bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Withholding/Withdrawal of Life Support in Trauma Patients: Is There an Age Bias?
Authors: Plaisier Brian R. , Blostein Paul A. , Hurt Karla J. , Malangoni Mark A.
Published: November 2022

Our objective was to examine patterns of withholding/withdrawal (WH/WD) of life support in trauma patients and to determine whether WD/WH of life support is used more frequently in elderly patients. This is a retrospective cohort study of injured elderly (≤65 years) and young patients (<65 years) from 1994 through 1998 treated at a surgical intensive care unit in a community tertiary-care hospital. We studied the cases of 82 patients (30 elderly and 52 young patients) with WH/WD of life support after injury. Our main outcome measures were demographic and clinical characteristics of elderly and young patients undergoing WH/WD of life support after injury with an association between age and WH/WD of life support. Of 102 total trauma patient deaths 82 had WH/WD of life support. This mode was chosen in 52 (80%) patients under the age of 65 and in 30 (81%) patients age 65 or greater. Patients in the younger cohort had a higher mean Injury Severity Score and Abbreviated Injury Score of 5 ( P < 0.05). The elderly cohort had a higher incidence of pre-existing disease (<0.001). Length of stay was similar between the populations. We conclude that the elderly were no more likely to have WH/WD of life support than were younger patients. However, the older patients were less severely injured as measured by Injury Severity Score and percentage with Abbreviated Injury Score head of 5. Other factors such as the presence of pre-existing disease may influence the decision to withhold or withdraw life support to a greater degree than the actual severity of injuries.
Endoscopically Placed Nasogastrojejunal Feeding Tubes: A Safe Route for Enteral Nutrition in Patients with Hepatic Encephalopathy
Authors: Lee Steven S. , Mathiasen Ronald A. , Lipkin Craig A. , Colquhoun Steven D. , Margulies Daniel R.
Published: November 2022

Patients with hepatic encephalopathy are at particular risk for aspiration when given oral or gastric feedings. An ideal strategy might combine distal enteral feeding with proximal gastric decompression, which is offered by a nasogastrojejunal (NGJ) feeding tube. One objective was to determine the efficacy and safety of endoscopically placed NGJ feeding tubes in patients with hepatic encephalopathy. Charts of patients who underwent NGJ tube placements between April 1997 and January 2000 were retrospectively reviewed. Two endoscopic techniques (“push” and “pull”) were used. Eighteen patients (nine male and nine female) underwent 32 procedures. Twelve patients had undergone liver transplantation, four had decompensated cirrhosis, and two had fulminant hepatic failure. Twenty procedures used the push technique and 12 required the pull technique. The insertion time was shorter for the push technique compared with the pull technique (21.8 vs 39.6 min, P < 0.05). Enteral feedings were begun at an average of 5.2 hours after tube placement. The tubes remained in place for an average of 13.9 days. Complications related to the NGJ tubes included self-removal in eight, tube clogging in five, proximal migration in four, and intraduodenal migration of the gastric port in one. No aspiration episodes occurred. We conclude that NGJ feeding tubes may be placed endoscopically as a bedside procedure for patients with hepatic encephalopathy and provide a safe, efficacious, and rapid route for enteral nutrition in these patients.
Senior Surgical Residents Can Accurately Interpret Trauma Radiographs
Authors: Vorhies Robert W. , Harrison Paul B. , Smith R. Stephen , Helmer Stephen D.
Published: November 2022

Surgical residents routinely interpret radiographic studies during the evaluation of trauma patients, which directs further evaluation and invasive procedures. Official interpretations—“post-reading”—of radiographs by radiologists may be delayed by hours or even days. Trauma surgeons frequently act on their impressions before “official” readings are available. It has been demonstrated that surgical residents can accurately perform and interpret trauma ultrasound examinations. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ability of senior surgery residents to interpret basic trauma radiographs. Interpretations of trauma radiographs (cervical spine, chest, pelvis, and CT of the brain) were recorded prospectively by the senior surgery resident present during trauma evaluations. These interpretations were compared with the findings of the radiologist as obtained from the official radiology report. Differing results were divided into clinically significant and clinically nonsignificant findings using defined criteria. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy were determined. Interpretations of trauma radiographs by senior residents achieved an accuracy of 100 per cent for cervical spine radiographs, 95.9 per cent for chest radiographs, 98.0 per cent for pelvis radiographs, and 97.9 per cent for CT of the head. In aggregate senior residents interpreted trauma radiographs with 97.9 per cent accuracy. Differences that were considered clinically significant according to preset criteria occurred in 2.1 per cent of observations. We conclude that senior general surgical residents can accurately interpret trauma radiology, including CT of the brain. These results suggest that institutional policies for post-reading of trauma radiology should be reassessed.
Nonoperative Management of Blunt Splenic Injuries: Factors Influencing Success in Age <55 Years
Authors: Albrecht Roxie M. , Schermer Carol R. , Morris Amy
Published: November 2022

