bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pediatric Trauma Deaths: A Three-Part Analysis from a Nonacademic Trauma Center
Authors: Aaland Mary O. , Hlaing Thein
Published: June 2020

A three-part analysis was undertaken to assess pediatric trauma mortality in a nonacademic Level II trauma center at Parkview Hospital in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Part I was a comparison of Parkview trauma registry data collected from 1999 through 2003 with those of pediatric and adult trauma centers in Pennsylvania. The same methodology used in Pennsylvania was used for the initial evaluation of pediatric deaths from trauma in our trauma center. Part II was a formal in-depth analysis of all individual pediatric deaths as well as surgical cases with head, spleen, and liver injuries from the same time frame. Part III proposes a new methodology to calculate a risk-adjusted mortality rate based on the TRISS model for the evaluation of a trauma system. The use of specific mortality and surgical intervention rates was not an accurate reflection of trauma center outcome. The proposed risk-adjusted mortality rate calculation is perhaps an effective outcome measure to assess patient care in a trauma system.
Adrenal Insufficiency in the Critically Ill Trauma Population
Authors: Gannon T.A. , Britt R.C. , Weireter L.J. , Cole F.J. , Collins J.N. , Britt L.D.
Published: June 2020

Acute adrenal insufficiency has been demonstrated in a number of patients with shock. This study was designed to evaluate the rate of occult adrenal insufficiency in the critically ill trauma population and to determine the impact of hypoproteinemia on the use of random cortisol levels as a marker for adrenal insufficiency. Forty-four patients were prospectively enrolled on admission to the trauma intensive care unit, with three excluded, for a total n of 41. Random total serum cortisol and albumin levels were drawn on hospital Days 1, 4, 8, and 14. Occult adrenal insufficiency was defined as a cortisol less than 25 mcg/dL in the setting of an albumin greater than 2.5 g/dL. The prevalence of cortisol less than 25 mcg/dL ranged from 51 to 81 per cent during the study period, and peaked on Days 4 and 8. Albumin 2.5 g/dL or less ranged from 37 to 60 per cent, and this prevalence also peaked on Days 4 and 8. The patients with a low albumin had a high prevalence of low cortisol, ranging from 67 to 100 per cent. The prevalence of adrenal insufficiency, with low cortisol and normal albumin, ranged from 41 to 82 per cent during the study period. None of our patients with occult adrenal insufficiency were treated with steroids, which was a decision made by the treating physicians. Among the patients with occult adrenal insufficiency, survival was 100 per cent. Occult adrenal insufficiency is common in critically ill trauma patients, and is a dynamic entity that can be acquired and even resolved during critical illness. Random cortisol of 25 mcg/dL may actually not be an adequate marker of occult adrenal insufficiency. Low albumin predicts a low cortisol. Hemodynamically stable occult adrenal insufficiency should not be treated with steroid replacement in the critically ill trauma patient, as survival in our series was 100 per cent without replacement.
A Complication-Free Course Ensures a Survival Advantage in Patients after Regional Therapy for Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Osborne Dana , Pappas Effie , Alexander Gerald , Boe Brian , Cantor Alan B. , Rosemurgy Alexander , Zervos Emmanuel
Published: June 2020

Hepatic artery infusional (HAI) chemotherapy has been shown to favorably impact outcome in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer, but complications often preclude complete treatment. The purpose of this study was to determine whether HAI complications impact survival in these patients. Patients undergoing HAI pump placement at our institution from September 2001 to July 2004 were separated into terciles based on the number of treatments completed: ≤1 (none), 2 to 4 (partial), and ≥5 (complete). Complications relating to pump placement or treatment were recorded for each and their impact on survival was determined. Kaplan-Meier survival in 15 patients receiving no treatment was significantly shorter than 7 patients completing therapy (P = 0.02). Thirty-three per cent of patients receiving no therapy were alive at 26 months, whereas 63 per cent of partially and 86 per cent of completely treated patients were alive at 32 and 30 months, respectively. Patients receiving no treatment had more overall complications (80%) and significantly (P < 0.05) more pump-related complications (60%) than those completing therapy (43% and 0%, respectively). Cox regression revealed a significant correlation to gender (hazard ratio, 3.9), tumor size (hazard ratio, 1.17), and carcinoembryonic antigen level (hazard ratio, 1.02) to survival. Patients receiving complete HAI treatment survive longer than those receiving no treatment. Potentially preventable pump-related complications not only impacted the patients’ ability to continue therapy, but survival times as well.
Predictors and Outcomes of Sternal Wound Complications in Patients after Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery
Authors: Hassan Mohammed , Smith J. Michael , Engel Amy M.
Published: June 2020

