bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elective Surgery in Patients with End Stage Renal Disease: What's the Risk?
Authors: Schneider Christopher R. , Cobb William , Patel Shivani , Cull David , Anna Cass , Roettger Richard
Published: June 2020

Little research has been performed in regards to the morbidity and outcomes associated with elective general surgery performed on patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD). With minimal data about the severity of disease in these patients, we sought to quantify the differences in the ESRD patient undergoing elective surgical procedures compared with matched controls. A review of all ESRD patients undergoing elective surgical procedures at a University Medical Center between 2001 and 2005 was performed. Outcomes included length of hospital stay, 1 year morbidity, and mortality. These patients were then compared with a control group with normal renal function matched 2:1. Fifty-two consecutive ESRD patients undergoing elective general surgery procedures were compared with 104 matched controls. The ESRD group experienced more complications (25 vs 16, P = 0.05) and had a larger number of overall complications compared with the controls (33 vs 19, P < 0.05). Length of stay was significantly longer in the ESRD group as well (8 vs 2.65 days, P < 0.0001). Incidence of death (4%) in the ESRD group was increased as well. Patients with ESRD require longer hospital stays and have an increased overall incidence and frequency of complications than patients with normal renal function undergoing elective general surgery procedures. The significantly increased morbidity should be considered when evaluating expected outcomes.
Resection of Portovenous Structures to Obtain Microscopically Negative Margins during Pancreaticoduodenectomy for Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma is Worthwhile
Authors: Toomey Paul , Hernandez Jonathan , Morton Connor , Duce Lorent , Farrior Thomas , Villadolid Desiree , Ross Sharona , Rosemurgy Alexander
Published: June 2020

Locally advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma may require resections of the portal vein and/or its major tributaries to achieve tumor extirpation, albeit with the potential for increased morbidity and mortality. However, major venous resections can impart complete tumor extirpation and thereby a survival advantage compared with resections with residual microscopic disease. This study was undertaken to determine if resection of the portal vein and/or its splenic or superior mesenteric venous (SMV) tributaries is a worthwhile endeavor. Since 1995, patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) for pancreatic adenocarcinoma have been prospectively followed. The impact of portovenous resections (portal vein, SMV, and/or splenic vein) on survival was evaluated using survival curve analysis (Mantel-Cox test). Margins were codified as R0 or R1 and data are presented as median, mean ± SD where appropriate. For 220 patients undergoing PD for pancreatic adenocarcinoma, survival was 17 months. Patients undergoing RO resections had improved survival relative to patients undergoing R1 resections (20 vs 13 months, P < 0.03). Concomitant portovenous resections were undertaken in 48 patients. There was no difference in survival after PD without portovenous resection (17 months) versus PD with portovenous resection (18 months). Resections with complete tumor extirpation (i.e., RO resections) provide superior long-term survival; all efforts to obtain RO resections should be undertaken. Portovenous resections during pancreaticoduodenectomy can be undertaken safely and are worthwhile when complete tumor extirpation is attainable.
Mesenteric Cavernous Hemangioma Involving Small Bowel and Appendix: A Rare Presentation of a Vascular Tumor
Authors: Parker William T. , Harper James G. , Rivera David E. , Holsten Steven B. , Bowden Talmadge
Published: June 2020

We report on a case of cavernous hemangioma of the small bowel mesentery. Fewer than five cases of large mesenteric cavernous hemangioma have been reported in the English literature. Cavernous hemangioma of the small bowel mesentery is extremely rare. A 32-year-old black male presented with 1 week of abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and anorexia. He had recently undergone computed tomographic guided biopsy of a pelvic mass at another facility. Repeat CT guided biopsy was nondiagnostic, mesenteric angiography was inconclusive, and magnetic resonance imaging was performed as well. Complete workup was performed to localize primary source of abdominal mass and eventual open biopsy was planned resulting in en bloc resection of the mass, which had invaded the terminal ileum and appendix. Final pathologic diagnosis was cavernous mesenteric hemangioma. The patient experienced a prolonged postoperative ileus and was eventually discharged in stable condition, tolerating a regular diet with adequate bowel and urinary function. Diagnosis of cavernous mesenteric hemangioma is difficult and multiple imaging modalities can prove inconclusive. Adequate biopsy can be difficult to obtain even in patients with small body habitus. Standard of care is resection of entire mass en bloc.
Omental Reinforcement for Intraoperative Leak Repairs during Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
Authors: Madan Atul K. , Martinez Jose M. , Menzo Emanuele Lo , Khan Khurram A. , Tichansky David S.
Published: June 2020

Leaks from the gastrojejunostomy after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) have the potential for significant morbidity and mortality. When intraoperative leaks are discovered, we choose to perform omental reinforcement around the gastrojejunostomy and pouch after suture repair of the leaks. This study examined the hypothesis that omental reinforcement would be useful after intraoperative leaks during LRYGB. Omental reinforcement was performed on gastrojejunostomies, in which leaks were seen, created using a circular stapler during LRYGB. Data were reviewed retrospectively on these patients. There were a total of 387 patients with 32 (8.26%) patients who had a staple line dehiscence or evidence of gastric pouch or gastrojejunostomy leak intraoperatively Leaks/dehiscences were repaired with sutures and then reinforced with omentum. None of these patient developed anastomotic leak postoperatively. Of the other 365 patients, there were four (1.1%) leaks from the gastrojejunostomy and/or gastric pouch. Omental reinforcement may be useful in decreasing the incidence of postoperative leaks when an intraoperative leak is encountered during LRYGB. However, omental reinforcement does not completely prevent a postoperative leak. Consideration of reinforcement with omentum may be given for patients in whom an intraoperative leak is noted.
Arterial Revascularization for Upper Extremity Ischemia in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Warren Jeremy A. , Agarwal Gautam , Wynn James J.
Published: June 2020