Historically poor success rates of nonoperative management of splenic injuries in elderly patients have led to recommendations for operative intervention in patients more than 55 years of age. Recent studies are in opposition to earlier recommendations revealing equal success rates of nonoperative management of splenic injuries in all age groups. A retrospective chart review was performed to assess factors related to the successful management of splenic injuries in patients over 55 years of age at a Level I trauma center. Thirty-seven patients over 55 presented with blunt splenic injuries during the 5-year study period. Thirteen patients were taken immediately to the operating room on the basis of clinical findings and/or abdomen/pelvis CT results. Nonoperative management was attempted in 24 patients on the basis of CT findings. Nonoperative management was successful in 15 patients (62.5%) and failed in eight patients (33.3%). Patients who failed nonoperative management had significantly higher American Association for the Surgery of Trauma splenic injury grade and associated pelvic free fluid. There were no deaths related to complications from failed nonoperative management. We conclude that nonoperative management of blunt splenic injuries in patients over 55 may be attempted. Patients with higher-grade injuries and pelvic free fluid are at greater risk for failure. Patients with these two findings must be monitored closely. The physicians caring for elderly patients with high-grade splenic injuries and free fluid in the pelvis must use clinical judgment regarding the need and timing of operative management.
Evaluation of Pulmonary Arterial Catheter Parameters Utilizing Intermittent Pneumatic Compression Boots in Congestive Heart Failure
Authors: Ringley Chad D. , Johanning Jason M. , Gruenberg James C. , Veverka Thomas J. , Barber Kimberly R.
Published: November 2022

The use of intermittent pneumatic compression boots to reduce the risk of deep venous thrombosis is contraindicated in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) due to a theoretical increase in venous return to the heart and exacerbation of heart failure. This study evaluates intermittent pneumatic compression effects on pulmonary artery catheter parameters in CHF patients. We conducted a prospective within-patient study of CHF patients monitored by pulmonary artery catheterization. Hemodynamic variables were assessed with and without the use of intermittent pneumatic compression boots. A sample size of 18 patients was calculated a priori to obtain an 80 per cent power to detect a mean difference of 10 per cent. Twenty patients were studied; no patient suffered hemodynamic instability during the application of pneumatic compression; no statistically significant change in any hemodynamic parameters was noted. A trend toward decreasing mean arterial blood pressure ( P = 0.057), pulmonary artery wedge pressure ( P = 0.065), and systemic vascular resistance ( P = 0.08) was observed. None were clinically significant. The application of intermittent pneumatic compression to the feet of patients in CHF does not significantly alter central hemodynamic parameters in CHF patients. This study suggests that intermittent pneumatic compression may be used in CHF patients for venous thromboembolic risk reduction.
Laparoscopic Splenectomy Has Become the Gold Standard in Children
Authors: Rescorla Frederick J. , Engum Scott A. , West Karen W. , Scherer L.R. Tres , Rouse Thomas M. , Grosfeld Jay L.
Published: November 2022

Splenectomy is frequently required in children with various hematologic disorders. The reported advantages of laparoscopic splenectomy (LS) include less pain, shorter hospital stay, and improved cosmesis. This report evaluates the outcome of children undergoing LS at a single children's facility. One hundred twelve children underwent LS by the lateral approach between August 1995 and February 2001. Indications for LS were hereditary spherocytosis in 58, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura in 21, sickle cell disease in 19, and other conditions in 14. LS alone was completed in 89 children and LS and cholecystectomy (LSC) in 20. Three required conversion to open splenectomy. Accessory spleens were identified in 19. Complications included ileus (four), acute chest syndrome (four), bleeding (two), pneumonia (one), and diaphragm perforation (one). There was no mortality. An accessory spleen was missed in one child with recurrent anemia. Average operative time for LS was 106 minutes and for LSC 135 minutes. Operative time for LS decreased with experience but the difference was not significant. Average length of stay was 1.51 days (range 1–11) and was longer in sickle cell disease (2.47 days) versus hereditary spherocytosis (1.29 days) and idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (1.16 days). We conclude that LS is safe and effective in children with hematologic disorders and is associated with minimal morbidity, zero mortality, and a short length of stay.
Early and Late Outcome of Bedside Percutaneous Tracheostomy in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Mittendorf Elizabeth A. , Mchenry Christopher R. , Smith Carolyn M. , Yowler Charles J. , Peerless Joel R.
Published: November 2022

To simplify long-term airway management in critically ill patients the feasibility of performing percutaneous tracheostomy (PT) in the intensive care unit (ICU) was investigated from August of 1997 to March of 2000. Bedside PT was considered for patients with positive end-expiratory pressure <10 cm H2O, no previous tracheostomy, no anatomic distortion of the tracheal region, and no other indication to go to the operating room. Indication for tracheostomy, duration of endotracheal intubation, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) score, morbidity, and mortality were determined. Patients were prospectively followed until decannulation or for a minimum of 3 months. PT was performed in the ICU in 71 patients. Indications for PT were: acute respiratory failure (41), airway protection (26), and maxillofacial trauma (four). Mean duration of intubation before PT was 14 days (range 5–35 days). Average APACHE II score was 14 (range 3–28). Morbidity from PT included: early (two) and late (one) bleeding from the tracheostomy, early cuff leak (one), and self-decannulation (one). Sixteen patients died of causes unrelated to PT. Forty-five patients were decannulated after an average of 57 days (range 9–170 days); two noted a minor voice change. PT can be performed in the ICU with minimal morbidity eliminating the need for an operating room, the risks of patient transport, and the costs associated with each.
Should Esophagectomy be Performed in a Low-Volume Center?
Authors: Padmanabhan Rajesh S. , Byrnes Matthew C. , Helmer Stephen D. , Smith R. Stephen
Published: November 2022

