciotomies performed for compartment syndrome and ischemic vascular disease often requires closure in 2 to 4 weeks by skin graft. This leaves the patient with an unsightly scar and a limb with reduced strength. The use of vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) and hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) quickly reduce the edema and permit earlier closure with adjacent skin. A study of three trauma patients with compartment syndrome, fasciotomies, and the use of the VAC and HBOT to close the fasciotomy wounds with adjacent skin is presented. The pathophysiology of compartment syndrome and ischemia-reperfusion syndrome is discussed. These patients had closure of the fasciotomy wounds in 3 to 18 days. The simultaneous use of HBOT and VAC accelerates the reduction of edema in a synergistic fashion, permitting early closure of fasciotomy wounds.
Common Carotid Artery Imbrication as an Adjunct to Carotid Endarterectomy to Prevent Postoperative Carotid Kinking
Authors: Falkensammer Juergen , Hakaim Albert G. , Oldenburg W. Andrew , Berland Todd B.
Published: June 2020

Mobilization of a tortuous carotid artery during endarterectomy may produce redundancy of the carotid artery, and kinking. We reviewed our experience with common carotid artery (CCA) imbrication as a technique to shorten the common and internal carotid artery postendarterectomy and to avoid carotid kinking. A retrospective chart review of 163 patients who underwent carotid endarterectomy by the same surgeon between August 1998 and February 2006 was performed. All patients underwent conventional endarterectomy via a longitudinal arteriotomy with an indwelling shunt and patch angioplasty. Patients undergoing concomitant carotid artery imbrication were identified. Twelve patients who underwent carotid imbrication were identified. The mean age was 74.9 ± 8.8 years. Nine patients underwent imbrication of the CCA, and in three cases, the internal carotid artery was plicated. Follow-up duplex ultrasound examinations were available for 10 individuals and mean follow-up time was 10.7 months (range, 1–58 months). There were no cases of peri- or postoperative cerebral accidents and there was no case of restenosis. CCA imbrication as an adjunct to carotid endarterectomy is a feasible technique in preventing postoperative carotid kinking.
Primary Malignant Melanoma of the Lung: Review of Literature and Report of a Case
Authors: Reddy V. Seenu , Mykytenko James , Giltman Larry I. , Mansour Kamal A.
Published: June 2020

Less than 25 cases of primary malignant melanoma of the lung have been reported in the literature, with limited mention in the surgical literature. When published criteria are strictly applied, the actual number of cases is even fewer. We report the case of a 74-year-old man who underwent a left lower pulmonary lobectomy for a large left lower lobe mass consistent with malignancy. Clinical and pathological review confirmed primary malignant melanoma of the lung. Relevant clinical and histopathological features and the criteria for diagnosis are reviewed.
Solid Pseudopapillary Tumors of the Pancreas: Case Presentation and Review of the Literature
Authors: Hernandez Jonathan M. , Centeno Barbara A. , Kelley Scott T.
Published: June 2020

Solid-pseudopapillary tumors of the pancreas are a rare pancreatic neoplasm that carries a 95 per cent 5-year survival rate. However, despite the excellent overall prognosis, aggressive variants been described that likely represent malignant degeneration in an otherwise indolent tumor. Therefore, surgical resection is indicated in all instances. We report a case in a young Hispanic woman, including appropriate work-up and operative intervention.
Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass is an Alternative to Conventional Cardiopulmonary Bypass When Repair of Traumatic Coronary Artery Injuries is Indicated
Authors: Moore Forrest O. , Berne John D. , Turner William F. , Villarreal David H. , Mcgovern Thomas , Rowe Stephen A. , Norwood Scott H.
Published: June 2020

Coronary artery injuries after penetrating cardiac trauma are rare. The standard approach to these injuries has traditionally been coronary artery ligation. When cardiac perfusion is profoundly compromised, cardiopulmonary bypass has been used to facilitate revascularization, although with serious morbidity. We report a case of traumatic left anterior descending coronary artery transection repaired off-pump in a young stabbing victim. Penetrating traumatic cardiac injuries are highly lethal injuries. Cardiopulmonary bypass has been used for myocardial revascularization when cardiac perfusion is compromised, although with significant complications. Off-pump coronary artery bypass is a safe alternative in the traumatized patient.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Scrotum in a Radiation Technologist and the Use of Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy in Recurrent Disease
Authors: Shifrin David A. , Lange Marianne K. , Kahnoski Richard J. , Avallone Anthony N.
Published: June 2020