Surgical revascularization of the upper extremity is uncommon, comprising only 4 to 18 per cent of all vascular surgical interventions. Patients with renal failure have higher rates of atherosclerotic cardiovascular and peripheral arterial disease resulting from chronic inflammation, endothelial damage associated with hemodialysis, and vascular trauma. Upper extremity arterial disease with chronic ischemia may be underrecognized in these patients. We reviewed our experience with upper extremity revascularization in patients with renal failure presenting with chronic ischemia. Four patients with longstanding chronic kidney disease developed chronic severe ischemia affecting the forearm or hand. All had previous dialysis access in the symptomatic arm, although none had a functional ipsilateral access at the time of presentation. All patients had successful revascularization with resolution of symptoms and patent bypass grafts at follow up. There was one death 4 months postoperatively and one patient has not returned for follow up. Patients with renal failure with symptomatic upper extremity arterial occlusion should be considered for revascularization of the infrabrachial arteries.
Proteus Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Zusan Erin , Smith J. Michael , Parker Thomas
Published: June 2020

Proteus syndrome is a rare, sporadically occurring hamartomatous disorder with complex multisystem involvement and wide clinical variability. Clinical characteristics include craniofacial abnormalities; asymmetrical overgrowth of the trunk, limbs, and digits; lipomas; and vascular malformations. Cystic lung disease is noted in approximately 10 per cent of patients. These cystic malformations may lead to cystic pulmonary emphysema, which may cause significant morbidity for the patient. We describe the case of a 27-year-old woman with known Proteus syndrome who developed acute on chronic respiratory failure. Subsequent CT scan of the chest was significant for extensive bullous disease with nearly complete replacement of the right lung tissue. Our operative management and the patient's clinical course are described.
CT Imaging in Motorcycle Collision Victims: Routine or Selective?
Authors: Compoginis John M. , Akopian Gabriel
Published: June 2020

With improving accuracy and efficiency of CT, some trauma centers have used a low threshold for the use of CT scans in the evaluation and assessment of trauma patients. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic benefits of liberal CT scanning in multisystem blunt trauma motorcycle accident victims. The trauma registry at our community-based Level II center was accessed to identify consecutive motorcycle accident victims within a 55-month period who: 1) were evaluated on presentation by an attending trauma surgeon; and 2) underwent a head, cervical spine, chest, abdomen, or pelvis CT scan or any combination as part of their initial assessment. For those patients with clinically significant findings identified on CT, the percentage of those with negative clinical examinations was calculated. We found that 48, 77, 47, and 69 per cent of patients with clinically significant findings on head, cervical spine, thoracic, and abdominal CT, respectively, had normal clinical examinations. Our data suggest lower thresholds for CT use in the evaluation of patients sustaining multisystem blunt trauma should be adopted, even in the face of normal clinical examinations. This is especially true for the neck and abdominal regions.
Hospital Volume is Not a Predictor of Outcomes after Gastrectomy for Neoplasm
Authors: Reavis Kevin M. , Hinojosa Marcelo W. , Smith Brian R. , Wooldridge James B. , Krishnan Sindhu , Nguyen Ninh T.
Published: June 2020

Studies have shown conflicting data with regard to the volume and outcome relationship for gastrectomy. Using the University HealthSystem Consortium national database, we examined the influence of the hospital's volume of gastrectomy on outcomes at academic centers between 2004 and 2008. Outcome measures, including length of stay, 30-day readmission, morbidity, and in-hospital mortality, were compared among high- (13 or greater), medium- (6 to 12), and low-volume (five or less) hospitals. There were 10 high- (n = 593 cases), 36 medium- (n = 1076 cases), and 75 low-volume (n = 500 cases) hospitals. There were no significant differences between high- and low-volume hospitals with regard to length of stay, overall complications, 30-day readmission rate, and in-hospital mortality (2.4 vs 4.4%, respectively, P = 0.06). Despite the small number of gastrectomies performed at the low-volume hospitals, these same hospitals performed a large number of other types of gastric surgery such as gastric bypass for the treatment of morbid obesity (102 cases/year). Within the context of academic medical centers, lower annual volume of gastrectomy for neoplasm is not a predictor of poor outcomes which may be explained by the gastric operative experience derived from other types of gastric surgery.
Diverticulitis in California from 1995 to 2006: Increased Rates of Treatment for Younger Patients
Authors: Etzioni David A. , Cannom Rebecca R. , Ault Glenn T. , Beart Robert W. , Kaiser Andreas M.
Published: June 2020