A significant difference has been reported between rates of morbidity and mortality for elective esophagectomy performed at low-volume centers versus high-volume centers. Some authors have suggested that complex surgical procedures such as esophagectomy should be performed only in regional centers by surgeons with an extensive procedure-specific experience. This study was performed to review recent (5 years) experience with esophagectomy in two university-affiliated hospitals where a limited number of esophageal resections are performed annually. Esophageal resections performed between February 1995 and February 2000 at two university-affiliated tertiary-care hospitals were analyzed for operative morbidity and mortality. Variables reviewed included demographics, surgeon experience, mortality, and complications. Forty-three patients underwent elective esophagectomy during the 5-year study period. In-hospital mortality was 7.0 per cent and 30-day mortality was 4.7 per cent. The anastomotic leak rate was 11.6 per cent. No patients developed myocardial infarction or renal failure. Morbidity and mortality rates from our low-volume centers compared favorably with high-volume centers. We conclude that elective esophagectomy can be safely performed at low-volume centers with favorable morbidity and mortality rates. Recommendations urging regionalization of high-risk procedures should be guided by local outcomes and not by the total number of procedures performed at a specific center.
An Analysis of Filtration and Volume of Radionucleotide in Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy in Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Lloyd Larry R. , Wesen Cheryl A. , Mccallum Shannon
Published: November 2022

Controversy has occurred regarding whether to filter or not to filter the radionucleotide and what the optimal volume is when performing sentinel lymph node biopsies. To try and resolve this question we retrospectively looked at sentinel-node biopsies for breast cancer performed at our institution over an 18-month period. One hundred seven patients underwent sentinel node biopsy. Ninety-four patients had an axillary-node dissection. Twelve patients did not have a nodal dissection based on National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project protocol, and one patient refused dissection. Patients fell into three groups: Group I, filtered 8 cm3; Group II, unfiltered 8 cm3; and Group III, unfiltered 16 cm3 (NSABP protocol). Sentinel nodes were identified in 96.3 per cent of Group I, 84.9 per cent of Group II, and 96.3 per cent of Group III. These groups were not statistically different. With the addition of blue dye the ability to identify the sentinel lymph node was for Group I 96.3 per cent, for Group II 96.2 per cent, and for Group III 100 per cent. The false negative biopsy result was 0 per cent for all groups. The patients receiving 16-cm3 volume complained about a greater level of discomfort compared with the lower-volume patients. In conclusion neither the volume nor the filtration process affected the surgeon's ability to find the sentinel lymph node or the false negative rate. The higher injection volumes resulted in more pain. The costs and radiation exposure of the filtration process are not warranted.
Appendiceal Diverticulitis in a Youth
Authors: Albaugh Gregory , Vemulapalli Pratibha , Kann Brian , Pello Mark
Published: November 2022

Appendiceal diverticulitis as the etiology of right lower quadrant pain is an uncommon entity in younger populations. The incidence is <1 per cent among patients under 30 years of age undergoing appendectomy. Herein, we present a case of a 17-year-old male with perforated appendiceal diverticulitis. The history, physical findings, diagnosis, and treatment are outlined. Additionally the literature concerning appendiceal diverticulitis is reviewed.
Radiofrequency Ablation of Recurrent Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Slakey Douglas P.
Published: November 2022

Intrahepatic recurrence of cholangiocarcinoma after primary resection has traditionally been considered a contraindication to surgical management. Improvements in ablative technologies such as radiofrequency ablation (RFA) offer the surgeon additional alternatives in the management of selected intrahepatic tumors. We present a case report of a single intrahepatic recurrence of cholangiocarcinoma 12 months after primary resection of extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma including right lobectomy for intrahepatic extension. The patient received operative treatment and RFA of the intrahepatic lesion. RFA successfully ablated the recurrent tumor, and the patient remains free of detectable disease 10 months later. A review of literature is presented. This is the first known report of the use of RFA for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. In selected cases of primary or recurrent cholangiocarcinoma, RFA may increase the percentage of patients considered surgically treatable.
Clinical Importance of the “Seat Belt Sign” in Blunt Trauma to the Neck
Authors: Diperna Costanzo A. , Rowe Vincent L. , Terramani Thomas T. , Salim Ali , Hood Douglas B. , Velmahos George C. , Weaver Fred A.
Published: November 2022

