bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors of Mortality and Limb Loss in Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infections
Authors: Schwartz Samuel , Kightlinger Elizabeth , Virgilio Christian De , Virgilio Michael De , Kaji Amy , Neville Angela , Bennion Robert , Saltzman Darin J.
Published: June 2020

Necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTIs) require prompt diagnosis and treatment. Early identification of patients at greatest risk of limb amputation and death may help in targeting aggressive medical and surgical management. The aim of this study was to assess predictors of limb loss and mortality in patients with NSTI based on admission variables. We performed a retrospective review of two hospitals that care for a large volume of patients with NSTI. Univariate and multi-variable analyses were used to determine the association of admission biochemical markers to limb loss and mortality. Of 174 patients with NSTI, there were 19 deaths (10.9%) and 42 required amputations (24.1%). Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that only arterial lactate was predictive for both mortality (odds ratio [OR], 1.5; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1 to 2.0; P = 0.009) and limb loss (OR, 1.3; 95% CI, 1.0 to 1.7; P = 0.02). In patients with a suspected NSTI, an arterial lactate should be ordered early on to guide aggressive therapeutic interventions and to provide information with regard to long-term outcomes of amputation and death that is needed for early discussion with the patient and family.
Rate of Re-excision after Breast-conserving Surgery for Invasive Lobular Carcinoma
Authors: Wanis Morcos L. , Wong Jennifer A. , Rodriguez Samuel , Wong Jasmine M. , Jabo Brice , Ashok Arjun , Lum Sharon S. J. , Solomon Naveenraj L. , Reeves Mark E. , Garberoglio Carlos A. , Senthil Maheswari
Published: June 2020

Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) accounts for approximately 5 to 20 per cent of all breast cancers and is often multicentric. Despite pre- and intraoperative assessments to achieve negative margins, ILC is reported to be associated with higher rates of positive margin. This cross-sectional study examined patients with breast cancer treated at our institution from 2000 to 2010. The objective was to investigate the rate of re-excision resulting from positive or close margin (1 mm or less) in patients who underwent breast-conserving surgery (BCS) for ILC compared with invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) and ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Of the 836 patients treated, 416 patients underwent BCS. The rate of re-excision after BCS for ILC was 35.1 versus 17.7 per cent for IDC and 20.0 per cent for DCIS ( P = 0.04). Re-excisions were more often performed for positive margin in patients with ILC (11 of 37 [29.7%]) versus IDC (36 of 334 [10.8%]) and DCIS (five of 45 [11.1%];( P = 0.004). In this single-institution review, BCS for ILC had significantly higher rates of re-excision as a result of positive margins when compared with IDC and DCIS. Tumor size greater than 2 cm and lymph node involvement were identified as factors associated with positive surgical margin in ILC. The higher possibility of positive margins and the need for additional procedures should be discussed with patients undergoing BCS for ILC.
Mechanism of Injury is not a Predictor of Trauma Center Admission
Authors: Stuke Lance E. , Duchesne Juan C. , Hunt John P. , Marr Alan B. , Meade Peter C. , McSwain Norman E.
Published: June 2020

Most trauma systems use mechanism of injury (MOI) as an indicator for trauma center transport, often overburdening the system as a result of significant overtriage. Before 2005 our trauma center accepted all MOI. After 2005 we accepted only those patients meeting anatomic and physiologic (A&P) triage criteria. Patients entered into the trauma center database were divided into two groups: 2001 to 2005 (Group 1) and 2007 to 2010 (Group 2) and also categorized based on trauma team activation for either A&P or MOI criteria. Overtriage was defined as patient discharge from the emergency department within 6 hours of trauma activation. A total of 9899 patients were reviewed. Group 1 had 6584 patients with 3613 (55%) activated for A&P criteria and 2971 (45%) for MOI. Group 2 had 3315 patients with 3149 (95%) activated for A&P criteria and 166 (5%) for MOI. Accepting only those patients meeting A&P criteria resulted in a decrease in the overtriage rate from 66 to 9 per cent. By accepting only those patients meeting A&P criteria, we significantly reduced our overtriage rate. Patients meeting MOI criteria were transported to community hospitals and transferred to the trauma center if major injuries were identified. Trauma center transport for MOI results in significant overtriage and may not be justified.
Matrix Metalloproteinases in Pathogenesis of Hemorrhoidal Disease
Authors: Kisli Erol , Kemik Ahu , Sümer Aziz , Kemik özgür
Published: June 2020

