bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Hospital and Surgeon Volumes in the Management of Complicated Portal Hypertension: Review of a Statewide Database in Florida
Authors: Zervos Emmanuel E. , Osborne Dana , Agle Steven C. , Mcnally Micheal M. , Boe Brian , Rosemurgy Alexander S.
Published: June 2020

Mortality after complex surgical procedures has been shown to be inversely related to hospital volume. The purpose of this study was to determine whether these findings are applicable to radiologic and surgical procedures for complicated portal hypertension. The Agency for Healthcare Administration for the State of Florida database was queried to determine outcomes after transjugular intrahepatic stent shunts (TIPS) or surgical shunts from 2000 to 2003. A total of 1486 patients underwent either TIPS (1321) or surgical shunts (165). Natural breakpoints occurred at two and six procedures per year were correlated with survival for surgical shunts but not TIPS. Overall mortality was not different between TIPS and surgical shunts (11.0 vs. 12.7%, P = 0.51); however, the cost of TIPS was significantly lower (62,000 ± 58.5 vs. 107,000 ± 97.8, P < 0.001) as well as the length of hospitalization (9 ± 9.0 days vs. 15 days ± 12.6 days, P < 0.001). Surgical procedures for complicated portal hypertension are rapidly being replaced by TIPS. Like with other complex procedures, outcomes are related to hospital volume.
Does A Surgeon as First Assistant Reduce the Incidence of Common Bile Duct Injuries during Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy?
Authors: Martin Matt B. , Earle Kristen R.
Published: June 2020

This retrospective review supports the hypothesis that a surgeon acting as first assistant during laparoscopic cholecystectomy will reduce the incidence of significant common bile duct (CBD) injuries (BDIs). Central Carolina Surgery, P.A., is a single-specialty general surgery group of 19 surgeons that have performed 8767 laparoscopic cholecystectomies from October 1999 to December 2007. In those cases, 89 per cent of the cases had surgeons as first assistants and 66 per cent of the cases were performed with intraoperative cholangiography. Five cases of BDI occurred during this period for an incidence of 0.0570 per cent. Only three of these injuries required bilioenteric anastomotic reconstruction. When this same group of surgeons learned to perform laparoscopic cholecystectomy in 1990, their published series (Surgical Endoscopy: [1993] 7:300 to 303] of 762 cases had 98 per cent of cases performed with a surgeon as first assistant and no CBD injuries. Only 27 per cent of those 762 cases had intraoperative cholangiograms. This single-practice general surgery experience supports the use of a surgeon as first assistant to lower the incidence of CBD injures.
Linea Alba Fasciotomy: A Novel Alternative in Trauma Patients with Secondary Abdominal Compartment Syndrome
Authors: Duchesne Juan C. , Howell Meghan P. , Eriksen Calvin , Wahl Georgia M. , Rennie Kelly V. , Hastings Paul E. , Mcswain Norman E. , Malbrain Manu L.
Published: June 2020

Polytrauma patients needing aggressive resuscitation can develop intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH) with subsequent secondary abdominal compartment syndrome (SACS). After patients fail medical therapy, decompressive laparotomy is the surgical last resort. In patients with severe pancreatitis SACS, the use of linea alba fasciotomy (LAF) is an effective intervention to lower IAH without the morbidity of laparotomy. A pilot study of LAF was designed to evaluate its benefit in patients with SACS polytrauma. We conducted an observational study of blunt injury polytrauma patients undergoing LAF. Variables measured before and after LAF included intra-abdominal pressure (IAP, mmHg), abdominal perfusion pressure (APP, mmHg), right ventricular end diastolic volume index (RVEDVI, mL/m2), and ejection fraction. Of the five trauma patients with SACS, the mean age was 36 ± 17, four (80%) male with an Injury Severity Score of 27 ± 9. Pre- and post-LAF, IAP was 20.6 ± 4.7 and 10.6 ± 2.7 ( P < 0.0001), APP 55.2 ± 5.5 and 77.6 ± 7.1 ( P < 0.0001), RVEDVI 86.4 ± 9.3 and 123.6 ± 11.9 ( P < 0.0001), and EF 27.6 ± 4.2 and 40.8 ± 5 ( P < 0.0001), respectively. One patient needed full decompression for bile ascites from unrecognized liver injury. Linea alba fasciotomy, as a first-line intervention before committing to full abdominal decompression in patients with SACS trauma, improved physiological variables without mortality Consideration for LAF as a bridge before full abdominal decompression needs further evaluation in patients with polytrauma SACS.
Evaluation of a New Hemostatic Agent in a Porcine Grade V Liver Injury Model
Authors: Bochicchio Grant V. , Kilbourne Michael J. , Keledjian Kaspar , Hess John , Scalea Thomas
Published: June 2020

