bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Inadequate Oxygen Delivery Index and Low Cardiac Output Syndrome Score As Predictors of Adverse Events Associated With Low Cardiac Output Syndrome Early After Cardiac Bypass*
Authors: Rogers Libby , Ray Samiran , Johnson Mae , Feinstein Yael , Dominguez Troy E. , Peters Mark J. , Hoskote Aparna , Brown Katherine L.
Published: April 2019

Objectives:

To evaluate the effectiveness of two scoring systems, the inadequate oxygen delivery index, a risk analytics algorithm (Etiometry, Boston, MA) and the Low Cardiac Output Syndrome Score, in predicting adverse events recognized as indicative of low cardiac output syndrome within 72 hours of surgery.

Design:

A retrospective observational pair-matched study.

Setting:

Tertiary pediatric cardiac ICU.

Patients:

Children undergoing cardiac bypass for congenital heart defects. Cases experienced an adverse event linked to low cardiac output syndrome in the 72 hours following surgery (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, renal replacement therapy, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and necrotizing enterocolitis) and were matched with a control patient on criteria of procedure, diagnosis, and age who experienced no such event.

Interventions:

None.

Measurements and Main Results:

Of a total 536 bypass operations in the study period, 38 patients experienced one of the defined events. Twenty-eight cases were included in the study after removing patients who suffered an event after 72 hours or who had insufficient data. Clinical and laboratory data were collected to derive scores for the first 12 hours after surgery. The inadequate oxygen delivery index was calculated by Etiometry using vital signs and laboratory data. A modified Low Cardiac Output Syndrome Score was calculated from clinical and therapeutic markers. The mean inadequate oxygen delivery and modified Low Cardiac Output Syndrome Score were compared within each matched pair using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Inadequate oxygen delivery correctly differentiated adverse events in 13 of 28 matched pairs, with no evidence of inadequate oxygen delivery being higher in cases (p = 0.71). Modified Low Cardiac Output Syndrome Score correctly differentiated adverse events in 23 of 28 matched pairs, with strong evidence of a raised score in low cardiac output syndrome cases (p < 0.01).

Conclusions:

Although inadequate oxygen delivery is an Food and Drug Administration approved indicator of risk for low mixed venous oxygen saturation, early postoperative average values were not linked with medium-term adverse events. The indicators included in the modified Low Cardiac Output Syndrome Score had a much stronger association with the specified adverse events.
Is It Possible to Develop a Prediction Model for Lymphovascular Space Invasion in Endometrioid Endometrial Cancer?
Authors: Meydanli Mehmet M. , Aslan Koray , Öz Murat , Muftuoglu Kamil H. , Yalcin Ibrahim , Engin-Ustun Yaprak
Published: April 2019

Objective

The purpose of this retrospective study was to define a risk index that would serve as a surrogate marker of lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI) in women with endometrioid endometrial cancer (EC).

Materials and Methods

Final pathology reports of 498 women who underwent surgery with curative intent for endometrioid EC between January 2008 and June 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Logistic regression was used to investigate clinicopathologic factors associated with positive LVSI status. Independent risk factors for LVSI were used to build a risk model and “risk of LVSI index” was defined as “tumor grade×primary tumor diameter×percentage of myometrium involved.” The scores used in the “risk of LVSI index” were weighted according to the odds ratios assigned for each variable. The risk of LVSI index was noted for each patient. The diagnostic performance of the model was expressed as sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, positive likelihood ratio, and negative likelihood ratio.

Results

According to the “risk of LVSI index,” presence of LVSI was correctly estimated in 89 of 104 LVSI-positive women at a cutoff of 161.0 (sensitivity 85.5%, specificity 79.4%, negative predictive value 95.4%, positive predictive value 52.3%, positive likelihood ratio 4.15, negative likelihood ratio 0.18). The area under curve of the receiver-operating characteristics was 0.90 (95% confidence interval, 0.87–0.93) at this cutoff.

Conclusions

It seems possible to predict the presence of LVSI in women with endometrioid EC when the “risk of LVSI index” is calculated. However, external validation of this model is warranted.
An Alternate Diagnostic Algorithm for the Diagnosis of Intraepithelial Fallopian Tube Lesions
Authors: Perrone Marie E. , Reder Nicholas P. , Agoff Sergay N. , Garcia Rochelle L. , Agnew Kathy J. , Norquist Barbara M. , Pennington Kathryn P. , Swisher Elizabeth M. , Kilgore Mark R.
Published: April 2019

