bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anticoagulation and the Elderly Head Trauma Patient
Authors: Grandhi Ramesh , Duane TherÈSe M. , Dechert Tracey , Malhotra Ajai K. , Aboutanos Michel B. , Wolfe Luke G. , Ivatury Rao R.
Published: June 2020

We sought to determine the effect of anticoagulation therapy on outcomes in elderly patients with closed head injury. We retrospectively reviewed elderly closed head injury patients (≥65 years) comparing 52 patients on warfarin (AC) with 439 patients not on warfarin (NAC) with subsequent 1:3 propensity matching used to analyze comparable groups. The overall AC group had a higher head abbreviated injury score (AIS) (4.0 ± 0.7 vs 3.8 ± 0.7, P = 0.04) compared with the NAC group. After propensity matching, 49 AC patients were compared with 147 NAC patients who were similar for age, gender, injury severity score, and head AIS. Admission INR was higher in the AC group compared to the NAC group (2.5 ± 1.3 vs 1.1 ± 0.3, P < 0.0001) and the AC group had a higher mortality rate (38.8% AC (19/49) vs 23.1% NAC (34/147), P = 0.04). In the AC group, survivors and nonsurvivors had similar repeat International Normalized Ratio (INR) values (1.57 ± 0.65 survivors vs 1.8 ± 0.72 nonsurvivors, P = 0.31). The AC group experienced greater morbidity after trauma and had higher mortality rates than their NAC counterparts. Prevention of injury and more selective use of warfarin in this patient population are essential to decrease mortality.
Implementation of a Preoperative Briefing Protocol Improves Accuracy of Teamwork Assessment in the Operating Room
Authors: Paige John T. , Aaron Deborah L. , Yang Tong , Howell D. Shannon , Hilton Charles W. , Cohn Isidore , Chauvin Sheila W.
Published: June 2020

This study examined the effect of implementing a new preoperative briefing protocol on self- and peer-assessments of individual operating room (OR) teamwork behaviors. From July 2006 to February 2007, OR teamwork performance at a rural community hospital was evaluated before and after training and implementation of the protocol. After each case, every member on the team completed a 360-degree type teamwork behavior evaluation containing both self- and peer-assessments using a six-point Likert type scale (1 = definitely no to 6 = definitely yes). Individual behavior change was measured using the mean scale score of pre and postprotocol assessments. Statistical analysis included t test for both pre/post and self/peer differences. Data were available for one general surgeon and nine OR staff (pre = 20 cases, post = 16 cases). The preprotocol self-assessment mean score was significantly higher than peer-assessment (5.63 vs 5.29, P < 0.0267). Pre and postprotocol peer assessment mean scores revealed a statistically significant gain in teamwork behaviors. No difference was observed in postassessment mean scores for self- and peer-assessments. Individuals overestimated their teamwork behaviors before protocol implementation. Using a preoperative protocol seems to improve OR staff teamwork behaviors and self-assessment accuracy. The use of a 360-degree assessment method targeting specific, observable behaviors may be useful in evaluating team-based interventions and enhancing teamwork effectiveness.
Role of Ultrasound Screening for Gallbladder Disease in Pretransplant Patients
Authors: Meka Madhavi , Potdar Santosh , Benotti Peter , Hartle J. Edward , Senkowski Christopher
Published: June 2020

There is no uniform data regarding prophylactic cholecystectomy in patients undergoing renal transplantation with gallbladder disease. Data analyses suggest that posttransplant patients on cyclosporine have a higher incidence of gallbladder calcifications compared with nonimmunosuppressed patients. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a relatively safe procedure in modern-day surgery. Taking these facts into consideration, we attempted to compare risks and complications associated with gallbladder disease and eventual cholecystectomy in pretransplant versus post-transplant patients. Between June 1999 and December 2005, 210 renal transplants were performed at our institution. One hundred four patients who had transplants before April 2003 were not screened for gallbladder disease and nine of these patients developed gallbladder disease. These patients form our control group. One hundred six patients who had transplants after April 2003 had pretransplant screening for gallbladder disease and 11 patients were identified with gallbladder disease. These patients form our study group. Nine patients who developed gallbladder disease after renal transplant underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy with three resulting morbidities (33%), two graft losses (22%), and one mortality (11%). There was one mortality (11%) in this group. One patient in the study group died of acute gallstone pancreatitis. Of the 11 patients who were found to have gallbladder disease on screening, nine patients underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy with one morbidity and no mortality or graft loss. Given the relative rarity of the critical events in this study (morbidity, mortality, and graft loss), the definitive statistical value of prescreening for gallbladder disease cannot be established. However, our results are suggestive of clinical value and thus we tentatively recommend ultrasound screening for gallbladder disease for all pretransplant patients and laparoscopic cholecystectomy for those identified to have gallbladder disease.
Components Separation: A Solution to Complex Abdominal Wall Defects
Authors: Shabatian Hooman , Lee Dong-Joon , Abbas Maher A.
Published: June 2020