Colonic diverticular disease is responsible for over 300,000 admissions and expenditures exceeding $2.7 billion/year. There is recent evidence that rates of treatment for diverticulitis have increased in the United States over the last decade. We hypothesize that these national trends of increasing rates of hospitalizations for diverticulitis would be found in an analysis of a single-state discharge database. Data from the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development were used to analyze treatment for diverticulitis in California from 1995 to 2006. For each hospitalization, surgical care was determined based on procedure codes for left colon resection and/or colostomy. Overall numbers of admissions for acute diverticulitis increased throughout the 12-year study period with an estimated annual percentage of change (EAPC) of 2.1 per cent (P < 0.001). Rates of admissions increased most rapidly in patients 20 to 34-years-old (EAPC = 8.6%, P < 0.001) and 35 to 49 years old (EAPC = 5.7%, P < 0.001). Elective colectomies had an EAPC of 2.1 per cent (P < 0.001), which was also most dramatic in younger age groups. Between 1995 and 2006 we found significant increases in both the rates of hospitalization for diverticulitis and rates of elective surgical treatment in California. These increases are entirely due to higher rates of care for younger patients.
Arterial Allograft Allows In-line Reconstruction of Prosthetic Graft Infection with Low Recurrence Rate and Mortality
Authors: Vardanian Andrew J. , Chau Anthony , Quinones-Baldrich William , Lawrence Peter F.
Published: June 2020

Surgical management of infected prosthetic vascular grafts is associated with a significant risk of recurrent infection, limb loss, and mortality. Treatment options include graft excision with extra-anatomic bypass and in-line repair with prosthetic graft, vein, or artery. We hypothesized that inline reconstruction using cryopreserved arterial allografts would be associated with a lower recurrent infection rate, limb loss, and mortality than other alternatives. We reviewed all cases where adults underwent surgical management of infected prosthetic aortic, iliac, or femoral bypass grafts with cryopreserved arterial allograft at our medical center from 2001 to 2008. Cryopreserved arterial allografts were used in 21 patients. There were nearly equal number of men (n = 11, 52%) and women (n = 10, 48%). The median age was 63 years and median time since cryoartery repair was 4 years. There have been no deaths in the follow-up period. Complications (19%) included colon perforation (n = 1), lower extremity compartment syndrome (n = 1), limb ischemia (n = 1), and reinfection with pseudoaneurysm and subsequent limb amputation (n = 1). These positive findings of low morbidity and absence of mortality in high risk patients have resulted in a shift at our institution to the preferential use of cryopreserved arterial allograft with in-line reconstruction for infected prosthetic grafts.
Is Laparoscopic Colon Surgery Appropriate in Patients who Have Had Previous Abdominal Surgery?
Authors: Barleben Andrew , Gandhi Dhruvil , Nguyen Xuan-Mai , Che Fred , Nguyen Ninh T. , Mills Steven , Stamos Michael J.
Published: June 2020

Laparoscopic techniques in colon surgery reduce postoperative pain, length of hospital stay, and 30-day morbidity when compared with open surgery. The objective of this study was to determine the feasibility of a laparoscopic colectomy in patients who have previously undergone abdominal surgery. We performed a retrospective, single-institution review of laparoscopic colorectal procedures for benign or malignant pathology between October 2002 and September 2008. Our analysis included 55 patients who previously had laparoscopic, open, or a combination of procedures and subsequently underwent laparoscopic colorectal surgery. We observed a 14.5 per cent conversion rate (n = 8). Of the patients who had previous open procedures (n = 48 [87.3%]), the conversion rate was 16.7 per cent. Only one patient (12.5%) who had a history of only laparoscopic surgery required conversion. The highest conversion rate in our study was from patients who underwent a left colectomy (60%, n = 3/5), which was the only statistically significant factor found for conversion. Since the emergence of laparoscopy, use in colon and rectal surgery nationwide has been poor as a result of multiple factors, including a frequent history of abdominal surgery. Our experience shows that laparoscopic colorectal surgery in patients with prior intra-abdominal surgery can be completed with an acceptable conversion rate.
Critical Evaluation of Pulmonary Contusion in the Early Post-Traumatic Period: Risk of Assisted Ventilation
Authors: Hamrick Miller C. , Duhn Ryan D. , Ochsner M. Gage
Published: June 2020

This study attempts to accurately quantify pulmonary contusion and predict those patients most likely to require assisted ventilation early in their hospital course. Patients admitted to a Level I trauma center were evaluated for pulmonary contusion by helical CT scan. Scans were reviewed by a single radiologist who attempted to accurately quantify contusion as a percentage of total lung volume. These patients were then followed for 48 hours in an attempt to use CT measurements of contusion to predict those that would require assisted ventilation early in their hospital course. After using numerous exclusion criteria, 152 patients were included in the study. Of these, 31 patients (20%) required assisted ventilation within 48 hours of hospital admission. Twenty per cent pulmonary contusion proved to be a highly predictive variable leading to need for assisted ventilation. Of patients sustaining <20 per cent contusion, only 7 of 92 (8%) required assisted ventilation versus 24 of 60 (40%) sustaining >20 per cent contusion. Pulmonary contusion is a significant injury especially when contusion volume exceeds 20 per cent of total lung volume. With accurate measurement of contusion, we can identify those patients at high risk of requiring assisted ventilation early in their hospital course.
Loxoscelism and Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (Vacuum-Assisted Closure): A Clinical Case Series
Authors: Wong S. Lindsey , Defranzo Andrew J. , Morykwas Michael J. , Argenta Louis C.
Published: June 2020