We sought to assess predictors and outcomes of sternal wound complications in patients after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). A nested, case-control study from a 10-year hospitalization cohort with prospective data collection was conducted. Included in the cohort were patients age 18 and above undergoing CABG surgery between March 1997 and July 2003 (n = 7889). Patients who underwent any surgery other CABG were excluded. Cases were matched to controls 1:3 on year of surgery. Cases were CABG patients with sternal wound complications, which was defined as requiring antibiotics and/or topical treatment, requiring extra nursing care, dehiscence, or requiring surgical intervention (n = 89). Controls were CABG patients without sternal wound complications (n = 267). The study examined 29 risk factors and 10 outcome variables. Univariate analysis on the risk factors revealed 10 significant risk factors. Logistic regression analysis was conducted and the risk factors that significantly predicted sternal wound complications after CABG surgery included older age (odds ratio [OR] = 0.85, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.808–0.892), previous CABG surgery (OR = 3.9, 95% CI 1.03–15.37), and in class three or four of the New York Heart Association functional class (OR = 2.8, 95% CI 1.27–6.12). There was a significant difference between CABG patients with and without sternal wound complications on nine outcome variables. Of the 29 predictors of post-CABG sternal wound infections being examined, 10 proved to be significant. Further analysis demonstrated only three variables that significantly predicted sternal wound complications. Older age, previous CABG surgery, and class three or four of the New York Heart Association functional class predispose CABG patients to sternal wound infections.
Peritoneocystic Shunting for Ascites
Authors: Nounou Joseph
Published: June 2020

The study was designed to determine if a prototype pump could be successfully implanted in the abdomen and effectively remove excess fluid without causing complications for a 1-month period. The procedure was performed on four swine under general anesthesia. A standard two-valve Denver shunt was implanted under the skin with the efferent limb implanted in the urinary bladder. The effectiveness of the pump was verified in vivo by pumping normal saline irrigated into the abdomen. The incision was closed and the animals were observed for any problems. After 1 month, a repeat test of the pump was performed. After this second test, the animals were euthanized and examined for complications of the device. All four swine survived the procedure and the 1-month follow-up. Pump function at the end of the 1-month interval was maintained in three of the four animals. None of the swine developed calculi. There were no consistent pathologic findings, although all four swine showed evidence of reactive inflammation at the insertion site of the efferent limb into the bladder. Preliminary data suggests that a subcutaneously implanted peritoneocystic shunt may be an option for the treatment of tense ascites.
Should Elective Surgery for Chronic Pancreatitis be Performed in High-Risk Patients?
Authors: Schnelldorfer Thomas , Adams David B.
Published: June 2020

As morbidity and mortality rates for pancreatic surgery have improved over the past decades, patients with major medical comorbidities have been considered for operative treatment. The influence of poor health status on operative morbidity in patients with chronic pancreatitis is evaluated in this study. The records of 313 consecutive patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy (n = 78), distal pancreatectomy (n = 83), or lateral pancreaticojejunostomy (n = 152) for chronic pancreatitis were retrospectively reviewed and analyzed. Patients’ risk for adverse outcome resulting from overall health status was audited using age, comorbidities, and Physiological and Operative Severity Score for the enUmeration of Mortality and morbidity (POSSUM) physiological score. Univariate analysis showed that patient's age did not contribute to change in morbidity (odds ratio [OR] = 1.01, P = 0.59). The presence of cardiac disease but not other comorbidities increased adverse outcome affected the need for intensive care unit stay and length of hospital stay (morbidity: 29% vs. 51%, OR = 2.6, P = 0.003). POSSUM physiological score was associated with an increase in morbidity and mortality (morbidity: OR = 1.16, P = 0.001; mortality: OR = 1.49, P = 0.001), in particular intraabdominal abscesses. Multivariate analysis showed that the only variable independently correlating with perioperative complications was POSSUM physiological score. Single comorbidities do not independently influence outcome after operations for chronic pancreatitis. A combination of several comorbidities is associated with an increase in postoperative infectious morbidity and mortality. High-risk patients should not be excluded from operative treatment, but need to be closely selected on a case-by-case basis.
Bilateral V-Y Advancement Flaps for the Management of Extensive Defects of the Perianal Skin
Authors: Kiran Ravi P. , Kalavagunta Satish , Berube Maxime , Brown Wilfred , Richi Abdel Aziz , Dudrick Stanley J.
Published: June 2020

Premalignant and malignant conditions of the skin may sometimes require excision of extensive areas of the skin and subcutaneous tissues. Coverage of the ensuing raw area may be afforded by allowing healing by secondary intention, skin grafts, or flaps. Wide excision of the perianal skin poses special problems. We describe the use of bilateral V-Y advancement flaps for the management of an extensive defect resulting from the wide excision of squamous cell carcinoma arising in scarred perianal skin.
Pancreatic Disorders in Children: Relationship of Postoperative Morbidity and the Indication for Surgery
Authors: Rabinovich Aaron , Rescorla Frederick J. , Howard Thomas J. , Grosfeld Jay , Lillemoe Keith D.
Published: June 2020

Pancreatic surgery in children is a rare occurrence, and this unfamiliarity can be associated with the assumption of significant morbidity and mortality. The indication for pediatric pancreatic surgery and its relationship to postoperative complications and mortality was evaluated. Patients with pancreatic disease requiring surgical intervention from 1992 to 2004 at a tertiary referral center were retrospectively reviewed. Disorders were divided into 3 categories: 1) pancreatitis, 2) trauma, and 3) tumors. Sixty-two patients (28 males and 34 females), average age was 9.5 years (range, 1 week–18 years), underwent 72 operations. Thirty-seven procedures in 30 category I patients, 18 procedures in 15 category II, and 17 operations in 17 category III. There was only one death. A total of 33.9 per cent of the patients had postoperative complications that included: infection (11%), pseudocyst (6%), diabetes mellitus (5.6%), pancreatic fistula (3%), bowel obstruction (1.3%), extracellular fluid (1.3%), pleural effusion (1.3%), and recurrent abdominal pain (13%) (all in category I patients). There was equivalent morbidity between all 3 groups but unique differences with in the categories. Recurrent abdominal pain characterized category I patients, fistulas were more common in category II, and diabetes mellitus was primarily related to near total excisions in category III. Pancreatic surgery in children is associated with a very low mortality (1.6%) and morbidity equal to that of adult patients. Unique types of morbidities occur with each category of disease state.
Initial Experience with Routine Selective Carotid Arteriography by Vascular Surgeons
Authors: Morgan Joe H. , Johnson Joe H. , Brown Randall B. , Harvey Richard L. , Rizzoni Walter E. , Tyson C. Scott , Robinson Sylvia J. , Solis Maurice M.
Published: June 2020