The aim of this study is to investigate the accuracy of serum matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) levels in an effort to find a reliable factor that may play an important role in pathogenesis of hemorrhoidal disease. Twenty control subjects and 21 Grade I, 19 Grade II, 20 Grade III, and 21 Grade IV patients with internal hemorrhoid were included in this prospective study. The mean ages of control subjects were 47.65 ± 6.71 standard deviation (SD) years (range, 37 to 60 years). The mean age of internal Grade I, Grade II, Grade III, and Grade IV patients with internal hemorrhoid were 48.85 ± 6.44, 47.20 ± 6.75, 44.90 ± 6.13, and 42.95 ± 3.49 SD years (ranges, 38 to 58, 38 to 60, 34 to 55, and 38 to 50 years), respectively. Ten milliliters of blood was taken from all subjects. Enzymelinked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for MMP-1, -2, -7, and -9 levels were performed using an ELISA kit (R&D Systems) following the manufacturer's instructions. There was an important difference between Grade I and Grade II groups in the serum levels of MMP-9 ( P < 0.01). Patients with Grade III hemorrhoidal disease had significantly higher serum levels of all MMP than patients with Grade I and Grade II hemorrhoidal disease ( P < 0.001). Also, patients with Grade 4 hemorrhoidal disease had higher serum levels of MMP-7 and -9 according to Grade I, II, and III groups ( P < 0.01, 0.001). High serum levels of MMP are present in patients with hemorrhoids, suggesting the possible mechanism in the pathogenesis of hemorrhoids.
Anion Gap as a Predictor of Trauma Outcomes in the Older Trauma Population: Correlations with Injury Severity and Mortality
Authors: Leskovan John J. , Justiniano Carla F. , Bach John A. , Cook Charles H. , Lindsey David E. , Eiferman Daniel S. , Papadimos Thomas J. , Steinberg Steven M. , Bergese Sergio D. , Stawicki Stanislaw P. A. , Evans David C.
Published: June 2020

The relationship among traumatic injury, the associated metabolic/physiologic responses, and mortality is well established. Tissue hypoperfusion and metabolic derangement may not universally correlate with initial clinical presentation. We hypothesized that anion gap (AG) could be a useful gauge of trauma-related physiologic response and mortality in older patients with relatively lower injury acuity. We retrospectively analyzed data from 711 trauma patients older than 45 years. Parameters examined included demographics, injury characteristics, laboratories, morbidity, and mortality. Univariate and survival analyses were performed using PASW 18. A step-wise correlation exists between increasing Injury Severity Score and AG. Although AG less than 8 to 15 was not associated with a significant increase in mortality, greater mortality was seen for AG greater than 16 with further stepwise increases for AGs greater than 22. Anion gap correlated moderately with serum lactate and poorly with base excess. Increasing AG also correlated with morbidity and greater incidence of intensive care admissions. The presence of any complication increased from 28.6 per cent for patients with AG 12 or less to 45.5 per cent for patients with AG 22 or greater ( P < 0.04). These findings support the contention that “low acuity” trauma patients with high AGs may not appear acutely ill but may harbor significant underlying metabolic and physiologic disturbances that could contribute to morbidity and mortality. Higher AG values (i.e., greater than 16) may be associated with worse clinical outcomes.
Early Intravenous Ibuprofen Decreases Narcotic Requirement and Length of Stay after Traumatic Rib Fracture
Authors: Bayouth Lilly , Safcsak Karen , Cheatham Michael L. , Smith Chadwick P. , Birrer Kara L. , Promes John T.
Published: June 2020

Pain control after traumatic rib fracture is essential to avoid respiratory complications and prolonged hospitalization. Narcotics are commonly used, but adjunctive medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be beneficial. Twenty-one patients with traumatic rib fractures treated with both narcotics and intravenous ibuprofen (IVIb) (Treatment) were retrospectively compared with 21 age- and rib fracture-matched patients who received narcotics alone (Control). Pain medication requirements over the first 7 hospital days were evaluated. Mean daily IVIb dose was 2070 ± 880 mg. Daily intravenous morphine-equivalent requirement was 19 ± 16 vs 32 ± 24 mg ( P < 0.0001). Daily narcotic requirement was significantly decreased in the Treatment group on Days 3 through 7 ( P < 0.05). Total weekly narcotic requirement was significantly less among Treatment patients ( P = 0.004). Highest and lowest daily pain scores were lower in the Treatment group ( P < 0.05). Hospital length of stay was 4.4 ± 3.4 versus 5.4 ± 2.9 days ( P = 0.32). There were no significant complications associated with IVIb therapy. Early IVIb therapy in patients with traumatic rib fractures significantly decreases narcotic requirement and results in clinically significant decreases in hospital length of stay. IVIb therapy should be initiated in patients with traumatic rib fractures to improve patient comfort and reduce narcotic requirement.
Some Observations on the Interdigitation of Advances in Medical Science and Mathematics
Authors: Glamore Michael James , West James L. , O'leary James Patrick
Published: June 2020

The immense advancement of our understanding of disease processes has not been a uniform progression related to the passage of time. Advances have been made in “lurches” and “catches” since the advent of the written word. There has been a remarkable interdependency between such advances in medicine and advances in mathematics that has proved beneficial to both. This work explores some of these critical relationships and documents how the individuals involved contributed to advances in each.
Repeat Head Computed Tomography in Anticoagulated Traumatic Brain Injury Patients: Still Warranted
Authors: Joseph Bellal , Sadoun Moutamn , Aziz Hassan , Tang Andrew , Wynne Julie L. , Pandit Viraj , Kulvatunyou Narong , O'keeffe Terence , Friese Randall S. , Rhee Peter
Published: June 2020