Complex abdominal wall hernias can be challenging to treat. The purpose of this study was to retrospectively review the results of components separation. Seventeen patients underwent components separation between 2000 and 2007. Mean size of the hernia defect was 318 cm2. Mean number of prior abdominal operations/patient was 3.2. Nine patients (53%) had prior failed repair. At time of components separation, five patients (29%) had concurrent gastrointestinal operations and two (12%) had panniculectomy. Mean hospitalization stay was 3.8 days with a readmission rate of 41 per cent. The most common postoperative complications were wound related and occurred in 35 per cent of patients. During a mean follow-up of 21 months, only one patient had recurrent hernia (6%). Five patients (29%) required additional operations. Components separation is a viable option for patients with complex abdominal wall defects. Long-term recurrence is rare but wound related complications, operative reinterventions, and hospital readmission are common.
Pyloric Exclusion in the Treatment of Severe Duodenal Injuries: Results from the National Trauma Data Bank
Authors: Dubose Joseph J. , Inaba Kenji , Teixeira Pedro G.R. , Shiflett Anthony , Putty Bradley , Green D.J. , Plurad David , Demetriades Demetrios
Published: June 2020

Pyloric exclusion (PEX) has traditionally been used in the management of complicated duodenal injuries to temporarily protect the duodenal repair and prevent septic abdominal complications. We used the American College of Surgeons National Trauma Data Bank (v 5.0) to evaluate adult patients with severe duodenal injuries [American Association for the Surgery of Trauma (AAST) Grade ≥ 3] undergoing primary repair only or repair with PEX within 24 hours of admission. Propensity scoring was used to adjust for relevant confounding factors during outcomes comparison. Among 147 patients with severe duodenal injuries, 28 (19.0%) underwent PEX [15.9% (11/69) Grade III vs 34.0% (17/50) Grade IV–V]. Despite similar demographics, PEX was associated with a longer mean hospital stay (32.2 vs 22.2 days, P = 0.003) and was not associated with a mortality benefit. There was a trend toward increased development of septic abdominal complications (intra-abdominal abscess, wound infection, or dehiscence) with PEX that was not statistically significant. After multivariable analysis using propensity score, no statistically significant differences in mortality or occurrence of septic abdominal complications was noted between those patients undergoing primary repair only or PEX. The use of PEX in patients with severe duodenal injuries may contribute to longer hospital stay and confers no survival or outcome benefit.
Combined CT Venography and CT Pulmonary Angiography for the Detection of Deep Venous Thrombosis in Injured Patients
Authors: Jones Christian , Teixeira Pedro G.R. , Inaba Kenji , Keesara Sravanthi R. , Rhee Peter , Brown Carlos , Salim Ali , Browder Timothy , Demetriades Demetrios
Published: June 2020

CT Venography (CTV) performed at the time of CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) images the central, pelvic, and extremity venous circulation with minimal additional time, radiation, and no added contrast. CTV has been added to CTPA routinely at our Level I trauma center since 2000, and we sought to determine if this addition had increased the diagnostic yield of CTPA in trauma patients. The attending radiologist's interpretation of all CTPA-CTV studies performed over a 5-year period ending in August 2006 were retrospectively reviewed. CTPAs and CTVs were categorized as “positive”, “negative”, or “indeterminate” for pulmonary embolus (PE) and deep venous thrombosis (DVT). During the study period, 3798 patients underwent both a CTPA and CTV; 309 (8%) of these were trauma patients. Forty-four (14%) had a PE diagnosed on CTPA. Seventeen (6%) had a DVT diagnosed on CTV. In eight (3%), the CTV added clinically relevant data, diagnosing a DVT in a patient without PE. As the consequences of a missed pelvic DVT are high and the added time burden, radiation, and contrast required for a CTV are low, further investigation into optimizing the sensitivity of CTV performed at the time of CTPA is warranted.
Characteristics of Colorectal Cancer in Young Patients at an Urban County Hospital
Authors: Karsten Benjamin , Kim Justin , King Justin , Kumar Ravin R.
Published: June 2020

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a disease primarily affecting an older population. The incidence of CRC in young patients has been rising. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the characteristics of CRC in an ethnically diverse, young population. Two groups of patients with CRC (40 years old or younger and 60 years old or older) treated from 1998 to 2005 were retrospectively evaluated. Forty-one young patients with CRC were identified. Hispanics constituted 51 per cent of the young population. Forty-four per cent of the lesions were right-sided in the young group compared with 21 per cent in the older group (P = 0.004). Advanced tumor stage (T3 and T4) was noted in 87.8 per cent of the young and 63 per cent of the older patients (P = 0.002; OR, 4.08). Poorly differentiated tumor grade was more common in young patients (P = 0.003) as well as mucinous/signet ring characteristics (P = 0.005). Young patients had an increased likelihood of a family history (P = 0.0001). Operative intervention and survival were similar for the two groups. Our study confirms, in an ethnically diverse young population, that CRC tends to be advanced stage, aggressive, and frequently nonoperable at the time of diagnosis. It is important for physicians to recognize the poor outcome of CRC in a younger population and consider an aggressive approach to diagnosis and early treatment.
Total Bilirubin is a Useful Predictor of Persisting Common Bile Duct Stone in Gallstone Pancreatitis
Authors: Chan Tony , Yaghoubian Arezou , Rosing David , Lee Edward , Lewis Roger J. , Stabile Bruce E. , De Virgilio Christian
Published: June 2020

