bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The AUGIS Survival Predictor: Prediction of Long-Term and Conditional Survival After Esophagectomy Using Random Survival Forests
Authors: Rahman Saqib A. , Walker Robert C. , Maynard Nick , Nigel Trudgill  , Crosby Tom , Cromwell David A. , Underwood Timothy J. ,   on behalf of the NOGCA project team AUGIS
Published: February 2021

Objective:

The aim of this study was to develop a predictive model for overall survival after esophagectomy using pre/postoperative clinical data and machine learning.

Summary Background Data:

For patients with esophageal cancer, accurately predicting long-term survival after esophagectomy is challenging. This study investigated survival prediction after esophagectomy using a Random

Survival Forest (RSF) model derived from routine data from a large, well-curated, national dataset.

Methods:

Patients diagnosed with esophageal adenocarcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma between 2012 and 2018 in England and Wales who underwent an esophagectomy were included. Prediction models for overall survival were developed using the RSF method and Cox regression from 41 patient and disease characteristics. Calibration and discrimination (time-dependent area under the curve) were validated internally using bootstrap resampling.

Results:

The study analyzed 6399 patients, with 2625 deaths during follow-up. Median follow-up was 41 months. Overall survival was 47.1% at 5 years. The final RSF model included 14 variables and had excellent discrimination with a 5-year time-dependent area under the receiver operator curve of 83.9% [95% confidence interval (CI) 82.6%–84.9%], compared to 82.3% (95% CI 81.1%—83.3%) for the Cox model. The most important variables were lymph node involvement, pT stage, circumferential resection margin involvement (tumor at < 1 mm from cut edge) and age. There was a wide range of survival estimates even within TNM staging groups, with quintiles of prediction within Stage 3b ranging from 12.2% to 44.7% survival at 5 years.

Conclusions:

An RSF model for long-term survival after esophagectomy exhibited excellent discrimination and well-calibrated predictions. At a patient level, it provides more accuracy than TNM staging alone and could help in the delivery of tailored treatment and follow-up.
Laparoscopic Liver Resection Using a Silicone Band Retraction Method (With Video)
Authors: Sakai Hisamune , Sato Toshihiro , Nomura Yoriko , Goto Yuichi , Hisaka Toru , Akagi Yoshito , Okuda Koji
Published: February 2021

Background:

The success of laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) depends on stable and full exposure of the parenchymal transection plane. We evaluated the efficacy of LLR using a silicone band retraction method for lesions in the anterolateral and posterosuperior segments.

Methods:

We retrospectively analyzed 189 consecutive patients who had undergone LLR in our hospital between July 2010 and July 2020. They were divided into 2 groups according to whether LLR was performed before (conventional group; n=64) or after (silicone band group; n=125) the introduction of the silicone band retraction method.

Results:

The silicone band group demonstrated significantly less blood loss than that by the conventional group. The mean operative time and the hospital stay in the silicone band group were obviously shorter than that in the conventional group. The open conversion rate and the major complication rate were significantly lower in the silicone band group than that in the conventional group.

Conclusion:

The silicone band retraction method is a useful approach that results in a safe LLR.
Stent Insertion With High Intensity–Focused Ultrasound Ablation for Biliary Obstruction Caused by Pancreatic Carcinoma: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Zhang Feng-Qin , Li Lin , Huang Ping-Chao , Xia Feng-Fei , Zhu Lei , Cao Chi
Published: February 2021

Purpose:

This study was designed to assess the clinical efficacy of stent insertion with high intensity–focused ultrasound ablation (HIFUA) in patients with malignant biliary obstruction (MBO) as a consequence of pancreatic carcinoma (PC).

Materials and Methods:

This was a single-center, open-label, prospective, randomized controlled trial. Consecutive patients with MBO caused by PC were randomly assigned to undergo stent insertion with or without HIFUA from June 2019 to February 2020. This study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03962478).

Results:

In total, 92 patients were enrolled in this study and assigned to the stent-only (n=46) or combined (stent+HIFUA; n=46) treatment groups. Stent insertion was associated with a 100% technical success rate. For patients in the combination treatment group, 26, 18, and 2 patients underwent 2, 3, and 4 cycles of HIFUA, respectively. A positive clinical response to HIFUA treatment was noted in 38 patients (82.6%). Stent dysfunction was detected in 9 and 15 patients in the combination and stent-only groups, respectively (P=0.154), while median stent patency in these 2 groups was 188 and 120 days, respectively (P<0.001). All patients died over the course of the follow-up, with median survival periods of 218 and 140 days in the combination and stent-only treatment groups, respectively (P=0.001). The only detected predictor of prolonged survival was HIFUA treatment (P=0.004), and there were no significant differences in complication rates between these 2 treatment groups.

Conclusion:

A combination of stent insertion and HIFUA can improve stent patency and overall survival in patients suffering from MBO because of PC relative to stent insertion alone.
Patients With Unexplained Dilated Pancreatic Duct Have High Risk of Biliopancreatic Malignancy Detected by EUS
Authors: Téllez-Ávila Félix I. , Tepox-Padrón Alejandra , Duarte-Medrano Gilberto , Ramírez-Luna Miguel A. , Lopezarce-Ángeles Gustavo , Jiménez-Gutiérrez José M. , Herrera-Mora David
Published: February 2021

Introduction:

Patients with unexplained dilated common bile duct (CBD) and/or dilated main pancreatic duct (MPD) on noninvasive abdominal imaging tests are often referred for endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) in order to rule out biliopancreatic cancer. The aim of the study was to evaluate the diagnostic yield of EUS in this patient group.