Intraepithelial fallopian tube neoplasia is thought to be a precursor lesion to high-grade serous carcinoma of the Müllerian adnexae, particularly in women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations. This association has led to recommendations to assess fallopian tubes for intraepithelial atypia. However, the diagnostic reproducibility of a diagnosis of intraepithelial neoplasia is unclear. In this study, 2 gynecologic pathologists independently evaluated sections of fallopian tubes from a sample of women (N=198, 623 slides) undergoing salpingectomy. A total of 101 (54%) women were undergoing risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy. Pathologists were blinded to patient histories and prior diagnoses. Pathologists rendered one of three diagnoses for each slide: “negative for fallopian tube intraepithelial neoplasia (FTIN),” “indeterminate for FTIN,” or “definite for FTIN.” Cases that were considered by histology definite for FTIN or suspicious for FTIN were stained with p53 and Ki67. Pathologists agreed on the diagnosis of “definite for FTIN” 61.5% of the time. There was no agreement on any cases for the diagnosis of “indeterminate for FTIN.” Fifteen “indeterminate for FTIN” and 12 “definite for FTIN” cases were stained with p53 and Ki67. Two of the “indeterminate” cases (13%) had p53-positive foci. Five of the “definite” cases had p53-positive foci. In 3 of the other 8 “definite” cases, there was obvious carcinoma present, but the carcinoma did not stain with p53, suggesting a possible null phenotype. We propose that immunostains should only be used to aid in the diagnosis of FTIN in cases with indeterminate histology. The use of p53 immunohistochemistry in cases that were considered “definite for FTIN” by histology was minimally helpful, and in fact often served to further confuse the diagnosis.
Expression and Clinical Significance of Nicotinamide N-Methyltransferase in Cervical Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Akar Serra , Harmankaya İsmail , Uğraş Serdar , Çelik Çetin
Published: April 2019

Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) is a cytosolic enzyme, overexpressed in various human malignancies. It is associated with cancer progression and resistance to treatment. The role of NNMT in cervical cancer has not been studied thus far. We aimed to evaluate expression of NNMT in cervical squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and investigate its clinical significance. NNMT expression was assayed by use of immunohistochemistry in 61 cases of SCC, 11 cases of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion, 17 cases of low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion, and 51 benign cervical tissues. NNMT immunoreactivity was scored based on staining intensity and percentage of positively stained cells. The expression of NNMT was significantly higher in SCC than in benign tissue, low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion, and high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (P<0.001). NNMT expression in benign tissue was significantly lower than in low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion and high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion. When stratified according to stage, NNMT expression was significantly higher in patients with stage III and IV than those in stage I and II disease (P=0.009). For all stages, patients with metastatic pelvic or para-aortic lymph nodes had significantly higher NNMT expression than patients without nodal involvement (P=0.001). Although preliminary, this is the first study to detect overexpression of NNMT in SCC and increased expression associated with advanced stage and metastatic lymph nodes. NNMT should be investigated further in cervical cancer as a potential therapeutic target and a prognostic indicator.
Quantifying Interpersonal Dynamics for Studying Socio-Emotional Processes and Adverse Health Behaviors
Authors: Butler Emily A. , Barnard Kobus J.
Published: April 2019

Objective

We introduce a new statistical software R package, rties, that simplifies the use of dynamic models for investigating interpersonal emotional processes. We demonstrate the package by using it to test whether emotional dynamics in romantic couples can predict, or are predicted by, shared unhealthy behaviors (SUBs).

Methods

We use data from 74 romantic couples discussing their health behaviors. The conversations were videotaped and rated for evidence that the couples engaged in unhealthy behaviors that benefitted the relationship in some way (e.g., increasing closeness). Participants also provided video-prompted continuous recall of their emotional experience during the conversation. We use the rties package to estimate the parameters for inertia-coordination and coupled-oscillator models of the couples’ emotional experience. Those parameter estimates are then used as predictors and outcomes of the couple’s SUB.

Results

The coupled-oscillator model accounted for 17% of the variance in unhealthy behavior, with both partner’s amplification predicting higher unhealthy behavior (women: B = 0.95, SE = 0.31, t(63) = 3.06, p = .003, 95% confidence interval = 0.25–1.45; men: B = 0.9, SE = 0.29, t(63) = 3.09, p = .003, 95% confidence interval = 0.32–1.47). These results suggest that co-dysregulation, an unstable interpersonal pattern of amplified emotional oscillations is associated with more SUBs. In contrast, the dynamics assessed with inertia coordination were not associated with behavior.

Conclusions

The new rties package provides a set of relatively easy-to-use statistical models for representing and testing theories about interpersonal emotional dynamics. Our results suggest that emotional co-dysregulation may be a particularly detrimental pattern for health.
Comparison Between Intermaxillary Fixation With Screws and an Arch Bar for Mandibular Fracture
Authors: Choi Jong-Woo , Kim Hyung Bae , Jeong Woo Shik , Kim Sung Chan , Koh Kyung S.
Published: April 2019

Purpose:

Intermaxillary fixation (IMF) using the arch bar has been the standard technique for a long time in the management of mandibular fracture. But because of several complications, intermaxillary fixation with screws has been introduced and adopted to use. This investigation compared the outcomes and complications between the traditional IMF and modified intermaxillary fixation with screws techniques in terms of the malocclusion, surgical time, root injury, and screw or arch bar failure.

Methods:

This retrospective review included 66 patients who underwent reconstruction of mandibular fractures that uses traditional arch bar or IMF screws as IMF. Preoperative and postoperative facial bone computed tomography, panoramic x-ray were used to evaluate the patients. The complaints and complications were recorded in electric medical record based on patients’ consultation during follow-up.

