bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of Pericranial Flaps with Dermal Substitute for Scalp Reconstruction: A Case Series
Authors: Chaiyasate Kongkrit , Oliver Lauren N. , Kreitzberg Scott A. , Lyons Mitchell , Goldman Joshua , Lu Stephen M. , Bastiaans Tracey , Lumley Christopher , Sachanandani Neil S.
Published: January 2021

Background:

Skin cancer incidence has been rapidly increasing over the past 2 decades, and the resulting defects from excision have significant aesthetic and functional implications. In particular, wound coverage for large scalp and forehead defects with calvarial exposure can lead to hairline distortion, contour irregularities, and alopecia. We describe a 2-stage technique for scalp reconstruction, which preserves the normal hairline, covers exposed bone with vascularized tissue, and restores an aesthetic soft-tissue contour.

Methods:

This is a retrospective case series of 13 adults with ages ranging from 50 to 89 years. All patients underwent Mohs surgery on the forehead or scalp between July 2014 and April 2017. Patients underwent a 2-staged reconstruction with an initial pericranial flap and dermal substitute placement followed by the placement of a split-thickness skin graft within 4–6 weeks.

Results:

Over a 3-year period, 13 patients had successful reconstruction of the scalp defect without alteration of the hairline or contour irregularity. Two patients had minor complications after the first-stage procedure with successful aesthetic reconstruction.

Conclusions:

Full-thickness defects of the scalp and forehead with bone exposure provide a reconstructive challenge for plastic surgeons. Reconstructive algorithms continue to evolve and should be tailored to best suit patients’ needs and medial comorbidities. Two-staged reconstruction with local pericranial flap provides a safe and efficacious reconstruction that minimizes hairline distortion, contour irregularity, and donor site morbidity.
Outcomes of Poly-4-hydroxybutyrate Mesh in Ventral Hernia Repair: A Systematic Review and Pooled Analysis
Authors: Mellia Joseph A. , Othman Sammy , Naga Hani I. , Messa Charles A. , Elfanagely Omar , Byrnes Yasmeen M. , Basta Marten N. , Fischer John P.
Published: January 2021

Background:

Within the past decade, poly-4-hydroxybutyrate (P4HB) biosynthetic mesh has been introduced as a potential alternative to traditional biologic and synthetic mesh in ventral hernia repair (VHR). The aim of this study was to systematically assess clinical outcomes with the P4HB in VHR.

Methods:

A literature search identified all articles published in 2000 involving the use of P4HB in VHR. Descriptive statistics were used to synthesize collective data points, including postoperative outcomes. A pooled analysis of postoperative outcomes was performed using chi-square test and Fisher exact test.

Results:

Across 7 studies, the P4HB was used in 453 patients. The mean rate of surgical site infection (SSI) was 6.8% (31/453), reoperation 10.7% (30/281), and recurrence 9.1% (41/453). At an average follow-up of 26.8 months, the incidence of recurrence was 10.4% (28/270). Onlay was significantly associated with increased recurrence (14.2% versus 4.4%, P = 0.001). Among sublay placements, there was no difference in recurrence in clean (Center for Disease Control [CDC] 1) or contaminated (CDC >1) wounds (2.7% versus 6.1%, P = 0.585), but contaminated wounds were associated with increased SSI (2.7% versus 15.2%, P = 0.028). Ventral Hernia Working Group grade 2 and 3 did not have different incidences of recurrence (8.0% versus 5.1%, P = 0.526) nor SSI (5.1% versus 14.6%, P = 0.265).

Conclusions:

Overall, clinical outcomes of the P4HB mesh in VHR are acceptable. The P4HB mesh serves as a reliable alternative to traditional synthetic and biologic mesh across a range of defect characteristics and patient health conditions. Further research is needed to better understand the conditions in which it may provide a clinical benefit over traditional mesh types.
Middle-retroauricular Island Flap: A New Axial Flap for Reconstruction of Non-helical Ear Defects
Authors: Papa Giovanni , Stocco Chiara , Arnež Zoran Marij
Published: January 2021

Background:

Surgical treatment of ear carcinomas needs the selection of the appropriate reconstructive techniques, which depends on the location and the dimensions of the defect after excision of the cancer and the quality of blood supply to the peri-lesional skin.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and reliability of a new axial island retroauricular flap (middle-retroauricular island flap M-RIF) for coverage of non-helical ear defects with direct donor site closure.

Methods:

All patients, from January 2013 to January 2020, with skin tumors of the non-helix region and undergoing a combined skin-cartilage excision with M-RIF local flap reconstruction under local anesthesia, were enrolled in the study.

Results:

18 patients (14 men and 4 women) underwent auricle skin-cartilage excision and M-RIF flap reconstruction. The mean age was 65 years (range, 60–85); the type of primary lesions were 12 BCC and 6 SCC. One flap wound dehiscence and one donor site infection and partial necrosis of the posterior auricular skin occurred; no other complications were recorded.