We report the results of our first 2 years of experience with routine carotid angiography with an emphasis on technique and complications. We reviewed the hospital records, office charts, and prospective quality-assurance database records of 336 patients undergoing cerebrovascular arteriograms and collected data on the indications, complications, and technical aspects of the procedures. Indications for angiography included carotid stenosis in 331 (95%) patients, subclavian steal syndrome in 9 patients, vertebrobasilar insufficiency in 6 patients, and carotid body tumor in 2 patients. Selective catheterizations were performed on 654 common carotid arteries, 63 subclavian arteries, and 63 vertebral arteries. Both common carotid arteries were not selectively catheterized in 34 (9.8%) patients. Reasons for not selecting one or both common carotid arteries included physician choice to limit contrast administration in patients with renal insufficiency in 16 cases, proximal occlusion in 4 cases, proximal stenosis thought to be at risk of embolization if instrumented in 3 cases, imaging equipment malfunction in 2 cases, and in only 9 (2.6%) cases was selective carotid catheterization attempted but unsuccessful. There were no procedure-related deaths. Complications were documented in six (1.8%) patients, including cerebrovascular accident (CVA) in 1 (0.3%) patient. One hundred forty-two (41%) patients went on to carotid endarterectomy, and we performed 16 carotid bifurcation stents during the study period. Routine selective carotid angiography is a low-risk procedure that can be performed safely by vascular surgeons with catheter/guide wire skills.
Appendiceal Cancer and Peritoneal Carcinomatosis: A Report of 29 Cases
Authors: Esquivel Jesus , Merriman Barry , Davis Sallie , Manning Darrell
Published: June 2020

Peritoneal surface malignancies of appendiceal origin arise from a perforated neoplasm with gradual expansion of the tumor within the abdomen. We report our experience with 29 patients. Between February 2000 and November 2004, 29 patients were classified into one of three groups based on the features of their peritoneal dissemination. Group 1 included those with extracellular mucin with little cellular atypia (disseminated peritoneal adenomucinosis/low-grade mucinous adenocarcinomas). Group 2 included those with peritoneal mucinous carcinomatosis/high-grade mucinous adenocarcinomas, and Group 3 included those with nonmucinous carcinomatosis. There were 17 patients in Group 1, 9 in Group 2, and 3 in Group 3. The majority had cytoreductive surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy. There were no operative deaths. Mean follow-up was 21 months. Median survival for Groups 1 and 2 has not been reached. Group 3 patients were more likely to die than Group 1 patients, with a hazard ratio of 48.0 ( P = 0.001), and Group 2 patients with a hazard ratio of 7.8 ( P = 0.029). Median survival for Group 3 was 5 months. These data add to the growing evidence that supports cytoreductive surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy in a selected group of patients. Those with mucinous peritoneal dissemination are more likely to benefit from this approach. It appears that in patients with nonmucinous carcinomatosis, the biology of the tumor predicts their outcome.
Presentation and Management of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors of the Duodenum
Authors: Winfield Robert D. , Hochwald Steven N. , Vogel Stephen B. , Hemming Alan W. , Liu Chen , Cance William G. , Grobmyer Stephen R.
Published: June 2020

Duodenal gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) have been described primarily in isolated case reports. In order to learn more about duodenal GIST, a retrospective review of patients with GIST managed at a single institution between 2000 and 2005 was conducted. Thirty-eight GIST of the stomach and small bowel were analyzed. Eight (21%) were duodenal GIST. The median size of duodenal GIST (6.0 cm) and small bowel GIST (6.3 cm) was larger than the median size of gastric GIST (3.0 cm). The most common presentation of duodenal GIST was bleeding (50%) which was similar to other small bowel GIST (49%) but different from gastric GIST which were most commonly an incidental finding (62%). Two patients (25%) with duodenal GIST had a history of neurofibromatosis. The duodenal GIST were located in the 2nd (n = 5, 63%) and 3rd portion of duodenum (n = 3, 37%). Seven of 8 patients underwent complete resection of duodenal GIST. Pancreaticoduodenectomy was the most common operation performed (n = 5); 2 patients were treated with partial duodenal resection. No patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy (n = 5) were found to have lymph node metastases. No patients received neo-adjuvant or adjuvant therapy with Imatinib. Following resection, 2 patients have recurred (12 and 48 mo.), 4 patients are without disease (1, 6, 6, and 24 mo.), 1 patient died postoperatively. Duodenal GIST are relatively rare tumors that present most commonly with gastrointestinal bleeding. Duodenal GIST are associated with neurofibromatosis. Many duodenal GIST require pancreaticoduodenectomy for complete removal.
The Current Status of Thromboprophylaxis after Trauma: A Story of Confusion and Uncertainty
Authors: Velmahos George C.
Published: June 2020