Brown recluse spider (Loxosceles sp) bites continue to be a significant challenge to manage clinically. Sequelae from these lesions range from chronic necrotic ulcers that persist for months to an acute life-threatening course of sepsis. Negative pressure wound therapy using vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) has been described for use in both acute and chronic wounds. We present a novel application for the use of this therapy in a retrospective review of eight clinical cases treated with the VAC.
Recurrent Abdominal Compartment Syndrome: An Inciting Factor of the Second Hit Phenomenon
Authors: Duchesne Juan C. , Baucom Catherine C. , Rennie Kelly V. , Simmons Jon , Mcswain Norman E.
Published: June 2020

Intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH) after damage control laparotomy (DCL) is not unusual and because of this, patients are treated with open-abdomen techniques to prevent abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS). The occurrence of recurrent ACS (R-ACS) after abdominal wall closure under tension in patients managed with DCL can be a trigger factor for second hit syndrome. Outcomes in this subset have not been previously described. In this 1-year retrospective study of severely injured patients in a Level I trauma center managed with DCL and sequential abdominal wall closure, 26 patients were identified. After attempted abdominal wall closure, 13 (50%) patients had R-ACS and 13 (50%) non-R-ACS. R-ACS patients had a statistically significant higher incidence of multisystem organ failure, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and sepsis as well as requiring longer ventilator support and longer hospital length of stay. We concluded that failure to recognize and treat IAH with development of R-ACS after tension abdominal wall closure in patients with DCL will trigger the second hit syndrome with increased risk of morbidity. Institution of a management algorithm with intra-abdominal pressure/abdominal perfusion pressure surveillance at the time of abdominal wall closure can potentially ameliorate complications.
Clostridium difficile Enteritis after Colectomy
Authors: Causey M. Wayne , Spencer Michael P. , Steele Scott R.
Published: June 2020

Clostridium difficile infection of the colon is, unfortunately, a relatively common occurrence that typically follows treatment with antibiotics; however, C. difficile infection of the small bowel is a much more rare phenomenon with only 19 cases reported to date. We present three cases of isolated C. difficile enteritis after colectomy. Although all three patients were identified early and successfully treated with medical management without the need for surgical intervention, previous authors have suggested a much higher morbidity and mortality rate with this infection. This article reviews the current available literature on C. difficile enteritis to highlight this potentially serious condition in postoperative colectomy patients who present with low-grade fevers, abdominal or pelvic pain, and increased ileostomy output.
Premonition of Death in Trauma: A Survey of Healthcare Providers
Authors: Miglietta Maurizio A. , Toma Gabriel I.O. , Docimo Salvatore , Neely Robert , Bakoulis Anastasia , Kreismann Erica
Published: June 2020

Prognostication in western medicine has traditionally been based on objective scientific criteria, yet providers often rely on a feeling or “sense” based on experience to provide prognoses. In trauma, some providers believe that patients who express a feeling of death are more likely to die. We randomly surveyed 302 members of the Eastern Association for the Surgery of Trauma regarding patient's premonitions of death (POD). Ninety-five per cent of respondents reported encountering patients who expressed POD. Fifty per cent agreed patients expressing POD had a higher mortality rate. Fifty-seven per cent believe patient willpower affects outcome. Forty-four per cent agreed patients have an innate ability to sense their ultimate outcome after injury; 85 per cent believe patient's POD do not cause deviations from protocols. Most trauma providers have encountered patients expressing POD. Whereas most believe that a patient's willpower affects outcome, they do not believe that expressing a desire to live decreases mortality with seemingly fatal injuries. Providers who have witnessed negative POD believe these patients are more likely to die, however, they do not deviate from treatment protocols. This survey represents the first attempt to understand the magnitude of premonition of death in trauma and the need for future research.
Novel Bacterial Immobilization Compound Effectively Decreases Bacterial Counts in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Pabon Diego F. , Yost Michael J. , Melendez Giselle C. , Durand Tamsin M. , Brock Timothy Z. , Felice Peter A. , Campbell Katherine , Bynoe Raymond P. , Fann Stephen A.
Published: June 2020

Skin flora immobilization technology is similar in efficacy to Iodine-Povidone in healthy volunteers. We did a prospective study in a university clinic with 60 healthy volunteers. Right inguinal skin area on healthy volunteers was used to compare the antimicrobial properties of cyanoacrylate sealant (FloraSeal, Adhesion Biomedical, Wyomissing, PA) versus standard surgical preparation Povidone-iodine (Betadine, Purdue Productions, Stamford, CT). Bacterial counts were measured at different time intervals: 15 minutes, 4 hours, and 24 hours. Bacterial colony forming units were compared between Povidone-iodine and cyanoacrylate sealant. The absolute log reduction was 5.568 for Povidone-iodine (7 absolute CFU); 5.028 for cyanoacrylate (59 absolute CFU); and 5.568 for Povidone-iodine and cyanoacrylate combined (21 absolute CFU). Cyanoacrylate was able to sustain a reduction on bacterial counts at 4 hours and 24 hours of more than 99.8 per cent as compared with the control group. Cyanoacrylate microbial sealant successfully reduces bacterial counts on normal healthy skin. The results were similar to Povidone-iodine alone. We believe this technology may be an excellent means of mitigating incisional surgical site infection by reducing the risk of contamination by skin flora and warrants further testing.
A Band Lifting Assisted Method for Laparoscopic Resection of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors on the Posterior Wall of the Stomach
Authors: Ji Zhen-Ling , Li Jun-Sheng , Zhang Wei
Published: June 2020