Our objective was to evaluate the hemostatic efficacy of a newly modified chitosan in a porcine grade V liver injury model. Fifteen Yorkshire pigs underwent standardized grade V liver injuries with a specially designed liver clamp and were randomized to either modified chitosan (MC) patch treatment or standard gauze packing. Free bleeding was allowed for 30 seconds. Fluid resuscitation was infused as necessary to reestablish a mean arterial pressure (MAP) within at least 80 per cent of the preinjury MAP. Animals were observed for 90 minutes or until death. Endpoints were survival, total blood loss, time to hemostasis, and resuscitation MAP, and resuscitation volume. Total mean blood loss was less in the MC patch group (464 ± 267 mL vs 1234 ± 78 mL, P < 0.001). Time to hemostasis was significantly less (4.8 ± 2.5 minutes in the MC patch group vs 9.6 ± 2.5 minutes, P < 0.01). Fluid resuscitation was less (1098 ± 459 mL in the MC patch group vs 1770 ± 172 mL, P < 0.01). Survival was 100 per cent in the MC patch group and 80 per cent in the gauze packing group. MC patches demonstrate the continued hemostatic agent evolution for improved control of lethal solid organ bleeding.
Blood and Organ Donation Patterns of Trauma Surgeons
Authors: Rupe Christopher A. , Thomas Bruce W. , Smith R. Stephen , Helmer Stephen D.
Published: June 2020

Allogenic blood product transfusion and organ donation are critical components of modern medicine. However, only 5 per cent of the eligible population donate blood and only 53 per cent declare themselves organ donors. Trauma surgeons have an intimate exposure to these needs and their personal donation patterns may reflect this knowledge. A 14 question survey about personal blood and organ donation was sent to 635 members of the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma by e-mail. Seventy-eight per cent of respondents have donated blood and 86 per cent of those donors have done so repeatedly. However, 83 per cent of respondents have not given blood in the past year. Medical reasons were the most common reason cited for inability to donate (45%). With regard to organ donation, 90 per cent of respondents have filled out the organ donation section on their driver's license and 89 per cent have discussed organ donation with their family. The rates of blood and organ donation are higher than the rates of the general population. Trauma surgeons are likely to be blood and organ donors. Their intimate knowledge of the importance of donation plays a role. Personal medical conditions that restrict donation were, among respondents, a more common cause of failure to donate than were time constraints.
Factors Associated with Re-Excision in Patients with Early-Stage Breast Cancer Treated with Breast Conservation Therapy
Authors: Sanchez Caroline , Brem Rachel F. , Mcswain Anita P. , Rapelyea Jocelyn A. , Torrente Jessica , Teal Christine B.
Published: June 2020

One of the risks of breast conservation surgery is local recurrence, which predominantly occurs as a result of inadequate surgical margins. The purpose of this study was to identify factors associated with close or positive surgical margins leading to reexcision (RE). The charts of 532 consecutive breast cancer patients treated at our center between September 2001 and June 2007 were reviewed to evaluate patients who opted for breast conservation surgery and needed reexcision. A total of 351 patients were treated with breast conservation, of which 118 (34%) had positive or close surgical margins and went on to RE. On univariate analysis, factors that significantly correlated with RE ( P < 0.05) were preoperative diagnosis, final pathology, size of tumor, and presentation with nipple discharge. RE was necessary in 53 per cent of patients with a preoperative diagnosis of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), 57 per cent of patients diagnosed by surgical excision, 86 per cent of patients presenting with nipple discharge, and 87 per cent of patients with DCIS or invasive carcinoma with extensive intraductal component in the final pathology. Additionally, 53 per cent of patients with T3 tumors required RE. Age, race, and grade of tumor had no effect on RE rates. Most (75%) patients were able to ultimately have breast conservation.
Surgical Anatomy of the Retroperitoneal Spaces, Part V: Surgical Applications and Complications
Authors: Mirilas Petros , Skandalakis John E.
Published: June 2020

Knowledge of the surgical anatomy of the retroperitoneum is crucial for surgery of the retroperitoneal organs. Surgery is essential for treatment of retroperitoneal pathologies. The list of these diseases is extensive and comprises acute and chronic inflammatory processes (abscess, injury, hematoma, idiopathic fibrosis), metastatic neoplasms, and primary neoplasms from fibroadipose tissue, connective tissue, smooth and striated muscle, vascular tissue, somatic and sympathetic nervous tissue, extraadrenal chromaffin tissue, and lymphatic tissue. The retroperitoneum can be approached and explored by several routes, including the transperitoneal route and the extraperitoneal route. The retroperitoneal approach to the iliac fossa is used for ectopic renal transplantation. Safe and reliable primary retroperitoneal access can be performed for laparoscopic exploration. The anatomic complications of retroperitoneal surgery are the complications of the organs located in several compartments of the retroperitoneal space. Complications may arise from incisions to the somatic wall, somatic nerves, blood and lymphatic vessels, lymph nodes, visceral autonomous plexuses, and neighboring splanchna.
Open Gastrostomy under Local Anesthesia for Patients with Neuromuscular Disorders
Authors: Sharma Amit , Bach John R. , Swan Kenneth G.
Published: June 2020

Patients with neuromuscular disease often require gastrostomy, yet respiratory complications in these patients can preclude the use of general anesthesia, intravenous sedation, or endoscopy. The purpose of this study is to report successful use of open gastrostomy that can be performed under local anesthesia. Fifty-four patients underwent this modified procedure. There were no deaths or complications. They lived an average of 43.4 ± 6.2 (SE) months postgastrostomy tube placement. Simplified open gastrostomy can be performed safely for patients with neuromuscular disease with resulting improvements in both longevity and quality of life.
Good Samaritan Hospital and Its Department of Surgery: A Historical Perspective
Authors: Kelley Scott R. , Welling Richard E.
Published: June 2020