Methods:

A prospective study was conducted. Patients with unexplained dilated CBD and/or MPD on abdominal imaging, who underwent EUS, were enrolled.

Results:

Fifty-four patients underwent EUS (CBD dilation n=38, MPD dilation n=5 or both n=11). In 31/54 patients (57.4%), EUS revealed pathologic findings. Sixteen patients (29.6%) had EUS evidence of biliopancreatic cancer and 15 patients (27.7%) had benign pathology. Ten (62.5%) of the patients with biliopancreatic cancer had MPD dilation. MPD dilation was significantly associated with malignancy (P=0.017).

Conclusion:

Patients with unexplained dilated MPD on noninvasive image have a high risk of biliopancreatic malignancy detected by EUS.
A Comparison of Perioperative Outcomes, Readmission, and Reoperation for Sacrospinous Ligament Fixation, Uterosacral Ligament Suspension, and Minimally Invasive Sacrocolpopexy
Authors: Yadav Ghanshyam S. , Gaddam Neha , Rahn David D.
Published: February 2021

Objectives

Sacrospinous ligament fixation (SSLF), uterosacral ligament suspension (USLS), and minimally invasive sacrocolpopexy (MISC) are common routes for vaginal apical suspension. Comparative data analyzing perioperative adverse events among these 3 routes are sparse. Perioperative morbidity was compared among these 3 approaches.

Methods

The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was queried for patients older than 18 years undergoing these surgical procedures from 2012 to 2018. Baseline characteristics, postoperative complications, and rates and timing of readmission/reoperation with identification of causes for either were extracted. Logistic regression was used to compare the odds of readmission or reoperation, adjusting for concurrent hysterectomy and the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score.

Results

There were 1,881 SSLFs, 975 USLSs, and 4,559 MISCs that were performed from 2012 to 2018. Vaginal approaches were more common in older, non-White women; women with comorbidities; and women with higher ASA scores and performed more often by gynecologists (vs urologists). More concomitant hysterectomies were performed with USLS and MISC than with SSLF (22% and 26% vs 5%). Increased postoperative blood transfusions, urinary tract infections, and overall complications were noted in the vaginal approaches (7% and 7% vs 5%). Minimally invasive sacrocolpopexy had longer operative times. More same-day discharges were observed in USLS and SSLF. Readmission (2%–3%) and reoperation (1%–2%) rates were similar across all routes when adjusted for concomitant hysterectomy and ASA class. The most common indications for readmission were related to bleeding, infection, or bowel issues (MISC). Hemorrhage/hematoma followed by intestinal obstruction was the most common indication for reoperation.

Conclusions

Overall perioperative safety is comparable in 3 common vaginal apical suspension routes. Readmission and reoperation remain rare after operative colpopexy regardless of route.
Changes in Morphology of the Urethral Rhabdosphincter Postpartum
Authors: Cramer Meagan S. , Boniface Emily R. , Holland Amanda , Gregory W. Thomas
Published: February 2021

Objective

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of pregnancy on urethral rhabdosphincter cross-sectional area (CSA) and any association of CSA to urinary symptoms.

Methods

Nulliparous women planning pregnancy (N = 135) underwent standardized evaluations (symptom and quality of life [QOL] questionnaires, magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasonography, and neurophysiologic testing) between January 2008 and December 2013 (V1). The participants who became pregnant and gave birth underwent the same evaluations at 6 weeks (V2) and 6 months postpartum (V3). Participants who had magnetic resonance imaging data from both V1 and V3 were selected. We measured urethral rhabdosphincter CSA from high-resolution axial MRIs in a masked fashion. The mean CSA for each participant was calculated. The change from V1 to V3 was assessed.

Results

Sixty-eight women were evaluated. There was a significant decrease of 0.05 cm2 (interquartile range, −0.03 to 0.16 cm2; P = 0.002) in the median sphincter CSA between V1 and V3. There was a significant increase in the median Urinary Distress Inventory (UDI) subscore of the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI) from V1 to V3 (median increase of 0 [IQR, 0 to 8.3]; P = 0.033), but this was not significantly correlated with the change in the urethral CSA (Spearman correlation, 0.199; P = 0.107). Increasing fetal weight was correlated with a decrease in CSA postpartum after vaginal birth (Spearman correlation, −0.340; P = 0.017).

Conclusions

There is a decrease in urethral rhabdosphincter CSA with worsening Urinary Distress Inventory scores from prepregnancy to postpartum, but these two do not correlate in this cohort with low symptom levels. Among women who give birth vaginally, decrease in rhabdosphincter CSA is correlated with increasing fetal weight, perhaps with ramifications to be seen later in life.
Review of Malpractice Litigations Involving Vesicovaginal and Rectovaginal Fistulas Following Elective Hysterectomy for Benign Indications in the United States From 1970 to 2020
Authors: Kim Edward K. , Arya Lily A. , Andy Uduak U. , Cox Caroline K. , Harvie Heidi S.
Published: February 2021

Objective

The aims of this study were to review malpractice litigations involving vesicovaginal and rectovaginal fistulas after elective hysterectomy for benign indications in the United States and identify the most common themes in allegations by the plaintiffs and defenses by the defendants.