Conclusions:

The M-RIF flap is a valid surgical option when dealing with non-helical defects of the anterior pinna. It allows the reconstruction of the defect of the entire anterior surface of the auricle apart from the helix and the lobe and primary donor site closure.
Development and Validation of Scoring System to Predict Secondary Amputations in Free Flap Reconstruction
Authors: Karamanos Efstathios , Ahmad Hassan , Makhani Ahmed A. , Dev Ameesh N. , Saad Noah , Julian Bao-Quynh , AlQattan Husain , Wang Howard , Cromack Douglas
Published: January 2021

Background:

Need for amputation is a potential complication when limb salvage is attempted. The present study aimed to develop a risk assessment tool to predict the risk of future amputation when counseling patients about their reconstructive options.

Methods:

All patients undergoing a free flap lower extremity soft tissue reconstruction by the senior author from 2005 to 2019 were retrospectively identified. Patient’s demographics, comorbidities, and technical aspects of the operation were extracted. Logistic regressions were used to create a predictive scoring system for future amputation.

Results:

A total of 277 patients were identified. Of these patients, two-thirds (183) were used to derive the scoring system and one-third (94) were used to validate the score. In total, 25 of 183 patients (14%) underwent an amputation. A stepwise forward logistic regression identified age > 55 years, smoking, acute wound, aggressive fluid resuscitation intra-operatively, inability to use a superficial vein for drainage, and inability to use the posterior tibialis artery for anastomosis as independent predictors of need for future amputations. The beta co-efficients were used to create the scoring system, and the patients were categorized into mild, moderate, and severe risk based on their cumulative score. The validity of the scoring system was verified by using the one-third validation cohort.

Conclusions:

In patients undergoing free flap reconstruction of the lower extremity, the need for future amputation is 14%. The use of a scoring system can guide the surgeon’s and patient’s decision regarding limb salvage.
Is Tissue Expansion Worth It? Comparative Outcomes of Skin-preserving versus Delayed Autologous Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Phillips Brett T. , Mercier-Couture Genevieve , Xue Amy S. , Chu Carrie K. , Schaverien Mark V. , Liu Jun , Garvey Patrick B. , Baumann Donald P. , Butler Charles E. , Largo Rene D.
Published: January 2021

Background:

The requirement for postmastectomy radiation therapy (PMRT) at the time of mastectomy is often unknown. Autologous reconstruction is preferred in the setting of radiotherapy by providing healthy vascularized tissue to the chest. To maximize mastectomy skin preservation, tissue expander (TE) placement maintains the breast pocket until definitive reconstruction. This study aims to compare outcomes of skin-preserving delayed versus standard delayed autologous breast reconstruction in the setting of PMRT.

Methods:

A retrospective review of a prospective database was performed of two patient cohorts at a single center between 2006 and 2016. Inclusion criteria were locally advanced breast cancer patients who completed PMRT and free autologous reconstruction. Primary outcomes were major intraoperative and postoperative TE and flap complications.

Results:

Over 10 years, 241 patients underwent mastectomy and PMRT. Standard delayed autologous breast reconstruction was performed in 131 breasts (non-TE group). Skin-preserving delayed autologous reconstruction was performed in 113 breasts (TE group). The TE group was associated with a higher incidence of intraoperative complications during flap reconstruction (P = 0.002) and had a higher venous thrombosis incidence than the non-TE cohort (P = 0.007). Other major postoperative complications were not significantly different between the two groups. TE patients had 7.5 times higher risk of intraoperative complications and an 18.6% TE loss rate.

Conclusions:

We identified higher intraoperative flap complications and a high rate of TE loss in patients who underwent skin-preserving delayed autologous breast reconstruction. The benefit of mastectomy skin preservation needs to be weighed against the increased risk of TE loss and higher rates of flap thrombosis.
Surgeon-administered Ultrasound-guided Peripheral Nerve Blocks in Outpatient Procedures of the Upper Extremity
Authors: Winter Jessica , McLeod Graham , Quaife Tanis , Petropolis Christian
Published: January 2021

Outpatient hand surgery is often performed in the operating room, which can result in prolonged waiting times for patients when operating room resources are limited. Few studies have explored the application of ultrasound-guided nerve blocks in the setting of outpatient hand surgery. Fifty patients were enrolled in this prospective study. Ultrasound-guided peripheral nerve blocks were performed at the level of the elbow and proximal forearm for outpatient hand surgeries. A timer was used to record the time to administer the block and time to affect. A post-procedure survey was administered, which included a numerical analogue scale (0–10) and Likert rating scale questions to characterize the patients’ pain experience for receiving the block and pain during the procedure: pain experienced by patients receiving the ultrasound-guided nerve block(s) (0–10), mean: 1.84; pain experienced by patients during a procedure (0–10), mean: 0.56; surgeon satisfaction during the procedure (0–10), mean 9.78. Average time to perform the ultrasound-guided nerve block(s) was 4 minutes 58 seconds; average time from completion of the block to effect reported by patients, 5 minutes 42 seconds; the average time for performing the procedure, 21 minutes 30 seconds. Our study shows that the use of ultrasound to block peripheral nerves of the forearm is effective; <10% of patients required additional local anesthetic. The technique is safe; no complications were reported. The technique is efficient in an outpatient hand surgery setting.
Basal Cell Carcinoma with Sebaceous Differentiation: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Shash Hani Ali , Almarzouq Sawsan Fahad , Alghamdi Abdulrahman Abdulaziz , Alratroot Jumana Abdulwahab
Published: January 2021