Laparoscopic surgical techniques are beneficial for the wedge resection of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs). We have developed a new technique of laparoscopic transgastric resection for GISTs of the posterior wall of the stomach, a band lifting wedge resection method that has been confirmed to ensure sufficient surgical margins around the resected specimen in 21 cases. GISTs located at the posterior wall of the stomach were collected for this study. Laparoscopic anterior gastrotomy was performed and a 9-Fr rubber band was looped around the base of the tumor, allowing it to be lifted up through the anterior gastrotomy. The lesion was transected using a laparoscopic linear cutter and the gastrotomy was then closed by sequential application of the linear cutter. Surgical specimens were examined immunohistochemically All GISTs were successfully and completely resected using the laparoscopic technique. The resected tumors were ellipse-shaped or round. Macroscopic examination of the resected specimens showed complete tumor excision with negative surgical margins in all patients. A band lifting method for transection of GISTs on the posterior wall of the stomach easily allows for sufficient surgical margins of GISTs. The technique is reliable and feasible for laparoscopic treatment of GISTs in the stomach.
A Rare Nonmalignant Mass of the Pancreas: Case Report and Review of Pancreatic Sarcoidosis
Authors: Wijkstrom Martin , Bechara Rabih I. , Sarmiento Juan M.
Published: June 2020

Sarcoidosis is a systemic granulomatous disease of unknown etiology affecting patients from all genetic backgrounds. Pancreatic involvement is rare; the first case was described on autopsy in 1937. We present a case of pancreatic sarcoidosis without a history of the disease presenting as biliary obstruction mimicking pancreatic malignancy. We also review the literature with respect to management and outcomes of similar cases. The patient described here presented with all the signs and symptoms of a pancreatic malignancy, which was confirmed on a CT scan; the positron emission tomography scan and the CA 19-9 level were also confirmatory of the suspected diagnosis. In this setting, if the mass looks resectable, a Whipple procedure would be the next logical step. However, such strategy would be aggressive management for a benign condition that could be palliated with diverting rather than resective procedures without changing the outlook of the disease. We suggest keeping a high index of suspicion in patients with a history of the disease if demographic concordance exists.
Mortality and Management of 96 Shark Attacks and Development of a Shark Bite Severity Scoring System
Authors: Lentz Ashley K. , Burgess George H. , Perrin Karen , Brown Jennifer A. , Mozingo David W. , Lottenberg Lawrence
Published: June 2020

Humans share a fascination and fear of sharks. We predict that most shark attacks are nonfatal but require skilled, timely medical intervention. The development of a shark bite severity scoring scale will assist communication and understanding of such an injury. We retrospectively reviewed records of the prospectively maintained International Shark Attack File (ISAF) at the University of Florida. The ISAF contains 4409 investigations, including 2979 documented attacks, 96 of which have complete medical records. We developed a Shark-Induced Trauma (SIT) Scale and calculated the level of injury for each attack. Medical records were reviewed for the 96 documented shark attack victims since 1921. Calculated levels of injury in the SIT Scale reveal 40 Level 1 injuries (41.7%), 16 Level 2 injuries (16.7%), 18 Level 3 injuries (18.8%), 14 Level 4 injuries (14.6%), and eight Level 5 injuries (8.3%). The overall mortality of shark attacks was 8.3 per cent. However, SIT Scale Level 1 injuries comprised the greatest percentage of cases at 41.7 per cent. Injury to major vascular structures increases mortality and necessitates immediate medical attention and definitive care by a surgeon. Shark bites deserve recognition with prompt resuscitation, washout, debridement, and follow up for prevention of infection and closure of more complex wounds.
Effect of Fasting on Coagulation Factors in Patients who Undergo Major Abdominal Surgery
Authors: Moriwaki Yoshihiro , Sugiyama Mitsugi
Published: June 2020