Currently a carotid duplex scan is the initial screening modality routinely used to evaluate occult extracranial carotid artery injuries secondary to blunt neck trauma. The objective of this study was to investigate the role of carotid artery duplex scanning in patients who suffered blunt trauma to the neck with a “seat belt sign.” The medical records of 131 consecutive patients who sustained blunt trauma to the neck from a motor vehicle accident were reviewed. Patients with the cervical seat belt sign underwent a complete physical examination and carotid duplex scan in an accredited vascular laboratory. An intimal flap with severe carotid artery stenosis was found in one of 131 patients (0.76%). This patient has multiple injuries to the face, head, chest, lateralizing neurological signs, and a Glasgow Coma Scale score of 8. In an era of cost containment, resource consumption should target appropriate populations. A cervical seat belt sign should not serve as a sole indicator for evaluation of the carotid artery in the absence of other pertinent signs or symptoms.
Game Theoretic Approaches to Operating Room Management
Authors: Marco Alan P.
Published: November 2022

All interactions between people can be considered games with rules and outcomes. However, modern business practices demand that the players in the game go beyond traditional game theory and look at new ways to improve the outcome of the game. Choosing the right strategy is important to a player's success. A new business strategy, “co-opetition,” can be used to increase the value of the game (“create a bigger pie”) through cooperative behavior, whereas competition is used to divided the “pie.” By looking at how the players adopt simultaneous roles such as complementor and competitor the stakeholders in the operating room (managers, surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nursing staff) can apply the principles of co-opetition to improve the overall success of their facility. Such stakeholders can utilize knowledge of how populations act in games to enhance cooperative play. Adopting such a perspective may lead to increases in the satisfaction and morale of those involved with the operating rooms. Increased morale should increase productivity and staff retention and reduce recruiting needs.
The Use of Natural Veno-Venous Bypass during Surgical Treatment of Renal Cell Carcinoma with Inferior Vena Cava Thrombus
Authors: Ciancio Gaetano , Soloway Mark
Published: November 2022

Renal cell carcinoma associated with inferior vena cava thrombus complicates radical nephrectomy. Various approaches have been used to deal with this problem including veno-venous and cardiopulmonary bypass. Using natural veno-venous bypass may prevent the use of another type of bypass. A total of 16 patients underwent removal of renal cell carcinoma and an intracaval tumor thrombus without using veno-venous bypass. One of the natural veno-venous bypasses consisted in the mobilization of the liver off the retrohepatic inferior vena cava to allow enhanced access, vascular control, and hepatic venous drainage. The other natural bypass involved the preservation and use of collateral veins created by the longstanding obstruction of the inferior vena cava. In all 16 patients surgery was successful. Inferior vena cava clamping above and below the tumor thrombus did not result in systemic hypotension. There was no intraoperative mortality. There were no other complications. Mobilization of the liver off the retrohepatic inferior vena cava and preservation of collateral drainage (right testicular or ovarian veins and/or lumbar veins) were useful techniques in dealing with renal cell carcinoma with intracaval thrombus. These natural veno-venous bypasses allow vascular isolation of the inferior vena cava without disturbing the venous return to the heart and thereby help to prevent hemodynamic instability.
Human Vascular Endothelial Cells Express Pattern Recognition Receptors for Fungal Glucans Which Stimulates Nuclear Factor κB Activation and Interleukin 8 Production
Authors: Lowe Elizabeth P. , Wei Duo , Mce Peter J. , Li Chuanfu , Kalbfleisch John , Browder I. William , Williams David L.
Published: November 2022

Fungal cell wall glucans nonspecifically stimulate various aspects of innate immunity via interaction with membrane receptors on macrophages, neutrophils, and natural killer cells. We investigated the binding of water-soluble glucans in primary cultures of normal human coronary or dermal vascular endothelial cells (VECs). Membranes from VECs exhibited saturable binding. Competition studies demonstrated the presence of at least two glucan binding sites on VECs. Glucan phosphate competed for all binding sites with a KDof 3.7 μm for coronary VECs and 11 μm for dermal VECs, respectively. Laminarin, a low molecular weight glucan, competed for 47 to 51 per cent of binding ( KD= 2.8–2.9 μm), indicating the presence of at least two binding sites. Glucan (1 μg/mL) stimulated VEC nuclear factor κB nuclear binding activity and Interleukin 8 expression—but not that of vascular endothelial growth factor—in a time-dependent manner. This is the first report of pattern recognition receptors for glucan on human VECs. It also provides the first evidence that glucans can directly modulate the functional activity of VECs by stimulating cytokine gene. These results provide new insights into the mechanisms by which the host recognizes and responds to fungal cell wall products and suggests that the response to glucans may not be confined to leukocytes.
The Safety and Efficacy of Prosthetic Hernia Repair in Clean-Contaminated and Contaminated Wounds
Authors: Kelly Michael E. , Behrman Stephen W.
Published: November 2022