We report a very rare type of tumor in the left nasal ala in an elderly patient. An 81-year-old Saudi woman known to have hypertension, osteoporosis, and rheumatoid disease (who had been compliant to her medications) presented with a 0.5-cm fixed, firm, round well-defined nodule on the left ala of the nose (with crusting, erosion, and telangiectasia of the overlying skin), whose size had been gradually increasing for 2 years. The patient underwent excisional biopsy, and the specimen was sent for a histopathologic analysis. Macroscopic examination showed a round tan-white homogenous nodule, measuring 0.6 × 0.5 × 0.5 cm3. Microscopic examination revealed a fairly circumscribed unencapsulated dermal lesion, featuring basaloid cells with peripheral palisading, and focal stromal clefting. The final diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma with sebaceous differentiation was made. The patient was managed with Mohs surgery with clear margins, and full-thickness skin graft was done. Four months after surgery, the patient had a recurrence, which was managed with a surgical excision (with 4-mm margin) and covered by a full-thickness skin graft.
National Disparities in Insurance Coverage of Comprehensive Craniomaxillofacial Trauma Care
Authors: Kotha Vikas S. , de Ruiter Brandon J. , Nicoleau Marvin , Davidson Edward H.
Published: January 2021

Background:

Comprehensive craniomaxillofacial trauma care includes correcting functional deficits, addressing acquired deformities and appearance, and providing psychosocial support. The aim of this study was to characterize insurance coverage of surgical, medical, and psychosocial services indicated for longitudinal facial trauma care and highlight national discrepancies in policy.

Methods:

A cross-sectional analysis of insurance coverage was performed for treatment of common functional, appearance, and psychosocial facial trauma sequelae. Policies were scored for coverage (3), case-by-case coverage (2), no mention (1), and exclusion (0). The sum of points determined coverage scores for functional sequelae, acquired-appearance sequelae, and psychosocial sequelae, the sum of which generated a Comprehensive Coverage Score.

Results:

Medicaid earned lower comprehensive coverage scores and lower coverage scores for psychosocial sequelae than did private insurance (P = 0.02, P = 0.02). Medicaid CCSs were lowest in Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Missouri. Private insurance CCSs and psychosocial sequelae were highest in Colorado and Delaware, and lowest in Wisconsin. Coverage scores for functional sequelae and for acquired-appearance sequelae were similar for Medicaid and private policies. Medicaid coverage scores were higher in states that opted into Medicaid expansion (P = 0.04), states with Democrat governors (P = 0.02), states with mandated paid leave (P = 0.01), and states with >40% total population living >400% above federal poverty (P = 0.03). Medicaid comprehensive coverage scores and coverage scores for psychosocial sequelae were lower in southeastern states. Private insurance coverage scores for functional sequelae and for ASCSs were lower in the Midwest.

Conclusions:

Insurance disparities in comprehensive craniomaxillofacial care coverage exist, particularly for psychosocial services. The disparities correlate with current state-level geopolitics. There is a uniform need to address national and state-specific differences in coverage from both Medicaid and private insurance policies.
Meshed Acellular Dermal Matrix in Immediate Prepectoral Implant-based Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Scheflan Michael , Allweis Tanir M. , Ben Yehuda Dafna , Maisel Lotan Adi
Published: January 2021

Background:

Prepectoral implant placement has many potential advantages in immediate breast reconstruction. Acellular dermal matrices (ADMs) are commonly used in these surgeries. ADM meshing may enhance integration, decrease seroma and infection rates, and reduce surgical costs.

Methods:

This was a retrospective, single-center study of 49 women (71 breasts) undergoing immediate, prepectoral, implant-based breast reconstruction with 2:1 meshed, bovine-derived ADM (SurgiMend). Outcomes were compared against those of 77 patients (105 breasts) undergoing a similar procedure but with partial subpectoral implant placement.

Results:

In the prepectoral group, the mean age was 49.1 years and mean body mass index was 24.7 kg/m2. There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics versus the partial subpectoral control group. Mean follow-up was 18.6 months (prepectoral) and 21.3 months (partial subpectoral). Mean time to drain removal was reduced in the prepectoral group (6.5 versus 8.5 days; P < 0.001). Rates of minor and major complications with prepectoral implant placement were 15.5% and 11.3%, respectively – similar to partial subpectoral placement (15.2% and 14.3%) (overall P = 0.690). Capsular contracture and explantation were associated with radiation therapy, and rates were similar between groups.

Conclusions:

Prepectoral implant placement with meshed ADM is a safe and reproducible alternative to partial muscle coverage with meshed ADM. Recovery may be easier and animation deformity avoided. It could therefore become the standard of care for implant-based breast reconstruction.
A Surgical Alternative in the Treatment of Recurrent Diaphragmatic Hernia after Total Gastrectomy
Authors: Abboud Nicolas M. , Rimbault Margot , Abboud Sofie , El Nakadi Issam , Charara Fadi G.
Published: January 2021