Major abdominal surgery without preoperative adequate oral intake with some cephalosporins may result in vitamin K deficiency and bleeding tendency. The aim of this study is to clarify the effect of preoperative fasting on postoperative coagulation factors. We prospectively examined 16 patients who underwent major abdominal surgery. Patients were divided into a preoperative fast group (Group F, n = 7, mean period of preoperative fasting 8.7 days) and a control group (Group C, n = 9). We did not administer vitamin K and initiated feeding after the seventh postoperative day. In Group C, prothrombin time (PT) and Factors II, VII, IX, and X levels were decreased after the surgery to within normal limits. In Group F, the PT and Factors II, VII, and X levels were decreased after the surgery. Abnormal lower levels of PT and Factors II, VII, and X were seen in 67, 33, 67, and 67 per cent of patients after the surgery, respectively. Factors VII and X levels were higher than in Group C by the third postoperative day. The protein induced by vitamin K absence or antagonist-II levels in Group F were increased at all postoperative points. Clinicians should realize that preoperative fasting for as little as 1 week can induce precoagulopathy, resulting in postoperative coagulopathy after major surgery.
Carcinoid Tumors of the Appendix: Are These Tumors Identifiable Prospectively on Preoperative CT?
Authors: Coursey Courtney A. , Nelson Rendon C. , Moreno Ricardo D. , Dodd Leslie G. , Patel Mayur B. , Vaslef Steven
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this study was to determine if carcinoid tumors of the appendix were identified prospectively on preoperative CT at our institution during the last decade. A surgical database search performed using the Current Procedural Terminology codes for appendectomy and colectomy yielded 2108 patients who underwent appendectomy or colectomy with removal of the appendix from January 1998 through September 2007. Pathology reports were reviewed to identify patients in whom an appendiceal carcinoid tumor was identified. Preoperative CT reports and images were reviewed. Twenty-three carcinoid tumors (1.1%; 15 women [65.2%], eight men [34.8%]; average age 54 years [range, 23 to 86 years]) were identified. Ten patients underwent preoperative CT. No tumors were identified prospectively on CT. Images were available for rereview for eight patients. Studies were acquired with 16- (n = 7) and four- (n = 1) slice CT scanners. Average reported tumor size was 6.1 mm (range, 1.5 to 15 mm; n = 18). A tip or distal location was reported for all tumors for which a location was given (n = 15). Carcinoid tumors occurred in 1.1 per cent of appendix specimens. These tumors were all less than or 1.5 cm in size. Likely as a result of their small size, none of these tumors was identified prospectively on preoperative CT.
The Aging Road Warrior: National Trend toward Older Riders Impacts Outcome after Motorcycle Injury
Authors: Brown Joshua B. , Bankey Paul E. , Gorczyca John T. , Cheng Julius D. , Stassen Nicole A. , Gestring Mark L.
Published: June 2020

Industry statistics suggest that motorcycle owners in the United States are getting older. Our objective was to analyze the effect of this demographic shift on injuries and outcomes after a motorcycle crash. Injured motorcyclists aged 17 to 89 years in the National Trauma Databank were reviewed from 1996 to 2005. Age trends and injury patterns were assessed over time. Injury Severity Score (ISS), length of stay (LOS), intensive care unit (ICU) use, comorbidities, complications, mortality, injury patterns, helmet use, and alcohol use were compared for subjects 40 and older versus those younger than 40 years old. There were 61,689 subjects included. Over the study period, the mean age increased from 33.9 to 39.1 years ( P < 0.01), and the proportion of subjects 40 years of age or older increased from 27.9 to 48.3 per cent. ISS, LOS, ICU LOS, and mortality were higher in the 40 years of age or older group ( P ≤ 0.01). The rates of admission to the ICU (32.3 vs. 27.3%), pre-existing comorbidities (20 vs. 9.7%), and complications (7.6 vs. 5.5%) were all higher in the 40 years of age and older group ( P < 0.01). The average age of the injured motorcyclist is increasing. Older riders’ injuries appear more serious, and their hospital course is more likely to be challenged by comorbidities and complications contributing to poorer outcomes. Motorcycle safety education and training initiatives should be expanded to specifically target older motorcyclists.
Management of Breast Abscesses in Nonlactating Women
Authors: Rizzo Monica , Gabram Sheryl , Staley Charles , Peng Limin , Frisch Anna , Jurado Maria , Umpierrez Guillermo
Published: June 2020

Breast abscess in nonlactating women is a rare clinic-pathological entity. A retrospective analysis of all cases of breast abscesses in nonlactating women in a community teaching hospital from 2000 to 2006 was performed. We analyzed their clinical characteristics, prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM), surgical and medical management, and clinical outcome. We identified 116 breast abscesses in 98 nonlactating women; 89 per cent of patients were black. At presentation, 63 patients (64%) had a known history of DM and eight patients (8%) had newly diagnosed DM. Patients with DM had an increased length of hospital stay than nondiabetic women ( P < 0.01). Most patients (70%) were treated with incision and drainage and antibiotics with a mean time of abscess resolution of 47 ± 54 days. There was no correlation with breast abscess and smoking history. Glycemic control was suboptimal with 46 per cent of subjects receiving insulin therapy during the hospital stay. We found a high prevalence of DM (72%) in nonlactating women presenting with breast abscess. Diabetic women had a longer hospital stay and longer duration of the abscess compared with the patients without diabetes. Diabetes screening in nonlactating women with breast abscess and intensified glycemic control might improve clinical outcome.
Laparoscopic and Open Surgery for Right Colonic Diverticulitis
Authors: Lee In Kyu , Lee Yoon Suk , Kim Sung Jip , Gorden D. Lee , Won Dae Youn , Kim Hyeung Jin , Cho Hyeun Min , Jeon Hae Myung , Kim Jun-Gi , Oh Seong Taek
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of laparoscopic surgery by comparing laparoscopic and conventional surgery of right colonic diverticulitis (RCD). Among 124 patients who were treated for RCD from January 1997 to July 2007, we enrolled 54 patients who received resection therapy of RCD. Patients were divided into two groups: laparoscopic (LAP; n = 19) and conventional (CON; n = 35) surgery groups according to the respective surgical modality. The diverticulectomy (DIV; n = 46) and right colectomy (COL; n = 8) groups were also compared according to operative methods. There were significant differences between preoperative diagnosis and selection of the operative method and between RCD type and selection of operative method. However, there were no significant differences between preoperative diagnosis and selection of laparoscopic surgery and between RCD type and selection of laparoscopic surgery. The Kaplan-Meier estimated recurrence risk for all patients also showed no significant differences between LAP and CON and DIV and COL ( P = 0.413). The Kaplan-Meier-estimated RCD-free period after surgery was 92.7 months (limited to 100 months). Laparoscopic surgery of RCD is an effective and safety method as a result of no differences in clinical data between conventional and laparoscopic surgery.
Diaphragmatic Injuries: What Has Changed over a 20-Year Period?
Authors: Lopez Peter P. , Arango Jorge , Gallup Theresa M. , Cohn Stephen M. , Myers John , Corneille Michael , Stewart Ronald , Dent Daniel L.
Published: June 2020