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the scrotum is an uncommon neoplasm. It has been described in many different occupations and is associated with a myriad of carcinogens, yet the etiology still remains a mystery. This is the first report of its occurrence in a radiation technologist. Additionally, the use of sentinel lymph node biopsy in SCC has been advocated as a safe method of limiting the morbidity associated with bilateral ilioinguinal dissections. This is the first report of its use in recurrent metastatic SCC of the scrotum.
Infiltrating Apocrine Adenocarcinoma with Extramammary Pagetoid Spread
Authors: Hernandez Jonathan M. , Copeland Edward M.
Published: June 2020

Apocrine adenocarcinoma is a rare malignancy with invasive potential. Its clinical behavior and histologic appearance are highly variable, making accurate diagnosis difficult. We report on a case of apocrine carcinoma presenting with lymph node infiltration and extensive extramammary Paget's disease. Wide local excision with lymph node dissection is the mainstay of treatment. The role of adjuvant therapy has yet to be established.
Article Commentary: Current Applications of the Intraoperative Parathyroid Hormone Assay in Parathyroid Surgery
Authors: Richards Melanie L. , Grant Clive S.
Published: June 2020

Parathyroid hormone measurement using a two-site immunochemiluminometric assay has allowed for a rapid and accurate technique that has found its way into the operative armamentarium of some parathyroid surgeons. It can be used to assess the completeness of parathyroid gland resection and allow for a minimally invasive parathyroidectomy. This operative approach has become a popular marketing tool, providing patients with confidence in their surgical outcome. The purpose of this review is to provide the surgeon with the practical points and pitfalls of the use of intraoperative parathyroid hormone in the treatment of parathyroid disease.
Complications of Thyroidectomy and Parathyroidectomy in the Rural Community Hospital Setting
Authors: Richmond Bryan K. , Eads K. , Flaherty Sarah , Belcher Michael , Runyon David
Published: June 2020

The objective of this study was to examine the complications encountered in a series of 150 consecutive thyroid and parathyroid procedures performed by a single surgeon in a rural community hospital setting. The goal was to demonstrate that these procedures may be performed safely and with outcomes equivalent to those of academic hospitals in major metropolitan areas despite the lack of availability of specific technologies that are being increasingly used for these procedures in tertiary care settings. Specifically, these include intraoperative parathyroid hormone measurements, intraoperative recurrent laryngeal nerve monitoring, and the use of the gamma probe for detection of parathyroid adenoma. A retrospective chart review was conducted on a series of 150 patients undergoing any thyroid or parathyroid operation by a single surgeon in a rural setting over a 4-year period. Data was reported regarding success at achieving the goal of the operation and any perioperative complications such as recurrent laryngeal nerve injury, permanent hypoparathyroidism, wound hematoma, infection, or pneumonia. One hundred thirty-one thyroid procedures were performed (71 lobectomies, 60 total or near total procedures) for a diverse range of patholological conditions: multinodular goiter, 76 (50.7%) patients, follicular adenoma, 9 (6.0%) patients, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, 13 (8.7%) patients, papillary carcinoma, 14 (9.3%) patients, follicular carcinoma, 5 (3.3%) patients, follicular variant of papillary carcinoma, 13 (8.7%) patients, and medullary carcinoma, 1 (0.7%) patient. Nineteen successful parathyroid explorations were performed for primary hyperparathyroidism. The overall incidence of recurrent nerve injury was 1.33 per cent overall (0.99% for each nerve encountered). The incidence of transient postoperative hypocalcemia was 13 per cent, with one patient suffering permanent hypoparathyroidism (0.8%). Two patients developed wound hematomas requiring evacuation. The overall complication rate with respect to recurrent laryngeal nerve injury and permanent hypoparathyroidism was consistent with or below that that in recent large series, despite the absence of specialized equipment for nerve monitoring. The success of identifying parathyroid adenoma was 100 per cent, despite the absence of intraoperative parathormone assays, and the decision not to perform radio-guided parathyroidectomy. We conclude that outcomes and complications in thyroid and parathyroid surgical procedures are largely dependent on surgeon skill and experience, and can be performed safely in the community setting by an experienced general surgeon despite the absence of advanced technology in this setting. We encourage all surgeons to continually examine their operative results with all technically demanding procedures when deciding the composition of their individual practices.
Traumatic Renal Artery Occlusion in a Patient with a Solitary Kidney: Case Report of Treatment with Endovascular Stent and Review of the Literature
Authors: Dowling Jason M. , Lube Matthew W. , Smith Chadwick P. , Andriole Joseph
Published: June 2020