At the end of the Revolutionary War, the United States government acquired the Northwest Territory, including the city of Cincinnati. Given the city's position on the Ohio River, and the subsequent development and introduction of steamboats in the early 1800s, Cincinnati became a major center for commerce and trade. With a population of over 115,000 in 1850, Cincinnati was the sixth largest city in the United States—larger even than St. Louis and Chicago—the first major city west of the Allegheny Mountains, and the largest inland city in the nation. The city's growth and importance is mirrored by the history of one if its prized institutions, Good Samaritan Hospital—the oldest, largest, and busiest private teaching and specialty-care hospital in Greater Cincinnati and a national leader in many surgical fields.
Early Fascial Closure of the Damage Control Abdomen in Children
Authors: Shinall Myrick C. , Mukherjee Kaushik , Lovvorn Harold N.
Published: June 2020

Traditional staged closure of the damage control abdomen frequently results in a ventral hernia, need for delayed abdominal wall reconstruction, and risk of multiple complications. We examined the potential benefits in children of early fascial closure of the damage control abdomen using human acellular dermal matrix (HADM). We reviewed our experience with five consecutive children sustaining intra-abdominal catastrophe and managed with damage control celiotomy. To accomplish early definitive abdominal closure, HADM was sewn in place as a fascial substitute; the skin and subcutaneous layers were approximated over silicone drains. The five patients ranged in age from 1 month to 19 years at the time of presentation. Intra-abdominal catastrophes included complex bowel injuries after blunt trauma in two children, necrotizing pancreatitis and gastric perforation in one teenager, necrotizing enterocolitis in one premature infant, and perforated typhlitis in one adolescent. All damage control wounds were dirty. Time range from initial celiotomy to definitive abdominal closure was 6 to 9 days. After definitive closure, one child developed a superficial wound infection. No patient developed a ventral hernia. After damage control celiotomy in children, early abdominal wall closure using HADM may minimize complications associated with delayed closure techniques and the need for additional procedures.
Prospective Evaluation of Health-Related Quality of Life in a Homogeneous Mediterranean Group of Colorectal Cancer Patients
Authors: Theodoropoulos George E. , Papailiou Joanna G. , Stamopoulos Paraskevas L. , Golemati Christina , Tsamis Dimitrios , Zagouri Flora , Michalopoulos Nikolaos V. , Leandros Emmanouil
Published: June 2020

This study was designed to prospectively evaluate health-related quality of life in a homogeneous Mediterranean group of colorectal cancer patients. Ninety-five colorectal cancer patients were preoperatively assessed and followed-up with by skilled investigators using the Short Form-36 Health Survey questionnaire. Overall, patients showed deterioration in all domains, except for pain, when baseline values were compared with 3 and 6 months postoperatively ( P = 0.0001). A significant improvement of all Short Form-36 Health Survey questionnaire domains was noted between 6 and 12 months ( P = 0.0001). Scores for general health, pain, emotional well-being, and role limitations due to emotional problems at 1 year were shown better than preoperative ( P < 0.001). Improved scores in role limitations due to physical health and emotional problems were found at baseline and at 1 year, when laparoscopic were compared with open resections ( P < 0.05). Patients that received chemotherapy proved to be more vulnerable regarding their energy, social functioning, and role limitations at 3 months ( P < 0.05), whereas older patients had diminished physical functioning at 3 and 6 and 12 months ( P < 0.05) postoperatively. Greek colorectal cancer patients remain fragile up to 6 months after surgery, with significant improvements at 1 year, whereas certain aspects of health-related quality of life at 1 year may be even better than before surgery
Unfractionated Heparin Three Times a Day versus Enoxaparin in the Prevention of Deep Vein Thrombosis in Trauma Patients
Authors: Arnold Joshua D. , Dart Benjamin W. , Barker Donald E. , Maxwell Robert A. , Burkholder Hans C. , Mejia Vicente A. , Smith Philip W. , Longley Joy M.
Published: June 2020

Venous thromboembolic disease is a significant source of morbidity and mortality in hospitalized trauma patients. Multiple drugs and dosing regimens have been suggested for pharmacoprophylaxis. In this study, we compared efficacy, complications, and cost of unfractionated heparin administered subcutaneously three times a day with standard-dosed enoxaparin for prophylaxis of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) in adult trauma patients over 1 year. Patients admitted for greater than 72 hours who received pharmacoprophylaxis as part of a comprehensive DVT protocol were included. A change was made in the protocol from enoxaparin (30 mg twice a day or 40 mg per day) to heparin (5000 U three times a day) at midyear. Surveillance lower extremity venous ultrasound was performed according to established institutional guidelines. Data, including demographics, associated injuries, complications, and cost, were collected and analyzed. Four hundred seventy-six patients met inclusion criteria. Two hundred thirty-seven (49.8%) patients received enoxaparin and 239 (50.2%) received heparin. Proximal lower extremity DVTs were detected in 16 (6.75%) patients in the enoxaparin group and 17 (7.11%) in the heparin group ( P = 0.999). Risk factors for DVT in these patients included spinal cord injury ( P = 0.001) and closed head injury ( P = 0.031). There was no difference between the incidence of pulmonary emboli and bleeding. There was an estimated yearly pharmacy cost savings of $135,606. In trauma patients, subcutaneous heparin dosed three times a day may be as effective as standard-dosed enoxaparin for prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism without increased complications. Heparin three times a day for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis was associated with significant pharmaceutical cost savings.
Operative Experience in the Era of Duty Hour Restrictions: Is Broad-Based General Surgery Training Coming to an End?
Authors: Fairfax Lindsay M. , Christmas A. Britton , Green John M. , Miles William S. , Sing Ronald F.
Published: June 2020