Prosthetic mesh reinforcement of abdominal wall hernias has gained acceptance as a result of its ease of placement and a favorably low incidence of hernia recurrence. However, its use in contaminated wounds secondary to open bowel exposure is felt to be contraindicated because of potential septic complications and lack of incorporation. The impact of permanent mesh placement in contaminated fields on wound morbidity, hernia recurrence, and mortality was examined. Records of 24 consecutive patients having permanent mesh placement in contaminated wounds for repair of abdominal wall hernias between 1994 and 2001 were reviewed. Factors examined included age, hernia type, body mass index, comorbidity, degree of contamination, concurrent gastrointestinal procedures, wound morbidity, and mortality. The mean age and body mass index were 63 years and 26.1 kg/m2 respectively. Twelve patients had risk factors for wound complications or were immunocompromised. There were 11 incisional, eight parastomal, two femoral, and two inguinal repairs and one obturator hernia repair. Twenty-three were repaired with polypropylene and one with Gore-Tex mesh. Prosthetic herniorrhaphy was performed in nine patients with ostomies already in place and in 15 patients with concomitant bowel resections. Of those with bowel resections five had enterocutaneous fistulae, three had bowel resection because of injury during mobilization, six had resections for necrotic bowel, and one had enterostomy closure. Fourteen cases were clean contaminated and ten contaminated. Eight cases were performed under emergency conditions. Wound-related morbidity occurred in five patients (21%) and in all but one was limited to cellulitis and minor wound infections. Three patients died, but in all cases death was unrelated to the surgical procedure. No patient required mesh removal. One patient had a recurrent hernia after parastomal repair. Placement of permanent mesh prostheses in clean-contaminated and contaminated operative fields can be performed with minimal wound-related morbidity and patient mortality. Utilization of permanent mesh in these wounds is associated with a low incidence of hernia recurrence and eliminates the need for further surgery.
Inflammatory Breast Cancer Presenting with Acute Central Venous Thrombosis: A Case Report
Authors: Pfeiffer Ralph Burton , Barber William Henry
Published: November 2022

Inflammatory breast cancer is a relatively rare disease associated with varied presentations, which frequently obscure the underlying diagnosis. We discuss a 54-year-old woman who presented to our emergency department with a chief complaint of right arm swelling and was admitted to the surgical service with an initial diagnosis of spontaneous brachial, axillary, and subclavian venous thrombosis. Further workup revealed an extensive inflammatory breast cancer. To our knowledge there have been no literature reports of inflammatory breast carcinoma in which the sole presenting symptom complex was due to central venous thrombosis.
When the Bough Breaks: A 10-Year Review of Logging Injuries Treated at a Rural Trauma Center in Pennsylvania
Authors: Johnson Colleen M. , Lagares-Garcia Jorge A. , Miller S. Lee
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this study was to describe logging-related injuries at a Pennsylvania trauma center and evaluate the impact of helmets and profession. Charts of patients from 1990 through 1999 admitted after logging accidents were retrospectively reviewed. Most injuries were to the head (71 in 28 patients). Injury Severity Score was greater for helmeted loggers (21.0 vs 11.8; P = 0.02) but did not differ by profession. Mean hospital stay was not significantly different for helmeted loggers (9.6 vs 5.4 days, P = 0.499). Mean length of stay was 8.2 days and 3.5 days for professionals and nonprofessionals, respectively ( P = 0.01). Professional loggers tended to remain hospitalized longer. Helmet use does not appear to affect injury severity; however, this could be a result of the catastrophic nature of many logging accidents. Most loggers in this study were not wearing helmets, which suggests that improved educational efforts are needed to improve safety in this dangerous occupation.
Internal Hernia Formation after Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass for Morbid Obesity
Authors: Filip Jennifer E. , Mattar Samer G. , Bowers Steven P. , Smith C. Daniel
Published: November 2022

There is mounting concern that internal hernia formation after laparoscopic Roux- en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) for morbid obesity remains unrecognized until complications develop. In this report we present our experience with this complication. Out of 100 patients who underwent LRYGB we identified five patients who were diagnosed with postoperative internal hernia formation. The medical records and operative details of these patients were reviewed. Of the five patients four were female and the average age was 36 years (range 30–43). All Roux limbs were placed in a retrocolic position. The average time interval to presentation was 104 days (range 4–305). All patients had abdominal pain and four patients experienced vomiting. One patient had obstipation. Only one patient had fever (38.1° C) and the highest white cell count was 14,500. The average loss in body-mass index was 5.21 kg/m2 (range 2.5–14.8). Plain abdominal films revealed dilated bowel in the upper abdomen in three patients. Contrast bowel series was diagnostic in only one patient. One patient had a CT scan, which was diagnostic of small bowel obstruction. All patients underwent operative reduction of the internal hernia; two of these were completed laparoscopically. All hernias had occurred at the mesocolic window and were caused by sutures that had pulled through tissue at the dorsal and lateral aspect of the initial repair. One patient had a nonviable segment of small bowel. There were no deaths. Patients who undergo LRYGB are at a 5 per cent risk for developing small bowel obstruction secondary to internal hernia formation at the mesocolic window. Clinical evaluation and traditional study modalities may not be effective diagnostic tools. A high index of suspicion and low threshold to explore these patients may be the best way to avoid serious sequelae. Modification of operative techniques may reduce the occurrence of internal hernia formation.
Use of a Human Patient Simulator for the Advanced Trauma Life Support Course
Authors: Block Ernest F.J. , Lottenberg Lawrence , Flint Lewis , Jakobsen Joelle , Liebnitzky Dianna
Published: November 2022