Results:

The total complication rate was no higher using anchoring screw as an IMF than using arch bar fixation as an IMF. Mean surgical time was significantly shorter in the anchoring screw group than arch bar fixation (111 versus 157 min; P < .05). After compensation of the number of fracture sites, there was a significant difference in operation time (linear regression model, P = .009).

Conclusion:

This investigation revealed that the IMF using IMF screw systems could be a good alternative for the management of mandibular fracture. It could minimize the whole operation time with the similar complication ratio.
Intra- and Postoperative Blood Loss and Transfusion Requirements in Children Undergoing Craniofacial Surgery
Authors: D’Amore Alexander Lindholm , Rasmussen Mads , Christensen Leif , von Oettingen Gorm , Nørholt Sven Erik , Krogh Lisbeth , Hvas Anne-Mette , Juul Niels , Fenger-Eriksen Christian
Published: April 2019

Pediatric craniosynostosis (CS) surgery is frequently associated with extensive blood loss and transfusion requirements. The aim of the study was to evaluate the authors’ institutional procedure with 2-surgeon approach and early transfusion strategy on blood loss and blood product transfusions in children undergoing craniofacial surgery. A retrospective analysis of medical records was performed of pediatric CS corrections during a 15-year period. Primary endpoint was blood loss and transfusion requirement during and the following 24 hours postoperatively. Linear regression analyses were performed of associations between intra and- postoperative blood loss and blood loss and weight. A total of 276 children (median 9 months) were included. Intraoperative blood loss was 22 mL/kg (14–33 mL/kg) and postoperatively 27 mL/kg (18–37 mL/kg), with no change during the study period. Intraoperative transfusions of red blood cell and plasma were 16 mL/kg (10–24 mL/kg) and postoperative 14 mL/kg (9–21 mL/kg). Postoperative red blood cell and plasma transfusions were 2 mL/kg (0–6 mL/kg) and of 0 mL/kg, respectively. Craniosynostosis type was related to blood loss (P < 0.001). There was an association between intraoperative and postoperative blood loss (P = 0.012) and intra- and postoperative blood loss and weight (P = 0.002, P = < 0.001). Duration of surgery was 110 minutes (range 60–300 minutes).

Pediatric CS surgery is associated with substantial intra- and postoperative blood loss and transfusion requirements, which did not change over a 15-year period. Blood loss was associated with type of CS. Intraoperative blood loss was correlated to postoperative blood loss and body weight.
The Role of Facial Gender Confirmation Surgery in the Treatment of Gender Dysphoria
Authors: Esmonde Nick , Najafian Alireza , Penkin Amy , Berli Jens Urs
Published: April 2019

The population of transgender patients seeking gender confirmation surgery for gender dysphoria is increasing in the United States. Facial gender confirmation surgery (FGCS) is one of the treatment modalities patients require and is often a combination of soft tissue and cranio–maxilla–facial procedures. Despite evidence of the efficacy of FGCS, there remains some extant controversies to address, such as reimbursement for these procedures, categorization of aesthetic versus functional surgery, and evaluation of outcomes. This review provides a discussion of these topics, as well as the historical and psychosocial issues specific to transgender patients that surgeons should know when providing FGCS. We provide practice pearls for providing affirming transgender healthcare, illustrative patient clinical vignettes, and a discussion of the Standards of Care of the World Professional Association for Transgender Health to help guide surgeons who are interested in providing FGCS to transgender patients.
Statistical Shape Analysis of Cerebellum in Patients With Chiari Malformation I
Authors: Ocakoglu Gokhan , Baykal Duygu , Altunyuva Oguz , Taskapilioglu Mevlut Ozgur , Yilmazlar Selcuk
Published: April 2019

The surgical procedure is viewed as a typical treatment choice for patients with Chiari malformation (CM). Decompression is the preferred method for surgery, but it is not always possible to understand whether decompression has been successful especially in an early period. The present study focuses on investigating the shape differences in the cerebellums of Chiari patients compared with healthy controls, and to assess the clinical application of this situation whether if present. The MRI scans were reviewed retrospectively. Cerebellar data were obtained from the digital images and 9 anthropometric landmarks were marked on each image. Shape difference was assessed by performing Generalized Procrustes analysis. The cerebellar shape deformation from control to the patient was evaluated performing the Thin Plate Spline approach. There is a statistically significant cerebellar shape difference between groups. Highest deformation was determined at the cerebellar tonsillar inferior area, posterior of the uvula, and anterior of inferior medullary velum. The present study demonstrated cerebellar shape differences in CM I patients using a landmark-based geometric morphometric approach, considering the topographic distribution of cerebellum for the first time.
Meckel's diverticulum and the eponymous legend
Authors: Ivatury Rao R.
Published: April 2019

Johann Friedrich Meckel (1781–1833) was a 19th century anatomist born into an eminent dynasty. He was a professor of anatomy, pathology, and zoology at the University of Halle, in Central Germany. The diverticulum, a congenital remnant of the vitellointestinal duct was named after him. Other eponyms include Meckel's cartilage, Meckel syndrome, and Meckel-Serres law of recapitulation. His concepts in comparative anatomy, embryology, and teratology anticipated Darwin. This review is a short tribute to this legend and his prolific contributions.