Anticoagulation agents are proven risk factors for intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) in traumatic brain injury (TBI). The aim of our study is to describe the epidemiology of prehospital coumadin, aspirin, and Plavix (CAP) patients with ICH and evaluate the use of repeat head computed tomography (CT) in this group. We performed a retrospective study from our trauma registry. All patients with intracranial hemorrhage on initial CT with prehospital CAP therapy were included. Demographics, CT scan findings, number of repeat CT scans, progressive findings, and neuro-surgical intervention were abstracted. A comparison between prehospital CAP and no-CAP patients was done using χ2 and Mann-Whitney U test. A total of 1606 patients with blunt TBI charts were reviewed of whom 508 patients had intracranial bleeding on initial CT scan and 72 were on prehospital CAP therapy. CAP patients were older ( P < 0.001), had higher Injury Severity Score and head Abbreviated Injury Scores on admission ( P < 0.001), were more likely to present with an abnormal neurologic examination ( P = 0.004), and had higher hospital and intensive care unit lengths of stay ( P < 0.005). Eighty-four per cent of patients were on antiplatelet therapy and 27 per cent were on warfarin. The CAP patients have a threefold increase in the rate of worsening repeat head CT (26 vs 9%, P < 0.05). Prehospital CAP therapy is high risk for progression of bleeding on repeat head CT. Routine repeat head CT remains an important component in this patient population and can provide useful information.
Blunt Assault: ‘Million Dollar Baby’
Authors: Hadjizacharia Pantelis , Rhee Peter , Pandit Viraj , Aziz Hassan , Green Donald , Joseph Bellal
Published: June 2020

Contrasting reports exist in the literature regarding the management of patients with blunt assault to the head, neck, and face and more importantly for clearing the cervical spine. The purpose of our study was to determine the risk of cervical spine injuries after blunt assault to the head, neck, and face and its association with other injuries. We performed a retrospective case review of all blunt assault trauma admissions to the head, neck, and face at our Level I trauma center. We identified all patients who were assaulted with hands and feet and blunt instruments. A total of 3286 patients with blunt assault to the head, neck, and face were identified of whom 11 (0.003%) were found to have a cervical spine fracture or cervical spine subluxation. None of the patients had a cervical spinal cord injury. The 11 patients composed our study population with a mean age of 39 ± 7.8 years, 100 per cent were male, and the mean Injury Severity Score was 12 ± 7.9. Five (45%) patients required surgery for stabilization of the cervical spine. Mortality was reported in only one patient who had a C7 transverse process fracture. Cervical spine injury after blunt assault is rare but does occur and encompasses significant injuries requiring surgical intervention. However, these injuries are the result of direct blows to the cervical spine and we suggest that assaulted patients with no direct trauma to the neck do not require an exhaustive evaluation of the cervical spine.
Recurrence and Pseudorecurrence after Laparoscopic Ventral Hernia Repair: Predictors and Patient-focused Outcomes
Authors: Carter Stacey A. , Hicks Stephanie C. , Brahmbhatt Reshma , Liang Mike K.
Published: June 2020

Laparoscopic ventral hernia repair (LVHR) is gaining popularity as an option to repair abdominal wall hernias. Bulging after repair remains common after this technique. This study evaluates the incidence and factors associated with bulging after LVHR. Between 2000 and 2010, 201 patients underwent LVHR at two affiliated institutions. Patients who developed recurrence or pseudorecurrence (seroma or eventration) were analyzed with univariate and multivariate analyses to identify predictors of these complications. Of the 201 patients who underwent LVHR, 40 (19.9%) patients developed a seroma, 63 (31.3%) patients had radiographically proven eventration, and 25 (12.4%) patients had a hernia recurrence. On multivariate analysis, seromas were associated with number of prior ventral hernia repairs, surgical site infections, and prostate disease. Mesh eventration was associated with hernia size and surgical technique. Tissue eventration was associated with primary hernias and surgical technique. Hernia recurrence was associated with incisional hernias and mesh type used. Recurrence and pseudorecurrence are important complications after LVHR. Large hernia size, infections, and surgical technique are important clinical factors that affect outcomes after LVHR.
Validation of Mucosal Sutureless Pancreatojejunostomy after Pancreatoduodenectomy
Authors: Ishizaki Yoichi , Yoshimoto Jiro , Sugo Hiroyuki , Imamura Hiroshi , Kawasaki Seiji
Published: June 2020

Although duct-to-mucosa pancreatojejunostomy has been considered safer than other techniques, this procedure is particularly difficult when the pancreatic duct is small. It has therefore become increasingly necessary to develop a simple mucosal sutureless pancreatojejunostomy technique to replace the conventional hand-sewing one. Two hundred fourteen patients who underwent mucosal sutureless pancreatojejunostomy were classified into two groups: those with a normal pancreatic duct diameter (less than 3 mm, n = 97) and those with a dilated pancreatic duct (3 mm or greater, n = 117). The rate of clinically significant pancreatic fistula (Grade B or C by the International Study Group on Pancreatic Fistula definition) among the patients as a whole was 8 per cent. The overall incidence of pancreatic fistula was significantly higher in the patients with a pancreatic duct diameter of less than 3 mm than in those with a pancreatic duct diameter of 3 mm or greater. However, the incidence of clinically significant pancreatic fistula did not differ between the groups (less than 3 mm, 11%; 3 mm or greater, 5%; P = 0.09). Grade C pancreatic fistula developed in one patient with a pancreatic duct diameter of less than 3 mm and in two with a pancreatic duct diameter 3 mm or greater. Although two patients required reoperation, all of the fistulas were cured and the postoperative mortality rate related to pancreatoduodenectomy was zero. Mucosal sutureless pancreatojejunostomy combined with pancreatic duct stenting is associated with a low rate of clinically significant pancreatic fistula even in patients with a small pancreatic duct diameter less than 3 mm.
Laparoscopic Common Bile Duct Exploration with Primary Closure for Management of Choledocholithiasis: A Retrospective Analysis and Comparison with Conventional T-tube Drainage
Authors: Zhang Hong-Wei , Chen Ya-Jin , Wu Chang-Hao , Li Wen-Da
Published: June 2020

Laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) had become one of the main options for management of choledocholithiasis. This retrospective comparative study aimed to evaluate on the feasibility and advantages of primary closure versus conventional T-tube drainage of the common bile duct (CBD) after laparoscopic choledochotomy. In this retrospective analysis, 100 patients (47 men and 53 women) with choledocholithiasis who underwent primary closure of the CBD (without T-tube drainage) after LCBDE (Group A) were compared with 92 patients who underwent LCBDE with T-tube drainage (Group B). Both groups were evaluated with regard to biliary complications, hospital stay, and recurrence of stones. The mean operation time was 104.12 minutes for Group A and 108.92 minutes for Group B ( P = 0.069). The hospital stay was significantly shorter in Group A than that in Group B (6.95 days and 12.05 days, respectively; P < 0.001). In Group A, bile leakage occurred in two patients on postoperative Day 2 and Day 3, respectively. In Group B, bile leakage noted in one patient after removal of the T-tube on Day 14 after operation ( P = 1.000). With a median follow-up time of 40 months for both groups, stone recurrence was noted in two patients in Group A and three patients in Group B ( P = 0.672). Primary closure of the CBD is safe and feasible in selected patients after laparoscopic choledochotomy. It results in shorter duration of hospital stay without the need for carrying/care of a T-tube in the postoperative period and similar stone recurrence as that of the conventional method.
Evaluation of Cervical Spine Fracture in the Elderly: Can We Trust Our Physical Examination?
Authors: Goode Terral , Young Andrew , Wilson Sean P. , Katzen Judith , Wolfe Luke G. , Duane Therese M.
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this trial was to compare National Emergency X-Radiography Utilization Study (NEXUS) criteria (NC) with computed tomography (CT) as the gold standard to evaluate cervical spine (C-spine) fractures in elderly blunt trauma patients. We prospectively compared adult blunt trauma patients 65 years or older (E) with younger than 65 years (NE), evaluating the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of NC compared with CT in these two cohorts. A total of 2785 blunt trauma patients were included of whom 320 were E (average age, 75 years) and 2465 were NE (average age, 36 years). Incidence of C-spine fracture was 12.8 per cent (E) versus 7.4 per cent (NE) ( P = 0.002). Age was an independent predictor of fracture ( P = 0.01). NC had a sensitivity of 65.9 per cent in E and PPV of 19.3 per cent in E ( P = 0.001) versus a sensitivity of 84.2 per cent in NE and PPV of 10.6 per cent ( P < 0.0001). The specificity was 59.5 per cent for E versus 42.6 per cent for NE (NPV, 92.2% E vs 97.1% NE). This study suggests that NEXUS criteria are not an appropriate assessment tool when applied to severe blunt trauma patients, particularly in the elderly population who had more missed injures than their younger counterparts. CTshould be used in all blunt trauma patients regardless of whether they meet NEXUS criteria.
Article Commentary: Defining New Directions for More Effective Management of Surgical Pain in the United States: Highlights of the Inaugural Surgical Pain Congress™
Authors: Joshi Girish P. , Beck David E. , Emerson Roger Hill , Halaszynski Thomas M. , Jahr Jonathan S. , Lipman Arthur G. , Nihira Mikio A. , Sheth Ketan R. , Simpson Melanie H. , Sinatra Raymond S.
Published: June 2020

Despite advances in pharmacologic options for the management of surgical pain, there appears to have been little or no overall improvement over the last two decades in the level of pain experienced by patients. The importance of adequate and effective surgical pain management, however, is clear, because inadequate pain control 1) has a wide range of undesirable physiologic and immunologic effects; 2) is associated with poor surgical outcomes; 3) has increased probability of readmission; and 4) adversely affects the overall cost of care as well as patient satisfaction. There is a clear unmet need for a national surgical pain management consensus task force to raise awareness and develop best practice guidelines for improving surgical pain management, patient safety, patient satisfaction, rapid postsurgical recovery, and health economic outcomes. To comprehensively address this need, the multidisciplinary Surgical Pain Congress™ has been established. The inaugural meeting of this Congress (March 8 to 10, 2013, Celebration, Florida) evaluated the current surgical pain management paradigm and identified key components of best practices.
Selective Hepatic Vascular Exclusion versus Pringle Maneuver in Partial Hepatectomy for Liver Hemangioma Compressing or Involving the Major Hepatic Veins
Authors: Yang Yuan , Zhao Ling-Hao , Fu Si-Yuan , Lau Wan Yee , Lai Eric C. H. , Gu Fang-Ming , Wang Zhen-Guang , Zhou Wei-Ping
Published: June 2020