Methods

Using the Lexis Nexis legal database, we searched for and reviewed all U.S. malpractice litigations pertinent to this question between 1970 and 2020.

Results

Out of 82 cases that were identified and reviewed, 17 cases met our inclusion and exclusion criteria. These cases were decided between 1973 and 2019. Nine cases involved total abdominal hysterectomies, 1 involved total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH), 1 involved total vaginal hysterectomy (TVH), and the rest were not specified. Fifteen cases involved vesicovaginal fistulas and 2 involved rectovaginal fistulas. Three cases were ruled in favor of the plaintiffs, with monetary compensation ranging from $250,000 to $753,722 (approximately $364,120 to $1.8 million when adjusted for inflation), whereas 14 cases were ruled in favor of the defending surgeons. Common allegations were negligence in 15 cases and lack of informed consent in 2 cases. Factors that strengthened the defendants’ arguments were thorough documentation, informed consent, and prompt referral to specialists. Intraoperative cystoscopy may have benefited in some cases.

Conclusions

Thorough documentation, informed consent, and prompt referral to specialists strengthened the defendants’ legal arguments. Intraoperative cystoscopy may also be beneficial.
Perceptions of Mesh Use for Pelvic Floor Surgery in Latinas: Face Validity of a Spanish Questionnaire
Authors: Limtrakul Narinta , Florence Elizabeth , Sanchez Sheralyn , Montoya T. Ignacio , Maldonado Pedro A.
Published: February 2021

Objective

The aim of the study was to validate a Spanish-translated survey assessing patients’ perceptions of mesh use in pelvic floor surgery.

Methods

An English-language survey evaluating perceptions of mesh use underwent a process of Spanish translation and validation, using a forward-backward translation validation protocol. Self-identified bilingual Latinas with symptoms of pelvic floor disorders were recruited to participate in cognitive interviews after completing the survey in English and Spanish. κ coefficient and Cronbach α were calculated for measurement of reliability and internal consistency in responses. A P value of 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

A total of 30 women were randomized to complete the initial survey in either English or Spanish. Demographics for the 2 cohorts were similar. For the Spanish-translated survey overall, 86% described the questions as “somewhat easy” or “very easy” to understand, and 93% reported that it was “clear” or “very clear” that the survey aimed to investigate their thoughts regarding mesh use. Approximately 63% of the participants expressed confusion over the use of the Spanish medical term “cabestrillo,” translated for “sling.” There were no significant differences in the responses on cognitive interview between the 2 groups. Overall, the responses between English and Spanish versions of the survey demonstrated good reliability and internal consistency.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated face validity of a Spanish-translated survey assessing perceptions of mesh use in pelvic surgery in a Latina population. Participants’ feedback was crucial to optimizing the quality of the survey for future studies that will evaluate Spanish-speaking patients’ views of mesh implants in pelvic reconstructive surgery.
The Risk of Primary Uterine and Cervical Cancer After Hysteropexy
Authors: Kurian Rebecca , Kirchhoff-Rowald Amelia , Sahil Suman , Cheng An-Lin , Wang Xi , Shepherd Jonathan P. , Sutkin Gary
Published: February 2021

Objective

The aim of the study was to determine the rate of subsequent uterine/cervical cancer after hysteropexy compared with hysterectomy with apical prolapse repair.

Methods

The study used a retrospective cohort of women with uterovaginal prolapse using the Cerner Health Facts database between 2010 and 2018. We identified sacrospinous or uterosacral ligament suspensions or sacral colpopexy/hysteropexy and excluded those with previous hysterectomy. We used the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision and International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision codes for endometrial cancer/hyperplasia and cervical cancer and then reviewed each case, excluding those whose cancer existed at time of prolapse repair. Given that 0 cancer cases were identified, we used Wilson, Jeffreys, Agresti-Coull, Clopper-Pearson, and Rule of 3 to define 95% confidence intervals to estimate the highest possible rate of cancer in each cohort.

Results

A total of 8,927 patients underwent apical prolapse surgery. Of 4,510 with uterovaginal prolapse, 755 (16.7%) underwent hysteropexy. Seventy one with hysterectomy and 5 with hysteropexy had codes for subsequent gynecologic cancer but were excluded on further review. This left 0 gynecologic cancer cases with the largest 95% confidence interval of 0%–0.61% for hysteropexy versus 0%–0.13% for hysterectomy (P > 0.05). The hysteropexy cohort was older (62.6 years vs 57.3 years, P < 0.0001), more likely to have public insurance (51.0% vs 37.9%, P < 0.0001), and less likely to smoke (4.5% vs 7.6%, P = 0.0026). Median follow-up was longer after hysteropexy (1,480 days vs 1,164 days, P < 0.0009).

Conclusions

We can say with 95% certainty that uterine or cervical cancer will develop after hysteropexy in fewer than 0.61% of women, which was not different if hysterectomy was performed. This should be included in preoperative counseling for hysteropexy. Studying longer follow-up after hysteropexy may capture more cases of subsequent cancer development.
Time to operating room matters in modern management of pancreatic injuries: A national review on the management of adult pancreatic injury at Canadian level 1 trauma centers
Authors: Joos Emilie , de Jong Nenke , Ball Chad G. , Quigley Stephen , Trottier Vincent , Massé Marianne , Engels Paul T. , Rao Jagadish , Gillman Lawrence M. , Visser Robin , Widder Sandy , Hameed Morad S. , Vogt Kelly N. ,   on behalf of the Canadian Collaborative on Urgent Care Surgery (CANUCS)
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic injuries are rare, difficult to diagnose, and complex to manage despite multiple published guidelines. This study was undertaken to evaluate the current diagnosis and management of pancreatic trauma in Canadian trauma centers.