Renal artery occlusion after blunt trauma is a rare occurrence, and the optimal treatment for this condition has not been established. To our knowledge, endovascular repair for blunt renal artery occlusion in a solitary kidney has not been described in the literature. This case report describes a 42-year-old woman with a solitary left kidney presenting with total occlusion of the left renal artery after a significant crush injury. She was successfully treated by percutaneous placement of an endovascular stent. Postprocedure, the patient developed acute renal failure requiring temporary dialysis. At follow-up 4 months later, the patient has normal urinary output and a normal creatinine.
The Contribution of Acute Cholecystitis, Obesity, and Previous Abdominal Surgery on the Outcome of Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Authors: Simopoulos Constantinos , Botaitis Sotirios , Karayiannakis Anastasios J. , Tripsianis Grigorios , Alexandros Polychronidis Michail Pitiakoudis
Published: June 2020

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of acute cholecystitis (AC), obesity, and previous abdominal surgery on laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) outcomes. Records of 1940 patients undergoing LC in 1992 and 2004 were reviewed in order to assess the independent and joint effects of the above risk factors on conversion, morbidity, operation time, and hospital stay. In multivariate regression analysis, adjusting for sex and age, AC alone and in combination with obesity or previous abdominal surgery increased the risk of conversion and complications and was associated with prolonged operation time and hospital stay compared with the patients without any of the risk factors (reference group). The independent and joint effects of obesity and previous abdominal surgery were significant only on operation time. On the contrary, previous upper abdominal surgery alone and in combination with AC was associated with 3- and 17-fold relative odds of conversion, respectively. The combined presence of AC, obesity, and previous abdominal surgery yielded an odds ratio for conversion of 7.5 and for complications of 10.7, as well as a longer operation time and hospital stay. The presence of previous upper abdominal surgery with AC and obesity had a substantial effect on conversion, with an odds ratio of 87.1 compared with the reference group. LC is safe in patients with AC, previous abdominal surgery, or obesity. However, the presence of inflammation alone or in combination with obesity and/or previous (especially upper) abdominal surgery is the main factor that influences the adverse outcomes of LC.
Mesenteric Venous Thrombophlebitis–Septic Thrombophlebitis of the Inferior Mesenteric Vein: An Unusual Manifestation of Diverticulitis
Authors: Domajnko Bastian , Kumar Amit , Salloum Rabih M.
Published: June 2020

We report a case of a 57-year-old female patient who presented with fever, abdominal pain, and bacteremia. A CT scan demonstrated sigmoid diverticulitis and air within the inferior mesenteric vein. The patient underwent exploratory laparotomy and sigmoid colectomy. She was discharged without complications. Septic thrombophlebitis of the inferior mesenteric vein is a rare complication of diverticulitis. It may manifest as bacteremia not responding to intravenous antibiotics. CT scan findings are diagnostic, and include evidence of intraluminal gas within the inferior mesenteric vein. As with any case of complicated diverticulitis, the treatment is surgical resection of the involved colon.
Recurrent Metachronous Metastatic Multifocal Renal Cell Carcinoma to the Pancreas
Authors: Logue Alicia J. , Behrman Stephen W.
Published: June 2020

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) metastatic to the pancreas may present synchronously or years after the initial diagnosis. In the absence of more widespread disease, surgical extirpation is recommended and is often associated with long-term survival. Most patients present with isolated metastases, with the vast majority of the literature pertaining to this select group. Multifocal metastases and recurrent metastatic disease after previous surgical resection of the pancreas for RCC have been less well described. Most often, surgery has been performed in these latter populations, although data with respect to long-term survival remains incomplete. Despite the use of routine CT, multifocal disease is often discovered unexpectedly at the time of surgical exploration or on final pathologic analysis, and diagnostic strategies to improve recognition of this entity have been incompletely assessed. Management of recurrent metastatic and multifocal RCC to the pancreas within the context of the existing literature is suggested.
The Use of Spray Electrocautery to Control Presacral Bleeding: A Report of Four Cases
Authors: Filippakis George M. , Leandros Manolis , Albanopoulos Kostas , Genetzakis Michael , Lagoudianakis Emmanuel , Pararas Nikos , Konstandoulakis Manousos M.
Published: June 2020