LEVEL

Historic review, level V.
Trauma system resource preservation: A simple scene triage tool can reduce helicopter emergency medical services overutilization in a state trauma system
Authors: Udekwu Pascal , Schiro Sharon , Toschlog Eric , Farrell Meagan , McIntyre Sarah , Winslow James
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

Helicopter emergency medical services improve survival in some injured patients but current utilization leads to significant overtriage with considerable numbers of transported patients discharged home from the emergency department or found to have non–time-sensitive injuries. Current triage models for utilization are complex and untested.

METHODS

Data from a state trauma registry were reviewed from 1987 to 1993 and from 2013 to 2015 and compared. Data from 2013 to 2015 were analyzed for field information found to influence mortality and a model for low mortality-risk patients designed.

RESULTS

Indexed to population, a major increase in numbers of injured patients transported directly to designated trauma centers (39.849–167.626/100,000/year) occurred with an increased portion transported by helicopter emergency medical services from 7.28% to 9.26%. A simple triage tool to predict low mortality rates was designed utilizing results from logistic regression. Nongeriatric adult patients (age, 16.0–69.9 years) with a blunt injury mechanism, normal Glasgow Coma Scale motor score, pulse rate of 60 bpm to 120 bpm and respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute to 29 breaths per minute are at low risk for mortality. Cost for helicopter transportation was substantially higher than ground transportation based on available data. Cost differentials in transport mode increased patient financial risk when helicopter transportation was utilized.

CONCLUSION

Implementing a simple decision tool designating nongeriatric adult patients with a blunt injury mechanism, normal Glasgow Coma Scale motor score, systolic blood pressure greater than 90 mm Hg, pulse rate of 60 bpm to 120 bpm, and respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute to 29 breaths per minute to ground transportation would result in substantial savings without an increase in mortality and reduce risk of patient financial harm.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic/Epidemiological study, level IV. Economic and value based evaluation, level IV.
American Association for the Surgery of Trauma Prevention Committee topical update: Impact of community violence exposure, intimate partner violence, hospital-based violence intervention, building community coalitions and injury prevention program evaluation
Authors: Rosenblatt Michael S. , Joseph Kimberly T. , Dechert Tracey , Duncan Thomas K. , Joseph D'Andrea K. , Stewart Ronald M. , Cooper Zara R.
Published: April 2019

An effective injury prevention program is an important component of a successful trauma system. Maintaining support for a hospital-based injury prevention program is challenging, given competing institutional and trauma program priorities and limited resources. In light of those pressures, the American College of Surgeons Committee on Trauma mandates that trauma centers demonstrate financial support for an injury prevention program as part of the verification process, recognizing that hospital administrators might see such support as discretionary and ripe as a target for expense reduction efforts. This Topical Update from the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma Injury Prevention Committee focuses on strategies to be more effective with the limited resources that are allocated to hospital-based injury prevention programs. First, this review tackles two of the many social determinates of violence, including activities aimed at mitigating the impact of both community violence exposure and intimate partner/domestic violence. Developing or participating in coalitions for injury prevention, both in general with any injury prevention initiative, and specifically while developing a hospital-based violence intervention program, efficiently extends the hospital's efforts by gaining access to expertise, resources, and influence over the target population that the hospital might otherwise have difficulty impacting. Finally, the importance of systematic program evaluation is explored. In an era of dwindling resources for injury prevention, both at the national level and the institutional level, it is important to measure the effectiveness of injury prevention efforts on the target population, and when necessary, make changes to programs to both improve their effectiveness and to assist organizations in making wise choices in the use of their limited resources.
Selective aortic arch perfusion with fresh whole blood or HBOC-201 reverses hemorrhage-induced traumatic cardiac arrest in a lethal model of noncompressible torso hemorrhage
Authors: Hoops Heather E. , Manning James E. , Graham Todd L. , McCully Belinda H. , McCurdy Shane L. , Ross James D.
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

Hemorrhage-induced traumatic cardiac arrest (HiTCA) has a dismal survival rate. Previous studies demonstrated selective aortic arch perfusion (SAAP) with fresh whole blood (FWB) improved the rate of return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) after HiTCA, compared with resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers, such as hemoglobin-based oxygen carrier (HBOC)-201, may alleviate the logistical constraints of using FWB in a prehospital setting. It is unknown whether SAAP with HBOC-201 is equivalent in efficacy to FWB, whether conversion from SAAP to extracorporeal life support (ECLS) is feasible, and whether physiologic derangement post-SAAP therapy is reversible.

METHODS

Twenty-six swine (79 ± 4 kg) were anesthetized and underwent HiTCA which was induced via liver injury and controlled hemorrhage. Following arrest, swine were randomly allocated to resuscitation using SAAP with FWB (n = 12) or HBOC-201 (n = 14). After SAAP was initiated, animals were monitored for a 20-minute prehospital period prior to a 40-minute damage control surgery and resuscitation phase, followed by 260 minutes of critical care. Primary outcomes included rate of ROSC, survival, conversion to ECLS, and correction of physiology.