Treament of hiatal hernia remains a challenge for surgeons. The techniques for treatment started with cruroplasty, which was later associated with extensive mobilization of the esophagus, with or without fundoplication. Other solutions included the use of synthetic or biological mesh and autologous tissue reinforcement. Despite these therapeutic strategies, the recurrence rate for hiatal hernia is significant, and no existing treatments have had much success in reducing this rate. Total gastrectomy, as in this case, represents an additional challenge because of the absence of gastric tissue, which can buttress the pillars’ repair. This case report introduces a novel approach for the treatment of recurrent hiatal hernia, using a pedicled vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap.
No Opioids after Septorhinoplasty: A Multimodal Analgesic Protocol
Authors: Hall Bradley R. , Billue Katherine L. , Hon Heidi , Sanders Stacey E. , Barrientos Stephan , Flores Laura E. , Nicholas Thomas , Shostrom Valerie , Meyer Bria , Johnson Perry J.
Published: January 2021

Background:

From a public health perspective, nasal surgery accounts for many unused opioids. Patients undergoing septorhinoplasty require few opioids, and efforts to eliminate this need may benefit both patients and the public.

Methods:

A multimodal analgesic protocol consisting of 15 components encompassing all phases of care was implemented for 42 patients.

Results:

Median age and BMI were 34 years and 23, respectively. Most were women (79%), White (79%), primary surgeries (62%), and self-pay (52%). Comorbid conditions were present in 74% of the patients, with anxiety (33%) and depression (21%) being the most common. Septoplasties (67%) and osteotomies (45%) were common. The median operative time was 70 minutes. No patients required opioids in recovery, and median time in recovery was 63 minutes. Ten (24%) patients required an opioid prescription after discharge. In those patients, median time to requirement was 27 hours (range 3–81), and median total requirement was 20 mg morphine equivalents (range 7.5–85). Protocol compliance inversely correlated to opioid use (P = 0.007). Compliance with local and regional anesthetic (20% versus 63%, P = 0.030) as well as ketorolac (70% versus 100%, P = 0.011) was lower in patients who required opioids. Patients who required opioids were less likely to be administered a beta blocker (0% versus 34%, P = 0.041). Pain scores were higher in opioid users on postoperative days 1–5 (P < 0.05). No complications occurred in those requiring opioids, and satisfaction rates were equivalent between groups.

Conclusion:

This protocol allowed us to safely omit opioid prescriptions in 76% of patients following septorhinoplasty, without adverse effects on outcomes or patient satisfaction.
Enhanced Recovery after Abdominoplasty Using Perisurgical Nutritional Supplementation
Authors: Harris Leonard , Darby Peter
Published: January 2021

Background:

Nutritional supplements are common in other surgical specialties but not widely used in the plastic surgery setting. This study compares the surgical outcomes of patients using our standard ERAS protocol involving arnica and bromelain with an updated ERAS protocol using perisurgical nutritional supplementation using a staged administration of nutraceuticals.

Methods:

In total, 300 female abdominoplasty patients were randomly provided with perioperative supplementation consisting of arnica and bromelain, or a 3-stage nutraceutical regimen containing arginine, citrulline, glutamine, bromelain, and vitamin C. Narcotic use in recovery and post-operative drainage were measured, and both groups completed a self-assessment of bruising coloration, days to independent activity, perceived pain, and documented the quantity of narcotic and non-prescription pain killers they took over a 14-day recovery period.

Results:

There were 130 patients in the nutraceutical group and 80 in the arnica and bromelain group; patients were excluded due to non-compliance or due to incomplete data. Patients taking the nutraceutical regimen reported a shorter duration of pain and had a 41% reduction in narcotic use in recovery and experienced 48% less post-operative drainage. Home use of narcotic pain killers decreased by 25%. There also was a trend toward decreased and earlier clearing/maturation of bruising as well as return to daily activates without assistance. Patients also reported an increase in satisfaction with their surgical experience.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrated that perioperative supplementation with nitric oxide precursors, antioxidants, and proteolytic enzymes in a staged fashion can positively affect post-operative outcomes and is an adjunct to enhanced surgical recovery protocols.
RETINAL SURFACE WRINKLING AS AN INDICATOR FOR INTERNAL LIMITING MEMBRANE PEELING DURING VITRECTOMY FOR RETINAL DETACHMENT
Authors: Akiyama Kunihiko , Fujinami Kaoru , Watanabe Ken , Matsuki Takaaki , Tsunoda Kazushige , Noda Toru
Published: January 2021

Purpose:

To assess the validity of retinal surface wrinkling (RSW) as an indicator to select patients relevant for internal limiting membrane peeling during vitrectomy for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, to prevent postoperative visual decline due to epiretinal membrane growth.

Methods:

This was a prospective, interventional case series of 78 consecutive eyes that underwent initial vitrectomy to repair rhegmatogenous retinal detachments and were followed for 6 months. The presence/absence of RSW was evaluated presurgically on en face optical coherence tomographic images. The internal limiting membrane was peeled if RSW was identified. The main outcome measure was the prevalence of postsurgical epiretinal membrane growth that caused a visual decline of 0.2 or more in logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution unit.

Results:

The internal limiting membrane was peeled for RSW appearance in 22 eyes (28.2%). Mild epiretinal membranes developed in 8 of the 56 internal limiting membrane–unpeeled eyes (10.3% of total, 6 eyes at stage 1 in the classification of Govetto); however, visual decline occurred in none of them with the mean visual acuity of these 8 eyes maintained at −0.08 ± 0.11 in logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (≈20/16).

