bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms in Community Practice: Age and Operative Variables Predict Survival
Authors: Pae Sarah J. , Carr John Alfred
Published: June 2020

Our objective is to determine if the mortality and functional outcome of patients with ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms treated at community hospitals is more a function of patient factors and comorbidities or hospital system and surgeon-controlled variables. We used a retrospective review of all patients with infrarenal ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms treated at three large community hospitals in Chicago from 1996 to 2005. There was an overall 58 per cent mortality rate. There was a statistically significant difference in the age of those who lived (69 ± 9.8) and those who died (78 ± 7.9, P = 0.0005). Mortality was found to increase with each increasing decade of life. None of the patients from age 50 to 60 died, whereas 44 per cent of the patients from 61 to 70, 65 per cent of those 71 to 80, 64 per cent of those 81 to 90, and 100 per cent of those older than 90 died. There was an increased hazard ratio of 10.9 times the risk of mortality once a patient became older than age 70 (P = 0.02). Intra-operative variables did influence survival: duration of surgery (lived 230 ± 78 minutes, died 324 ± 130 minutes, P = 0.006), intra-operative blood loss (lived 1894 ± 1014 mL, died 5692 ± 3018 mL, P = 0.00003), and blood transfusion (lived 6.7 ± 2.8 units, died 10.5 ± 3.7 units, P = 0.0006). Age and intra-operative factors play a major role in the survival or mortality of patients with ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms. Short operative time combined with minimizing blood loss and transfusion requirements improve survival, especially in the elderly.
Significance of Preoperative Ultrasound Measurement of Gallbladder Wall Thickness
Authors: Majeski James
Published: June 2020

Evaluation of patients with signs and symptoms of biliary tract disease usually includes ultrasound assessment of the gallbladder. Does measurement of the thickness of the gallbladder wall yield any significant information to the clinical surgeon? The records of all my patients undergoing cholecystectomy since 1990 were reviewed. The entire series consists of 401 consecutive patients, in whom 388 procedures were completed laparoscopically, with 14 patients requiring conversion to an open cholecystectomy. Each patient's preoperative evaluation included a gallbladder ultrasound, which included measurement of the diameter of the gallbladder wall. The entire series of cholecystectomies was evaluated according to the ultrasound measured diameter of the gallbladder wall. A thin gallbladder wall was less than 3 mm in diameter. A thick gallbladder wall was 3 mm or greater in diameter. Of the 401 consecutive patients who underwent cholecystectomy for symptomatic gallbladder disease, 86 (21.5%) were removed laparoscopically for acalculous disease. Eleven per cent of patients with acalculous cholecystitis had acute cholecystitis and 89 per cent had chronic cholecystitis. Every patient with either a thin or thick gallbladder wall with acalculous cholecystitis had a successful laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Three-hundred fifteen patients had a laparoscopic cholecystectomy for calculous cholecystitis. In patients with calculous cholecystitis, 28.3 per cent had acute cholecystitis and 71.7 per cent had chronic cholecystitis. The gallbladder wall was found to be greater than 3 mm in 38 per cent of patients with acute calculous cholecystitis and greater than 3 mm in 41 per cent of patients with chronic calculous cholecystitis. One-hundred, forty-two patients, out of a series total of 401, had a gallbladder wall thickness greater than 3 mm by preoperative sonography and 14 of these patients (10%) required conversion to an open cholecystectomy. A preoperative gallbladder ultrasound evaluation for symptomatic cholecystitis, which documents a thick gallbladder wall (≥3 mm) with calculi, is a clinical warning for the laparoscopic surgeon of the potential for a difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy procedure which may require conversion to an open cholecystectomy procedure.
The Correlation of Near-Infrared Spectroscopy with Changes in Oxygen Delivery in a Controlled Model of Altered Perfusion
Authors: Putnam Brant , Bricker Scott , Fedorka Peter , Zelada Juliette , Shebrain Saad , Omari Bassam , Bongard Frederic
Published: June 2020

Alterations in regional tissue perfusion may precede global indications of shock. This study compared regional tissue oxygenation saturation (StO2) using near-infrared spectroscopy with standard hemodynamic and biochemical variables in 40 patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Mean arterial pressure, cardiac output, oxygen delivery, arterial blood gases, and lactate were recorded at specific intervals during surgery. Data were organized by stage of procedure, and the relationship of StO2 to established parameters was investigated. With initiation of CPB, StO2 declined by 12.9 per cent (standard deviation ± 14.75%) with a delayed increase in lactate from 0.9 (interquartile range [IQR], 0.6–1.5) mmol/L to 2.3 (IQR, 1.8–2.5) mmol/L. The minimum StO2 value preceded the maximum lactate level by an average time of 93.9 (standard deviation ± 86.3) minutes. Additionally, a decrease in StO2 corresponded with an increase in base deficit of 4.84 (standard deviation ± 2.37) mEq/L over the same period. Calculated oxygen delivery decreased from a baseline value of 754 (IQR, 560–950) mL/min to 472 (IQR, 396–600) mL/min with initiation and maintenance of CPB. For patients undergoing CPB, StO2 is a reliable, noninvasive monitor of perfusion, which correlates well with oxygen delivery and identifies perfusion deficits earlier than lactate or base deficit.
The Effects of Methamphetamine Use on Trauma Patient Outcome
Authors: Yegiyants Sara , Abraham Jennifer , Taylor Edward
Published: June 2020