Bleeding originating from the presacral venous plexus during pelvic operations is difficult to control, constituting a potentially life-threatening complication. Although suture ligatures, packing, and placement of tacks are established hemostatic techniques, they are often proved to be ineffective. We report a simple novel technique using spray diathermy for managing this severe complication. We have applied our method in four patients, two undergoing low anterior resection, and the others undergoing abdominoperineal resection for rectal cancer, that manifested severe presacral bleeding during rectal mobilization. Electrocautery at spray setting was applied slightly above the target bleeders at the presacral fascia, delivering a high-frequency electrical current in combination with drainage suction. In all cases, the method resulted in successful hemostasis. Applying spray electrocautery is a simple and effective method for controlling pre-sacral bleeding. The advantages of using such a method instead of conventional hemostatic techniques include the option of varying the degree of haemostatic effect by altering the frequency and the volume of electric current.
An Economic Analysis of Hospital Charges for Choledocholithiasis by Different Treatment Strategies
Authors: Schroeppel Thomas J. , Lambert Pamela J. , Mathiason Michelle A. , Kothari Shanu N.
Published: June 2020

The ideal management of presumed choledocholithiasis is controversial. We hypothesized that patients admitted with presumed choledocholithiasis would be better served financially to undergo laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) with possible intraoperative intervention versus preoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography followed by LC. A chart review was performed from September 1, 2000 to August 31, 2003. One hundred seventy-one consecutive patients identified with presumed choledocholithiasis were reviewed. Six patients were excluded because of missing charge data. Professional and technical fees from the total hospital charges were used for comparison. Three groups of patients were compared for charge analysis. Group 1 underwent LC with laparoscopic common bile duct exploration. Group 2 underwent LC with preoperative or postoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. Group 3 was a control group of LC only. Student's t test was used for statistical analysis with a P value of <0.05 defined as statistically significant. P values reflect comparisons with Group 1. Group 1 charges were $13,026, Group 2 charges were $15,303, and Group 3 charges were $9,122. For suspected choledocholithiasis, LC with intraoperative intervention is the most economically advantageous approach.
Giant Pelvic Solitary Fibrous Tumor Obstructing Intestinal and Urinary Tract: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Yi Bing , Bewtra Chandra , Yussef K. , Silva Edibaldo
Published: June 2020

We are reporting a giant pelvic neoplasm, a rare solitary fibrous tumor that presented with a large bowel obstruction and bilateral ureteral obstruction because of its size and location. Preoperative diagnosis required complex pathological studies to exclude a high-grade sarcoma suspected clinically. Complete resection was required for resolution of obstructive symptoms. Prognosis for solitary fibrous tumors is usually good after complete resection. Recurrence and metastasis may be related to rare aggressive histological features, including nuclear atypia, hypercellularity, greater than four mitoses/10 high power fields, and necrosis. Because histology is not always a reliable predictor of prognosis, careful long-term follow-up is necessary for this tumor. Solitary fibrous tumors (SFTs) are rare spindle cell neoplasms most likely arising from mesenchymal cells. SFTs were originally described in the pleura, the most common site for this tumor; however, extrathoracic SFTs are seemingly diagnosed with increased frequency. We report a case of a giant pelvic SFT that required complicated clinical management.
Significance of Tumor Capsular Invasion in Well-Differentiated Thyroid Carcinomas
Authors: Furlan Julio C. , Bedard Yvan C. , Rosen Irving B.
Published: June 2020

This study examines the influence of tumor capsular invasion on the biological behavior of papillary (PTC) and follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC) and the prognosis of surgically treated patients. This retrospective cohort study included 350 cases of PTC or FTC from a university teaching hospital. Patient charts were randomly selected and reviewed. The study population was divided into PTC and FTC groups. Each group was subdivided into CI+ (with tumor capsular invasion) and CI- subgroups (without tumor capsule or without capsular invasion). The long-term prognosis was assessed using the American Joint Committee on Cancer pTNM staging and the prognostic index was elaborated by the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer. There were 284 women and 66 men (ages 19–89 years, mean of 44) with an incidence of 53.1 per cent for CI+ tumors. There were no significant differences between the PTC subgroups regarding the short-term clinical outcome and the long-term prognosis. Although patients with CI+ FTC showed lower incidence of lymph node metastasis than patients with CI- FTC, the FTC subgroups were comparable regarding the short-term clinical outcome and the long-term prognosis. Our results suggest that presence of tumor capsular invasion does not adversely influence biological behavior or survival of PTC or FTC. Moreover, the presence of tumor capsular invasion appears to not have significance for the long-term prognosis of patients with PTC or FTC.
Partial Cholecystectomy as a Safe and Viable Option in the Emergency Treatment of Complex Acute Cholecystitis: A Case Series and Review of the Literature
Authors: Soleimani Mehrdad , Mehrabi Arianeb , Mood Zhoobin A. , Fonouni Hamidreza , Kashfi Arash , BÜChler Markus W. , Schmidt Jan
Published: June 2020