It is difficult to support a standard of care for venous thromboprophylaxis after trauma when there is no convincing research that any of the currently used methods is consistently effective. Because many conclusions from the nontrauma literature have been misleadingly extrapolated to trauma patients, this review focuses exclusively on trauma articles. These articles present variable results. The rates of deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism are widely different even among similar trauma populations. The heparin-unfractionated or low-molecular-weight and calf compression methods fail to show a reproducible effect in decreasing venous thromboembolic events. The current methods of venous thromboprophylaxis after trauma are inadequate and further research in this area is direly needed.
The Mid-Thigh Loop Arteriovenous Graft: Patient Selection, Technique, and Results
Authors: Scott John D. , Cull David L. , Kalbaugh Corey A. , Carsten Christopher G. , Blackhurst Dawn , Taylor Spence M. , Snyder Bruce A. , York John W. , Langan Eugene M.
Published: June 2020

As patient longevity on hemodialysis has increased, surgeons are increasingly challenged to provide vascular access to patients who have exhausted options for access in the upper extremity. A common operation performed on these patients has been the loop thigh arteriovenous (AV) graft based off the common femoral vessels. However, there are several disadvantages of placing prosthetic grafts in proximity to the groin. Our group has modified the thigh loop AV graft procedure by moving the anastomoses to the mid-superficial femoral artery and vein. The advantage of this location is that it preserves the proximal femoral vessels for graft revision and avoids the node-bearing tissue and overhanging panniculus of the groin. The purpose of this study was to review our technique, patient selection, and experience with the mid-thigh loop AV graft procedure. Between 2001 and 2003, 46 mid-thigh loop AV grafts were placed in 38 patients. Patient hospital, office, and dialysis clinic records were reviewed. The primary and secondary patency for AV grafts in this study by life-table was 40 per cent and 68 per cent at 1 year and 18 per cent and 43 per cent at 2 years. There were 10 infections (21%) requiring graft removal. Four patients underwent subsequent placement of a proximal loop thigh AV graft after mid-thigh graft failure. Patient survival was 86 per cent at 1 year and 82 per cent at 2 years. There were no patient deaths related to thigh graft placement. Our results with the mid-thigh loop AV graft compare favorably with published results for thigh loop AV grafts. The procedure preserves the proximal vasculature, permitting graft revision or subsequent proximal graft placement, and may be associated with fewer infectious complications. The mid-thigh loop AV graft procedure should be considered before placement of a thigh loop AV graft based off the common femoral artery and vein.
Treatment Disparities in Hispanic Rectal Cancer Patients: A SEER Database Study
Authors: Martinez Steve R. , Chen Steven L. , Bilchik Anton J.
Published: June 2020

Although Hispanics demonstrate a low overall incidence of rectal cancer, mortality rates have not decreased relative to non-Hispanic whites. To determine if this was in part due to racial disparities in care, we compared rates of neoadjuvant therapy and sphincter-preserving surgery between Hispanics and non-Hispanic whites diagnosed with rectal cancer using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. The study population was comprised of 2,573 Hispanics (55.4% male) and 28,395 non-Hispanic whites (56.6% male). Rates of neoadjuvant radiation were 13.5 per cent for Hispanics compared with 10.4 per cent for non-Hispanic whites (P < 0.001). In a Cox proportional hazards model adjusting for nodal status, tumor size, and T stage, non-Hispanic whites were significantly less likely to have received neoadjuvant therapy (hazard ratio, 0.72; P < 0.001; 95% confidence interval 0.63–0.83). Rates of sphincter preservation were 67 per cent for Hispanics and 70 per cent for non-Hispanic whites (P = 0.003). Non-Hispanic whites were significantly more likely to have received a sphincter-preserving operation than Hispanics (hazard ratio, 1.076; P = 0.019; 95% confidence interval 1.02–1.27). We conclude that Hispanics are significantly more likely to receive neoadjuvant therapy but are less likely to receive sphincter-sparing operations for rectal cancer compared with non-Hispanic whites. Further studies are required to assess the impact of these treatment disparities on patient outcome.
Factors Affecting Survival in Patients with Anal Melanoma
Authors: Podnos Yale D. , Tsai Ni-Chun , Smith David , Ellenhorn Joshua D.I.
Published: June 2020

Anal melanoma is an aggressive tumor with a predilection for early infiltration and distant spread, resulting in poor overall survival. Because anal melanoma is rare, only small case series are reported in the literature, making it difficult to draw conclusions about optimal treatment and outcome. The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database was used to identify patients with anal melanomas from 1973 to 2001. In addition to demographics, disease extent at presentation, treatment administered, overall survival, and survival by decade of diagnosis were collected. A total of 126 patients with a mean age of 69.2 years was diagnosed with anal melanoma. Sixty-one per cent were female. Median follow-up was 22.5 months. Median survival was 10 months for those with distant disease, 13 months for patients with regional spread, and 34 months for patients with local disease (P = 0.0001). Five-year survival was 32 per cent, 17 per cent, and 0 per cent for patients presenting with local, regional, and distant disease, respectively (P = 0.0001). Neither age at diagnosis, operation performed, nor use of radiation significantly affected survival. Anal melanoma remains an uncommon but lethal disease. Extent of disease correlates with overall survival. Survival is improving, but the use and extent of operation are not associated with improved overall survival.
Making the Operating Room of the Future Safer
Authors: Greenberg Caprice C. , Roth Emilie M. , Sheridan Thomas B. , Gandhi Tejal K. , Gustafson Michael L. , Zinner Michael J. , Dierks Meghan M.
Published: June 2020