Massive blood loss remains a problem during resection for giant liver hemangioma. This present study was designed to compare selective hepatic vascular exclusion (SHVE) versus Pringle maneuver in surgery for liver hemangioma compressing the major (right, middle, or left) hepatic veins. From January 2003 to December 2011, 589 consecutive patients with hemangioma underwent liver resection in our department, and 273 patients had their tumors compressing at least one of the three major hepatic veins (right, middle, or left). Either SHVE (n = 120 patients) or Pringle maneuver (n = 153 patients) was used to minimize blood loss during resection. Data regarding the intraoperative and postoperative courses of these patients were retrospectively analyzed. There was no significant difference between the two groups of patients regarding age, sex, tumor size, types of hepatectomy, and extent of tumor involvement of the major hepatic veins. Intraoperative blood loss, transfusion requirements, and transfusion volume were significantly less in the SHVE group ( P < 0.01). For the Pringle group, major hepatic veins were lacerated in 19 patients during hepatic parenchymal transection. For the SHVE group, a major hepatic vein was lacerated during extrahepatic dissection of the hepatic vein in two patients and during hepatic parenchymal transection in 14 patients. SHVE was more efficacious in minimizing intraoperative bleeding during liver resection for hemangiomas compressing the major hepatic veins. It prevented intraoperative major bleeding and air embolism and significantly decreased postoperative liver failure and in-hospital mortality.
The Risk of Lymph Node Involvement in Malignant Cutaneous Adnexal Tumors
Authors: Barnes Meredith , Hestley Andrea , Murray Douglas R. , Carlson Grant W. , Parker Doug , Delman Keith A.
Published: June 2020

Malignant cutaneous adnexal tumors (MCATs) are rare neoplasms that do not have a well-studied treatment algorithm. They are generally treated by excision alone. Given its successful application in other cutaneous malignancies, sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) has been advocated by some for use in MCATs. A retrospective chart review was performed. Clinicopathological factors, recurrence patterns, and long-term follow-up were documented. Survival analysis was performed. Forty-eight subjects were identified. Mean age was 69 years with locations on the face (52%), including periocular sites (16%), extremities (25%), and all other sites (7%). Histologic distribution was sebaceous carcinoma (56%), porocarcinoma (17%), eccrine carcinoma (13%), adenocarcinoma (10%), and hidradenocarcinoma (4%). Mean follow-up was 3.9 years (range, 0 to 17 years). Nine subjects (18.8%) recurred locally, and recurrence was inversely associated with age ( P = 0.04). Four (8.3%) demonstrated lymph node involvement, none without first developing local recurrence. Five-year disease-specific survival was 97 per cent (confidence interval, 81.4 to 99.6%). Despite being one of the largest reported analyses of MCATs, this study is limited by the small number of subjects. MCATs seemingly develop nodal recurrence only after demonstrating aggressive local biology. SLNB may best be applied selectively, possibly only in patients with local recurrence.
Comparison of Standard Distal Pancreatectomy and Splenectomy with Radical Antegrade Modular Pancreatosplenectomy
Authors: Trottman Paul , Swett Katrina , Shen Perry , Sirintrapun Joseph
Published: June 2020

Radical antegrade modular pancreatosplenectomy (RAMPS) has been reported to provide improved margin resection and lymph node retrieval for tumors of the body and tail of the pancreas compared with standard resection. We examined our experience with RAMPS and standard resection to determine differences in clinicopathologic outcomes. A comparison of RAMPS procedures was made to standard distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy examining various clinicopathologic variables through retrospective chart review. Twenty-six patients underwent distal pancreatectomy with or without splenectomy between November 2004 and June 2011. Twenty patients underwent standard resection and six patients underwent RAMPS procedures for a variety of histologies. As a result of the heterogeneity of diseases, which included benign lesions, margin status was not applicable in some cases and therefore was not assessed overall. Fisher's exact test and Wilcoxon rank sum tests demonstrated a significant difference in number of lymph nodes removed with mean of 4.3 and 11.2 lymph nodes obtained for standard resection and RAMPS, respectively ( P = 0.03). The RAMPS procedure for lesions of the body and tail of the pancreas retrieved significantly more lymph nodes than standard distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy. It should be the preferred surgical approach when lymph node count is important for tumor staging.
Checklist-styled Daily Sign-out Rounds Improve Hospital Throughput in a Major Trauma Center
Authors: Lee John C. , Horst Michael , Rogers Amelia , Rogers Frederick B. , Wu Daniel , Evans Tracy , Edavettal Mathew
Published: June 2020

The checklist concept has received much attention as a result of its ability to improve patient care by minimizing complications. We hypothesized daily sign-out rounds using a checklist, by improving team communication and consistency of clinical care, could lead to expedited throughput for patients at a major trauma center. A retrospective study examined patients admitted to a mature trauma center. Two time periods, PRE (September 2008 to January 2009) and POST (September 2009 to January 2010), were selected to match for seasonal variation in admission diagnosis. An organ system-based checklist was used during daily sign-out for all admitted trauma patients in the POST period. We examined discharge status, complications and rates, and intensive care unit (ICU) and overall hospital length of stay for differences. There were similar numbers of patients (824 PRE vs 798 POST) admitted in these two cohorts. We found no statistical differences in the incidence of complications or mortality rate. We did discover statistically significant differences in the median ICU days (2 PRE vs 1 POST, P = 0.007) as well as median hospital length of stay (2 days, interquartile differences Q1 to Q3 PRE [1 to 5] and POST [1 to 4] P = 0.000). These trends remained valid even among the severely injured (Injury Severity Score 16 or greater) with a hospital length of stay of 5 (PRE) versus 3 days (POST; P = 0.021). A simple, organ system-based checklist can be successfully adopted for daily sign-out round on a busy, multiprovider trauma service. We were able to expedite trauma patient throughput in both ICU and overall hospital stays with a trend toward decreasing mortality. This improved throughput may potentially translate into a cost saving for the hospital.
Long-term Results of Pilonidal Sinus Disease with Modified Primary Closure: New Technique on 450 Patients
Authors: Muzi Marco Gallinella , Maglio Riccardo , Milito Giovanni , Nigro Casimiro , Ciangola Ilaria , Bernagozzi Beatrice , Masoni Luigi
Published: June 2020