RESULTS

Baseline physiologic measurements were similar between groups. ROSC was achieved in 100% of the FWB animals and 86% of the HBOC-201 animals (p = 0.483). Survival (t = 320 minutes) was 92% (11/12) in the FWB group and 67% (8/12) in the HBOC-201 group (p = 0.120). Conversion to ECLS was successful in 100% of both groups. Lactate peaked at 80 minutes in both groups, and significantly improved by the end of the experiment in the HBOC-201 group (p = 0.001) but not in the FWB group (p = 0.104). There was no significant difference in peak or end lactate between groups.

CONCLUSION

Selective aortic arch perfusion is effective in eliciting ROSC after HiTCA in a swine model, using either FWB or HBOC-201. Transition from SAAP to ECLS after definitive hemorrhage control is feasible, resulting in high overall survival and improvement in lactic acidosis over the study period.
The effect of hemorrhage control adjuncts on outcome in severe pelvic fracture: A multi-institutional study
Authors: Duchesne Juan , Costantini Todd W. , Khan Mansoor , Taub Ethan , Rhee Peter , Morse Bryan , Namias Nicholas , Schwarz Alon , Graves Joanne , Kim Dennis Y. , Howell Erin , Sperry Jason , Anto Vincent , Winfield Robert D. , Schreiber Martin , Behrens Brandon , Martinez Benjamin , Raza Shariq , Seamon Mark , Tatum Danielle
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

Hemodynamically unstable patients with severe pelvic fracture are a significant challenge to trauma surgeons and have high mortality. Significant variability across institutions in hemorrhage control adjuncts used to quell pelvic bleeding has been demonstrated. However, the effect of these methods on time to definitive bleeding control, type of resuscitation given, and outcomes remains unknown. We sought to elucidate those effects.

METHODS

This was a multicenter retrospective review of severe pelvic fracture patients in shock between 2011 and 2016. Shock was defined as systolic blood pressure less than 90 mm Hg, heart rate greater than 120 beats per minute, or base deficit less than −5. Definitive bleeding control was defined as time to surgical control in the operating room or embolization by interventional radiology. Significance level was at p less than 0.05.

RESULTS

A total of 279 severe pelvic fracture patients with shock on admission from 12 trauma centers were included. The cohort was primarily male (62%) with median (interquartile range) age of 40 years (28–54 years), Injury Severity Score of 38 (29–50), and Glasgow Coma Scale score of 13 (3–15). Overall mortality was 32%. The most common adjunct used was pelvic binder (50%) followed by no adjunct (30.5%); least common was resuscitative balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) (2.5%). Preperitoneal packing alone and REBOA alone/with other adjunct(s) resulted in the fastest times to operating room/interventional radiology but also had the highest blood utilization and mortality rates. Resuscitative balloon occlusion of the aorta was most often used along with pelvic binder (6 of 13; 46%).

CONCLUSION

Marked variation in management of severe pelvic fracture patients in shock indicates the need for a standardized approach to maximize outcomes and minimize transfusion requirements. The use of preperitoneal packing and/or REBOA yielded fastest times to definitive bleeding control. However, REBOA continues to be infrequently used. Future prospective analysis of this combination needs further validation in patients with severe pelvic hemorrhage.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic study, level IV.
Freeze-dried plasma mitigates the dilution effects of a hemoglobin-based oxygen carrier (HBOC-201) in a model of resuscitation for hemorrhage and hemodilution
Authors: Meledeo Michael Adam , Peltier Grantham C. , McIntosh Colby S. , Taylor Ashley S. , Bynum James A. , Pusateri Anthony E. , Cap Andrew P.
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

Hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers (HBOCs) have proven useful for supplementing oxygen delivery when red cells are unavailable; however, HBOCs do not promote hemostasis. The need for prehospital bridges to blood transfusion informed this study which sought to determine the impact of HBOCs on coagulation, with or without cotransfusion of freeze-dried plasma (FDP).

METHODS

Treatment was simulated in vitro by replacing whole blood volume (or whole blood prediluted with 25% plasmalyte A as a hemodilution model) with HBOC-201, FDP, or both at ratios of 10% to 50% of original volume. Prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), fibrinogen, complete blood count, viscosity, thromboelastography (TEG), and platelet adhesion to collagen under flow were evaluated. Subsequently, tissue plasminogen activator was added to model hemorrhagic shock effects on fibrinolysis.

RESULTS

Substituting blood with HBOC resulted in dose-dependent decreases in fibrinogen and cells, which lengthened PT (+61% at highest dose) and aPTT (+40% at highest dose) and produced TEG parameters consistent with dilutional coagulopathy. While substituting blood with FDP decreased cell counts accordingly, fibrinogen, PT, aPTT, and TEG parameters were not statistically changed. When HBOC and FDP were combined 1:1 for volume replacement, observed HBOC-only detriments were mitigated: PT and aPTT were increased by 17% and 11%, respectively, at the highest doses. In prediluted samples, similar trends were seen with exacerbated differences. Platelet adhesion to collagen was directly affected by hematocrit. Samples containing both HBOC and tissue plasminogen activator were highly susceptible to fibrinolysis.