There is an increasing demand for interventions to improve patient safety, but there is limited data to guide such reform. In particular, because much of the existing research is outcome-driven, we have a limited understanding of the factors and process variations that influence safety in the operating room. In this article, we start with an overview of safety terminology, suggesting a model that emphasizes “safety” rather than “error” and that can encompass the spectrum of events occurring in the operating room. Next, we provide an introduction to techniques that can be used to understand safety at the point of care and we review the data that exists relating such studies to improved outcomes. Future work in this area will need to prospectively study the processes and factors that impact patient safety and vulnerability in the operating room.
Factors Affecting Prognosis in Patients with Gastric Trauma
Authors: Edelman David A. , White Michael T. , Tyburski James G. , Wilson Robert F.
Published: June 2020

Morbidity and mortality after gastric injury is usually the result of associated injuries. The authors conducted a retrospective study of 544 consecutive patients with gastric trauma requiring emergency surgery. Blunt injuries had the highest mortality and length of stay. The mortality of a proximal stomach injury was 43 per cent (9 of 21) and was significantly higher than the 19 per cent mortality seen in patients with more distal injuries ( P < 0.01). The majority of gastric injuries were closed primarily (492 of 544 or 90%). The patients requiring more than a primary repair had a higher mortality (22 of 52 or 42% vs. 87 of 492 or 18%; P < 0.001), required more blood (16 ± 16 U vs. 6 ± 11 U; P < 0.001), had an increased rate of surgical site infections (17 of 52 or 33% vs. 75 of 492 or 15%; P = 0.001), and had an increased length of stay (20 ± 30 days vs. 13 ± 18 days; P = 0.024). There were 22 patients with an isolated gastric injury, and all of these patients survived. Patients with an associated arterial injury had the highest mortality (49%) and highest incidence of shock (64%). Patients with colon and gastric injuries had the highest (48 of 176 or 52%) surgical site infection rate. Isolated gastric injury is rare, but is associated with low morbidity and mortality. The mechanism of injury, location of injury, and type of repair used all affect patient outcomes with gastric injury.
Management of Pulseless and Apneic Trauma Patients: Are Aggressive Measures Justified?
Authors: Lo Chong-Jeh , Chang Wen-Ling
Published: June 2020

This study prospectively examined the care of trauma patients in extremis on presentation to a tertiary medical center between January 2000 and August 31, 2002. There were 144 patients who presented without a pulse or spontaneous respiration and required cardiopulmonary resuscitation (mean age, 41.5 ± 2.3 years; male-to-female ratio, 105:39). Successfully resuscitated patients, who were either admitted to the surgical intensive care unit (SICU) or who were taken to the operating room for surgical exploration, had significantly shorter duration of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (14.55 ± 1.64 minutes vs. 33.32 ± 1.23 minutes; P < 0.001) and received less amounts of epinephrine than those who died in the emergency room ( P < 0.05). One hundred sixteen patients died in the emergency room. Nineteen admitted patients died within 24 hours of presentation. Nine patients survived beyond 24 hours and all of them were admitted directly to the SICU for the management of brain injury. Six patients were taken to the operating room for surgical exploration to control the bleeding; all of them died in the operating room or shortly thereafter in the SICU. No patient in this study survived to be discharged. The financial cost of successfully resuscitated patients was significantly higher than that of patients who died in the emergency room ( P < 0.001). Instead of insisting on aggressive measures to resuscitate trauma patients in extremis on presentation, the authors suggest we should redirect that fervor toward efforts made to promote trauma awareness and injury prevention programs.
An Extended Retroperitoneal Abscess Caused by Duodenal Diverticulum Perforation: Report of a Case and Short Review of the Literature
Authors: Andromanakos Nikolaos , Filippou Dimitrios , Skandalakis Panayiotis , Kouraklis Gregorios , Kostakis Alkiviadis
Published: June 2020

The authors report a case of an extended retroperitoneal abscess that developed secondarily after a duodenal diverticulum perforation. The diagnosis was established preoperatively endoscopically and by abdominal CT scan. The patient was treated surgically. The authors performed a subtotal gastrectomy and reconstruction with antecolic Billroth II anastomosis to bypass the inflamed region, as well as simultaneous drainage of the retroperitoneal abscess. The postoperative course of the patient was uncomplicated. The authors suggest that this method may be an acceptable approach in the management of similar cases, in which conservative or endoscopic means have failed.
Workforce Issues in General Surgery
Authors: Sheldon George F.
Published: June 2020