Partial cholecystectomy (PC) is an alternative choice to standard cholecystectomy in situations with increased risk of Calot's components injury. We reported our experience with the patients treated with PC and reviewed the literature. Fifty-four patients with complex acute cholecystitis underwent PC, including conventional partial cholecystectomy (CPC; n = 48) and laparoscopic partial cholecystectomy (LPC; n = 6). The clinical diagnosis was verified by ultrasonography. In addition, we reviewed 1190 published cases (1972–2005) who underwent a “nonconventional” surgery for severe cholecystitis, including cholecystostomy, CPC, or LPC. Review of the literature, including our cases, showed a male:female ratio of 1.3:1. The major operative indication was severe acute cholecystitis. Procedures included cholecystostomy (65.8%) and PC (34.2%). In the follow-up (n = 1190), biliary leak (4.8%), retained stones (4.6%), recurrent symptoms (2.3%), wound infections (1.9%), persistent biliary fistula (0.9%), and prolonged biliary drainage (0.2%) were found, with an overall mortality rate of 9.4 per cent. In 133 patients, because of postoperative complications ( e.g., recurrent symptoms, remaining common bile duct stones, or persistence of bile fistula), reoperation was necessary, including 121 cases (90.1%) of cholecystectomy, whereas the other 11 patients underwent other procedures such as common bile duct exploration or closure of the fistula. The surgical trend for complex acute cholecystitis treatment has been changed from only cholecystostomy to a spectrum of cholecystostomy, CPC, and LPC with the progressive increase of PC. The proportion of the LPC compared with CPC has also increased during recent years. It seems that PC is a safe procedure for treating complicated acute cholecystitis. Whether the indication and need for alternative techniques to standard cholecystectomy is changing should be evaluated in future studies.
Body Mass Index Influences Palpability but not Stage of Breast Cancer at Diagnosis
Authors: Chagpar Anees B. , Mcmasters Kelly M. , Saul Jeremy , Nurko Jacob , Martin Robert C.G. , Scoggins Charles R. , Edwards Michael J.
Published: June 2020

Body mass index (BMI) is associated with breast cancer risk, but its relationship with stage at diagnosis is unclear. BMI was calculated for patients in the North American Fareston and Tamoxifen Adjuvant trial, and was correlated with clinicopathologic factors, including stage at diagnosis. One thousand eight hundred fourteen patients were enrolled in the North American Fareston and Tamoxifen Adjuvant study; height and weight were recorded in 1451 (80%) of them. The median BMI was 27.1 kg/m2 (range, 14.7–60.7). The median patient age was 68 years (range, 42–100); median tumor size was 1.3 cm (range, 0.1–14 cm). One thousand seven hundred ninety-three (99.0%) patients were estrogen receptor positive, and 1519 (84.7%) were progesterone receptor positive. There was no significant relationship between BMI (as a continuous variable) and nodal status ( P = 0.469), tumor size ( P = 0.497), American Joint Committee on Cancer stage ( P = 0.167), grade ( P = 0.675), histologic subtype ( P = 0.179), or estrogen receptor status ( P = 0.962). Patients with palpable tumors, however, had a lower BMI than those with nonpalpable tumors (median 26.4 kg/m2 vs 27.5 kg/m2, P < 0.001). Similar results were found when BMI was classified as a categorical variable (<25 vs 25–29.9 vs ≥30). Increased BMI does not lead to a worse stage at presentation. Obese patients, however, tend to have nonpalpable tumors. Mammography in this population is especially important.
Abdominal CT Scanning in Reproductive-Age Women with Right Lower Quadrant Abdominal Pain: Does Its Use Reduce Negative Appendectomy Rates and Healthcare Costs?
Authors: Morse Bryan C. , Roettger Richard H. , Kalbaugh Corey A. , Blackhurst Dawn W. , Hines William B.
Published: June 2020