Conclusion:

Visual decline due to epiretinal membrane growth after rhegmatogenous retinal detachment repair was entirely prevented by peeling the internal limiting membrane in about 30% of cases selected for the presence of RSW.
Potential of circulating immune cells as biomarkers of nivolumab treatment efficacy for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Hung Yi-Ping , Shao Yu-Yun , Lee Jan-Mou , Hsu Chiun , Hsu Chih-Hung , Yang Muh-Hwa , Chao Yee
Published: January 2021

Background:

Remarkable progress has been made in immunotherapy, specifically antibodies for programmed death 1 (PD-1) or programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), for treating advanced cancers. In this study, we explored whether circulating immune cells can be used as biomarkers of the efficacy of such therapy.

Methods:

We enrolled patients who received nivolumab, an anti-PD-1 antibody, for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in clinical trials and who consented to the collection of their peripheral blood. Using flow cytometry, we analyzed lymphocyte subclasses and the PD-1 or PD-L1 positivity of immune cells. These results were compared between patients with disease control (complete response, partial response, or stable disease) and those with disease progression.

Results:

This study included 16 patients. The objective response rate was 19%, and the disease control rate was 75%. The hemogram results and the percentage of total αβ T cells or CD4 T cells did not significantly change after nivolumab treatment; moreover, they were not associated with treatment outcomes. The number of CD8 T cells significantly increased after 4 weeks (p = 0.016); however, this change was not associated with treatment outcomes. Patients with disease control exhibited peripheral B cells with significantly lower pretreatment PD-1 positivity than did patients with disease progression (p = 0.042). Patients with disease progression were more likely to exhibit monocytes with increased PD-L1 positivity after 28 (p = 0.020) or 42 (p = 0.008) days of treatment.

Conclusion:

The low pretreatment PD-1 positivity of peripheral B cells and the constant posttreatment PD-L1 positivity of monocytes were associated with disease control after nivolumab treatment for advanced HCC.
Effect of dexamethasone intravitreal implant for refractory and treatment-naive diabetic macular edema in Taiwanese patients
Authors: Wang Jia-Kang , Huang Tzu-Lun , Hsu Yung-Ray , Chang Pei-Yao
Published: January 2021

Background:

Dexamethasone (DEX) implant has been shown to improve visual and anatomic function in patients with diabetic macular edema (DME). The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy and safety of DEX implant between refractory and naive eyes with DME.

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed data from pseudophakic patients with center-involved DME who received DEX implant (1 + as needed retreatment) from May 2015 to May 2017. Baseline clinical characteristics, changes in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central foveal thickness (CFT) were analyzed and compared between the two groups. Adverse events were recorded.

Results:

Thirty-four eyes of 31 patients refractory to anti–vascular endothelial growth factor agents and 41 eyes of 38 treatment-naive patients were reviewed. Baseline characteristics were comparable between the two groups (p > 0.05). In the refractory eyes, significant improvements in both BCVA and CFT were observed at 1 month post DEX implant and sustained throughout 6 months. Mean change from baseline in BCVA at 6 months was –0.17 ± 0.35 logMAR (7.29 ± 16.22 letters) and 155.44 ± 112.67 μm in CFT. Similar trends of improvement were seen in treatment-naive eyes; however, the visual improvement (–0.30 ± 0.29 logMAR [16.42 ± 14.38 letters]) was significantly better than the refractory group, with significantly less injections (1.54 ± 0.49 versus 1.82 ± 0.38, p = 0.007). Between-group changes in CFT were comparable. No serious ocular complications occurred, and about a quarter of the patients had elevated intraocular pressures that were manageable with topical medications.

Conclusion:

To our knowledge, this was the first study comparing DEX implant between treatment-naive and refractory Asian patients with DME. Intravitreal DEX implant can effectively treat refractory and treatment-naive patients with DME. In addition, superior visual outcomes were observed in the naive group comparing to the refractory group following DEX implant treatment in Taiwanese pseudophakic eyes with DME.
Pandemic aspect of dexamethasone: Molecular mechanisms and clinical application
Authors: Li Anna F. Y. , Wang Chia-Lin , Tai Hsiao-Yun , Fu Yun-Ju , Tsai Fu-Ting , Tsai Yi-Ching , Ko Yu-Ling , Li Mei-Jane , Lin Chiou-Chyn , Chang Tai-Jay
Published: January 2021

The rapid spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in many countries has caused inconvenience in conducting daily life activities, and even deaths. Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid applied in clinical medicine since 1957, especially in immune therapy fields. Herein, we present the characteristics of Dexamethasone, from molecular mechanisms such as genomic and nongenomic pathways by cellular signal regulations, to clinical applications in various phases of the disease. During COVID-19 pandemic, Dexamethasone given to patients who required oxygen or ventilation therapy showed improved life efficacy.
Pain management in the surgical ICU patient
Authors: Harvin John A. , Kao Lillian S.
Published: January 2021

Purpose of review

Acute pain management in the surgical ICU is imperative. Effective acute pain management hastens a patient's return to normal function and avoid the negative sequelae of untreated acute pain. Traditionally, opioids have been the mainstay of acute pain management strategies in the surgical ICU, but alternative medications and management strategies are increasingly being utilized.