Accepted guidelines for preoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in gallstone pancreatitis are lacking. Our previous investigations suggested that serum total bilirubin on hospital Day 2 best predicts persisting common bile duct (CBD) stones. We aim to identify an optimal total bilirubin threshold on hospital Day 2 that would predict persisting CBD stones and guide obtaining preoperative ERCP. Prospective and retrospective data were available from 200 consecutive patients with gallstone pancreatitis at a public teaching hospital from 2003 through 2007. Charts were examined for persisting CBD stones on ERCP and/or intraoperative cholangiography during laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Patients with cholangitis (n = 18) were excluded. Nineteen of the remaining 182 (10%) patients had CBD stones. Mean hospital Day 2 bilirubin was 3.7 mg/dL for patients with CBD stones versus 1.4 mg/dL for those without (P < 0.0001). Seventeen patients (9%) had total bilirubin 4 or greater on hospital Day 2. Of these, eight (4%) had CBD stones (specificity 94%). Of the 165 patients with total bilirubin less than 4, 11 (7%) had CBD stones (P < 0.0001). In gallstone pancreatitis, a serum total bilirubin level 4 mg/dL or greater on hospital Day 2 predicts persisting CBD stones with enough specificity to serve as a practical guideline for ERCP while minimizing unnecessary procedures.
What is the Rate of Small Bowel Obstruction after Colectomy?
Authors: Parikh Janak A. , Ko Clifford Y. , Maggard Melinda A. , Zingmond David S.
Published: June 2020

The rate of small bowel obstruction (SBO) after colectomy is unknown. Given the large number of colectomies performed in the United States, elucidating SBO rates, outcomes, and identifying predictors of readmission is important. Using the California Inpatient File, we identified all patients readmitted with a principle diagnosis of SBO at least once in the 3 years after colectomy (n = 4555). Patients admitted with a diagnosis of SBO in the 3 years before surgery were excluded. Overall, 10 per cent of patients were readmitted for SBO at least once after colectomy. Approximately 58 per cent were readmitted in the first year and 22 per cent of these patients required surgery. The most common operation performed was lysis of adhesions. Median length of stay was twice as long in the surgery group versus the no surgery group (12 vs 6 days). Overall mortality was higher in the nonsurgery group compared with the surgery group (33% vs 21%, P < 0.001) and highest in the elderly (44% vs 30%, P < 0.001). One in 10 patients without a history of SBO who undergoes a colectomy will be readmitted at least once in the subsequent 3 years for SBO, and there is a high mortality rate in this group, especially in the elderly.
Article Commentary: Current Management of Diverticulitis
Authors: Mccafferty Michael H. , Roth Leslie , Jorden Jeffrey
Published: June 2020

Diverticulitis is classified as uncomplicated or complicated, i.e., associated with perforation, fistula, or obstruction. CT allows more reliable characterization of an acute attack of diverticulitis. Medical management is reserved for uncomplicated diverticulitis and the initial phase of treatment of diverticulitis associated with abscess formation. Percutaneous abscess drainage is a major advance, which permits one-stage resection in a majority of cases. Diverticulitis associated with free perforation can be selectively managed with resection and primary anastomosis, although a Hartmann resection is likely to be performed. A fistula associated with diverticulitis can usually be managed with a one-stage resection. Obstruction can be managed selectively with resection with on-table bowel preparation, primary anastomosis, and proximal diversion. Laparoscopic techniques permit successful performance of elective resections most of the time. Hand assistance is of particular value when the patient has dense fibrosis.
On-Scene Intravenous Line Insertion Adversely Impacts Prehospital Time in Rural Vehicular Trauma
Authors: Gonzalez Richard P. , Cummings Glenn R. , Phelan Herbert A. , Mulekar Madhuri S. , Rodning Charles B.
Published: June 2020

Fatality rates from rural vehicular trauma are almost double those found in urban settings. Increased emergency medical services (EMS) prehospital time has been implicated as one of the causative factors for higher rural fatality rates. Advanced Trauma Life Support guidelines suggest scene time should not be extended to insert an intravenous catheter (IV). The purpose of this study was to assess the association between intravenous line placement and motor vehicle crash (MVC) scene time in rural and urban settings. An imputational methodology using the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Crash Outcome Data Evaluation System permitted linkage of data from police motor vehicle crash and EMS records. Intergraph GeoMedia software permitted this linked data to be plotted on digital maps for segregation into rural and urban groups. MVCs were defined as rural or urban by location of the accident using the U.S. Bureau of Census Criteria. Linked data were analyzed to assess for EMS time on-scene, on-scene IV insertion, on-scene IV insertion attempts, and patient mortality. Over a 2-year period from January 2001 through December 2002, data were collected from Alabama EMS patient care reports (PCRs) and police crash reports. A total of 45,763 police crash reports were linked to EMS PCRs. Of these linked crash records, 34,341 (75%) and 11,422 (25%) were injured in rural and urban settings, respectively. Six hundred eleven (1.78%) mortalities occurred in rural settings and 103 (0.90%) in urban settings (P < 0.005). There were 6,273 (18.3%) on-scene IV insertions in the rural setting and 1,290 (11.3%) in the urban setting (P < 0.005). Mean EMS time on-scene when single IV insertion attempts occurred was 16.9 minutes in the rural setting and 14.5 minutes in the urban setting (P < 0.0001). When two attempts of on-scene IV insertion were made, mean EMS time on-scene in the rural setting (n = 891 [2.6%]) was 18.4 minutes and 15.7 minutes in the urban setting (n = 142 [1.2%; P < 0.005). Excluding dead on-scene patients, mean EMS time on-scene when mortalities occurred in rural and urban settings was 18.9 minutes and 10.8 minutes, respectively (P < 0.005). On-scene IV insertion occurred with significantly greater frequency in rural than urban settings. This incurs greater EMS time on-scene and prehospital time that may be associated with increased vehicular fatality rates in rural settings.
Focal Nodular Hyperplasia: Report of an Unusual Case and Review of the Literature
Authors: Wasif Nabil , Sasu Sebastian , Conway William C. , Bilchik Anton
Published: June 2020

Focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH) is the second most common benign lesion of the liver and a common differential in the workup of solid liver lesions. With increasing use of modern imaging modalities FNH is becoming clinically more relevant. We present a case of pedunculated FNH presenting as a pericholecystic mass. This was resected laparoscopically due to persistent symptoms and uncertainty in diagnosis. We summarize the current literature with regard to the diagnosis, etiology, and management of FNH lesions.
Value of Ultrasound Guidance in Placement of Hemodialysis Access Catheters in Patients with End-Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Hassan Chandra , Girishkumar H.T. , Thatigotla Bala , Asad Muhammad , Sivakumar Mahalingam , Bhoot Nilesh , Pokala Naveen
Published: June 2020

The increasingly frequent use of ultrasound for the placement of central venous catheters has shown improved results. This study examined the role of ultrasound in the placement of hemodialysis access catheters in patients with end-stage renal disease. The subjects were all end-stage renal disease patients admitted to our hospital between January 2004 and April 2005 and who underwent ultrasound-guided placement of a hemodialysis catheter in a central vein. All patients underwent perioperative ultrasound assessment of the venous access site, followed by fluoroscopic confirmation of the catheter placement. Data from medical charts and the hospital computer system were subjected to statistical analysis. A total of 126 patients underwent ultrasound-guided placement of a hemodialysis catheter in a central vein; 58 had undergone prior placement of a central vein catheter, but 69 had not. Patients in the later group had a 100 per cent success rate in catheter placement after ultrasound assessment of one central vein. Among patients who had previously undergone central vein catheterization, 29 had jugular venous occlusion, 12 had bilateral jugular venous occlusion and thus required placement of femoral venous catheters and, 15 patients had jugular vein stenosis and 2 patients had the jugular vein thrombosed. The use of ultrasound to assess the central veins facilitated the identification of vein suitable for catheterization and the avoidance of occluded central veins. This protocol is effective and improves patient safety.
Incidental Pulmonary Embolism Identified on Chest CT during Initial Trauma Evaluation
Authors: Ruddy Jean Marie , Curry Nancy S. , Norcross E. Douglas , Leon Stuart M.
Published: June 2020

Deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism frequently occur after trauma and continue to account for significant morbidity and mortality in this population. Asymptomatic pulmonary emboli are also believed to be quite common, but the incidence as well as the implications of these events is unknown. This case report describes two patients whose pulmonary emboli were found incidentally on the initial trauma workup. Very little has been written concerning this issue and in this case report we review the risk factors and clinical significance of these “incidentally discovered” pulmonary emboli.
Proposal for Classification of the Circumaortic Renal Collar's Morphology
Authors: Natsis Konstantinos , Tsitouridis Ioannis , Totlis Trifon , Levva Sofia , Tsikaras Prokopios , Skandalakis Panagiotis
Published: June 2020

In the present study, we propose a classification of the different forms of the circumaortic renal collar based on the findings of 319 patients and on a literature review. The patients underwent a CT angiography scan of the abdomen for various diagnostic reasons. The different forms in which the circumaortic renal collar may appear were categorized. The renal collar was observed in eight of the 319 (2.5%) patients. The classification we propose is the following: Type I, one left renal vein splitting into two branches, a preaortic and a retroaortic, draining into the inferior vena cava; Type II, two different left renal veins, the one preaortic and the other retroaortic, draining into the inferior vena cava; and Type III, either anastomoses between the preaortic and retroaortic vein, being multiple or not, or multiple preaortic or retroaortic renal veins without anastomoses. Although the circumaortic renal collar is usually asymptomatic, the knowledge of this variation is useful, mainly before abdominal aortic aneurysm surgery and renal transplantation. Failure to recognize the collar's retroaortic component may lead to hemorrhage and death during retroperitoneal surgery. We believe that our classification contributes to recognize the circumaortic renal collar's morphology both preoperatively and intraoperatively.
The Incidence and Clinical Significance of Pneumoperitoneum after Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy: A Review of 722 Cases
Authors: Blum Craig A. , Selander Craig , Ruddy Jean Marie , Leon Stuart
Published: June 2020