A highly anticipated and rewarding component of the Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) program is the surgical skill station. Logistic, societal, and economic issues have resulted in development of human patient simulators (HPSs) as an alternative to the animal model. We studied initial student reaction to a simulator designed for this skill station. Fourteen participants in an ATLS Provider course completed the standard surgical skill stations and an experimental station using the Simulab Trauma Man HPS. After completion of the stations the students were asked to complete a 13-point satisfaction survey using a modified Likert scale (1 = strongly negative/dissatisfied, 5 = strongly positive/satisfied). Overall response was favorable. Students found the HPS to be superior to the animal model in teaching surgical airways [mean 3.64; standard deviation (SD) 0.93] and for management of pneumothorax (mean 3.86; SD 0.77). The students felt the HPS would be useful in ATLS and should be included as an option in training (mean 4.07; SD 0.92). Preliminary experience with an interactive HPS to teach the ATLS surgical skill station is well received by students when compared with standard methods. This strong acceptance supports inclusion of simulators in teaching ATLS skills.
Surgical Experience with Functioning Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors
Authors: Matthews Brent D. , Smith Trina I. , Kercher Kent W. , Holder Walter D. , Heniford B. Todd
Published: November 2022

Pancreatic islet-cell tumors (ICTs) are rare malignancies usually recognized by specific clinical endocrinopathies. The purpose of this study is to evaluate our surgical experience with functioning pancreatic ICT in an academic referral center. Twenty patients (male:female 12:8) with a mean age of 53 years (range 26–82) underwent surgery for a functioning pancreatic ICT [gastrinoma (eight), multiple endocrine neoplasia (three), insulinoma (seven), glucagonoma (four), and Vipoma (vasoactive intestinal peptide; one)] between June 1975 and March 2001. Signs and symptoms of hormonal excess were present in 95 per cent (19 of 20). One patient (glucagonoma) presented with obstructive jaundice and mild glucose intolerance. Elevated peptide levels were detected preoperatively in 65 per cent, including all patients with an insulinoma. Curative resections were attempted in 80 per cent including three procedures for insulinoma. Palliative procedures were performed in 20 per cent—all gastrinomas. One patient with an insulinoma had diffuse nesidioblastosis. Three patients (with gastrinoma, insulinoma, and glucagonoma) had lymph node-positive disease and three patients with gastrinoma had liver metastasis. The overall 30-day morbidity rate was 30 per cent and mortality rate 0 per cent. Symptomatic improvement was achieved in 90 per cent at a mean follow-up of 44 months. Two patients developed diabetes after a subtotal and a total pancreatectomy, respectively. Sixty-three per cent of patients who underwent an attempted curative resection are alive at a mean follow-up of 47 months (range 3–231) arid all patients who underwent a palliative procedure are alive at a mean follow-up of 31 months (range 27–36). Functioning pancreatic ICTs are fascinating tumors that produce distinct clinical syndromes. Symptomatic improvement is accomplished in the majority of patients after surgery and short-term palliation is achieved in patients with nohresectable disease.
Diagnosis and Management of Enterovesical Fistulas in Patients with Crohn's Disease
Authors: Gruner Jeffrey S. , Sehon J. Kenneth , Johnson Lester W.
Published: November 2022

The objective of this study was to investigate the clinical manifestations and diagnostic studies used to evaluate Crohn's patients with enterovesical fistulas (EVFs) and to assess outcome after surgical intervention. This is a ten year multi-institutional retrospective chart review of patients with Crohn's disease. Of 400 patients identified with Crohn's disease eight (2%) were diagnosed with EVF. The mean age at diagnosis was 27 years. No patients had prior surgeries for Crohn's. Duration of symptoms ranged from 6 months to 15 years. There were seven ileovesical and one colovesical fistula identified. One patient had associated perianal disease. Three had concomitant enteroenteral fistulae. Clinical features included pneumaturia in seven patients (88%), fecaluria in three (38%), hematuria in five (63%), and urinary tract infection symptoms in seven (88%). Diagnostic studies included CT scan in six, barium or gastrografin enema in four, and cystoscopy in four. Surgical therapy involved resection of the affected bowel. The bladder defect was closed primarily in two layers in all patients using absorbable suture, with omental patch in four. Two patients underwent ileostomy and one underwent colostomy, all taken down within 6 months. There were no bladder leaks and no anastamotic leaks. There were no perioperative deaths. The mean postoperative stay was nine days. The mean follow-up was 39 months. We conclude that pneumaturia is a strong clinical indicator of EVF. CT has been valuable in identifying gas within the bladder in these patients. Cystoscopy has proven useful in identifying the fistulous tract and in evaluation of the ureters. The presence of an EVF should heighten suspicion as to the presence of concomitant enteroenteral fistulae. Barium or gastrografin studies are useful in this capacity. Surgical treatment of EVFs should include resection of affected bowel. The bladder defect can safely be closed using absorbable suture.
Right-Sided Diverticulitis—Surgical and Nonsurgical Treatment: Two Case Reports and Review of the Literature
Authors: Funicello Alex , Fares Louis G. , Oza Kulin , Valaulikar Ganapat , Ernits Martin
Published: November 2022