Recent findings

Extrapolating from lessons learned from enhanced recovery after surgery protocols, surgical intensivists are increasingly utilizing multimodal pain regimens (MMPRs) in critically ill surgical patients recovering from major surgical procedures and injuries. MMPRs incorporate both oral medications from several drug classes and regional blocks when feasible. In addition, although MMPRs may include opioids as needed, they are able to achieve effective pain control while minimizing opioid exposure.

Even after major elective surgery or significant injury, opioid-minimizing MMPRs can effectively treat acute pain.
Individualized acute kidney injury after care
Authors: Koyner Jay L. , Haines Ryan W. , Bouchard Josee
Published: January 2021

Purpose of review

The aim of this study was to summarize the current evidence around the impact of individualizing patient care following an episode of acute kidney injury (AKI) in the ICU.

Recent findings

Over the last years, evidence has demonstrated that the follow-up care after episodes of AKI is lacking and standardization of this process is likely needed. Although this is informed largely by large retrospective cohort studies, a few prospective observational trials have been performed. Medication reconciliation and patient/caregiver education are important tenants of follow-up care, regardless of the severity of AKI. There is evidence the initiation and/or reinstitution of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone agents may improve patient's outcomes following AKI, although they may increase the risk for adverse events, especially when reinitiated early. In addition, 3 months after an episode of AKI, serum creatinine and proteinuria evaluation may help identify patients who are likely to develop progressive chronic kidney disease over the ensuing 5 years. Lastly, there are emerging differences between those who do and do not require renal replacement therapy (RRT) for their AKI, which may require more frequent and intense follow-up in those needing RRT.

Although large scale evidence-based guidelines are lacking, standardization of post-ICU-AKI is needed.
Use of backboards in cardiopulmonary resuscitation: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Paganini Matteo , Mormando Giulia , Carfagna Fabio , Ingrassia Pier Luigi
Published: January 2021

To achieve optimal chest compression depth, victims of cardiac arrest should be placed on a firm surface. Backboards are usually placed between the mattress and the back of a patient in the attempt to increase cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) quality, but their effectiveness remains controversial. A systematic search was performed to include studies on humans and simulation manikins assessing CPR quality with or without backboards. The primary outcome of the meta-analysis was the difference in chest compression depth between these two conditions. Out of 557 records, 16 studies were included in the review and all were performed on manikins. The meta-analysis, performed on 15 articles, showed that the use of backboards during CPR increases chest compression depth by 1.46 mm in manikins. Despite statistically significant, this increase could have a limited clinical impact on CPR, due to the substantial heterogeneity of experimental conditions and the scarcity of other CPR quality indicators.
Clinically Suspected Dysgerminoma Sent for Frozen Section Confirmation: A Case With Review and Differential Diagnosis of Clear Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Russell Daniel Hugh
Published: January 2021

Clear cell carcinoma accounts for 10% of ovarian cancer in the West and is often associated with endometriosis or adenofibroma, both of which are now considered precursor lesions of clear cell carcinoma and endometrioid carcinoma, with intermediary lesions atypical endometriosis and borderline (atypical proliferative, atypical) adenofibroma. The development of atypical endometriosis or borderline adenofibroma followed by clear cell carcinoma suggests a stepwise progression of neoplasia and is supported by mutational profiling. Clear cell change is common in ovarian surface epithelial tumors, as well as some germ cell tumors, which may obfuscate the diagnosis, particularly in the intraoperative setting. A case is presented of a clinically suspected dysgerminoma in a young patient for which frozen section was performed to confirm the diagnosis. Discussion will focus on ovarian cancers with clear cells with particular emphasis given to clear cell carcinoma.
Fatigue in Children and Young Adults With Physical Disabilities: Relation With Energy Demands of Walking and Physical Fitness
Authors: Bolster Eline A. M. , Balemans Astrid C. J. , de Groot Vincent , Buizer Annemieke I. , Dallmeijer Annet J.
Published: January 2021

Purpose:

To examine whether general fatigue and fatigue during or after walking are related to energy demands during walking and physical fitness in children and young adults with physical disabilities.

Methods:

Sixty-eight individuals with physical disabilities participated. General fatigue (Checklist Individual Strength [CIS8R] questionnaire), walking-induced fatigue (OMNI [OMNIwalk] scale after walking for 6 min), gross and net energy costs (ECs) of walking, physical strain of walking, and aerobic and anaerobic fitness were measured.

Results:

Regression analyses showed no relations with the CIS8R. For all participants, a higher net EC was weakly related to an increased OMNIwalk. For teenagers only, low anaerobic fitness and high physical strain of walking values were moderately related to high OMNIwalk scores.

Conclusion:

Low anaerobic fitness and high physical strain values partly explain fatigue after walking in teenagers with cerebral palsy, but not in younger children. General fatigue was not explained by low fitness levels or high energy demands of walking.
A Structured Goal-Setting Process to Promote Functional and Measurable Outcomes in School-Based Physical Therapy: A Knowledge Translation Study
Authors: Ferro Agnes McConlogue , Quinn Lori
Published: January 2021

Introduction:

Goal setting is an important component of school-based physical therapy; however, evidence suggests that therapists may not consistently write goals that are relevant, context specific, and measurable. The aims of this knowledge translation study were to evaluate implementation of a goal-setting method for school-based therapists.