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is the procedure of choice for establishing enteral access in patients unable to take oral feedings. Serious complications are rare; however, misplaced PEGs and PEG/ Jejunums can lead to hollow viscus injuries with intra-abdominal contamination and subsequent peritonitis, septicemia, and death. The presence of free intra-abdominal air is a reliable indicator of a perforated viscus and often points to a surgical emergency; however, in the case of PEGs, pneumoperitoneum without a perforated viscus, or “benign pneumoperitoneum” creates a diagnostic dilemma. To determine the incidence and clinical significance of pneumoperitoneum after PEG or PEG/Jejunum (J) we reviewed the records of 722 patients who underwent these procedures at our institution. Of 39 patients found to have free air after PEG/PEG/J placement, 33 (85%) had “benign pneumoperitoneum” and were discharged without complication or surgical intervention. Of the six patients with serious complications related to their procedure, five (83%) had clinical signs of intra-abdominal complications (peritonitis) that helped guide their management. Of these six patients, the two receiving abdominal radiographs instead of abdominal CT scanning had a 50 per cent negative laparotomy rate. We present an algorithm for the management of patients found to have pneumoperitoneum after PEG or PEG/J placement.
Risk Factors and Management for Massive Bleeding of an Acute Hemorrhagic Rectal Ulcer
Authors: Hotta Tsukasa , Takifuji Katsunari , Tonoda Shigehiko , Mishima Hideo , Sasaki Masakazu , Yukawa Hirofumi , Mori Kazunari , Fuku Akito , Yamaue Hiroki
Published: June 2020

An acute hemorrhagic rectal ulcer (AHRU) is considered to be a potentially life-threatening illness requiring urgent identification and management because of massive bleeding. It is therefore important to clarify the factors associated with the massive bleeding of an AHRU and the best management. The factors associated with the massive bleeding of 14 patients with AHRU were determined by comparing the clinicopathologic features, laboratory data, and treatment between four patients with more transfusions (≥12 U) and 10 patients with less transfusions (≤3 U). Patients with AHRU of the more transfusion group had lower performance status (PS), more diabetes mellitus, more comorbid diseases, and lower serum albumin concentrate than those of the less transfusion group. More surgical treatment and the administration of hemostatic agents were necessary for the patients with AHRU of the more transfusion group than for those of the less transfusion group, and the duration from bleeding to hemostasis in patients with AHRU of the more transfusion group was larger than that of the less transfusion group. Patients with AHRU of the more transfusion group had a longer duration of no oral food intake, total parenteral nutrition, and hospital stay from bleeding day than those of the less transfusion group. Thus, the factors associated with the massive bleeding of AHRU were identified.
Guidelines for Safe Surgery in Patients with Systemic Mastocytosis
Authors: Chaar Cassius I. Ochoa , Bell Robert L. , Duffy Thomas P. , Duffy Andrew J.
Published: June 2020

Systemic mastocytosis (SM) is a rare disorder with important perioperative implications. The physiological stress of operative procedures and a variety of anesthetic and analgesic medications can be triggers of acute exacerbation of this condition. We present two patients with systemic mastocytosis. One underwent open left inguinal hernia and umbilical hernia repair and the other laparoscopic ventral hernia repair. The literature for perioperative management of patients with SM is extensively reviewed. Both patients were treated preoperatively with intravenous antihistamines and steroids to minimize SM reactions. The first patient underwent uneventful open left inguinal hernia repair and umbilical hernia repair under spinal anesthesia. The second patient underwent general anesthesia. A composite mesh was used to repair a 9 x 12-cm Swiss cheese incisional hernia at the site of previous surgery. After the administration of neostigmine and glycopyrrolate, she developed a generalized rash without any hemodynamic instability. The patient was treated with intravenous Solu-Medrol and Benadryl and was extubated successfully and had an unremarkable postoperative course. Patients with SM require careful perioperative management for surgery under spinal and general anesthesia. These patients can undergo surgical procedures safely and effectively without compromising the standard of care.
Effect of Prior Abdominal Surgery, Peritonitis, and Adhesions on Catheter Function and Long-Term Outcome on Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Crabtree John H. , Burchette Raoul J.
Published: June 2020

Adhesions from previous surgery and peritonitis can lead to peritoneal dialysis catheter insertion failure, visceral injury, and poor dialysis function. Employing a laparoscopic approach, the effect of adhesiolysis on mechanical catheter complications and long-term catheter survival was prospectively examined in 436 catheter placement procedures having a 57.8 per cent prevalence rate of previous surgery. Adhesiolysis was required in 31.8 per cent of cases with prior surgery and in 3.3 per cent of procedures without previous operations. The incidence of adhesiolysis was directly related to the number of prior surgeries ( P < 0.0001). The incidence of catheter insertion failure from extensive adhesions was 1.8 per cent. Survival probability free from catheter obstruction was lower in patients requiring adhesiolysis compared with subjects with prior surgery not requiring adhesiolysis ( P = 0.01). Laparoscopic rescue procedures limited catheter losses from flow obstruction to only 0.7 per cent. As a result, long-term catheter survival was not different among patients regardless of prior surgery and/or adhesion status ( P = 0.2). Scars on the abdomen and prior peritonitis do not predict the extent of adhesions and should not be used to judge eligibility for peritoneal dialysis. Presently, laparoscopy is the only practical way to provide optimal peritoneal access in patients with a history of surgery and peritonitis.
Interim Results of Nutritional Support through a Button-Type Jejunostomy after Total Gastrectomy
Authors: Shinohara Toshihiko , Fujita Tetsuji , Suzuki Yukata , Sano Yoshifumi , Kashiwagi Hideyuki , Yanaga Katsuhiko
Published: June 2020