METHODS

This is a multi-institutional retrospective study from 2009 to 2014 including patients from eight level 1 trauma centers across Canada. All patients with a diagnosis of pancreatic trauma were included. Demographics, injury characteristics, vital signs on admission, and type of management were collected. Outcomes measured were mortality and pancreas-related morbidity.

RESULTS

Two hundred seventy-nine patients were included. The median age was 29 years (interquartile range, 21–43 years), 72% were male, and 79% sustained blunt trauma. Pancreatic injury included the following grades: I, 26%; II, 28%; III, 33%; IV, 9%; and V, 4%. The overall mortality rate was 11%, and the pancreas-related complication rate was 25%. The majority (88%) of injuries were diagnosed within 24 hours of injury, primarily (80%) with a computed tomography scan. The remaining injuries were diagnosed with ultrasound (6%) and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) (2%) and at the time of laparotomy or autopsy (12%). One hundred seventy-five patients (63%) underwent an operative intervention, most commonly a distal pancreatectomy (44%); however, there was great variability in operative procedure chosen even when considering grade of injury.

CONCLUSION

Pancreatic injuries are associated with multiple other injuries and have significant morbidity and mortality. Their management demonstrates significant practice variation within a national trauma system.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic/care management, level V; Prognostic and epidemiological, level IV.
Managing acute uncomplicated appendicitis in frail geriatric patients: A second hit may be too much
Authors: Chehab Mohamad , Ditillo Michael , Khurrum Muhammad , Gries Lynn , Asmar Samer , Douglas Molly , Bible Letitia , Kulvatunyou Narong , Joseph Bellal
Published: February 2021

INTRODUCTION

Studies have proposed the use of antibiotics only in cases of acute uncomplicated appendicitis (AUA). However, there remains a paucity of data evaluating this nonoperative approach in the vulnerable frail geriatric population. The aim of this study was to examine long-term outcomes of frail geriatric patients with AUA treated with appendectomy compared with initial nonoperative management (NOP).

METHODS

We conducted a 1-year (2017) analysis of the Nationwide Readmissions Database and included all frail geriatric patients(age, ≥65 years) with a diagnosis of AUA. Frailty was assessed using the five-factor modified frailty index. Patients were stratified into those undergoing appendectomy at index admission (operative management) versus those receiving antibiotics only without operative intervention (NOP). Propensity score matching in a 1:1 ratio was performed adjusting for patient- and hospital-related factors.

RESULTS

A total of 5,562 frail geriatric patients with AUA were identified from which a matched cohort of 1,320 patients in each group was obtained. Patients in the NOP and operative management were comparable in terms of age (75.5 ± 7.7 vs. 75.5 ± 7.4 years; p = 0.882) and modified frailty index (0.4 [0.4–0.6] vs. 0.4 [0.4–0.6]; p = 0.526). Failure of NOP management was reported in 18% of patients, 95% of which eventually underwent appendectomy. Over the 6-month follow-up period, patients in the NOP group had significantly higher rates of Clostridium difficile enterocolitis (3% vs. 1%; p < 0.001), greater number of overall hospitalized days (5 [3–9] vs. 4 [2–7] days; p < 0.001), and higher overall costs (US $16,000 [12,000–25,000] vs. US $11,000 [8,000–19,000]; p < 0.001). Patients undergoing appendectomy after failed NOP had significantly higher rates of complications (20% vs. 11%; p < 0.001), mortality (4% vs. 2%; p = 0.019), and appendiceal neoplasm (3% vs. 1%; p = 0.027).

CONCLUSION

One in six patients failed NOP within 6 months and required appendectomy with subsequent more complications and higher mortality. Appendectomy may offer better outcomes in managing AUA in the frail geriatric population.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, level IV.
Association between access to pediatric trauma care and motor vehicle crash death in children: An ecologic analysis of United States counties
Authors: Byrne James P. , Nance Michael L. , Scantling Dane R. , Holena Daniel N. , Kaufman Elinore J. , Nathens Avery B. , Reilly Patrick M. , Seamon Mark J.
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND

Access to pediatric trauma care is highly variable across the United States. The purpose of this study was to measure the association between pediatric trauma center care and motor vehicle crash (MVC) mortality in children (<15 years) at the US county level for 5 years (2014–2018).

METHODS

The exposure was defined as the highest level of pediatric trauma care present within each county: (1) pediatric trauma center, (2) adult level 1/2, (3) adult level 3, or (4) no trauma center. Pediatric deaths due to passenger vehicle crashes on public roads were identified from the NHTSA Fatality Analysis Reporting System. Hierarchical negative binomial modeling measured the relationship between highest level of pediatric trauma care and pediatric MVC mortality within counties. Adjusted analyses accounted for population age and sex, emergency medical service response times, helicopter ambulance availability, state traffic safety laws, and measures of rurality.