Method:

This study was created to align with the Knowledge to Action framework and included 1-day training and follow-up mentorship. Goals were assessed pre- and posttraining, and questionnaires assessed barriers and facilitators.

Results:

Twenty-two physical therapists participated. Nineteen participants (90%) strongly agreed/agreed that the training helped change their perspectives about goal setting in the school environment. There was a statistically significant difference in goal quality pre- and posttraining. Therapists identified barriers and facilitators to implementation of effective goal setting in practice.

Discussion:

Results indicate that this method may be effective at improving goal writing that is relevant, context specific, and measurable in school settings.
Feasibility and Validity of the Actiheart Activity Monitor in Children Who Were Hospitalized With Cancer Coadmitted With Classmates: A RESPECT Study
Authors: Schmidt-Andersen Peter , Møller Tom , Mogensen Pernille R. , Schmiegelow Kjeld , Larsen Hanne B. , Nielsen Martin K. F.
Published: January 2021

Purpose:

We investigated the feasibility of the Actiheart monitor to determine total daily energy expenditure and the validity of the Actiheart step test as an accurate estimate of peak oxygen uptake.

Methods:

JOURNAL/ppyty/04.03/00001577-202007000-00013/13FSM1/v/2023-08-23T235949Z/r/image-gif

O
2 peak was estimated with the Actiheart step test and compared with a cardiopulmonary exercise test. Total daily energy expenditure was measured using the Actiheart monitor on days with and without classmate coadmission.

Results:

Of 26 eligible measurement periods (15 children), 89% participated and 91% could participate safely; however, 35% fulfilled demands for valid monitoring. The percentage of children not completing the monitoring period was 10% (attrition) and adherence to classmate visits was 84%. Forty-eight percent of the measurement periods provided data, and only 27% was calibrated data. Actiheart step test significantly overestimated

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O
2 peak compared with the Cardio Pulmonary Exercise Test.

Conclusion:

Measuring total daily energy expenditure using Actiheart is not feasible, nor implementable in children with cancer. Furthermore, the Actiheart step test is not a valid test to estimate

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2 peak in children with cancer.
The Relationship of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation With Sleep and Plasticity
Authors: CENTORINO MICHAEL B. , BAJOR LAURA A. , GOOTAM PRAVEEN K. , NAKASE-RICHARDSON RISA , KOZEL F. ANDREW
Published: January 2021

Neuroplasticity is an area of expanding interest in psychiatry. Plasticity and metaplasticity are processes contributing to the scaling up and down of neuronal connections, and they are involved with changes in learning, memory, mood, and sleep. Effective mood treatments, including repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), are reputed to work via changes in neuronal circuitry. This article explores the interrelatedness of sleep, plasticity, and rTMS treatment. A PubMed-based literature review was conducted to identify all available studies examining the relationship of rTMS, plasticity, and sleep. Key words used in this search included “TMS,” “transcranial magnetic stimulation,” “plasticity,” “metaplasticity,” “sleep,” and “insomnia.” Depressed mood tends to be associated with impaired neural plasticity, while antidepressant treatments can augment neural plasticity. rTMS impacts plasticity, yielding long-lasting effects, with differing impacts on the waking and sleeping brain. Higher quality sleep promotes plasticity and learning. Reports on the sleep impact of high-frequency and low-frequency rTMS are mixed. The efficacy of rTMS may rely on brain plasticity manipulation, enhanced via the stimulation of neural circuits. Total sleep time and sleep continuity are sleep qualities that are likely necessary but insufficient for the homeostatic plasticity driven by slow-wave sleep. Understanding the relationship between sleep and rTMS treatment is likely critical to enhancing outcomes.
68Ga-DOTA-FAPI-04 PET/CT in Erdheim-Chester Disease
Authors: Wu Simin , Pang Yizhen , Chen Yangchun , Sun Huayu , Chen Haojun
Published: January 2021

A 56-year-old woman presented with edema in the upper part of the body, enlarged axillary lymph nodes, and progressive bone pain for 1 year. Malignant disease was initially suspected. This patient underwent 68Ga-DOTA-FAPI-04 PET/CT for detection of the primary lesion and evaluation of disease extent. 68Ga-DOTA-FAPI-04 PET/CT revealed multiple abnormal foci at the skeleton, muscle, lymph nodes, and subcutaneous fat. The imaging findings, highly suggestive of Erdheim-Chester disease, have been later confirmed by histopathology. This case highlights that 68Ga-DOTA-FAPI-04 PET/CT would be useful for evaluating the disease extent, guiding biopsies, and gauging the treatment response in patients with Erdheim-Chester disease.
Soft Palate Fistula in a Patient With Normal Palate as a Rare Complication After Septoplasty
Authors: Jeon Jeong-Bae , Jeon Min Chae , Shin Ji-Hyeon
Published: January 2021