Nutritional deficiency is an inevitable consequence after total gastrectomy. We have recently developed a simple technique for nutritional support after total gastrectomy, in which the button jejunostomy is conducted on the afferent limb for long-term jejunal feeding. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the low-profile button jejunostomy (LBJ) in patients with gastric malignancy. The records of 55 consecutive patients who were treated by total gastrectomy along with LBJ-making for gastric malignancy were prospectively reviewed and analyzed. Outcome parameters such as body weight, per cent ideal body weight (IBW), and nutritional parameters were regularly measured preoperatively and postoperatively. There were no complications related to LBJ. Among the patients, 53 who had survived at least 6 months after surgery were evaluated. The median caloric supplement by enteral feeding at home was 800 kcal per day. The median weight loss was 10.7 per cent of initial body weight. More than half of the patients achieved IBW and 40 patients (75%) were classified as low or no risk of malnutrition. This technique is easy to perform with minimal discomfort, and we believe that LBJ is useful for supporting dietary intake and for preventing malnutrition after total gastrectomy.
The Impact of Open Lung Biopsy on Diffuse Pulmonary Infiltrates in Patients with AIDS
Authors: Lee Chao-hsiang , Lee Jang-ming , Hung Chien-ching , Huang Pei-ming , Kuo Shunn-wen , Hsu Hsau-hsun , Chen Jing-Shin , Lee Yung-Chie
Published: June 2020

The evidence concerning open lung biopsy (OLB) for diffuse pulmonary infiltrates in patients with AIDS is limited. This study retrospectively evaluated the diagnostic and therapeutic yields of OLB compared with bronchoscopy for patients with AIDS with diffuse pulmonary infiltrate treated in the National Taiwan University Hospital from 1997 to 2004. There were 15 and 46 patients enrolled in the OLB and bronchoscopic groups in this study, respectively. As compared with the bronchoscopic group, patients from the OLB group had a higher chance of acquiring a specific diagnosis and possible change of therapy (73 vs 32.6% and 60 vs 21.7%, respectively; P < 0.05). There were two (13.3%) patients with prolonged air leak (greater than 7 days) in the OLB group, whereas four patients (8.7%) had procedure-related complications in the bronchoscopic group. There was no procedure-related mortality in the OLB group. This study demonstrated that OLB can be safely performed in select patients and provide a superior diagnostic and therapeutic benefit compared with bronchoscopy for diffuse pulmonary infiltrates in patients with AIDS. This procedure should be performed early in the clinical course to avoid irreversible clinical deterioration of the patients with severe illness.
Perineal Injuries at a Large Urban Trauma Center: Injury Patterns and Outcomes
Authors: Petrone Patrizio , Inaba Kenji , Wasserberg Nir , Teixeira Pedro G. R. , Sarkisyan Grant , Dubose Joseph J. , Fernandez Maura A. , Peña Frida R. , Rodriguez Margarita A. , Ortega Adrian E. , Kaufman Howard S.
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this study was to describe the characteristics of this unique patient population, their clinical presentations, and outcomes. The Los Angeles County and University of Southern California Medical Center Trauma Registry was used to retrospectively identify patients who sustained perineal injuries. Information included gender, age, vital signs, trauma scores, mechanisms of injury, studies performed, surgeries performed, and outcomes. Pediatric patients and injuries related to obstetric trauma were not included. Sixty-nine patients were identified between February 1, 1992 and October 31, 2005. One patient died on arrival; 85 per cent (58 of 68) were males, mean age was 30 ± 12 years, and there was a penetrating mechanism in 56 per cent. Vital signs on admission were systolic blood pressure 119 ± 33 mmHg, heart rate 94 ± 27 beats/minute, and respiratory rate 20 ± 6 breaths/min. Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) was 13 ± 3, Revised Trauma Score (RTS) was 7.2 ± 1.5, and Injury Severity Score (ISS) was 11 ± 12. CT scan was obtained for 23 (33%) patients. Lower extremity fractures were 35 per cent and pelvic fractures 32 per cent. The most common surgery was debridement and drainage, diversion with colostomy in five patients (7%). Overall mortality was 10 per cent. Mortality group mean scores were: GCS, 6; RTS, 5.74; and ISS, 34. The survival group mean scores were: GCS, 14; RTS, 7.7; and ISS, 8. There was a statistically significant association between mortality and GCS, RTS, and ISS scores ( P < 0.001). Most patients with perineal injuries (93%) can be managed without colostomy. Associated injuries are not uncommon, particularly bony fractures. Mortality is mostly the result of exsanguination related to associated injuries.
Surgical Treatment for Right Colon Cancer Directly Invading the Duodenum
Authors: Lianwen Yuan , Jianping Zhou , Guoshun Shu , Dongcai Liu , Jiapeng Zhou
Published: June 2020

Right colon carcinoma with duodenal invasion is rare, and optimal management remains controversial. Twenty patients demonstrating right-colon carcinoma directly invading the duodenum presented at the Second Xiangya Hospital between 1990 and 2006. Different surgical management strategies were selected based on duodenal involvement, and patient outcomes were evaluated. There was no perioperative death in this series, but three major complications presented during the perioperative period: one case of duodenal stenosis and two duodenal leaks due to gastric or duodenal drainage. Eight of 13 patients treated by en bloc resection survived more than 3 years, including one 10-year survivor and four 5-year survivors. Of the seven patients treated with palliative resection, no patients survived more than 18 months. In conclusion, duodenal invasion by a right-sided colon carcinoma does not necessarily represent incurable disease. If carefully applied based on the extent of duodenal invasion, active surgical management is very useful for improving patient prognosis without increasing the risks associated with surgery.
Long-Term Morbidity, Vain, and Disability after Repair of Severe Chest Wall Injuries
Authors: Mayberry John C. , Kroeker Andrew D. , Ham L. Bruce , Mullins Richard J. , Trunkey Donald D.
Published: June 2020