RESULTS

During the study period 3,067 children died in fatal crashes. We identified 188 pediatric trauma centers in 141 counties. Significant disparities in access to pediatric trauma care were observed. Specifically, 99% of pediatric trauma centers were situated in population-dense urban counties, while 28% of children lived in counties no trauma center. After risk adjustment, counties with pediatric trauma centers had significantly lower rates of pediatric MVC death than those with no trauma center: 0.7 versus 3.2 deaths/100,000 child-years; mortality rate ratio, 0.58; and 95% confidence interval, 0.39 to 0.86. In counties where pediatric trauma centers were absent, adult level 1/2 trauma centers were associated with comparable risk reduction.

CONCLUSION

The presence of pediatric trauma centers was associated with lower rates of MVC death in children. Adult level 1/2 trauma centers appear to offer comparable risk reduction. Where population differences in pediatric trauma mortality are observed, addressing disparities in county-level access to pediatric trauma care may serve as a viable target for system-level improvement.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Epidemiological, level III; Care management, level III.
Variation in neurosurgical intervention for severe traumatic brain injury: The challenge of measuring quality in trauma center verification
Authors: Truong Evelyn I. , Stanley Samuel P. , DeMario Belinda S. , Tseng Esther S. , Como John J. , Ho Vanessa P. , Kelly Michael L.
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND

Intracranial pressure monitor (ICPm) procedure rates are a quality metric for American College of Surgeons trauma center verification. However, ICPm procedure rates may not accurately reflect the quality of care in TBI. We hypothesized that ICPm and craniotomy/craniectomy procedure rates for severe TBI vary across the United States by geography and institution.

METHODS

We identified all patients with a severe traumatic brain injury (head Abbreviated Injury Scale, ≥3) from the 2016 Trauma Quality Improvement Program data set. Patients who received surgical decompression or ICPm were identified via International Classification of Diseases codes. Hospital factors included neurosurgeon group size, geographic region, teaching status, and trauma center level. Two multiple logistic regression models were performed identifying factors associated with (1) craniotomy with or without ICPm or (2) ICPm alone. Data are presented as medians (interquartile range) and odds ratios (ORs) (95% confidence interval).

RESULTS

We identified 75,690 patients (66.4% male; age, 59 [36–77] years) with a median Injury Severity Score of 17 (11–25). Overall, 6.1% had surgical decompression, and 4.8% had ICPm placement. Logistic regression analysis showed that region of the country was significantly associated with procedure type: hospitals in the West were more likely to use ICPm (OR, 1.34 [1.20–1.50]), while Northeastern (OR, 0.80 [0.72–0.89]), Southern (OR, 0.84 [0.78–0.92]), and Western (OR, 0.88 [0.80–0.96]) hospitals were less likely to perform surgical decompression. Hospitals with small neurosurgeon groups (<3) were more likely to perform surgical intervention. Community hospitals are associated with higher odds of surgical decompression but lower odds of ICPm placement.

CONCLUSION

Both geographic differences and hospital characteristics are independent predictors for surgical intervention in severe traumatic brain injury. This suggests that nonpatient factors drive procedural decisions, indicating that ICPm rate is not an ideal quality metric for American College of Surgeons trauma center verification.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Epidemiological, level III; Care management/Therapeutic level III.
Is a chest radiograph indicated after chest tube removal in trauma patients? A systematic review
Authors: Sweet Arthur A.R. , Beks Reinier B. , de Jong Mirjam B. , van Baal Mark C.P.M. , IJpma Frank F.A. , Hietbrink Falco , Beeres Frank J.P. , Leenen Luke P.H. , Groenwold Rolf H.H. , Houwert Roderick M.
Published: February 2021

PURPOSE

The aim of this systematic review was to assess the necessity of routine chest radiographs after chest tube removal in ventilated and nonventilated trauma patients.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted in MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL, and CINAHL on May 15, 2020. Quality assessment was performed using the Methodological Index for Nonrandomized Studies criteria. Primary outcome measures were abnormalities on postremoval chest radiograph (e.g., recurrence of a pneumothorax, hemothorax, pleural effusion) and reintervention after chest tube removal. Secondary outcome measures were emergence of new clinical symptoms or vital signs after chest tube removal.

RESULTS

Fourteen studies were included, consisting of seven studies on nonventilated patients and seven studies on combined cohorts of ventilated and nonventilated patients, all together containing 1,855 patients. Nonventilated patients had abnormalities on postremoval chest radiograph in 10% (range across studies, 0–38%) of all chest tubes and 24% (range, 0–78%) of those underwent reintervention. In the studies that reported on clinical symptoms after chest tube removal, all patients who underwent reintervention also had symptoms of recurrent pathology. Combined cohorts of ventilated and nonventilated patients had abnormalities on postremoval chest radiograph in 20% (range, 6–49%) of all chest tubes and 45% (range, 8–63%) of those underwent reintervention.

CONCLUSION

In nonventilated patients, one in ten developed recurrent pathology after chest tube removal and almost a quarter of them underwent reintervention. In two studies that reported on clinical symptoms, all reinterventions were performed in patients with symptoms of recurrent pathology. In these two studies, omission of routine postremoval chest radiograph seemed safe. However, current literature remains insufficient to draw definitive conclusions on this matter, and future studies are needed.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Systematic review study, level IV.
Geospatial assessment of helicopter emergency medical service overtriage
Authors: Deeb Andrew-Paul , Phelos Heather M. , Peitzman Andrew B. , Billiar Timothy R. , Sperry Jason L. , Brown Joshua B.
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND

Despite evidence of benefit after injury, helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) overtriage remains high. Scene and transfer overtriage are distinct processes. Our objectives were to identify geographic variation in overtriage and patient-level predictors, and determine if overtriage impacts population-level outcomes.