Although acute appendicitis is the most frequent cause of the acute abdomen in the United States, its accurate diagnosis in reproductive-age women remains difficult. Problems in making the diagnosis are evidenced by negative appendectomy rates in this group of 20 per cent to 45 per cent. Abdominal CT scanning has been used in diagnosing acute appendicitis, but its reliability and usefulness remains controversial. There is concern that the use of CT scanning to make this diagnosis leads to increased and unwarranted healthcare charges and costs. The purpose of our study is to determine if abdominal CT scanning is an effective test in making the diagnosis of acute appendicitis in reproductive-age women (age, 16–49 years) with right lower quadrant abdominal pain and to determine if its use is cost-effective. From January 2003 to December 2006, 439 patients were identified from our academic surgical database and confirmed by chart review as undergoing an appendectomy with a pre- or postoperative diagnosis of acute appendicitis. Data, including age, presence and results of preoperative abdominal CT scans, operative findings, and pathology reports were reviewed. Comparison of patients receiving a preoperative CT scan with those who did not was performed using chi-squared analysis. In the subgroup of reproductive-age women, there was a significant difference in negative appendectomy rates of 17 per cent in the group that received abdominal CT scans versus 42 per cent in the group that did not ( P < 0.038). After accounting for the patient and insurance company costs, abdominal CT scan savings averaged $1412 per patient. Abdominal CT scanning is a reliable, useful, and cost-effective test for evaluating right lower quadrant abdominal pain and making the diagnosis of acute appendicitis in reproductive-age women.
Nonoperative Management of Blunt Splenic Trauma in the Elderly: Does Age Play a Role?
Authors: Siriratsivawong Kris , Zenati Mazen , Watson Gregory A. , Harbrecht Brian G.
Published: June 2020

Nonoperative management (NOM) of blunt splenic injury has become more frequent in the past several decades. Criteria that predict successful NOM remain poorly defined, and one factor that has been studied previously has been patient age. Previous studies have defined older patients as those greater than 55 years of age, but no studies have compared younger patients (55–75 years) with older patients (75+ years) within this age group. A total of 1008 patients ≥55 years of age who sustained blunt splenic injury between 1993 and 2001 were analyzed from the Pennsylvania Trauma Systems Foundation database. Statistical analysis was performed using regression analysis. Data was expressed as mean ± SD, and a P value of ≤ 0.05 was considered significant. Patients were classified as operative management (OM; 39.9%) or NOM (60.1%) according to their initial plan of treatment. Of the patients in the NOM group, 75.3 per cent were successfully managed nonoperatively (SNOM), whereas 24.7 per cent eventually required surgery. The Injury Severity Score of the OM group was highest (34) compared with the SNOM group (22) and failed NOM (FNOM; 27) groups. The mean splenic injury grade for OM, SNOM, and FNOM was 3.5, 2.4, and 3.3, respectively. The number of pre-existing conditions did not differ among the three groups. An upward trend in the failure rate of NOM was observed with increasing age (19.0%, 27.1%, and 28.3%, respectively) for three age groups, 55–64, 65–74, and 75+, but this trend was not statistically significant. Mortality rate was highest in the OM group (35.6%) compared with the successful (16.7%) and failed NOM (17.9%). Hospital length of stay (LOS) and intensive care unit (ICU) LOS were highest among patients who failed NOM (mean hospital LOS = 20.7 days, mean ICU LOS = 13.2 days) compared with OM (17.2 and 10.4, respectively) and successful NOM (12.4 and 6.9, respectively). The majority of patients ≥55 years with blunt splenic injuries can be managed nonoperatively when carefully selected. In the subset of patients older than 55 years of age, increasing age is associated with a trend toward higher failure rates. Mortality was high regardless of management, and failure of NOM in older patients is associated with significantly longer hospital and ICU LOS.
Potential Financial Impact of First Assistant Billing by Surgical Residents
Authors: Madan Atul K. , Fabian Timothy C. , Tichansky David S.
Published: June 2020