Long-term morbidity after severe chest wall injuries is common. We report our experience with acute chest wall injury repair, focusing on long-term outcomes and comparing our patients’ health status with the general population. We performed a retrospective medical record review supplemented with a postal survey of long-term outcomes including the McGill Pain Questionnaire (MPQ) and RAND-36 Health Survey. RAND-36 outcomes were compared with reference values from the Medical Outcomes Study and from the general population. Forty-six patients underwent acute chest wall repair between September 1996 and September 2005. Indications included flail chest with failure to wean from the ventilator (18 patients), acute, intractable pain associated with severely displaced rib fractures (15 patients), acute chest wall defect/deformity (5 patients), acute pulmonary herniation (3 patients), and thoracotomy for other traumatic indications (5 patients). Three patients had a concomitant sternal fracture repair. Fifteen patients with a current mean age of 60.6 years (range 30-91) responded to our surveys a mean of 48.5 ± 22.3 months (range 19-96) postinjury. Mean long-term MPQ Pain Rating Index was 6.7 ± 2.1. RAND-36 indices indicated equivalent or better health status compared with references with the exception of role limitations due to physical problems when compared with the general population. The operative repair of severe chest wall injuries is associated with low long-term morbidity and pain, as well as health status nearly equivalent to the general population. Both the MPQ and the RAND-36 surveys were useful tools for determining chest wall pain and disability outcomes.
Fever and Leukocytosis in Critically Ill Trauma Patients: It is Not the Blood
Authors: Claridge Jeffrey A. , Golob Joseph F. , Fadlalla Adam M. A. , Malangoni Mark A. , Blatnik Jeffrey , Yowler Charles J.
Published: June 2020

The diagnosis of bacteremia in critically ill patients is classically based on fever and/or leukocytosis. The objectives of this study were to determine 1) if our intensive care unit obtains blood cultures based on fever and/or leukocytosis over the initial 14 days of hospitalization after trauma; and 2) the efficacy of this diagnostic workup. An 18-month retrospective cohort analysis was performed on consecutively admitted trauma patients. Data collected included demographics, injuries, and the first 14 days maximal daily temperature, leukocyte count, and results of blood and catheter tip cultures. Fever was defined as a maximum daily temperature of 38.5°C or greater and leukocytosis as a leukocyte count 12,000/mm3 or greater of blood. Five hundred ten patients were evaluated for a total of 3,839 patient-days. The mean age and injury severity score were 49 ± 1 years and 19 ± 1, respectively. Four hundred twenty-five blood culture episodes were obtained and 25 (6%) bacteremias were identified in 23 patients (5%). A significant association was found between obtaining blood cultures in patients with fever (relative risk [RR], 7.7), leukocytosis (RR, 1.3), and fever + leukocytosis (RR, 3.2). However, no significant association was found between these clinical signs and the diagnosis of bacteremia. In fact, fever alone was inversely associated with bacteremia. Our intensive care unit follows the common “fever workup” practice and obtains blood cultures based on the presence of fever and leukocytosis. However, fever and leukocytosis were not associated with bacteremia, suggesting inefficiency and that other factors are more important after trauma.
Article Commentary: Surgical Prophylaxis for Inheritable Malignant Diseases: Breast Cancer and Endocrine Disease
Authors: Benns Matthew V. , Luk Tammy , Scoggins Charles R.
Published: June 2020

Despite advances in modern medicine, cancer remains all too common and deadly. At its core, cancer is a disease of our DNA. As such, many cancers are passed from parents to children, making cancer one of the most commonly inherited diseases. Presently, we have no meaningful methods of “preventing” the malignant transformation that occurs as a result of an inherited gene, but investigators have identified several genetic mutations and subsequently developed risk-reduction strategies that sometimes involve surgery.
Has the Pendulum Swung Too Far? The Impact of Missed Abdominal Injuries in the Era of Nonoperative Management
Authors: Fairfax Lindsay M. , Christmas A. Britton , Deaugustinis Matthew , Gordon Latiffany , Head Karen , Jacobs David G. , Sing Ronald F.
Published: June 2020