Since the institution of Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) resident work hour restrictions, conflicting evidence exists regarding the impact on resident case volume with most data from single-institution studies. We examined the effect of restrictions on national resident operative experience. After permission from the ACGME, we reviewed the publicly available national resident case log data (1999 through 2008) maintained on the ACGME web site ( www.acgme.org ), including total major cases with subanalysis of the ACGME-specified categories. The mean cases per resident were compared before (1999 to 2003) and after (2003 to 2008) restrictions. After the implementation of duty hour restrictions, the mean number of total cases per resident significantly decreased (949 ± 18 vs 911 ± 14, P = 0.004). Subanalysis showed a significant increase in alimentary tract (217 ± 7 vs 229 ± 3, P = 0.004), skin/soft tissue (31 ± 3 vs 36 ± 1, P = 0.01), and endocrine (26 ± 2 vs 31 ± 2, P = 0.006) cases. However, we observed a significant decrease in head and neck (21 ± 0.3 vs 20 ± 0.3, P = 0.01), vascular (164 ± 29 vs 126 ± 5, P = 0.01), pediatric (41 ± 1 vs 37 ± 2, P = 0.006), genitourinary (10 ± 2 vs 7 ± 1, P = 0.004), gynecologic surgery (5 ± 1 vs 3 ± 0.6, P = 0.002), plastics (16 ± 0.3 vs 15 ± 0.7, P = 0.03), and endoscopy (91 ± 3 vs 82 ± 2, P < 0.001) procedures. Analysis of the ACGME-compiled national data confirms that duty hour restrictions have significantly impacted resident operative experience. Importantly, experience in specialty areas, including vascular and endoscopy, appears to have been sacrificed for consolidation of resources into general surgery services as indicated by the increase in alimentary tract and endocrine cases. These findings raise the following question: Is the era of truly broad-based general surgery training coming to an end?
Differences in Presentation and Perioperative Outcome after Pancreaticoduodenectomy for Cancer and Benign Pancreatitis
Authors: Chu Carrie K. , Sarmiento Juan M. , Park Jaemin , Staley Charles A. , Galloway John R. , Adsay N. Volkan , Kooby David A.
Published: June 2020

The aim of this study was to examine differences in presentation and outcome in pancreaticoduodenectomy for benign and malignant processes. Pancreaticoduodenectomies performed for pancreatic adenocarcinoma or chronic pancreatitis from 2000 to 2008 were identified from a prospectively maintained database and compared. Pancreaticoduodenectomy revealed adenocarcinoma in 220 patients and benign chronic pancreatitis in 40 patients. Patients with adenocarcinoma were older (64 ± 10.6 years and 47.6 ± 10.8 years, respectively, P < 0.001) and more likely to demonstrate jaundice (92 and 13%, respectively, P < 0.001), weight loss (76 and 58%, respectively, P = 0.01), and discrete masses (72 and 55%, respectively, P = 0.03). By contrast, chronic pancreatitis presented with increased pain (98 and 49%, respectively, P < 0.001) and nausea (68 and 32%, respectively, P < 0.001). Patients with pancreatitis experienced reduced blood loss (227 ± 156 and 571 ± 626 mL, respectively, P = 0.05) and transfusion (10 and 42%, respectively, P < 0.001). Postoperatively, the groups were similar in risk of fistula, gastroparesis, overall morbidity, and mortality. Infection rates were higher in adenocarcinoma (42 and 20%, respectively, P = 0.01). Forty-nine patients underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy for presumptive chronic pancreatitis, of which nine had adenocarcinoma; logistic regression identified increasing age and jaundice as predictors of malignancy. Compared with patients with adenocarcinoma, those who undergo pancreaticoduodenectomy for chronic pancreatitis are less likely to require preoperative biliary drainage and perioperative transfusion. Infectious complication risk is higher in patients with adenocarcinoma. Increased age and jaundice should raise suspicion of cancer in patients with chronic pancreatitis undergoing evaluation for surgical treatment.
History of the Georgia Baptist/Atlanta Medical Center Surgical Residency
Authors: Fuhrman George M. , Humphries Timothy
Published: June 2020

The Georgia Baptist Hospital established itself as a premier healthcare facility during the first 50 years of the 20th century. The surgical residency started in the 1940s, became accredited in 1958, and has grown into one of the most respected independent programs in the country. The development and growth of the program was a result of the commitment and dedication of the Program Directors in Surgery over the past 50 years. These key leaders included A. Hamblin Letton, John P. Wilson, Paul Stanton, and George Lucas. The hospital's name has changed to Atlanta Medical Center with the sale of the hospital to Tenet in 1997. The same old school approach to surgical training that characterized the residency when it was known as Georgia Baptist persists and provides outstanding training for future surgeons interested in a broadly based surgical education and experience.
After-Hours Complications: Evaluation of the Predictive Accuracy of Resident Sign-Out
Authors: Scoglietti Vincent C. , Collier Kristin T. , Long Eric L. , Bush Geary P. D. , Chapman Jason R. , Nakayama Don K.
Published: June 2020