General surgery residency involves a mixture of 1) education of residents and 2) service by residents. The service that residents provide is not directly reimbursed in our current healthcare system by private healthcare insurance companies. This investigation characterizes the amount of reimbursement a typical resident would be able to collect if residents were allowed to collect for their services as a first assistant. The case logs of residents who graduated over 2 years from our general surgery residency program were reviewed. Data from each resident's last 2 years (postgraduate years 4 and 5) were included in this study. Relative value units (RVUs) for each Current Procedural Terminology code were reviewed. Collections were calculated by multiplying the Medicare conversion factor of $36.7856/RVU, the corresponding RVU, and a “standard” collection rate of 16 per cent for first assistants. There were 13 general surgery residents. These residents provided first assistant help with 91,473 RVUs over 2 years. A total amount of $535,380 could have been collected on first assistant fees for the last 2 years of their residency. Each resident would have been able to collect an average at least $41,414 just for first assistant operative fees. Resident assistance in the operating room provides significant savings for private healthcare insurance companies each year by reducing the need for first assistants. The data demonstrate that private insurance companies receive a considerable amount of pro bono service from residents. Changes in the financing of the current healthcare system in the United States will require educators to examine other sources ( i.e., private insurance companies) for support of graduate medication education.
Predictors of Electrocardiographic Change, Cardiac Troponin Elevation, and Survival after Major Vascular Surgery: A Community Hospital Experience
Authors: Blecha Matthew J. , Clark Elizabeth T. , Worley Todd A. , Salazar Mario R. , Podbielski Francis J.
Published: June 2020

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of perioperative morbidity and mortality after vascular surgery. The purpose of this study was to identify risk factors for myocardial ischemia after vascular surgery and to investigate a potential association of ischemia with mortality in a community hospital setting. A retrospective review was conducted after 190 major vascular procedures. Electrocardiogram (ECG) results and troponin I levels were obtained serially during the first 24 postoperative hours. Outcomes analyzed were ischemic ECG changes, troponin I level more than 2 ng/mL, 6-month mortality, and overall survival. The authors investigated any association of these outcomes with each other and the type of operation, history of coronary artery disease, diabetes, recent coronary intervention, age older than 70 years, or postoperative symptoms. Twenty-seven (14%) patients experienced ischemic ECG changes. Twenty-one (11%) patients experienced troponin I elevation. Univariate analysis revealed a history of coronary artery disease, diabetes, concerning symptoms, and troponin elevation to be predictive of ECG change ( P < 0.05). ECG change and symptoms were predictive of troponin elevation ( P < 0.01). Cox multivariate analysis revealed only infrainguinal bypass to predict 6-month mortality (odds ratio = 2.92, P = 0.02). Diabetes was the sole predictor of overall mortality (odds ratio = 1.94, P = 0.001). Nonsustained ischemic postoperative ECG changes during the first 24 postoperative hours do not independently influence 6-month or overall mortality after major vascular surgery. Postoperative troponin elevation likely conveys a mortality risk in the subsequent 6 months. In the community hospital setting, midterm survival rates after vascular surgery equivalent to those in higher volume centers can be achieved. Patients undergoing infrainguinal bypass and diabetics continue to be the most moribund vasculopaths.
Bursting Strength Evaluation in an Experimental Model of Incisional Hernia
Authors: Lucha Paul A. , Briscoe Crystal , Brar Harpreet , Schneider James J. , Butler Ralph E. , Jaklic Beth , Francis Michael
Published: June 2020

Incisional hernias occur in up to 11 per cent of patients undergoing abdominal surgery. Up to 50 per cent of these patients with hernias will require repeat operative procedures. Management of these hernias have focused primarily on tensile strength of the mesh material, have not addressed currently used materials, and have not compared the strength of these repairs with each other. Forty-nine adult Sprague–Dawley rats had an incisional hernia created by removing a portion of their abdominal wall that was then repaired primarily, using either a composite mesh, Dual mesh (Gore-Tex), or polypropylene mesh. Six weeks after the repair, the rats were euthanized. Hydrostatic distension of the abdominal cavity was performed to compare bursting strength of each repair. Wound tensile strength was assessed and compared. Tissue samples were also taken to compare repair types for incorporation of prosthetic materials. The gross weight of the animals subjected to hydrostatic distention was equivalent between groups, as was the volume required prior to failure of the repair. There was a trend toward improved tensile strength of the Prolene mesh repair, which had a lower average inflammatory and fibrosis score on histology. Overall, the type of mesh used for repair does not seem to impact significantly the strength of the repair when assessed 6 weeks postoperatively. Choice of prosthetic material to repair the hernia should be made based on economics and handling characteristics alone. Prolene mesh has satisfactory strength with the least amount of inflammation and fibrosis.