A retrospective review was conducted to analyze the effect of methamphetamine use in trauma patients. Charts of all trauma patients admitted to Kern Medical Center from January 1, 2003, to January 5, 2006 (36 months) were analyzed for length of stay, intensive care unit (ICU) admission rate and number of ICU days, ventilator days, and mortality. Results were compared in patients testing positive for methamphetamine (M+) with those who tested negative (M-). Data were then stratified according to six Injury Severity Score (ISS) groups: 1–5, 6–10, 11–15, 16–20, 21–25, and 26–30. A total of 4759 patients were admitted to the trauma unit, 971 of whom had available urine toxicology results. Six hundred seventy-four tested M- and 297 tested M+. There were no differences in total ICU days or ventilator days in the M+ versus M- patients. There was a higher incidence of assault in the M+ group ( P = 0.0001). A trend toward decreased mortality was noted in M+ patients ( P = 0.0778). ISS subset analysis demonstrated an increased ICU admission rate in M+ patients in ISS group 1–5 ( P = 0.0002). There was also an increased length of stay in M+ patients within the ISS 6–10 group (8 versus 5 days, respectively, P = 0.015).
En Bloc Resection of the Duodenum for Locally Advanced Right Colon Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Hakimi Ahmad N. , Rosing David K. , Stabile Bruce E. , Petrie Beverley A.
Published: June 2020

Direct invasion of colorectal adenocarcinoma into adjacent structures occurs frequently, but only rarely is the duodenum involved. This study was undertaken to assess the safety and efficacy of en bloc resection of locally advanced right colon carcinoma invading the duodenum. A retrospective review of 49 patients with locally advanced colon cancer, surgically managed between 2000 and 2005, was performed. Forty-six patients underwent en bloc resection of colon and adjacent organs not involving the duodenum. Three patients with duodenal invasion underwent en bloc partial duodenectomy. The mean operative blood loss, length of stay, postoperative morbidity, and mortality compare favorably between these two groups of patients. Of the 46 patients with en bloc resection of other organs, 27 are alive at 12 to 60 months follow up. Two patients with duodenal invasion are alive without recurrence at 15 and 20 months follow up. En bloc resection of colon cancer invading the duodenum can be performed safely because morbidity and mortality rates are comparable to those attending extended resections of other locally advanced colon carcinomas. Overall survival in patients who underwent surgery with curative intent justifies en bloc duodenal resection in selected patients.
Resection of Benign Duodenal Neoplasms
Authors: Kemp Clinton D. , Russell Robert T. , Sharp Kenneth W.
Published: June 2020

Primary small bowel neoplasms (PSBN) are uncommon, accounting for less than 15 per cent of all gastrointestinal tumors. Benign duodenal neoplasms (BDN) are rare, comprising only 10 to 20 per cent of all PSBN. The treatment is generally surgical resection ranging from local excision to pancreaticoduodenectomy depending on size, location, and number of lesions. Patients undergoing surgical treatment for BDN at Vanderbilt University Medical Center from July 1984 to April 2006, were identified and reviewed retrospectively. Medical records were examined for demographics, operative details, results, and complications. Twenty-six patients were identified of which 56 per cent were male and the mean age was 56 ± 14 years. Lesions were found throughout the duodenum, but the majority (62%) were ampullary. Nearly 75 per cent were adenomas, including over half with dysplasia. Operative interventions and complication rates were: duodenal resection with primary anastomosis (n = 3, 0%), local excision (n = 6, 50%), ampullary resection (n = 10, 30%), and pancreaticoduodenectomy (n = 7, 86%). There were no reoperations or mortalities. Mean followup was 14 months. BDN are an increasingly common problem in an era of frequent use of upper endoscopy. The surgical management of these lesions must be tailored to their size, number, location, and malignant potential. A wide variety of surgical procedures can be performed with acceptable morbidity.
Swallowing Disorders in Trauma Patients: Impact of Tracheostomy
Authors: Sharma Om P. , Oswanski Michael F. , Singer Daniel , Buckley Brooke , Courtright Beth , Raj Shekhar S. , Waite Phillip J. , Tatchell Thomas , Gandaio Angela
Published: June 2020