Traumatic diaphragmatic injuries are uncommon events but are associated with a high mortality. We hypothesize that injury pattern has changed over time with increasing prevalence of blunt injuries. A retrospective chart review was performed of 124 patients who sustained traumatic diaphragmatic injuries over the 20-year period between January 1,1986 and December 31, 2005. Penetrating trauma accounted for 65 per cent (80/124) of all diaphragm injuries, and blunt trauma for 35 per cent (44/124). Mean Injury Severity Scores of 19 ± 9 and 34 ± 13 were observed for the penetrating and blunt trauma groups, respectively ( P = 0.001). Blunt traumatic diaphragm injuries increased from 13 per cent in the first 10-year period to 66 per cent in the second 10-year period ( P = 0.001). The overall mortality was 9 per cent (11/124) with 10 deaths resulting from blunt trauma and one resulting from penetrating trauma ( P < 0.001). The mortality rate increased from 3 to 17 per cent over the two decades ( P = 0.007). Our data suggests that over the last 20 years, the increase in mortality associated with traumatic diaphragmatic injury is primarily related to an increase in the proportion of patients with blunt trauma as a cause of their diaphragmatic injury and associated injuries.
Article Commentary: Optimizing Surgical Care: A Contemporary Assessment of Temperature, Oxygen, and Glucose
Authors: Dickinson Ashley , Qadan Motaz , Polk Hiram C.
Published: June 2020

Factors such as temperature, oxygen, and glucose have recently been implicated in the development of surgical sepsis by either promoting or attenuating protective components of the innate immune response. Reducing infective sequelae and the improvement of the quality of care of surgical patients is a top practice priority today. These factors and their associated effects are discussed through the examination of recent clinical and scientific studies to provide an up-to-date evidence-based review.
Optimization of Donor Management Goals Yields Increased Organ Use
Authors: Franklin Glen A. , Santos Ariel P. , Smith Jason W. , Galbraith Susan , Harbrecht Brian G. , Garrison R. Neal
Published: June 2020

Multiple strategies have been used in an effort to increase the pool of organs for transplantation. Standardizing donor management has produced promising results. Donor management goals (DMGs) are now being used as end points of intensive care unit care during the prerecovery phase but no prospective results have been reported. Data from the United Network for Organ Sharing Region 11 were collected for successful achievement of eight common donor management goals (mean airway pressure [MAP], central venous pressure [CVP], pH, PaO2, sodium, glucose, single pressor use, and urine output) before organ recovery. Two time periods were studied with different panels of DMGs. The analysis identified the success rate of transplantation. Goals were stratified by their statistical correlation with the number of organs transplanted per donor (OTPD) in an effort to identify the most important parameter(s). Eight hundred five organ donors were studied with 2685 organs transplanted. DMGs were assessed through two phases of the study. Achieving DMGs rose from 18 to 66 per cent associated with significant improvement in OTPD (range, 2.96 to 3.45). The success of transplantation was primarily associated with limitations in vasopressor use and PaO2. Tight glucose control did affect the rate of pancreatic transplants. Thoracic organs were the most sensitive to DMGs with a 10- to 15-fold increase in lung transplantation when PaO2 rose above 100 mmHg. MAP, CVP, pH, sodium, and urine output had little effect on transplantation. Standardization of end points of donor management was associated with increased rates of transplantation. Surprisingly, not all standard goals are necessary for optimal organ use. The most significant parameters were the low use of vasopressor agents and oxygenation. Donor management strategies should strive to optimize these goals.
Obstructed Defecation after Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy: A Report of Four Cases
Authors: Dowden Jacob E. , Stanley J. Daniel , Moore Richard A.
Published: June 2020

Stapled hemorrhoidopexy or Procedure for Prolapse and Hemorrhoids (PPH) has become an accepted alternative to excisional hemorrhoidectomy for treating prolapsing hemorrhoids. Although rare, severe complications have been reported after this procedure. We report a series of four male patients with the unusual but debilitating symptoms of obstructed defecation (OD) after PPH. Presenting symptoms included evacuation difficulty, rectal pain, and urgency. All had scarring and stenosis at their PPH anastomotic staple line with a resultant ball-valve effect in three patients as the mobile, excessive, proximal rectal mucosa prolapsed past this relatively immobile area. The fourth patient had an anterior rectal mucosal pouch distal to the PPH staple line. In three of the four patients the anastomosis was below the dentate line or on an oblique angle. Corrective operative intervention largely relieved OD symptoms. One patient, more refractory to successful revision, was eventually diagnosed and treated successfully for pudendal neuropathy. Avoidance of the complication of OD is possible through careful patient selection, proper operative technique, and consideration of nonsurgical etiologies. These complications are complex in nature but most patients will respond to an individualized treatment plan that combines surgical and medical interventions.
Management of Acute Cholecystitis in Critically Ill Patients: Contemporary Role for Cholecystostomy and Subsequent Cholecystectomy
Authors: Morse Bryan C. , Smith J. Brandon , Lawdahl Richard B. , Roettger Richard H.
Published: June 2020