METHODS

Patients 16 years or older undergoing scene or interfacility HEMS in the Pennsylvania Trauma Outcomes Study were included. Overtriage was defined as discharge within 24 hours of arrival. Patients were mapped to zip code, and rates of overtriage were calculated. Hot spot analysis identified regions of high and low overtriage. Mixed-effects logistic regression determined patient predictors of overtriage. High and low overtriage regions were compared for population-level injury fatality rates. Analyses were performed for scene and transfer patients separately.

RESULTS

A total of 85,572 patients were included (37.4% transfers). Overtriage was 5.5% among scene and 11.8% among transfer HEMS (p < 0.01). Hot spot analysis demonstrated geographic variation in high and low overtriage for scene and transfer patients. For scene patients, overtriage was associated with distance (odds ratio [OR], 1.03; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01–1.06 per 10 miles; p = 0.04), neck injury (OR, 1.27; 95% CI, 1.01–1.60; p = 0.04), and single-system injury (OR, 1.37; 95% CI, 1.15–1.64; p < 0.01). For transfer patients, overtriage was associated with rurality (OR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.22–2.21; p < 0.01), facial injury (OR, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.03–1.44; p = 0.02), and single-system injury (OR, 1.35; 95% CI, 1.18–2.19; p < 0.01). For scene patients, high overtriage was associated with higher injury fatality rate (coefficient, 1.72; 95% CI, 1.68–1.76; p < 0.01); low overtriage was associated with lower injury fatality rate (coefficient, −0.73; 95% CI, −0.78 to −0.68; p < 0.01). For transfer patients, high overtriage was not associated with injury fatality rate (p = 0.53); low overtriage was associated with lower injury fatality rate (coefficient, −2.87; 95% CI, −4.59 to −1.16; p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Geographic overtriage rates vary significantly for scene and transfer HEMS, and are associated with population-level outcomes. These findings can help guide targeted performance improvement initiatives to reduce HEMS overtriage.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, level IV.
Is cerebral perfusion maintained during full and partial resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta in hemorrhagic shock conditions?
Authors: Benham Derek A. , Calvo Richard Y. , Carr Matthew J. , Wessels Lyndsey E. , Schrader Andrew J. , Lee Joseph J. , Krzyzaniak Michael J. , Martin Matthew J.
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND

Partial resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (pREBOA) is a technology that occludes aortic flow and allows for controlled deflation and restoration of varying distal perfusion. Carotid flow rates (CFRs) during partial deflation are unknown. Our aim was to measure CFR with the different pREBOA balloon volumes and correlate those to the proximal mean arterial pressure (PMAP) and a handheld pressure monitoring device (COMPASS; Mirador Biomedical, Seattle, WA).

METHODS

Ten swine underwent a hemorrhagic injury model with carotid and iliac arterial pressures monitored via arterial lines. Carotid and aortic flow rates were monitored with Doppler flow probes. A COMPASS was placed to monitor proximal pressure. The pREBOA was inflated for 15 minutes then partially deflated for an aortic flow rate of 0.7 L/min for 45 minutes. It was then completely deflated. Proximal mean arterial pressures and CFR were measured, and correlation was evaluated. Correlation between CRF and COMPASS measurements was evaluated.

RESULTS

Carotid flow rate increased 240% with full inflation. Carotid flow rate was maintained at 100% to 150% of baseline across a wide range of partial deflation. After full deflation, CFR transiently decreased to 45% to 95% of baseline. There was strong positive correlation (r > 0.85) between CFR and PMAP after full inflation, and positive correlation with partial inflation (r > 0.7). Carotid flow rate had strong correlation with the COMPASS with full REBOA (r > 0.85) and positive correlation with pREBOA (r > 0.65).

CONCLUSION

Carotid flow rate is increased in a hemorrhagic model during full and partial inflation of the pREBOA and correlates well with PMAP. Carotid perfusion appears maintained across a wide range of pREBOA deflation and could be readily monitored with a handheld portable COMPASS device instead of a standard arterial line setup.
Abdominal compartment syndrome in burns patients: Introduction of an evidence-based management guideline and algorithm
Authors: Strong Ben , Spoors Catherine , Richardson Nigel , Martin Niall , Barnes David , El-Muttardi Naguib , Shelley Odhran
Published: February 2021

Abdominal compartment syndrome is a serious potential complication of burn injury, and carries high morbidity and mortality. Although there are generalised published guidelines on managing the condition, to date no management algorithm has yet been published tailored specifically to the burn injury patient. We set out to examine the literature on the subject in order to produce an evidence based management guideline, with the aim of improving outcomes for these patients. The guideline covers early detection and assessment of the condition as well as optimum medical, surgical and postoperative management. We believe that this guideline provides a much needed benchmark for managing burns patients with raised intra-abdominal pressure, as well as providing a template for further research and improvements in care.
Long-term prescription opioid use among US military service members injured in combat
Authors: Dalton Michael K. , Manful Adoma , Jarman Molly P. , Pisano Alfred J. , Learn Peter A. , Koehlmoos Tracey P. , Weissman Joel S. , Cooper Zara , Schoenfeld Andrew J.
Published: February 2021

INTRODUCTION

During the Global War on Terrorism, many US Military service members sustained injuries with potentially long-lasting functional limitations and chronic pain. We sought to understand the patterns of prescription opioid use among service members injured in combat.