Healthcare in the 21st century will be characterized by an aging population, increased costs, and scientific and technological advances. It will be characterized by a physician shortage, especially of specialists. Healthcare will be increasingly provided by caregivers with a spectrum of diverse educational backgrounds other than M.D. graduates of United States medical schools, such as international medical graduates, Doctors of Osteopathy, and Non-Physicians Clinicians. General surgery and other specialties are attempting to clarify the roles and services that their specialties will provide. Designing modern undergraduate and graduate educational programs is key to planning for healthcare in the 21st century.
Retrograde Esophageal Intubation
Authors: O'Connor James V. , Scalea Thomas M.
Published: June 2020

Intrathoracic esophageal injury can be treated using conventional surgical techniques, including buttressed closure, T-tube drainage, resection, and exclusion with diversion. If esophageal replacement is necessary, stomach, left or right colon, and jejunum are commonly used conduits. Problems arise when esophageal drainage and diversion is necessary in patients with prior gastrectomy. This problem compounds when planning esophageal reconstruction in those with previous colectomy because preserving esophageal length is crucial. We developed the technique of retrograde esophageal intubation, and we have successfully used it in three patients requiring total or near total gastrectomy and concomitant colon resection as part of damage control laparotomy. The injuries resulted from penetrating trauma in two patients and a failed gastric bypass in one. The technique involved retrograde placement of an Ewald tube through the skin into the open, distal esophagus, creating a controlled esoghagocutaneous fistula. The restoration of gastrointestinal continuity was performed 6 months after the initial injury. The reconstructive procedure was based on the precise anatomy involved. Esophagogastrostomy, loop gastrojejunostomy, and Roux-en-Y esophojejunostomy were used in one patient. Each developed an anastomotic leak, which all resolved with simple drainage. Retrograde esophageal intubation is simple, can be used long term, and allows control of esophageal secretions without cervical esophagostomy. Esophageal length is preserved and can be used as part of a damage control operation.
Splenic Rupture: An Unusual Complication of Colonoscopy
Authors: Holubar Stefan , Dwivedi Amit , Eisendorfer J. , Levine R. , Strauss R.
Published: June 2020

Splenic injury is a known, albeit rare, complication of diagnostic and therapeutic colonoscopy. Within a 6-month period, we observed two colonoscopic splenic injuries. We report these two cases of splenic injury who presented differently after colonoscopy: one presented as frank hemorrhagic shock, and the other as a subacute splenic hemorrhage with symptomatic anemia. The first patient presented with hemorrhagic shock several hours after a diagnostic colonoscopy and required an emergency splenectomy. The second patient presented with symptomatic anemia several days after a diagnostic colonoscopy and was treated by angiographic embolization. Clinical presentation and discussion of the mechanisms of injury, available treatment options, and strategies for preventing colonoscopic splenic injuries are presented. Awareness of this complication is paramount in early recognition and management of this potentially life-threatening injury.
How Residents Think and Make Medical Decisions: Implications for Education and Patient Safety
Authors: Young Jeffrey S. , Smith Robert L. , Guerlain Stephanie , Nolley Barbara
Published: June 2020

Medical errors are a major cause of morbidity and mortality, and cognitive errors account for many of these events. This study examined the basic science of the cognitive performance of trainees. We created a low-intensity medical simulator to perform a preliminary study of the ability of residents to recall and process patient information presented verbally. The subjects were separated into three categories based on critical care experience: novice (≤8 weeks of critical care experience), intermediate (8–16 weeks of critical care experience), and expert (>16 weeks of critical care experience). The subjects were presented with three clinical cases. In the first case, the presentation contained 55 separate data points and subject recall was analyzed. In the second and third cases, a patient report was given, and the subjects were asked by a “medical student” to outline and explain their treatment decisions. Fifteen subjects completed the experiment (five novices, six intermediates, and four experts). Case 1 (recall): No significant differences among groups with regard to errors or total data points recalled (however, subjects who chose not to take notes had significantly poorer recall and committed more errors). Cases 2 and 3 (cognition and decision making): Intermediates and experts made significantly fewer errors. More importantly, the reasoning process (forward hypothesis based) of the more experienced residents differed from novices. This preliminary study demonstrates that the cognitive processes used by residents experienced in critical care are quantitatively and qualitatively different from those used by novices. These processes were also associated with far fewer cognitive errors in clinical decision making.
Breast Surgery Techniques: Preoperative Bracketing Wire Localization by Surgeons
Authors: Burkholder Hans C. , Witherspoon Laura E. , Burns R. Phillip , Horn Jeffrey S. , Biderman Michael D.
Published: June 2020