The diagnosis of acute cholecystitis in critically ill patients carries a high mortality rate. Although decompression and drainage of the gallbladder through a cholecystostomy tube may be used as a temporary treatment of acute cholecystitis in this population, there is still some debate about the management of the tube and the subsequent need for a cholecystectomy. This series evaluates the clinical course and outcomes of critically ill patients who underwent the insertion of cholecystostomy tubes for the initial treatment of acute cholecystitis. This is a retrospective review of critically ill patients admitted to the hospital intensive care unit who were diagnosed with acute cholecystitis and underwent a cholecystostomy tube as a temporary treatment for the disease. Patients were identified through the Greenville Hospital System electronic medical records coding database. Medical records were reviewed for demographic data, diagnoses, imaging, complications, and outcomes. From January 2002 through June 2008, 50 patients were identified for the study. The mean age was 72 ± 11 years, and the majority (66%) were men. The following comorbidities were found: severe cardiovascular disease (40 patients), respiratory failure (30 patients), and multisystem organ dysfunction (30 patients). The mean intensive care unit length of stay (LOS) was 16 ± 9 days, and the mean hospital LOS was 28 ± 27 days. At 30 days, the morbidity associated with the cholecystostomy tube itself was 4 per cent, but overall in-hospital morbidity and mortality rates were 62 and 50 per cent, respectively. Of the 25 patients who survived longer than 30 days, 12 retained their cholecystostomy tubes until they underwent cholecystectomy (four open, seven laparoscopic). All of the remaining 13 patients had their cholecystostomy tubes removed, and eight developed recurrent cholecystitis. Of these patients with recurrent of cholecystitis, five had cholecystectomy or repeat cholecystostomy, but the remaining three patients died. Although this is a small patient population, these data suggest that, in critically ill patients, cholecystostomy tubes should remain in place until the patient is deemed medically suitable to undergo cholecystectomy. Removal of the cholecystostomy tube without subsequent cholecystectomy is associated with a high incidence of recurrent cholecystitis and devastating consequences.
An Evaluation of Snake Bites and Antivenin Use at a Regional Medical Center
Authors: Watson Larry I. , Spivey Christy , Menon Cen Rema , Kotwall Cyrus A. , Clancy Thomas V. , Hope William W.
Published: June 2020

Snake bites are a rare but challenging problem for surgeons. The purpose of our study was to evaluate our experience with snake bites at a regional medical center. We reviewed patients treated for snake bites from 2004 to July 2008. Demographics, clinical information, and outcomes were documented. Descriptive statistics were used, and χ2, t test, and Fisher exact test were used to compare patients based on antivenin use. A P value < 0.05 was considered significant. Over the study period, 126 patients presented to the emergency department with 44 (35%) requiring hospital admission. The average age was 38 years (range, 2 to 76 years); 66 per cent were male and 95 per cent white. Bites most commonly occurred in the summer and fall months with none from December through March. Copperhead bites accounted for 50 per cent of bites. An average of 4.8 vials of antivenin was given to 61 per cent of admitted patients with 93 per cent receiving the drug within 6 hours. Minor reactions to antivenin occurred in three patients (11%). Two patients required surgery (5%), and the readmission rate was 7 per cent. There was no known morbidity or mortality. When comparing patients who received antivenin with patients who did not, the only significant clinical variables were an increased prothrombin time (12.1 vs 11.7, respectively; P = 0.048) and a longer length of hospital stay (3 vs 1.8 days, P = 0.0006) in patients receiving antivenin. The majority of patients with snake bites can be treated with supportive care and antivenin when indicated. Antivenin use at our institution is largely based on physical findings and not related to laboratory values.
Extracorporeal Gastric Stapling Reduces the Incidence of Gastric Conduit Failure after Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy
Authors: Crenshaw Gregory D. , Shankar Suven S. , Brown Russell E. , Abbas Abbas E. , Bolton John S.
Published: June 2020

Esophageal cancer resection is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. To date, no standardized technique exists. In this study, we analyze our short-term results in 92 minimally invasive resections performed over the past 10 years in an attempt to identify technical factors, which contribute to improved short-term outcomes. A retrospective review of 92 minimally invasive esophagectomies was performed at the Ochsner Clinic Foundation from 1999 through 2009. Data collected included preoperative stage, whether or not preoperative chemoradiation was used, technique of minimally-invasive resection, technique of esophagogastric anastomosis, margin status, anastomotic leak, conduit necrosis, gastric conduit failure of any type, and operative mortality. Gastric stapling was done either laparoscopically (intracorporeal) or through a minilaparotomy (extracorporeal). Ninety-two patients met criteria for this study. There was a significant difference in the incidence of positive gastric margins ( P = 0.04), anastomotic leak ( P = 0.045), conduit necrosis ( P = 0.03), and any gastric conduit failure ( P = 0.02) favoring the extracorporeal group. The overall short-term morbidity and operative mortality with minimally invasive esophagectomy is comparable to the results obtained with open techniques. A relatively simple modification of the operative technique—performing extracorporeal stapling of the gastric conduit—led to a significant reduction in the incidence of gastric conduit failures when compared with the intracorporeal stapling technique.