METHODS

We queried the Military Health System Data Repository to identify service members injured in combat between 2007 and 2011. Sociodemographics, injury characteristics, treatment information, and costs of care were abstracted for all eligible patients. We surveyed for prescription opioid utilization subsequent to hospital discharge and through 2018. Negative binomial regression was used to identify factors associated with cumulative prescription opioid use.

RESULTS

We identified 3,981 service members with combat-related injuries presenting during the study period. The median age was 24 years (interquartile range [IQR], 22–29 years), 98.5% were male, and the median follow-up was 3.3 years. During the study period, 98% (n = 3,910) of patients were prescribed opioids at least once and were prescribed opioids for a median of 29 days (IQR, 9–85 days) per patient-year of follow-up. While nearly all patients (96%; n = 3,157) discontinued use within 6 months, 91% (n = 2,882) were prescribed opioids again after initially discontinuing opioids. Following regression analysis, patients with preinjury opioid exposure, more severe injuries, blast injuries, and enlisted rank had higher cumulative opioid use. Patients who discontinued opioids within 6 months had an unadjusted median total health care cost of US $97,800 (IQR, US $42,364–237,135) compared with US $230,524 (IQR, US $134,387–370,102) among those who did not discontinue opioids within 6 months (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Nearly all service members injured in combat were prescribed opioids during treatment, and the vast majority experienced multiple episodes of prescription opioid use. Only 4% of the population met the criteria for sustained prescription opioid use at 6 months following discharge. Early discontinuation may not translate to long-term opioid cessation in this population.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Epidemiology study, level III.
Benzodiazepines increase the likelihood of both infectious and thrombotic complications
Authors: Skicki Edward , Morgan Madison , Brown Catherine , Bradburn Eric , Rogers Frederick
Published: February 2021

INTRODUCTION

Benzodiazepines (BZDs) modulate peripheral γ-amino-butyric acid type A on macrophages causing immunomodulation. They inhibit proinflammatory cytokines increasing infections. Prior studies have also shown that infections can increase thrombotic complications. We sought to examine this relationship in trauma patients. We hypothesized that the presence of BZDs on admission urine drug screen (UDS) would increase rates of both complications.

METHODS

All patients submitted to the Pennsylvania Trauma Outcome Study database from 2003 to 2018 were queried. Those with a positive UDS for BZDs were analyzed. Infectious complications were defined as pneumonia, urinary tract infection, sepsis, wound, and soft tissue infection, and thrombotic complications were defined as presence of pulmonary embolism or deep vein thrombosis. Logistic regressions controlling for demographic and injury covariates assessed the adjusted impact of BZDs on infectious and thrombotic complications.

RESULTS

A total of 3,393 patients (2.08%) had infectious complications, and 3,048 (1.87%) had thrombotic complications. Furthermore, 33,260 patients (20.4%) had a positive UDS for BZDs on admission. Univariate analysis showed that those positive for BZDs had higher rates of infectious (3.33% vs. 1.76%, p < 0.001) and thrombotic (2.84% vs. 1.62%, p < 0.001) complications. Multivariate analysis revealed that BZDs significantly increased the odds of infectious and thrombotic complications. Patients who tested positive for BZDs and subsequently developed infection had increased odds (adjusted odds ratio, 1.65; p < 0.001) of developing thrombotic complications.

CONCLUSION

Trauma patients with a positive UDS for BZDs had higher odds of both infectious and thrombotic complications. Moreover, odds of thrombotic complications were higher in those with infections.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Epidemiological, level III.
Frailty in Pancreas Transplantation
Authors: Parajuli Sandesh , Aziz Fahad , Garg Neetika , Wallschlaeger Rebecca E. , Lorden Heather M. , Al-Qaoud Talal , Mandelbrot Didier A. , Odorico and Jon S.
Published: February 2021

There are a variety of definitions and criteria used in clinical practice to define frailty. In the absence of a gold-standard definition, frailty has been operationally defined as meeting 3 out of 5 phenotypic criteria indicating compromised function: low grip strength, low energy, slowed walking speed, low physical activity, and unintentional weight loss. Frailty is a common problem in solid organ transplant candidates who are in the process of being listed for a transplant, as well as after transplantation. Patients with diabetes or chronic kidney disease (CKD) are known to be at increased risk of being frail. As pancreas transplantation is exclusively performed among patients with diabetes and the majority of them also have CKD, pancreas transplant candidates and recipients are at high risk of being frail. Sarcopenia, fatigue, low walking speed, low physical activity, and unintentional weight loss, which are some of the phenotypes of frailty, are very prevalent in this population. In various solid organs, frail patients are less likely to be listed or transplanted and have high waitlist mortality. Even after a transplant, they have increased risk of prolonged hospitalization, readmission, and delayed graft function. Given the negative impact of frailty on solid organ transplants, we believe that frailty would have a similar or even worse impact on pancreas transplantation. Due to the paucity of data specifically among pancreas transplant recipients, here we include frailty data from patients with CKD, diabetes, and various solid organ transplant recipients.
Operative Technique of Donor Organ Procurement for En Bloc Heart-liver Transplantation
Authors: Elde Stefan , Brubaker Aleah L. , Than Peter A. , Rinewalt Daniel , MacArthur John W. , Alassar Aiman , Bonham Clark A. , Esquivel Carlos O. , Shudo Yasuhiro , Concepcion Waldo , Woo Y. Joseph
Published: February 2021