Right-sided diverticulitis is difficult to distinguish from other sources of right-sided abdominal pain. Diverticula localized to the right colon occur at a rate of 6.6 to 14 per cent. Two types of diverticula have been described in the right colon on the basis of etiologic and pathologic features: multiple diverticula and solitary diverticulum of the cecum. The most common clinical presentation of right-sided colonic diverticula is an acute inflammatory complication, which is difficult to distinguish from other causes of right iliac fossa pain. We present two case reports on right-sided diverticulitis with one treated surgically and the other treated nonsurgically. The clinical manifestations, differential diagnosis and management options are discussed including a review of the literature.
Isolated Gangrene of the round and Falciform Liver Ligaments: A Rare Cause of Peritonitis: Case Report and Review of the World Literature
Authors: Losanoff Julian E. , Kjossev Kirien T.
Published: November 2022

Isolated infection and/or gangrene of the round and falciform liver ligaments is among the rarest causes of acute abdomen. The diagnosis is based on demonstrating localized or patchy inflammatory or gangrenous changes in tike ligaments without apparent etiology. We report the case of an 18-year-old male who presented with a 24-hour history of generalized abdominal pain and distention, nausea, and vomiting. With a preoperative diagnosis of probable perforated duodenal ulcus and generalized peritonitis the patient underwent emergency surgery. Multiple patchy gangrenous areas of the round and falciform ligaments were found starting from the umbilicus up to the hepatic hilum. The ligaments were resected in toto. The patient's postoperative course was unremarkable. No apparent etiology of the condition was found. We provide the first extensive review of the world literature. Isolated infection and/or gangrene of the round and falciform liver ligaments should be suspected in patients with upper abdominal complaints when imaging studies demonstrate ligament abnormality, tumor, or fluid. Treatment is only surgical. Depending on surgeon's expertise, patient's condition, and severity and extent of disease either open or laparoscopic surgery may be performed.
Small Bowel Obstruction Due to a Paracolonic Retroperitoneal Hernia
Authors: Hendrickson Richard J. , Koniaris Leonidas G. , Schoeniger Luke O. , Strang John , Killackey Mary A. , Peacock James L.
Published: November 2022

Hernias involving the retroperitoneum are unusual. The most common of these are the paraduodenal hernias. A retroperitoneal hernia occurring from a lateral defect in the colonic retroperitoneal attachments is presented. We believe that this case represents a newly recognized variant of retroperitoneal hernias.
Should Aspirin Therapy be Withheld before Insertion and/or Removal of a Permanent Peritoneal Dialysis Catheter?
Authors: Shpitz Baruch , Plotkin Eleanora , Spindel Zvi , Buklan Genadi , Klein Ehud , Bernheim Jacques , Korzets Ze'Ev
Published: November 2022

The necessity of withdrawal of aspirin [acetylsalicylic acid (ASA)] for fear of perioperative or postoperative bleeding in patients about to undergo surgery is as yet controversial. In this study we prospectively evaluated the effect of ASA on postoperative bleeding in end-stage renal failure patients who underwent insertion, removal, and/or replacement of a peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheter at our institution from November 1999 to March 2001. During the study period 52 of the above procedures were consecutively performed in 46 patients. Patients whose catheters were removed as a result of refractory peritonitis were excluded from the study. In all cases the PD catheter used was the coiled two-cuff Tenckhoff (NIPRO™, Manchester, GA) catheter and the surgery was performed in the operating room under local anesthesia. No drains were left in the operating wound. Postoperative bleeding (wound hematoma or persistent oozing from the incision or exit site) was classified as either minor (requiring no professional intervention and/or blood replacement) or major [necessitating blood transfusion (≥1 unit red blood cells). Of the 52 procedures 29 (in 24 patients) were performed while the patient was receiving aspirin at the time of operation (aspirin group). The remaining 23 were without aspirin and constituted the control group. ASA dose was 100 mg/day in all but three who were on buffered ASA (325 mg/day). The groups were well matched with regard to age; sex; mean residual renal function; and preoperative international normalized ratio, activated partial thromboplastin time, and platelet count. In no case was there significant intraoperative bleeding. There were five (17.2%) and three (13.0%) minor bleeds in the aspirin group and control group, respectively. One major bleed occurred in the control group ending in an exploratory laparotomy. Of the nine bleeding complications six were observed after catheter removal. From these data we conclude that PD catheter insertion/removal can be safely performed under conventional low-dose aspirin therapy.
Placement of Intracranial Pressure Monitors by Non-Neurosurgeons
Authors: Harris Caleb H. , Smith R. Stephen , Helmer Stephen D. , Gorecki John P. , Rody R. Brent
Published: November 2022