Nonoperative management for traumatic injuries has significantly influenced trauma care during the last decade. We undertook this study to assess the impact of nontherapeutic laparotomies for suspected abdominal injuries compared with delayed laparotomies for questionable abdominal injuries for patients with abdominal trauma. The records of patients admitted to the trauma service between 2002 and 2007 who underwent laparotomies deemed nontherapeutic or delayed were retrospectively reviewed. Demographics, severity of injury, management scheme, and outcome data were analyzed. Sixteen patients underwent delayed laparotomies, whereas 26 patients incurred nontherapeutic laparotomies. Injury severity scores, Glasgow coma scale scores, abdominal abbreviated injury scale score (AIS), and age were similar for both populations. Delayed laparotomies occurred an average of 7 ± 9 days postinjury. Intensive care unit length of stay (26 ± 24 vs 10 ± 6 days), hospital length of stay (40 ± 37 vs 11 ± 10 days), ventilator days (31 ± 29 vs 11 ± 10), and number of abdominal operative procedures (1.9 ± 1.5 vs 1 ± 0) were significantly higher in the delayed laparotomies group versus the nontherapeutic laparotomies group, respectively. Delayed diagnosis of intra-abdominal injuries yielded a significantly increased morbidity and mortality. During the evolving era of technological imaging for traumatic injuries, we must not allow the nonoperative pendulum to swing too far.
Recurrence after Mastectomy for Ductal Carcinoma in Situ
Authors: Godat Laura N. , Horton Janet K. , Shen Perry , Stewart John H. , Wentworth Stacy , Levine Edward A.
Published: June 2020

Mastectomy has long been a standard option for patients with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). It is preferentially chosen by some women and may be suggested for individuals with recurrent, multifocal, or multicentric disease. We chose to evaluate our recent experience with mastectomy for DCIS. A retrospective review was conducted of 83 patients (87 breasts) from 1995 to 2006 who underwent mastectomy for DCIS. Mastectomy for DCIS was performed in 49 postmenopausal, 33 premenopausal, and one male patient. The average age was 53 years and the mean follow up was 4.5 years. Sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy was performed on 44 cases; positive nodes were identified in two. Intraoperative analyses of SLN were all negative. Only one patient had ipsilateral recurrence of the skin (1.1%). DCIS with microinvasion was noted in 32 per cent of the patients; none of these patients had ipsilateral recurrence. Three patients had positive microscopic margins; none have recurred to date. These results confirm the usefulness of mastectomy for patients with DCIS. We recommend SLN biopsy without intraoperative touch prep analysis. Additional treatment may not be required in patients with microinvasion, positive or close margins because our series shows no local recurrence in these patients.
Management Differences for Pediatric Solid Organ Injuries in a Rural State
Authors: Harbrecht Brian G. , Franklin Glen A. , Smith Jason W. , Foley David S. , Miller Frank B. , Richardson J. David
Published: June 2020

Pediatric liver and spleen injuries are frequently treated in specialized hospitals. Not all injured children, however, are treated in referral centers. We evaluated the management of pediatric liver and spleen injuries in a rural state without a state trauma system to determine if differences existed between trauma centers and nontrauma centers. A state database was queried for patients ≤15-years-old who suffered liver and spleen injuries from 2003 to 2005. Iatrogenic injuries were excluded. There were 115 pediatric liver and 183 pediatric spleen injuries. Fifty per cent of liver and 63 per cent of spleen injuries in nontrauma centers were isolated solid organ injuries compared with 18 per cent and 36 per cent, respectively, in trauma centers. The mortality rate for both liver and spleen injuries was similar in trauma and nontrauma centers. Hospital charges were higher in trauma centers but this was due to patients with associated injuries. The nonoperative management rate was similar for liver injuries. Pediatric patients with splenic injuries had a lower rate of nonoperative management in nontrauma centers (75% to 90%, nontrauma vs trauma). In Kentucky, pediatric solid organ injuries are usually managed nonoperatively in both trauma and nontrauma centers, but trauma centers cared for fewer isolated solid organ injuries.
Rural Surgery Rotation during Surgical Residency
Authors: Milligan John L. , Nelson Henry S. , Mancini Matthew L. , Goldman Mitchell H.
Published: June 2020

General surgery in the rural hospital is threatened by declining resident interest in pursuing a career in the rural setting. We found that by initiating a rural rotation of 3 months in the senior resident years, a case mix that more approximated that of the rural surgeons was experienced. Also, by experiencing a rural rotation, more residents chose to practice in a rural setting when compared with residents before the initiation of the rotation.
Expression of Estrogen Receptor, Progesterone Receptor, and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor-A in Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Kansakar Erina , Chang Yeon-Jeen , Mehrabi Massoud , Mittal Vijay
Published: June 2020

Thyroid cancer is three times more prevalent in females but the role of sex hormones in its pathogenesis is unknown. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is crucial for angiogenesis. Its expression correlates with tumor aggressiveness and metastatic potential. We determined the expression of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and VEGF-A in thyroid neoplasms to see if expression correlated with age and sex, histological type, cancer stage, and clinical outcome. Pathological samples of thyroid cancer diagnosed from 2002 to 2007 were stained immunohistochemically for ER, PR, and VEGF-A. Grading was done qualitatively in intensity and quantitatively in percentage. Both grades were multiplied to assign a final score. One hundred and four patients were studied, of which 82 per cent were female with a mean age of 53 years (range 23-86 years). Most tumors were papillary in origin. Overall, final scores were significantly higher for ER (1.41) and PR (1.0) in tumors compared with the ER (1.07) and PR (0.42) in normal tissue ( P = 0.005 and < 0.001, respectively). Conversely, VEGF-A had lower expression in tumor tissues (7.2) than in normal tissue (8.2) ( P = 0.024). No predilection was found for specific age group, gender, histological subtype, or stage of the cancer. Thus, compared with normal tissue, ER and PR expression is higher and VEGF-A expression is lower in tumor thyroid tissue. The over-expression of sex hormone receptors in thyroid tumor suggests their role in thyroid cancer pathogenesis and needs further investigation.