While the formation of a palatal fistula after septoplasty has been reported previously, it is a rare occurrence, especially in a patient with a normal palate. In most of the previous reports, the palatal fistulas were located on the hard palate and associated with various underlying conditions. Here, we present a case of soft palate fistula which developed in a patient with a normal palate after septoplasty. The 20-year old woman complained of liquid regurgitation after her septoplasty procedure. A pin-point size fistula opening was observed on the soft palate. A shallow depression was identified at the junction between the hard and soft palate by a computed tomography scan done before surgery. The fistula was subsequently repaired through a palatal flap. After surgery, the defect was completely closed, and the patient had no more symptoms. In addition, we review the previously reported cases of palatal fistula after septoplasty.
Self-Cross-Linked Hyaluronic Acid Hydrogel in Endonasal Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy: A Randomized, Controlled Trial
Authors: Yu Bo , Tu Yunhai , Zhou Guangming , Shi Jieliang , Wu Ende , Wu Wencan
Published: January 2021

Purpose:

To investigate whether self-cross-linked HA hydrogel fill stimulates wound mucosal regeneration and its epithelialization around the ostia to improve long-term ostial patency in endonasal endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (En-DCR).

Methods:

One hundred and ninety-two patients with unilateral primary chronic dacryocystitis (PCD) were randomized divided into 2 groups: group A (the HA hydrogel group) and group B (the control group). All patients underwent En-DCR. The HA hydrogel group received HA hydrogel filling the ostium at the end of the surgery and the control group received no treatment. The mucosal epithelialization of the wound, the formation of granulation, the formation of scars, and the success rate of ostial patency were compared.

Results:

Our study included 82 patients in group A and 79 patients in group B. At the 2-week follow up, 74 patients (90.2%) in the group A had a healed ostium with a lining of intact epithelial mucosa. It was higher when compared with 56 patients (70.9%) in group B (X2 = 9.698, P < 0.05). At the 12-month follow up, Granulation were present in 7.3% of patients in group A which was significantly lower than the 19.0% of patients in group B (X2 = 4.831, P < 0.05). No statistical difference was found with scars formation between 2 groups (X2 = 1.607, P = 0.205). The success rate of ostial patency was 89.0% (73/82) in group A and 77.2% (61/79) in group B. The success rate was much higher in group A than group B (X2 = 4.02, P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Self-cross-linked HA hydrogel may enhance the success rate of En-DCR for PCD by promoting mucosal epithelial healing and preventing excessive granulation.
Fibula Free Flap Salvage From 10-hour Prolonged Arterial Insufficiency and Venous Thrombosis
Authors: Chen Jonathan H. , Vakharia Kalpesh T.
Published: January 2021

Fibula free flaps are standard in facial reconstructions after head and neck cancer resection and typically have short flap ischemia times, often under 2 hours. Methods for short-term flap ischemia are characterized, but methods for extremely prolonged flap ischemia have not been well-described. We describe a 72-year-old patient who underwent composite floor of mouth and mandible resection with fibula free flap reconstruction. Patient intraoperative instability forced flap ischemia of over 10 hours with arterial insufficiency and venous thrombosis. Despite complicated and extremely prolonged ischemia, aggressive local and systemic anticoagulants with intraoperative leach therapy were still effective in flap salvage. The flap ultimately survived without necrosis. This case describes a method to guide surgeons faced with situations of forced, prolonged flap ischemia. Traditionally indicated in short-term ischemia, anticoagulation and leach methods can be effective for intraoperative treatment of extremely prolonged flap ischemia, arterial insufficiency, and venous thrombosis.
Is Decreased Local Bone Quality an Independent Risk Factor for Complications Following Fracture Fixation of Facial Bones
Authors: Chen Youbai , Han Yudi , Niu Zehao , Pu Wenwen , Tao Ran , Lei Yonghong , Guo Lingli , Zhang Qixu , August Meredith , Zhang Haizhong , Han Yan
Published: January 2021

Purpose:

Although osteoporosis is associated with increased risks of complications of fracture fixation in the orthopedic literature, the association between local bone quality (LBQ) and complications of facial fracture fixation is unknown. The authors aim to identify that if decreased LBQ is an independent risk factor for complications following facial fracture fixation?

Methods:

The authors conducted a prospective cohort study on patients over age of 50 years who underwent open reduction and rigid internal fixation for facial fractures. The primary predictor was LBQ (low or normal), decided by a combination of 3 panoramic indices. Other predictors included age, gender, body mass index (BMI), comorbidities, trauma-related characteristics, etc. The outcome variable was the presence of hardware-related, fracture-healing, wound, or neurosensory complications during 2-year follow-up. Univariate and multivariate regressions were performed to identify any significant association between predictor and outcome variables.

Results:

The sample was composed of 69 patients (27 females) with an average age of 58.6 ± 8.6 years and BMI of 25 ± 3.8. Low-LBQ patients were significantly older, more females, had lower BMI, mainly injured from falls, had more complications compared to their normal-LBQ counterparts. However, multivariable logistic regressions demonstrated that only age (adjusted OR: 1.12, P = 0.031, 95% CI: 1.01, 1.23) and diabetes (adjusted OR: 12.63, P = 0.029, 95% CI: 1.3, 122.53) were significantly associated with overall complications after confounding adjustment.

Conclusions:

The results of the present study indicate that reduced LBQ is not an independent risk factor for complications following facial fracture fixation. The increased risk of complications in low-LBQ patients is more likely to be attributed to other age-related comorbidities such as diabetes. Therefore, the authors recommend detailed workup and good control of comorbidities in elderly trauma patient.