With the development of expertise in image guidance for breast surgery, many surgeons now perform preoperative wire localization themselves. Use of a single wire versus multiple wires to bracket a radiographic breast abnormality has previously been described, although benefits of this technique based on clinical outcomes such as margin status, tissue volume removed, and re-excision rates have not been established. This study is a retrospective analysis of wire-localized breast biopsies performed by 14 surgeons over 29 months; stereotactic and ultrasound guidance were used. During this time, 489 wire localizations were done, of which 159 used multiple wires. Two hundred eleven of these biopsies were done for malignant disease, 86 using multiple wires. After controlling for tumor node metastases stage, single and multiple wire placements were compared using endpoints of margin status, need for re-excision, and total volume of tissue removed. Neither margin status nor re-excision was related to the number of wires placed. However, the number of wires placed was significantly related to the total volume of tissue removed. Use of more than one localizing wire was associated with greater volume of tissue removal (measured in centimeters cubed) in benign disease (46 vs 25, P < 0.001), equivalent volumes in stage 0 disease (73 vs 67), less volume in stage 1 disease (113 vs 164), and less volume in stages 2 through 4 (158 vs 207, P = 0.03). Outcomes based on surgeon case volume during the study period demonstrated that low- (1–40), medium- (41–80), and high-volume (>80) surgeons did not differ in the type or stage of breast pathology treated. Surgeons with high case volumes were more likely to place multiple localizing wires ( P < 0.001) and were more likely to do a breast-conserving procedure if re-excision was performed ( P < 0.018). Surgeons with low case volumes were more likely to perform a re-excision ( P < 0.025). Surgeon experience has a positive impact on quality outcome measures such as performance of a definitive procedure at the time of initial surgery and use of breast-conserving procedures at the time of re-excision. Multiple wire localization can be used to significantly reduce the volume of breast tissue removed in malignant disease without sacrificing margin status or increasing the need for future re-excision.
Intra-Operative Parathyroid Identification Using Methylene Blue in Parathyroid Surgery
Authors: Han Nancy , Bumpous Jeffrey M. , Goldstein Richard E. , Fleming Muffin M. , Flynn Michael B.
Published: June 2020

The objective of this study was to determine the value of intra-operative methylene blue (MB) during parathyroid surgery. We did a retrospective study of 473 patients after initial exploration for previously untreated symptomatic primary hyperparathyroidism. Procedural and post procedural data were collected on four groups of patients: minimally invasive parathyroidectomy with MB (n = 147), and without MB (n = 205), bilateral parathyroid exploration with intra-operative parathormone assay with MB (n = 56), and without MB (n = 65). Length of surgery was shorter for patients explored with MB (P = 0.026). For the minimally invasive parathyroidectomy group, the difference between the MB and non-MB groups was seven minutes. Twelve minutes was the difference between the MB and non-MB intra-operative parathormone assay groups. Length of stay, local complications, and correction of hypercalcemia after parathyroidectomy were not significantly affected by the use of MB. Systemic complications were lower in the MB groups. Aside from a statistically significant, but quantitatively minimal decrease in the length of surgery, no consistent benefit was identified with the use of MB for intra-operative parathyroid identification.
Medical Admission of Elderly Trauma Patients with Isolated Injuries
Authors: Self Michael , Mangram Alicia , Dunn Ernest
Published: June 2020

We sought to evaluate the outcomes of trauma patients admitted to medical services rather than to the general trauma team, particularly those elderly patients with isolated injuries of a specialty nature. Over the 2-year retrospective study period, 3017 trauma patients were admitted. The trauma service directed care in 2740 (90.8%) of this group versus the 277 (9.2%) admitted to medical services (MS). The patients in each group were then classified according to age younger than 55 years or older than 55 years (elderly). Of the 277 patients admitted to the MS, 177 (63.8%) were elderly compared with only 13 per cent of the trauma service group. Smaller proportions (16.9%) of the elderly medical patients were admitted to the intensive care unit as compared with the trauma group (22.1%). There was a higher morbidity rate, 41.9 per cent, in the trauma service group as compared with the MS group, 20 per cent. No patients on the MS underwent a laparotomy for intraabdominal injuries nor were there any missed injuries of a general surgical nature. Allowing elderly trauma patients with isolated specialty injuries to be managed by the MS is not associated with increased morbidity or mortality.
Laparoscopic Rectopexy without Resection: A Worthwhile Treatment for Rectal Prolapse in Patients without Prior Constipation
Authors: Hsu Allen , Brand Marc I. , Saclarides Theodore J.
Published: June 2020

Anterior resection with rectopexy is considered by many to be the best operation for rectal prolapse. It is feared that if sigmoid redundancy created by rectal mobilization is not resected, colonic motility (specifically constipation) could be disabling. We contend that resection is not necessary in patients without preexisting constipation. We tested this hypothesis using a laparoscopic approach to minimize hospital stay. Twelve patients were treated (eight women); mean age was 45 years (range, 25–82 years). No patient had preexisting constipation; one had irritable bowel syndrome. Three patients had prior prolapse operations. Full rectal mobilization was undertaken down to the levator hiatus; neither the mesenteric vessels nor the lateral ligaments were divided. Rectopexy to the presacral fascia was done with one to two Nurolon sutures on either side of the rectum. There were no complications; mean hospital stay was 4 days. Mean follow up was 32 months (range; 3–75 months); there have been no recurrences. Only the patient with irritable bowel syndrome developed significant constipation. We conclude: 1) rectopexy can be safely done laparoscopically, 2) resection is not required in the absence of prior constipation, and 3) rectal mobilization and rectopexy does not predispose to future constipation in these selected patients.
Do Breast Columnar Cell Lesions with Atypia Need to be Excised?
Authors: Datrice Nicole , Narula Navneet , Maggard Melinda , Butler John , Hsiang David , Baick Choong , Lane Karen
Published: June 2020