Resident duty-hour restrictions demand effective communication and teamwork in patient care. The process of resident sign-out is a potential source of miscommunication and medical error. Resident sign-out was followed over a 3-month period. Residents signing out to the night coverage team were asked to identify two patient groups: 1) problem patients who were especially ill and likely to present specific clinical problems; and 2) nonproblem patients who were likely not to be at risk for a problem requiring attention. Data on adverse events collected by the night float resident were classified into three categories: a problem predicted during sign-out in a problem patient, an unpredicted problem on a problem patient, and an unpredicted problem on all other patients. Resident sign-out accurately predicted only 42 per cent of adverse events. Only one third of major adverse events were predicted at checkout. One third of events occurred in patients identified at sign-out as being in the nonproblem group. The process of transfer of care must be standardized and individual practices reviewed to prevent error. Instruction on proper transfer of care and illustrations of potential points of breakdown should be given for all levels of training.
Pancreatic Cyst: Pseudocyst or Neoplasm? Pitfalls in Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography Diagnosis
Authors: Ellis Clayton Tyler , Barbour John R. , Shary Thomas M. , Adams David B.
Published: June 2020

Pancreatic pseudocysts represent the majority of cystic lesions, and can usually be differentiated from cystic neoplasms, which have malignant potential. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) can help in solving diagnostic dilemmas. When ERCP demonstrates cyst communication with the pancreatic duct, the diagnosis of pseudocyst is usually secure. There are exceptions, however, as reported in these two case reports. A retrospective chart review was conducted of two patients undergoing distal pancreatectomy in 2008 to 2009 for cystic lesions communicating with the main pancreatic duct on ERCP. Both patients were women (ages 37 and 42) with a history of chronic abdominal pain and pancreatitis. Radiologic imaging showed cystic lesions in the pancreatic tail. ERCP demonstrated main pancreatic duct communication. When endoscopic management failed, surgical therapy was undertaken. Both patients underwent distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy. Pathologic findings were mucinous cystadenoma. The conventional wisdom that a pancreatic cyst communicating with the main pancreatic duct is a benign pseudocyst is not always wise. As seen in this series, mucinous cystadenomas can erode into the main pancreatic duct. Women in the fourth and fifth decade with symptomatic cysts in the pancreatic tail with a history of pancreatitis should undergo distal pancreatectomy, regardless of ductal communication on ERCP.
Improving Participation and Quality of Clinical Research in a University-Based General Surgery Residency Program
Authors: Fisher Carla , Baker Megan K.
Published: June 2020

At a university-based general surgery training program, post-graduate year (PGY) to 5 categorical general surgery residents had been required to complete an annual clinical research project and a year of laboratory research. Since the 80-hour work week, the laboratory experience was made optional, with a resultant decline in laboratory and clinical participation by 50 per cent and 75 per cent, respectively. Our goal was to review the effect of a simple programmatic intervention on the research compliance rate and quality. The Department was informed about the clinical research requirement via e-mail, memo, and announcements. Faculty submitted lists of novel or on-going projects. This was compiled and e-mailed to the Department with a list of project milestones. This included identification of a research mentor and project, Human Subjects Course certification, institutional review board submission dates, a midyear progress report, and final submission date. Rates of compliance and nature of research were recorded the year before and the 2 years after the intervention. Before the intervention, 2 of 16 residents were compliant. Faculty submitted 76 projects for resident review. One hundred per cent compliance with all aspects of the program was seen at the end of both year 1 and 2. Case reports rate fell from 65, to 30, to 25 per cent by the end of year 2. Publications increased from three preintervention to 13 by year 2. Presentations increased from five preintervention to 13 by end of year 2. This study demonstrates that small inexpensive interventions can have a dramatic effect on research participation.
Retention of Colonoscopy Skills after Virtual Reality Simulator Training by Independent and Proctored Methods
Authors: Snyder Christopher W. , Vandromme Marianne J. , Tyra Sharon L. , Hawn Mary T.
Published: June 2020

Virtual reality (VR) simulators may enhance surgical resident colonoscopy skills, but the duration of skill retention and the effects of different simulator training methods are unknown. Medical students participating in a randomized trial of independent (automated simulator feedback only) versus proctored (human expert feedback plus simulator feedback) simulator training performed a standardized VR colonoscopy scenario at baseline, at the end of training (posttraining), and after a median 4.5 months without practice (retention). Performances were scored on a 10-point scale based on expert proficiency criteria and compared for the independent and proctored groups. Thirteen trainees (8 proctored, 5 independent) were included. Performance at retention testing was significantly better than baseline (median score 10 vs 5, P < 0.0001), and no different from posttraining (median score 10 vs 10, P = 0.19). Score changes from baseline to retention and from posttraining to retention were no different for the proctored and independent groups. Over-insufflation and excessive force were the most common reasons for nonproficiency at retention. After proficiency-based VR simulator training, colonoscopy skills are retained for several months, regardless of whether an independent or proctored approach is used. Error avoidance skills may not be retained as well as speed and efficiency skills.
A Minor Modification of Lichtenstein Repair of Primary Inguinal Hernia: Postoperative Discomfort Evaluation
Authors: Fricano Salvatore , Fiorentino Eugenio , Cipolla Calogero , Matranga Domenica , Bottino Alessandro , Mastrosimone Achille , Bonanno Enrico , Latteri Mario Adelfio
Published: June 2020