Maintaining adequate cerebral perfusion is important in the treatment of patients with closed head injury. Placement of an intracranial pressure (ICP) monitor is necessary to determine both ICP and the cerebral perfusion pressure and serves as a guide to the contemporary management of traumatic brain injury. Insertion of such monitoring devices historically has been performed by neurosurgeons, but others including general (trauma) surgeons have successfully inserted simple ICP monitors. The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of ICP monitor placement and to compare the complication rates for ICP monitor placement by general surgery residents, trauma surgeons, and staff neurosurgeons. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of trauma patients with cerebral injury who required insertion of parenchymal ICP monitors from January 1994 to January 1999. Monitor placement was performed by staff neurosurgeons, general surgical residents, and trauma surgeons. Surgical residents received appropriate training in the placement of ICP monitors from attending trauma surgeons and neurosurgeons. Records were examined for demographic variables such as age, gender, mechanism of injury, admission Glasgow Coma Score, and Injury Severity Score. Records were also reviewed for duration of ICP monitoring and for complications ( i.e., intracranial hemorrhage after monitor placement, monitor-related infection, monitor malfunction, and monitor displacement). One hundred fifty-seven monitors were placed in 146 patients with intracranial injury. Surgical residents placed 87 ICP monitors without neurosurgical or trauma attending surgeons at the bedside and 43 with immediate supervision by general surgeons or neurosurgeons. Neurosurgeons placed 26 monitors without the participation of residents, and an attending trauma surgeon placed one monitor without the involvement of a resident or a neurosurgeon. There were no major technical complications, no episodes of catheter-induced intracranial hemorrhage, and no infectious complications. These data suggest that simple ICP monitors may be inserted by non-neurosurgeons without significant problems or complications. The low complication rate associated with this procedure was similar for neurosurgeons and non-neurosurgeons. We believe that insertion of simple parenchymal ICP monitors should be considered a core skill for trauma surgeons and should be included in surgical residency training. Insertion of ICP monitors by non-neurosurgeons is a potential method of improving the care of patients with brain injury in geographic areas that are underserved by neurosurgeons.
Gluteal Compartment Syndrome and Sciatica after Bone Marrow Biopsy: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Roth John Scott , Newman Edwin C.
Published: November 2022

The gluteal region is not commonly thought of as a compartment, yet nondistensible osseofascial boundaries do exist. As with any case of compartment syndrome expedient therapeutic measures are critical to salvaging neuromuscular function. The gluteal compartment is unique, however, because of its tremendous muscle mass and great potential for producing devastating systemic sequelae. Gluteal compartment syndrome is most commonly associated with unconscious patients who are recumbent for prolonged periods, but trauma, spontaneous bleeding, and overexertion can also cause it. We present a case report of gluteal compartment syndrome after bone marrow biopsy of the iliac crest. Recognizing gluteal compartment syndrome as an entity and maintaining a high index of suspicion for its development especially in unconscious patients can avert disaster regardless of etiology.
Wound Management after Colon Injury: Open or Closed? A Prospective Randomized Trial
Authors: Velmahos George C. , Vassiliu Pantelis , Demetriades Demetrios , Chan Linda S. , Murray James , Salim Ali , Sava Jack , Katkhouda Namir , Berne Thomas V.
Published: November 2022

It is unknown whether leaving the skin wound open to heal by secondary intention is associated with a lower rate of wound infections compared with primary skin-wound closure after operations for colon injuries. From June 1998 to December 2000 at our Level I academic trauma center 48 patients entered into a randomized controlled trial (RCT) and were randomized to have their skin wound primarily closed (CLOSED-RCT) or left open (OPEN-RCT). At the same time patients not included in the RCT were followed prospectively. At the discretion of the surgeon their skin wounds were managed by primary closure (CLOSED-nonRCT) or were left open (OPEN-nonRCT). Univariate and multivariate analysis was done to identify independent risk factors of wound infection, wound dehiscence, and necrotizing soft tissue infection. Wound infection developed in 65 per cent of CLOSED-RCT and 36 per cent of OPEN-RCT patients ( P = 0.04) and wound dehiscence in 31 per cent and 14 per cent respectively ( P = 0.18). No remarkable differences were noted in any other variable including length of hospital stay. Wound infection developed in 29 per cent of CLOSED-nonRCT and 15 per cent of OPEN-nonRCT patients ( P = 0.46). There were three independent risk factors of wound infection: primary wound closure [odds ratio (OR) = 5.5, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.8–19.4], colectomy (OR = 3.4, 95% CI = 1.2–10.4), and intraabdominal infection (OR = 5.3, 95% CI = 1.3–24.2). There were two independent risk factors for wound dehiscence and/or necrotizing soft tissue infection: wound infection (OR = 20.9,95% CI = 4.9–152.3) and intra-abdominal infection (OR = 19.3, 95% CI = 4.0–146.9). Primary closure of the wound almost doubles the rate of wound infection compared with leaving the wound open in operations for colon injuries. Primary wound closure is a risk factor for wound infection and wound infection is a risk factor for wound dehiscence or necrotizing soft tissue infection. Because of the complexity of evaluating the real clinical significance of superficial wound infection larger studies on trauma patients are required.