Combined heart-liver transplant is an emerging option for patients with indications for heart transplantation and otherwise prohibitive hepatic dysfunction. Heart-liver transplantation is particularly relevant for patients with single ventricle physiology who often develop Fontan-associated liver disease and fibrosis. Although only performed at a limited number of centers, several approaches to combined heart-liver transplantation have been described. The en bloc technique offers several potential advantages over the traditional sequential technique. Specifically, en bloc heart-liver transplantation may allow improved hemodynamics, decreased bleeding, reduced liver allograft ischemic time, and may result in reduced rates of graft dysfunction. Here we describe our center’s en bloc heart-liver procurement technique in detail, with the aim of allowing broader use and standardization of this technique.
Risk of Lung Allograft Dysfunction Associated With Aspergillus Infection
Authors: Le Pavec Jérôme , Pradère Pauline , Gigandon Anne , Dauriat Gaëlle , Dureault Amélie , Aguilar Claire , Henry Benoît , Lanternier Fanny , Savale Laurent , Dolidon Samuel , Gazengel Pierre , Mussot Sacha , Mercier Olaf , Husain Shahid , Lortholary Olivier , Fadel Elie
Published: February 2021

Background.

We sought to determine whether invasive aspergillosis (IA) during the first year after lung transplantation increased the risk of chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD).

Methods.

We retrospectively reviewed the records of 191 patients who underwent lung transplantation at our institution between January 2013 and December 2017. Screening for Aspergillus was with bronchial aspirates, bronchoalveolar lavage if indicated or during surveillance bronchoscopy, radiography, and computed tomography. We used Fine and Gray multivariable regression to identify potential risk factors for CLAD.

Results.

During the first posttransplant year, 72 patients had at least 1 deep-airway sample positive for Aspergillus; 63 were classified as having IA and were included in the study. Median number of endoscopies per patient during the first year was 9 (range, 1–44). Median time from transplantation to first Aspergillus-positive sample was 121 d. Bronchial aspirate samples and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid were positive in 71 and 44 patients, respectively. Aspergillus fumigatus (n = 36, 50%) predominated; bacterial samples were also positive in 22 (31%) patients. IA within 4 mo after transplantation was independently associated with CLAD development (subdistribution hazard ratio, 3.75; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.61-8.73; P < 0.01) by regression analysis. Survival at 3 and 5 y conditional on 1-y CLAD-free survival was 37% (95% CI, 24%-58%), and 24% (95% CI, 11%-52%) in the IA <4 mo group compared to 65% (95% CI, 57%-73%) and 54% (95% CI, 43%-66%) in the non-IA group and to 69% (95% CI, 58%-83%) and 54% (95% CI, 35%-82%) in the IA ≥4 mo group, respectively (P < 0.01, logrank test).

Conclusions.

Our evaluation of de novo IA showed that this infection was most strongly associated with CLAD when found within 4 mo after transplantation.
Trazodone Treatment of Bruxism in a Patient With Severe Dementia
Authors: Stewart Jonathan T.
Published: February 2021

Objectives

The objective of this study was to report the effectiveness of trazodone for treatment of bruxism in dementia.

Methods

A single case study of a 66-year-old man with severe vascular dementia and awake bruxism was performed.

Results

The patient's bruxism responded robustly to titration of trazodone. He tolerated the medication with no untoward sedation or other adverse effects.

Conclusions

Bruxism is occasionally encountered in patients with advanced dementia and raises concerns about nutritional compromise and about potential need for poorly tolerated dental treatment. Trazodone may potentially be effective for bruxism in some patients.
Partial Vision Loss After Orbital Decompression in a Patient With Thyroid Eye Disease, Chorioretinal Folds, and Disc Edema
Authors: DeMaria Lauren N. , Tran Ann Q. , Tooley Andrea A. , Elmalem Valerie I. , Belinsky Irina
Published: February 2021

Concomitant chorioretinal folds with disc edema can be seen in cases of thyroid eye disease presenting with compressive optic neuropathy and may portend optic nerve ischemia. We describe an unusual case of a 64-year-old man who developed partial vision loss after orbital decompression.
Double Vision and Gait Ataxia in an Immunocompetent 9-Year-Old Girl With Intracranial Phaeohyphomycosis
Authors: Pareek Aishwarya V. , Lotze Timothy E. , Demmler Gail , Mohila Carrie A. , Tran Brandon , Shah Veeral S.
Published: February 2021

A 9-year-old girl presented with morning headaches associated with vomiting, gait ataxia, and facial and ocular motor nerve palsies. Her initial imaging was concerning for demyelinating disease. After extensive infectious and rheumatologic workup returned negative, she was treated twice with intravenous immunoglobulin and intravenous steroids with near-complete resolution each time. She returned, however, with worsening neurologic deficits and imaging revealing focal ischemic infarction in the brainstem as well as new-onset hydrocephalus. A multispecialty workup was initiated without conclusive diagnosis. A novel, noninvasive test for plasma cell-free DNA established a diagnosis of Cladophialophora bantiana that was confirmed and validated by a brain biopsy taken during a clinical decompensation. Treatment was initiated with systemic voriconazole and intraventricular amphotericin B.