The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of a modification of the Lichtenstein hernioplasty procedure by evaluating its impact on postoperative discomfort. From December 1999 to May 2006, the Lichtenstein inguinal hernioplasty was performed in 406 patients with noncomplicated unilateral inguinal hernia. During reconstruction, the mesh was fixed to the inguinal canal floor without stitching its upper margin to the internal oblique muscle. Control of postoperative pain proved to be satisfactory; 72 hours after surgery, 26.1 per cent of patients no longer felt any pain, whereas 54.4 per cent had slight pain without the need for painkillers; on Day 7, 92.8 per cent felt no pain at all. After 10 days, 86.7 per cent of those with sedentary jobs were able to return to work, whereas 79.1 per cent of those with heavier jobs resumed work in 11 to 15 days. Our modification of the original Lichtenstein procedure permitted us to obtain satisfactory results with regard to the control of postoperative chronic pain and a rapid reprisal of normal working activity.
Mucinous Cystic Neoplasms of the Pancreas: How Much Preoperative Evaluation is Needed?
Authors: Theruvath Tom P. , Morgan Katherine A. , Adams David B.
Published: June 2020

Cystic lesions of the pancreas are identified with increasing frequency by modern imaging. The mucinous cystic neoplasm (MCN) is treated with resection for its malignant potential. How much preoperative evaluation is needed before undertaking operation is frequently a diagnostic dilemma. A retrospective review of 32 patients who underwent resection of a MCN between 1994 and 2007 was performed to define the preoperative evaluation and operative treatment of MCN patients. Thirty-two patients (30 women; mean age 49) had histology-proven MCN. Twenty-seven patients had symptomatic cysts (84%). Five had a history of gallstones and/or acute pancreatitis. All patients were worked up with CT and/or MRI. Endoscopic ultrasound was performed in 14 (44%) and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in six (18%). Cytology was obtained in 13 (40%). Pathology revealed 22 benign MCNs (68%), five malignant MCNs (16%), and five MCNs with borderline pathology. Preoperative workup including CT or MRI imaging and cytology suggested MCN as the lesion in 15 patients (46%). CT features by itself predicted MCN in three patients (9%). Cytology revealed another six patients (19%) with possible MCN. In this series, preoperative workup did not identify three of five patients with MCN malignancy. A preoperative diagnosis cannot be made in most patients with MCN. Operative treatment can be based on clinical presentation and CT imaging because endoscopic ultrasound and fine needle aspiration for evaluation may be misleading. Middle-aged women with cystic lesions in the tail of the pancreas without prior gallstone or pancreatitis history most typically fit the profile of the MCN patient.
The Ferguson Operating Anoscope as a Minimally Invasive Option for the Treatment of Rectal Tumors
Authors: Stanley J. Daniel , Bell Christopher , Hinkle Nathan , Moore Richard A. , Burns R. Phillip
Published: June 2020

Transanal excision of rectal tumors may be performed using the Ferguson Operating Anoscope (FOA). This retrospective case series evaluates the effectiveness of FOA for the excision of selected benign and malignant rectal tumors. The office records of 97 patients with rectal tumors who underwent FOA transanal excision by a single surgeon from 1999 through 2009 were reviewed. In the 97 patients evaluated, 99 FOA transanal excisions were performed for 39 adenocarcinomas, 55 benign tumors, and five carcinoid tumors. The tumors were 0.5 to 13.5 cm in diameter and located an average of 6.9 cm (range, 1 to 15 cm) from the anal verge. Ninety-one per cent of cases were performed as an outpatient. Postoperative complications occurred in 14 per cent with transient effects on continence in 2 per cent and a mean blood loss of 66 mL. The recurrence rate for favorable T1 rectal cancers was 4.3 per cent and for adenomas was 5.9 per cent. In early follow up of adenomas and favorable T1 carcinomas, FOA transanal excision has similar application, morbidity, and recurrence rates as reported for transanal endoscopic microsurgery for rectal tumors within 15 cm from the anal verge. FOA may be considered a useful option for the minimally invasive treatment of rectal tumors.
The Use of Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy in Ductal Carcinoma in Situ
Authors: Schneider Christopher , Trocha Steven , McKinley Brian , Shaw Jamie , Bielby S. , Blackhurst Dawn , Jones Yonge , Cornett Wendy
Published: June 2020

Although ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) does not require axillary evaluation, controversy exists regarding the use of sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) in patients with DCIS diagnosed by core needle biopsy (CNB). Advocates of concomitant SLNB and lumpectomy cite the low morbidity of SLNB, the high rate of invasive ductal carcinoma in resected specimens, and the positive nodes found in 1 to 2 per cent of patients with resected DCIS despite finding no invasive component. Opponents of this practice cite the complication risk and the improbability of clinically significant axillary recurrence. We therefore proposed to determine our rate of invasive cancer in DCIS diagnosed by CNB and to determine whether SLNB at first operation would decrease return to the operating room. We retrospectively reviewed patients diagnosed with DCIS by CNB from 2003 to 2008. Standard clinicopathological data were collected and analyzed. In 110 patients, the prevalence of invasive cancer on final resection pathology was 13.6 per cent (15 of 110). Of those patients with invasive cancer, 93 per cent (14 of 15) had high-grade DCIS ( P = 0.077) by CNB. Seventeen per cent (14 of 82) of patients with high-grade DCIS had invasive cancer. Of 34 patients with SLNB, three (9%) had positive nodes. Fifteen patients required re-excision to obtain negative margins, including 13 patients with invasive cancer. Five patients (4.5%) were spared additional operative intervention by initially performing SLNB. We suggest using concomitant SLNB when a high clinical suspicion of invasive cancer exists, in the presence of a palpable mass, or when mastectomy precludes future SLNB. Intraoperative margin assessment is needed to avoid return to the operating room.
Predictors of Failure of the Laparoscopic Approach for the Management of Small Bowel Obstruction
Authors: Qureshi Irfan , Awad Ziat T.
Published: June 2020