CONCLUSION

A dose equivalent to 1 unit to 2 units each of HBOC-201 and FDP had a modest impact on functional coagulation measures and is reasonable to consider for clinical study as a part of early transfusion intervention. Higher doses may impart hemodilution risks similar to resuscitation with crystalloid or other colloids in coagulation-compromised patients. Further study of HBOC effects on fibrinolysis is also indicated.

STUDY TYPE

In vitro laboratory study.
Validation of the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma emergency general surgery score for acute appendicitis—an EAST multicenter study
Authors: Vasileiou Georgia , Ray-Zack Mohamed , Zielinski Martin , Qian Sinong , Yeh Daniel Dante , Crandall Marie
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

The American Association for the Surgery of Trauma (AAST) has proposed a grading system for anatomic severity of 16 Emergency General Surgery conditions, including appendicitis. This is the first prospective, multicenter clinical study evaluating the AAST Appendicitis grading scale.

METHODS

The EAST Appendicitis study utilized data collected prospectively from 27 centers, between January 2017 to June 2018. An overall grade was assigned as the highest grade of the subscales: clinical, radiographic, operative, and pathologic. Grade 1–3 of the clinical subscale was assigned as Grade 1. Patients with a final diagnosis other than appendicitis were excluded. The cohort was divided into two groups: simple appendicitis (Grades 1 and 2), and complicated appendicitis (Grades 3, 4, and 5).

Fisher's exact and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to determine association between the overall AAST grade and the following outcomes: infectious complications, Clavien-Dindo complications, hospital length of stay (LOS), 30-day emergency department visits, readmissions, and secondary interventions.

RESULTS

A total of 2,909 cases were analyzed: 1,656 (57%) were Grade 1; 181 (6%), Grade 2; 399 (14%) Grade 4; and 549 (19%) Grade 5; 94% of patients underwent appendectomy. Index hospitalization LOS increased significantly with increasing grade: 1, [1,1], 1 [1,2], 1 [1,2], 2 [1,3], and 32,5 (p < 0.001). Infectious complications, Clavien-Dindo complications, hospital LOS, and secondary interventions were significantly associated with increasing AAST severity grade during index hospitalization. For 30-day outcomes, similar trends were noted for readmission, 30-day infections complications, 30-day cumulative infectious complications, 30-day Clavien-Dindo complications, 30-day cumulative Clavien-Dindo complications, 30-day secondary interventions, and 30-day cumulative secondary interventions.

CONCLUSION

The AAST emergency general surgery grade for appendicitis is a valid predictor of clinical outcomes such as infectious complications, overall complications, and the need for secondary intervention.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic, level III.
Elderly patients presenting to a Level I trauma center with Physician Orders for a Life-Sustaining Treatment form: A propensity-matched analysis
Authors: Ballou Jessica H. , Dewey Elizabeth N. , Zonies David H.
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) forms are portable medical orders documenting patient treatment preferences in an acute health decline. It is unclear how these forms are used in the management of elderly trauma patients.

METHODS

Patients 65 years and older presenting to a Level I trauma center were identified between 2012 and 2017. Hospital trauma registry and medical records were used to identify a preinjury POLST and its acknowledgment by providers within 24 hours of arrival. A 1:1 propensity score matched sample was used to evaluate clinical outcomes based on the presence of a POLST limiting interventions with p less than 0.05 deemed significant.

RESULTS

There were 3,342 elderly trauma patients identified. One hundred ninety-two (6%) had a POLST identified by the institutional trauma registry dated before the injury. Do not attempt resuscitation (DNR) was listed in 154 patients (80%), and 79% desired to avoid the intensive care unit (ICU) with limited (54%) or comfort measures only (CMO, 25%). One hundred seven (76%) of admitted POLST DNR patients had a DNR code status for the majority of their admission. 59 (58%) of the limited and 29 (60%) of the comfort measures only patients were admitted to the ICU. Acknowledgment of a preinjury POLST or code status was explicitly documented in 110 cases (57%). Propensity score analysis yielded a comparison sample of 288 patients. In the matched comparison, an acknowledged POLST with limitations was associated with a shorter ICU stay (1.7 vs. 2.8 days, p = 0.008) but there was no difference in ICU admission (58% vs. 61%, p = 0.69), total length of stay (3.8 days vs. 4.8 days, p = 0.08), or in-hospital mortality (13% vs. 8%, p = 0.2).

CONCLUSION

Limited provider acknowledgment of preinjury medical directives necessitates protocol development for the management of frail elderly trauma patients. When acknowledged, patients with a POLST limiting interventions had fewer ICU days without increased in-hospital mortality compared with similarly injured elderly patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Care Management, level IV.
Organ donation after trauma: A 30-year review
Authors: Ackerman Adam , Clark David , Lipinska Judyta , Chung Bruce , Whiting James
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

Over the past 30 years, the demographics, clinical characteristics, and management of trauma patients have changed dramatically. During this same period, the organ donor population has also changed. The interactions between these two demographic shifts have not been examined in a systematic way. We hypothesize that trauma victims continue to be an important source of organs. We set out to systematically examine traumatic donors in an attempt to identify opportunities to increase organ recovery and quality.