Chronic pilonidal disease is a debilitating condition that typically affects young adults. Controversy still exists regarding the best surgical technique for the treatment of pilonidal disease in terms of minimizing disease recurrence and patient discomfort. The present study analyzes the results of excision with our modified primary closure. This retrospective study involving consecutive patients with pilonidal disease was conducted over a 6-year period. From January 2004 to January 2010, 450 consecutive patients with primary pilonidal sinus disease received this new surgical treatment. Times for complete healing and return to work, the duration of operation and of hospitalization, postoperative pain, time to first mobilization, and postoperative complications were recorded. To evaluate patient comfort, all patients were asked to complete a questionnaire including visual analog scale. The median long-term follow-up was 54 months (range, 24 to 84 months). Four hundred fifty consecutive patients (96 female, 354 male) underwent excision. The median age was 25 years (range, 17 to 43 years). The median follow-up period was 54 months (range, 24 to 84 months). Four hundred twenty completed questionnaires were returned (87% response rate). The median duration of hospital stay was eight hours (range, 7 to 10 hours) No patient reported severe postoperative pain. Primary operative success (complete wound healing without recurrence) was achieved in 98.2 per cent. Two (0.5%) patients had a recurrence. The mean time lost to work/school after modified primary closure was eight days. Excision and primary closure with this new technique is an effective treatment for chronic pilonidal disease. It is associated with low morbidity, early return to work, and excellent cosmetic result and a high degree of patient satisfaction in the long-term follow-up.
The Impact of Regionalization of Pancreaticoduodenectomy for Pancreatic Cancer in North Carolina since 2004
Authors: Swan Ryan Z. , Niemeyer David J. , Seshadri Ramanathan M. , Thompson Kyle J. , Walters Amanda , Martinie John B. , Sindram David , Iannitti David A.
Published: June 2020

Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) carries a significant risk. High-volume centers (HVCs) provide improved outcomes and regionalization is advocated. Rapid regionalization could, however, have detrimental effects. North Carolina has multiple HVCs, including an additional HVC added in late 2006. We investigated regionalization of PD and its effects before, and after, the establishment of this fourth HVC. The North Carolina Hospital Discharge Database was queried for all PDs performed during 2004 to 2006 and 2007 to 2009. Hospitals were categorized by PD volume as: low (one to nine/year), medium (10 to 19/year), and high (20/year or more). Mortality and major morbidity was assessed by comparing volume groups across time periods. Number of PDs for cancer increased 91 per cent (129 to 246 cases) at HVCs, whereas decreasing at low-volume (62 to 58 cases) and medium-volume (80 to 46 cases) centers. Percentage of PD for cancer performed at HVCs increased significantly (47.6 to 70.3%) while decreasing for low- and medium-volume centers ( P < 0.001). Mortality was significantly less at HVCs (2.8%) compared with low-volume centers (10.3%) for 2007 to 2009. Odds ratio for mortality was significantly lower at HVCs during 2004 to 2006 (0.31) and 2007 to 2009 (0.34). Mortality for PD performed for cancer decreased from 6.6 to 4.6 per cent ( P = 0.31). Major morbidity was not significantly different between groups within either time period; however, there was a significant increase in major morbidity at low-volume centers ( P = 0.018). Regionalization of PD for cancer is occurring in North Carolina. Mortality was significantly lower at HVCs, and rapid regionalization has not detracted from the superior outcomes at HVCs.
Percutaneous Drainage of a Diverticular Abscess Should be Limited to Two Attempts for a Resilient Diverticular Abscess
Authors: Subhas Gokulakkrishna , Rana Gurteshwar , Bhullar Jasneet , Essad Kate , Mohey Leela , Mittal Vijay K.
Published: June 2020

Management of a resilient diverticular abscess poses a big challenge. Currently there are no guidelines for the number of percutaneous drainages to be performed in resilient diverticular abscesses before attempting surgery. All patients (n = 117) who presented with a computed tomography scan-proven diverticular abscess from July 2008 to June 2011 were studied. They were divided into four groups based on the number of percutaneous drainages they underwent for their diverticular abscess: six patients underwent three or more drainages, nine patients underwent two drainages, 27 patients had one drainage, and 75 patients had no drainage. Readjustment, flushing, and upgrading size of the drain were not considered as separate drainage procedures. The size of abscess cavity was significantly higher for the patients who had three or more drainages (mean 8 cm, P < 0.001). A Hartmann's procedure was performed in the majority of patients in the three or more drainage group (83%) but in decreasing frequency as the number of drainages performed dropped: two drainage group (44%), one drainage group (15%), and no drainage group (19%). There was a significantly higher preoperative hospital stay for drainage and antibiotics in the patients from the three or more drainage group ( P < 0.001). Patients with a resilient diverticular abscess are very likely to undergo a Hartmann's procedure after two attempted drainages. By performing additional percutaneous drainages in an attempt to avoid ostomy, patients are at an increased risk of sepsis and peritonitis with prolonged antibiotics and increased healthcare costs. We recommend limiting percutaneous drainage procedures to two attempts to cool down a resilient diverticular abscess before definitive surgery.
Regional Disparities in Breast Cancer Outcomes and the Process of Care
Authors: Weber Joseph J. , Kachare Swapnil D. , Vohra Nasreen A. , Fitzgerald Timothy F. , Wong Jan H.
Published: June 2020