Small bowel obstruction (SBO) is a common cause of hospital admission. Our objective is to determine variables that correlate with failure of the laparoscopic approach for SBO. Twenty-three consecutive patients underwent diagnostic laparoscopy with curative intent for treatment of SBO by a single surgeon over a 3-year period. The laparoscopic approach was successful in 18 patients (78%); there were five (22%) conversions to laparotomy. The causes of obstruction included adhesive band in 16 patients; and small bowel lymphoma, metastatic esophageal cancer, small bowel gangrene, Meckel diverticulum, gallstones ileus, and incarcerated incisional hernia in two. Using the Fisher two-sided test, no significant predictor for conversion was identified using gender, American Society of Anesthesiologists class, previous bowel obstruction, history of adhesiolysis, abdominal distention, pelvic surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation, malignancy, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, coronary artery disease, hypertension, or hypercholesterolenemia. The Wilcoxon two-sided test did not show significance for age, weight, number of previous abdominal surgeries, or small bowel diameter. The postoperative hospital stay was significantly shorter in the laparoscopic group compared with those who needed conversion (3 vs 9 days) with P = 0.0019. No mortality was noted in any patients. The laparoscopic is safe and feasible for the management of SBO. We believe that the laparoscopic approach should be offered to all patients with SBO unless there is an absolute contraindication to laparoscopic surgery.
Road Traffic Collisions—Case Fatality Rate, Crash Injury Rate, and Number of Motor Vehicles: Time Trends between a Developed and Developing Country
Authors: Goonewardene Sanchia S. , Baloch Khalid , Porter Keith , Sargeant Ian , Punchihewa Gamini
Published: June 2020

Road traffic collisions (RTCs) are one of the most common preventable causes of death and disability worldwide. We investigated changes in numbers of motor vehicles, case fatality rate, and crash injury rate for the most present recorded year (2002) 5 and 10 years before that in the United Kingdom (UK) and Sri Lanka (SL). We also investigated environmental and individual factors impacting patients at South Birmingham Trauma Unit, UK and Colombo General Hospital, SL. We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study (both quantitative and qualitative). Over the 10-year period, numbers of motor vehicles have risen in both countries; the crash injury remained stable in both countries. Case fatality rate (far higher) in SL has decreased, as in the UK. Three hundred and twenty-five patients took part in the survey in SL, with 83 in the UK. In the categories investigated, including patient demographics, RTC environment, visual impairment, pedestrian and driver factors, the majority of results were significantly different between the two countries. Target factors such as inadequate street lighting, visual impairment, speeding, and not wearing seatbelts at time of accident were identified, and recommendations developed as a result.
Optimal Deployment of Trauma Personnel in the 80-Hour Work Week Era Based on Peak Times of Trauma Patient Arrival
Authors: Yaghoubian Arezou , Virgilio Christian De , Destro Laura , Kaji Amy H. , Putnam Brant , Neville Angela L.
Published: June 2020

In the 80-hour work week era, optimal distribution of the residency workforce is critical. Little data exist as to whether current hours of hospital staffing parallel trends in trauma activity. The purpose of this study was to determine peak periods of trauma volume, severity, need for operative intervention, and mortality and determine if there are differences in mortality based on time period of arrival. We performed a retrospective analysis of the 17,167 patients admitted to our academic Level I trauma center between 2000 and 2007. Each admission was plotted against time of arrival and trends noted. A significant increase in activity occurred between 1700 and 0100 hours. Compared with other shifts, this shift had a disproportionately higher number of patients with penetrating injuries, need for operative intervention, Injury Severity Score (ISS) greater than 15, and death ( P < 0.0001). After adjusting for ISS and penetrating trauma, arrival time was not predictive of mortality (OR 0.97, CI 0.87-1.08, P = 0.6). In conclusion, a peak in trauma activity occurs during an evening shift between 1700 and 0100 hours. In an era of optimizing resident training within the constraints of an 80-hour work week, strong consideration should be made for deploying personnel to match these findings.
Serum Ethanol Levels in Patients with Moderate to Severe Traumatic Brain Injury Influence Outcomes: A Surprising Finding
Authors: Berry Cherisse , Salim Ali , Alban Rodrigo , Mirocha James , Margulies Daniel R. , Ley Eric J.
Published: June 2020

Animal studies routinely demonstrate an alcohol (ETOH) -mediated increase in survival after experimental traumatic brain injury (TBI). Recent clinical studies also suggest ETOH plays a neuroprotective role in moderate to severe TBI. We sought to investigate the relationship between ETOH and outcomes in patients with moderate to severe TBI using a countywide database. The Los Angeles County Trauma System database was queried for all adult (older than 14 years) patients with isolated moderate to severe TBI trauma (head Abbreviated Injury Score [AIS] 3 or greater, all other AIS 3 or less) who had ETOH levels measured on admission between 1998 and 2005. A total of 7304 patients were evaluated with 3219 (44.1%) patients testing positive for serum ETOH. ETOH-positive patients with TBI had a significantly lower mortality rate compared with ETOH negative patients (8.5 vs 10.5%, P = 0.005). Even after logistic regression analysis, a positive ETOH was associated with reduced mortality (adjusted OR 0.82, 95% CI: 0.69-0.99, P = 0.035). Therefore, a positive serum ETOH level was independently associated with significantly improved survival in patients with isolated moderate to severe TBI. The neuroprotective role ETOH plays in TBI is in contrast to previous findings and deserves further attention as a potential therapeutic.
Solid Pseudopapillary Neoplasm of the Pancreas: A Rare and Atypically Aggressive Disease among Male Patients
Authors: Lin Matthew Y.C. , Stabile Bruce E.
Published: June 2020

Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm (SPN) of the pancreas is uncommon, has low metastatic potential, typically afflicts young females, and expresses progesterone receptors. In the rare male patient, its biologic behavior may be more aggressive and lethal. A retrospective case series analysis and literature review of SPN was performed to compare its clinical behaviors in males and females. The case series identified 11 patients of which only two were males. Ten patients underwent tumor resection with curative intent. The one operated male developed liver metastases 15 months postoperatively and subsequently died. The other male presented with advanced liver metastases and died 2 months later without operation. One female had regional lymph node metastases resected en bloc and all nine females are disease-free after a mean follow-up of 63.4 months. Analysis of 1014 patients reported in the literature revealed only 137 (13.5%) males. Males had a twofold higher incidence of metastases and a threefold higher death rate. In males, SPN has an atypically aggressive biology suggesting that progesterone and/or other sex hormones may have a role in oncoregulation.
Accuracy and Upgrade Rates of Percutaneous Breast Biopsy: The Surgeon's Role
Authors: Olaya Windy , Bae Won , Wong Jan , Wong Jasmine , Roy-Chowdhury Sharmila , Kazanjian Kevork , Lum Sharon
Published: June 2020

We sought to evaluate the impact of needle core size and number of core samples on diagnostic accuracy and upgrade rates for image-guided core needle biopsies of the breast. A total of 234 patients underwent image-guided percutaneous needle biopsies and subsequent surgical excision. Large-core needles (9 gauge or less) were used in 14.5 per cent of cases and the remainder were performed with smaller core needles. More than four core samples were taken in 78.9 per cent of patients. In 71.8 per cent of cases, needle biopsy pathology matched surgical excision pathology. After surgical excision, upgraded pathology was revealed in 10.7 per cent of cases. Of 11 patients (52.4%) with benign needle core pathology who had upgraded final pathology on surgical excision, 10 had a Breast Imaging Recording and Data System score 4 or 5 imaging study. Lesions smaller than 10 mm were more likely to be misdiagnosed ( P = 0.01) or have upgraded pathology ( P = 0.009). Other predictors of upgraded pathology were patient age 50 years or older ( P = 0.03) and taking four or fewer core samples ( P = 0.003). Needle core size did not impact accuracy or upgrade rates. Surgeons should exercise caution when interpreting needle biopsy results with older patients, smaller lesions, and limited sampling. Discordant pathology and imaging still mandate surgical confirmation.
Behavioral Factors Associated with Successful Weight Loss after Gastric Bypass
Authors: Livhits Masha , Mercado Cheryl , Yermilov Irina , Parikh Janak A. , Dutson Erik , Mehran Amir , Ko Clifford Y. , Gibbons Melinda Maggard
Published: June 2020

Patients undergoing bariatric surgery lose substantial weight (≥50% excess weight loss [EWL]), but an estimated 20 per cent fail to achieve this goal. Our objective was to identify behavioral predictors of weight loss after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. We retrospectively surveyed 148 patients using validated instruments for factors predictive of weight loss. Success was defined as ≥50 per cent EWL and failure as <50 per cent EWL. Mean follow-up after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass was 40.1 ± 15.3 months, with 52.7 per cent of patients achieving successful weight loss. After controlling for age, gender, and preoperative body mass index, predictors of successful weight loss included surgeon follow-up (odds ratio [OR] 8.2, P < 0.01), attendance of postoperative support groups (OR 3.7, P = 0.02), physical activity (OR 3.5, P < 0.01), single or divorced marital status (OR 3.2, P = 0.03), self-esteem (OR 0.3, P = 0.02), and binge eating (OR 0.9, P < 0.01). These factors should be addressed in prospective studies of weight loss after bariatric surgery, as they may identify patients at risk for weight loss failure who may benefit from early tailored interventions.
The Efficacy of Blood Culture in Postoperative Patients
Authors: Lee Jenny J. , Martin David R.
Published: June 2020

Blood cultures are often obtained in postoperative patients to rule out bloodstream infections. Our study objectives were to determine the efficacy of blood cultures in postoperative patients with suspected sepsis and to determine variables predisposing patients to positive cultures. This was a retrospective study including patients with blood cultures drawn from January to March 2009 at our institution. We recorded demographics, presence of fever (temperature 101.5°F or higher), elevated white blood cell count (12,000/μL or greater), central line, diabetes, intensive care unit admission, postoperative day of blood draw, National Research Council surgical wound classification, and pre- or postoperative antibiotics. Blood cultures were drawn from 150 patients undergoing surgery within 30 days prior. Sixteen had positive cultures and nine were true-positives (6.3%). There was no statistical difference ( P > 0.05) between patients with positive and negative cultures except that those with negative cultures were more likely to have received preoperative antibiotics ( P = 0.0186). Blood cultures are invasive, expensive tests with low yield. We recommend that blood cultures be drawn in patients not receiving preoperative antibiotics who have undergone surgery more than 4 days before culture.