METHODS

In this retrospective analysis, we compared trauma donors (TDs) and non-TDs (NTDs) in the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients standard analysis files, a clinical data set collected by the Organ Procurement Transplant Network on all solid organ transplant candidates, donors, and recipients in the United States since 1987.

RESULTS

Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients contained data on 191,802 deceased donors. The percentage of TDs decreased from 55.3% in 1987 to 35.8% in 2016 (p < 0.001) primarily due to a steady increase in NTDs. Trauma donors are younger and have fewer comorbidities while the percentage of donors who were public health service high risk or who underwent donation after cardiac death were clinically similar. The TDs produce more organs/donor (3.5 vs. 2.4, p < 0.001), are more likely to yield an extrarenal organ, and exhibit lower (better) Kidney Donor Risk Index scores, a predictor of graft longevity. These better outcomes are maintained after stratifying by age.

CONCLUSION

Over the past 30 years, the number of NTDs has increased much more than the number of TDs. However, TDs remain a critically important organ donor source, yielding more organs per donor, better quality kidneys, and a higher likelihood of extrarenal organs. Potential causes, such as improved resuscitation protocols, should be examined in the future.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Retrospective review, level III.
Conducting fresh whole blood transfusion training
Authors: Fisher Andrew D. , Carius Brandon M. , Corley Jason B. , Dodge P. Max , Miles Ethan A. , Taylor Audra L.
Published: April 2019

Fresh whole blood is the optimal resuscitation fluid for casualties in hemorrhagic shock according to the Committee on Tactical Combat Casualty Care and has demonstrated to improve outcomes in severely wounded patients. Like all medical interventions, fresh whole blood transfusions are not without risks, but similarly can be mitigated through increased training to develop provider knowledge and proficiency. To date, no literature has been published regarding the proper technique to conduct fresh whole blood transfusion training. This article provides a structured foundation to establish a standardized fresh whole blood transfusion training program to increase skill and preparedness for fresh whole blood protocol implementation. Using these techniques in a training environment, providers will be able to provide optimal resuscitation in hemorrhagic shock in austere environments.
Bicycle lanes: Are we running in circles or cycling in the right direction?
Authors: Smith Alison , Zucker Shana , Lladó-Farrulla Mónica , Friedman Jessica , Guidry Chrissy , McGrew Patrick , Schroll Rebecca , McGinness Clifton , Duchesne Juan
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

The number of urban bicyclists has grown exponentially across the United States. Bike lanes were created to promote a safe environment for both motorist and cyclists, but few studies have specifically addressed the outcomes of these interventions. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of bike lanes on bicycle usage and safety in a major urban city.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of consecutive adult trauma patients presenting at an urban Level I trauma center due to motor vehicle versus bicycle collisions from January 1, 2007, to January 28, 2017, was performed. Cohorts were stratified into prebicycle and postbicycle lane implementation for analysis.

RESULTS

Bicycle use during the study period increased almost three fold (1,672 vs. 6,060, p < 0.0001). There was also a spike in the percent of yearly bicyclists as trauma patients during the 10-year period (0.7% vs. 1.5%, p < 0.05). A total of 184 patients brought to the trauma center were identified. Significant differences between the prebike lane and postbike lane groups were identified for average Injury Severity Score (12.7 ± 1.7 vs. 8.0 ± 0.6 p = 0.0134), Glasgow Coma Scale score on arrival (12.6 ± 0.7 vs. 13.9 ± 0.2, p = 0.0171), proportion of head and face injuries (59.4% to 38.8%, p = 0.047), and patients requiring surgical intervention (100% to 55.9%, p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

As bicycle lanes become increasing popular in US cities, it is important to review the success of this intervention on improving safety. Preliminary results from this study suggest that the implementation of urban bike lanes improved bicyclist safety. Further studies should focus on specific injury prevention programs, which could help to target areas such as helmet use and riding a bicycle while impaired to help improve overall safety.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic and epidemiological, level IV.
Lower education and income predict worse long-term outcomes after injury
Authors: Herrera-Escobar Juan P. , Seshadri Anupamaa J. , Rivero Rachel , Toppo Alexander , Al Rafai Syeda S. , Scott John W. , Havens Joaquim M. , Velmahos George , Kasotakis George , Salim Ali , Haider Adil H. , Nehra Deepika
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

Lower socioeconomic status (SES) is known to be associated with higher morbidity and mortality following injury. However, the impact of individual SES on long-term outcomes after trauma is unknown. The objective of this study was to determine the impact of educational level and income on long-term outcomes after injury.

METHODS

Trauma patients with moderate to severe injuries admitted to three Level-I trauma centers were contacted 6 months to 12 months after injury to evaluate functional status, return to work/school, chronic pain, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Lower SES status was determined by educational level and income. Adjusted logistic regression models were built to determine the association between educational level and income (lowest vs. highest quartile determined by census-tract area) on each of the long-term outcomes. A sensitivity analysis was performed using the national median household income ($57,617) as threshold for defining low versus high income.