Mortality from breast cancer in eastern North Carolina (ENC) surpasses the rest of North Carolina (RNC). We sought to identify modifiable factors associated with the increased mortality of women diagnosed with breast cancer in ENC. A retrospective cohort study of women diagnosed with breast cancer in North Carolina between January 1, 2004, and December 31, 2007 (n = 27,631) was studied. There was no difference in the pathologic T ( P = 0.62), N ( P = 0.26), or stage grouping ( P = 0.25) at diagnosis. Women in ENC were less likely to be white ( P < 0.001), estrogen receptor (ER)-positive ( P < 0.001), progesterone receptor (PR)-positive ( P < 0.001), or to receive adjuvant chemotherapy ( P = 0.02). The median survival of ENC patients was worse than RNC patients (39 vs. 43 months, P = 0.003). Improved median survival was associated with ER status ( P < 0.001), PR status ( P < 0.001), race/ethnicity ( P < 0.001), and delivery of timely chemotherapy ( P < 0.0001). ER-negative status ( P = 0.01), black race ( P = 0.03), and adjuvant chemotherapy within 90 days of surgery ( P < 0.001) remained significant predictors of survival. The poor outcomes observed in ENC can be attributed to recognized prognostic primary patient and tumor characteristics. However, a failure in process of care remains significantly associated with poorer outcomes. Improved timing of delivery of chemotherapy could affect breast cancer mortality.
Radioactive Seed Localization of Nonpalpable Breast Lesions in an Academic Comprehensive Cancer Program Community Hospital Setting
Authors: Chiu Jeffrey C. , Ajmal Saira , Zhu Xiang , Griffith Elizabeth , Encarnacion Tiffany , Barr Louis
Published: June 2020

Wire localized excision (WLE) has been a long-standing method for localization of nonpalpable breast lesions. Disadvantages of this method include difficulty locating the wire tip in relation to borders of the lesion, imprecise placement of the wire, and the need to place the wire shortly before scheduled surgery. These shortcomings may lead to a high positive margin rate requiring re-excision to obtain clear margins for breast cancer. Radioactive seed localized excision (RSLE) of nonpalpable breast lesions has been advocated as a safe and effective alternative to WLE. The primary endpoints of the study were to compare re-excision rates between WLE and RSLE of nonpalpable breast lesions and to determine if there were any differences in volume of tissue removed. One hundred three patients were included in a retrospective review of localized breast excisions done by a single surgeon. Forty-four patients underwent WLE between April 2007 and February 2009. Fifty-nine patients underwent RSLE between September 2009 and January 2012. Margins were considered to be clear if at least 1 mm of normal tissue was obtained from the circumferential periphery of the lesion in question. RSLE resulted in a re-excision rate of 17 versus 55 per cent re-excision rate for wire localization ( P < 0.001). Excision volume was greater for patients having wire localization ( P = 0.074). RSLE is an effective technique for excision of non-palpable breast lesions in the community setting. This technique allows for accurate localization and appears to allow for smaller volume of tissue to be excised.
Minimally Invasive Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass for Fundoplication failure offers Excellent Gastroesophageal Reflux Control
Authors: Kim Mimi , Navarro Fernando , Eruchalu Chukwuma N. , Augenstein Vedra A. , Heniford B. Todd , Stefanidis Dimitrios
Published: June 2020

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) may represent a superior alternative to reoperative fundoplication in patients with symptomatic failure. Our goal was to assess early outcomes of patients after RYGB for failed fundoplication. Records of patients who underwent fundoplication takedown and RYGB from March 2007 to June 2013 were reviewed for demographics, comorbidities, operative findings, and perioperative outcomes. Data are reported as medians (range). Forty-five patients who had undergone 64 prior antireflux procedures (range, one to three fundoplications) were identified. Median patient age was 56 years (range, 25 to 72 years) with a body mass index of 33 kg/m2 (range, 22 to 51 kg/m2). Most patients had comorbidities: hypertension (60%), anxiety/ depression (44.4%), dyslipidemia (33.3%), asthma (31%), obstructive sleep apnea (26.7%), arthritis (22.2%), and diabetes (11.1%). Median symptom-free interval was 3 years (range, 0 to 25 years). All patients had an anatomic reason for failure: 83 per cent had a hiatal hernia and 35 per cent had a slipped Nissen fundoplication. The procedures were accomplished laparoscopically in 28, robotically in 13, and open in four cases. Median operative time was 367 minutes (range, 190 to 600 minutes) and estimated blood loss averaged 100 mL (range, 25 to 500 mL). Five patients (11%) required reoperation: one for an anastomotic leak, one for anastomotic obstruction, and three for early obstruction resulting from adhesions. Two patients developed respiratory failure requiring prolonged mechanical ventilation. Length of stay averaged four days (range, 1 to 33 days) with two readmissions: one for melena and one for vomiting and dehydration; neither required intervention. There was no mortality. At 11 months of follow-up (range, 2.3 to 54 months), 93.3 per cent of patients were symptom-free. When primary fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease fails, fundoplication takedown and RYGB can be accomplished safely with minimally invasive techniques. The conversion to a RYGB has an acceptable perioperative morbidity and excellent early symptom control, and, therefore, should be considered for reoperative patients gastroesophageal reflux disease.
What is the Risk of Diagnostic Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography before Cholecystectomy?
Authors: Jones Wesley B. , Blackwell Joseph , McKinley Brian , Trocha Steven
Published: June 2020