Columnar cell lesion with atypia (CCLA) is a newly recognized pathologic entity seen in breast specimens. The breast cancer risk associated with this finding is unclear, although CCLA had been found adjacent to both in situ and invasive carcinomas, but the incidence is unknown. Breast specimens from patients with a columnar cell lesion were reviewed by a pathologist for atypia. Twenty-one specimens with CCLA were identified [core biopsy (8), excisional biopsy (11), and simple mastectomy (2)]. Six of eight specimens with CCLA on core had adjacent abnormal pathology: infiltrating ductal carcinoma (IDC)/lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) (1), ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)/LCIS (1), DCIS (1), LCIS (1), and papillomatosis (2). Five of 11 specimens with CCLA on excisional biopsy had adjacent abnormal pathology: IDC (3), DCIS/LCIS (1), and atypical ductal hyperplasia/papilloma (1). Two of two simple mastectomy specimens had CCLA associated with IDC (1) and DCIS (1). Overall, abnormal pathology was found adjacent to CCLA in 62 per cent of specimens (13/21). Breast pathologic specimens containing a columnar cell lesion should be carefully examined for atypia. Surgical excision is warranted for CCLA found on core biopsy. The future risk of breast cancer based on the finding of CCLA alone requires further investigation.
Prevalence of Left-Sided Colorectal Cancer and Benefit of Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: A County Hospital Experience
Authors: Kumar Ravin R. , King Justin , Holt Alicia , Huynh Richard , Mittal Raj , Justin Kim , Deen Raeed
Published: June 2020

The best way to evaluate the colon for both diagnosis of symptoms and surveillance is colonos-copy. However, access to colonoscopy is often restricted. Our objective was to assess the anatomic distribution and stage at presentation of colorectal cancer (CRC) in a county hospital population, the prevalence and distribution of CRC in younger patients, and the utility of flexible sigmoid-oscopy for early diagnosis of left-sided cancers in this population. We performed a retrospective chart review of 151 patients who underwent colorectal resection from 2001 to 2003. Overall, 66.9 per cent of patients underwent resection for left-sided CRC. Forty-two (27.8%) of 151 were under age 50. In patients over 50, 66.1 per cent were found to have left-sided CRC compared with 69 per cent of patients under 50. Fifty per cent (50.3%) of patients had stage III or IV (advanced) disease. Forty-nine and a half per cent of patients over 50 and 52.3 per cent under 50 had advanced disease. Forty-eight and a half per cent of patients with left-sided CRC had advanced stage disease compared with 54% of patients with right-sided CRC. In patients under 50, the rates were 55.2 per cent and 46.1 per cent respectively. Two-thirds of the CRC occurred in the left side of the colon in both older and younger population. Flexible sigmoidoscopy should be considered as an early tool in the diagnosis of CRC.
Gallstone Pancreatitis: A Benign Disease in Hispanics
Authors: Yaghoubian Arezou , De Virgilio Christian , El-Masry Monica , Lewis Roger J. , Stabile Bruce E.
Published: June 2020

Little is known about ethnic differences among patients with gallstone pancreatitis in the United States. The purpose of this study was to compare Hispanic and non-Hispanic patients with gallstone pancreatitis with regard to severity of disease, level of care required, length of hospital stay, and clinical outcomes. A retrospective cohort study of 198 consecutive patients with gallstone pancreatitis was performed from 2003 to 2005. Overall, 161 patients were Hispanic and 37 were non-Hispanic. The average age of Hispanic patients was 41 years versus 47.5 years in the non-Hispanic group ( P = 0.02). Only 16 (10%) Hispanic patients had a Ranson score of 2 or greater versus nine (24%) of the non-Hispanic group ( P = 0.03). Only 39 (24%) Hispanic patients were admitted to an intensive care unit or stepdown unit versus 17 (46%) of the non-Hispanic group ( P = 0.01). Hispanic patients underwent cholecystectomy at an average of 5.8 days after admission versus 6.6 days for non-Hispanic patients ( P = 0.07). There was a 4 per cent complication rate and a 2 per cent readmission rate overall with no statistically significant differences between the two groups and no mortality. The majority of Hispanic patients with gallstone pancreatitis have a benign disease process, presenting at a younger age, with less severe disease that infrequently requires intensive care unit admission.
Jules Germain Cloquet (1790–1883)–Drawing Master and Anatomist
Authors: Loukas Marios , El-Sedfy Abraham , Tubbs R. Shane , Wartman Christopher
Published: June 2020

Jules Germain Cloquet, the famed French anatomist, surgeon, and professor, may not be remembered as one of the pioneers of hernia surgery; however, his contributions have provided surgeons with detailed anatomical descriptions that have been useful in developing innovative surgical techniques. Cloquet has many eponyms associated with him, including: Cloquet's fascia, Cloquet's gland or lymph node of Cloquet, Cloquet's hernia, Cloquet's ligament, Cloquet's canal, and Cloquet's septum. A man blessed with artistic talents, Cloquet was the author of many theses, as well as anatomical volumes that were comparable to the works of other great anatomists of his time. His first thesis, entitled Recherches Anatomiques sur les Hernies de l'Abdomen, described the locations where inguinal and crural herniae are more likely to occur in terms of the cremaster muscle, the peritoneum, and the spermatic vessels. Wax sculpture training required extensive knowledge in the natural sciences, anatomy, physiology, and pathology, as were acquired by Jules Cloquet as a pupil of Achille-Cléophas Flaubert, the father of the famous French novelist Gustave Flaubert (author of Madame Bovary). Cloquet attracted many pupils with his innovative teaching style and implementation of anatomical preparations, drawings, and sketches on the black board with chalk. The legacy of this famed individual lives on today in the anatomical structures described by Cloquet.