RESULTS

A total of 1,516 patients were followed during a 36-month period. Forty-nine percent had a low educational level, and 26% were categorized in the low-income group. Mean (SD) age and injury severity score were 60 (21.5) and 14.3 (7.3), respectively, with most patients (94%) having blunt injuries. After adjusting for confounders, low educational level was associated with poor long-term outcomes: functional limitation [odds ratio (OR), 1.78 (95% confidence interval (CI), 1.41–2.26)], has not yet returned to work/school [OR, 2.48 (95% CI, 1.70–3.62)], chronic pain [OR, 1.63 (95% CI, 1.27–2.10)], and PTSD [OR, 2.23 (95% CI, 1.60–3.11)]. Similarly, low-income level was associated with not yet return to work/school [OR, 1.97 (95% CI, 1.09–3.56)], chronic pain [OR,1.70 (95% CI, 1.14–2.53)], and PTSD [OR, 2.20 (95% CI, 1.21–3.98)]. In sensitivity analyses, there were no significant differences in long-term outcomes between income levels.

CONCLUSION

Low educational level is strongly associated with worse long-term outcomes after injury. However, although household income is associated with long-term outcomes, it matters where the threshold is. The impact of different socioeconomic measures on long-term outcomes after trauma cannot be assumed to be interchangeable.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic and epidemiological, level III.
Shock index and pulse pressure as triggers for massive transfusion
Authors: Zhu Caroline S. , Cobb Danielle , Jonas Rachelle B. , Pokorny Douglas , Rani Meenakshi , Cotner-Pouncy Tracy , Oliver Jenny , Cap Andrew , Cestero Ramon , Nicholson Susannah E. , Eastridge Brian J. , Jenkins Donald H.
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

Hemorrhage is the most common cause of preventable death in trauma patients. These mortalities might be prevented with prehospital transfusion. We sought to characterize injured patients requiring massive transfusion to determine the potential impact of a prehospital whole blood transfusion program. The primary goal of this analysis was to determine a method to identify patients at risk of massive transfusion in the prehospital environment. Many of the existing predictive models require laboratory values and/or sonographic evaluation of the patient after arrival at the hospital. Development of an algorithm to predict massive transfusion protocol (MTP) activation could lead to an easy-to-use tool for prehospital personnel to determine when a patient needs blood transfusion.

METHODS

Using our Level I trauma center's registry, we retrospectively identified all adult trauma patients from January 2015 to August 2017 requiring activation of the MTP. Patients who were younger than 18 years, older than 89 years, prisoners, pregnant women, and/or with nontraumatic hemorrhage were excluded from the study. We retrospectively collected data including demographics, blood utilization, variable outcome data (survival, length of stay, intensive care unit days, ventilator days), prehospital vital signs, prehospital transport times, and Injury Severity Score. The independent-samples t test and χ2 test were used to compare the group who died to the group who survived. p < 0.05 was considered significant. Based on age and mechanism of injury, relative risk of death was calculated. Graphs were generated using Microsoft Excel software to plot patient variables.

RESULTS

Our study population of 102 MTP patients had an average age of 42 years and average Injury Severity Score of 29, consisted of 80% males (82/102), and was 66% blunt trauma (67/102). The all-cause mortality was 67% (68/102). The positive predictive value of death for patients with pulse pressure of less than 45 and shock index of greater than 1 was 0.78 for all patients, but was 0.79 and 0.92 for blunt injury and elderly patients, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data demonstrate a high mortality rate in trauma patients who require MTP despite short transport times, indicating the need for early intervention in the prehospital environment. Given our understanding that the most severely injured patients in hemorrhagic shock require blood resuscitation, this study demonstrates that this subset of trauma patients requiring massive transfusion can be identified in the prehospital setting. We recommend using Emergency Medical Services pulse pressure in combination with shock index to serve as a trigger for initiation of prehospital whole blood transfusion.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic/care management, level V.
Google Street View assessment of environmental safety features at the scene of pedestrian automobile injury
Authors: Isola Patrick D. , Bogert James N. , Chapple Kristina M. , Israr Sharjeel , Gillespie Thomas L. , Weinberg Jordan A.
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

Pedestrians struck by automobiles are at significant risk for mortality. Multiple environmental features have been developed to promote separation of pedestrians from motor vehicles. However, data on the effectiveness of these pedestrian traffic safety features are lacking. The purpose of this study was to use Google Street View to assess the locations of pedestrian-automobile injury and evaluate the relationship of environmental pedestrian safety features to pedestrian involved crashes.

METHODS

Our trauma registry was queried for pedestrians injured by automobile collision. Google Street View was used to identify safety features present at each injury location. A composite safety score was created by summing the number of safety features at each crash location. A logistic regression model was performed to evaluate the impact of safety features on mortality.

RESULTS

Our sample consisted of 631 patients (69.3% male) with an average age of 40.4 ± 17.0 years and median Injury Severity Score of 10 (5–22). A multivariate logistic regression revealed safety score (range, 0–6) significantly predicted mortality with each one-unit increment associated with a 27.8% decrease in risk of mortality.

CONCLUSION

Increasing number of safety features as represented in a composite score may decrease risk of pedestrian mortality. Google Street View appears to be a viable tool to study the presence and effectiveness of these pedestrian safety features.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Epidemiological, level III