Many surgeons prefer to perform endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) before cholecystectomy, specifically in patients at significant risk of having biliary pathology. However, a preoperative diagnostic ERCP, without the use of an endoscopic ultrasound or magnetic retrograde cholangiopancreatoscopy, remains controversial. This is the result of the risk of either performing an unnecessary procedure and/or the development of post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP). We performed a retrospective review of all surgeon-performed ERCPs at our institution between July 2011 and May 2013. This was done to examine patients who had pericholecystectomy ERCP. We had 550 ERCPs performed at our institution during this time period, 169 of which were pericholecystectomy procedures. We divided the 169 patients who had a diagnostic procedure (Diagnostic group) from those who had known biliary pathology before intervention (Therapeutic group). As a result, 34 patients (20.1%) were placed in the Diagnostic group and 135 patients (79.9%) in the Therapeutic group. Of the 34 Diagnostic patients, four (11.8%) developed PEP. Fifteen (44.1%) had unnecessary procedures, two of which had PEP (2.9%). Of the 135 ERCPs in the Therapeutic group, 18 patients (13.4%) developed PEP. Five of the 11 who had unnecessary procedures developed PEP. Based on the low incidence of complications, diagnostic ERCP has an acceptable rate of pancreatitis and/or unnecessary procedures when performed in highly selected patients and before cholecystectomy when compared with patients undergoing therapeutic ERCP. However, more aggressive use of diagnostic imaging before ERCP should be adopted given the number of unnecessary procedures performed.
Reassessment of the Role of Enteral Tube Feedings for Patients with Esophageal Cancer
Authors: Starr Brett , Davis Stephanie , Ayala-Peacock Diandra , Blackstock William A. , Levine Edward A.
Published: June 2020

Nutrition is important for patients with esophageal cancer because dysphagia can be exacerbated by chemoradiotherapy. Some centers suggest routine enteral tube placement (TF) to facilitate nutrition. This investigation was to evaluate the use of TF access for patients undergoing multi-modality therapy for esophageal carcinoma. This retrospective study analyzed 113 patients who underwent esophagectomy and 97 patients who underwent definition chemoradiotherapy for esophageal cancer between 2001 and 2013. Throughout this time period, a strategy for selective tube placement was used. Nutrition was assessed through absolute lymphocyte counts, protein, and albumin levels. A total of 28 (30%) patients during preoperative chemoradiotherapy and 31 (32%) of those undergoing definitive chemoradiation received TFs. There were 16 Dobhoff tubes, 28 gastrostomy tubes, and 15 jejunostomies. Tubes were maintained an average of 3.9 months with 20 (34%) of these patients reporting tube-related complications. At the time of surgery, there was no statistical difference in any of the nutritional assessments between those patients who received TF and those who did not. Both groups experienced similar total postoperative complication rates (64% vs 65%) and similar median length of hospital stay (12 to 13 days). Chemoradiotherapy resulted in decreased nutritional parameters; however, there was no difference in the degree of reduction between those who underwent TF and those who did not. The data show that routine placement of enteral access is not necessary for esophageal carcinoma. In fact, the risks of placing enteral access may outweigh the benefits. Administration of TF should be restricted to select patients during chemoradiotherapy or before esophagectomy.
Trauma Intensive Care Unit ‘Bouncebacks': Identifying Risk Factors for Unexpected Return Admission to the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Christmas A. Britton , Freeman Elizabeth , Chisolm Angela , Fischer Peter E. , Sachdev Gaurav , Jacobs David G. , Sing Ronald F.
Published: June 2020

Return transfer (RT) to the intensive care unit (ICU) negatively impacts patient outcomes, length of stay (LOS), and hospital costs. This study assesses the most common events necessitating RT in trauma patients. We performed a retrospective chart review of ICU RT from 2004 to 2008. Patient demographics, injuries and injury severity, reason for transfer, LOS, interventions, and outcomes data were collected. Overall, 158 patients required readmission to the ICU. Respiratory insufficiency/ failure (48%) was the most common reason for RT followed by cardiac (16%) and neurological (13%) events. The most commonly associated injuries were traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) (32%), rib fractures (30%), and pulmonary contusions (20%). Initial ICU LOS was 6.6 ± 8 days (range, 1 to 44 days) with 4.4 ± 7.8 ventilator days. Mean floor time before ICU RT was 5.7 ± 6.3 days (range, 0 to 33 days). Forty-nine patients (31%) required intubation and mechanical ventilation on RT. ICU RT incurred an additional ICU LOS of 8 ± 8.5 days (range, 1 to 40 days) and 5.2 ± 7.5 ventilator days. Mortality after a single RT was 10 per cent (n = 16). RT to the ICU most often occurs as a result of respiratory compromise, and patients with TBI are particularly vulnerable. Trauma pulmonary hygiene practices should be evaluated to determine strategies that could decrease RT.