Tracheostomy is associated with increased aspiration rates, and swallowing disorders have not been well-studied in trauma patients with tracheostomy. Swallowing evaluations were conducted in 224 patients (102 trauma and 122 nontrauma patients). Half of the patients in each group had tracheostomies. Bedside swallow studies were conducted in 40 patients, videofluoroscopy swallow studies in 100 patients, and both studies in 84 patients. χ2, Fisher's exact test, Cramer's V, and descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. Aspiration occurred in 35 per cent (36 of 102) of trauma patients with or without tracheostomy and in 36 per cent (22 of 61) of nontrauma patients with tracheostomy. Aspiration with and without penetration was observed in 54 per cent of trauma patients (55% with tracheostomy) compared with 67 per cent of all nontrauma patients (61% with tracheostomy). Trauma patients with head injuries exhibited 41 per cent (26 of 63) aspiration and 68 per cent (43 of 63) dysphagia compared with 26 per cent (10 of 39) and 59 per cent (23 of 39) in trauma patients with other injuries. There was a lower incidence of dysphagia in trauma patients (65% versus 81% in nontrauma) and in patients with tracheostomy (71% versus 77% without tracheostomy). Tracheostomy was not associated with increased dysphagia or aspiration.
Surgisis Mesh Repair of a Postsacrectomy Perineal Hernia along with Posterior Proctosigmoidectomy for Concomitant Stricture
Authors: Al-Haddad Abdullah A. , Hellinger Michael D. , Akerman Sarah C.
Published: June 2020

Postsacrectomy hernias are uncommon and can present with different signs and symptoms, including constipation, fecal incontinence, bowel obstruction, pain, and posterior bulging. We report a 50-year-old man who underwent sacrectomy for malignant fibrosarcoma complicated with sacral hernia. He presented with obstructive symptoms resulting from a strictured segment of herniated sigmoid colon and underwent bowel resection along with repair of his hernia. We additionally present a review of the literature and treatment of this rare disease.
Standardized Uptake Values for Breast Carcinomas Assessed by Fluorodeoxyglucose-Positron Emission Tomography Correlate with Prognostic Factors
Authors: Ikenaga Naoki , Otomo Naoki , Toyofuku Atsushi , Ueda Yuji , Toyoda Kiyokazu , Hayashi Tohru , Nishikawa Kiyoshi , Tanaka Masao
Published: June 2020

Several studies have revealed the diagnostic value of fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography for breast carcinomas. However, breast carcinomas display considerable variation in 18F-labeled 2-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose uptake, and few papers have reported the clinical utility of the standardized uptake values (SUV). The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between SUV assessed by positron emission tomography (PET) and the clinicopathological characteristics of breast carcinoma. We reviewed 52 breast carcinomas of 45 patients presented at our department between January 2004 and July 2005. We compared the histopathological findings of the breast carcinomas with the preoperative SUV. Of the 52 breast carcinomas, 49 (94%) were detected by preoperative PET. A positive correlation was found between the SUV and tumor size ( P < 0.01), histological grade ( P < 0.01), the expression of the estrogen receptor ( P < 0.001), progesterone receptor ( P < 0.01), and p53 ( P < 0.01). The number of metastatic axillary lymph nodes (r = 0.73; P < 0.0001) and the MIB-1 labeling rates (r = 0.5; P < 0.01) correlated with the SUV of the breast carcinomas. No relationship existed between the SUV and the following: histological tumor types ( P = 0.07), human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 status ( P = 0.10), and the presence of metastatic lymph nodes ( P = 0.10). The SUV of the breast carcinomas correlate with several histopathological and immunohistochemical prognostic factors. We can obtain information on the degree of malignancy of the carcinoma and prognostic factors by preoperative PET examination.
Venous Thromboembolism in Trauma Patients
Authors: Sharma Om P. , Oswanski Michael F. , Joseph Rusin J. , Tonui Peter , Pa-C Libby Westrick , Raj Shekhar S. , Tatchell Thomas , Waite Phillip J. , Gandaio Angela
Published: June 2020

Serial venous duplex scans (VDS) were done in 507 trauma patients with at least one risk factor (RF) for venous thromboembolism (VTE) during a 2-year study period. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) was detected in 31 (6.1%) patients. This incidence was 3.1 per cent in low (1–2 RFs), 3.4 per cent in moderate (3–5 RFs), and 7.7 per cent in high (≥6 RFs) VTE scores ( P = 0.172). Incidence was statistically different (3% vs 7.2%, P = 0.048) on reanalyzing patients in two risk categories, low-risk (1–4 RFs) and high-risk (≥5 RFs). Only 4 of 16 RFs had statistically higher incidence of DVT in patients with or without RFs: previous VTE (27.3% vs 5.6%, odds ratio (OR) 6.628, P = 0.024), spinal cord injury (22.6% vs 5%, OR 5.493, P = 0.001), pelvic fractures (11.4% vs 5.1%, OR 2.373, P = 0.042), and head injury with a greater than two Abbreviated Injury Score (10.5% vs 4.2%, OR 2.639, P = 0.014). On reanalyzing patients with ≥5 RFs vs <5RFs, obesity (14.3 vs 6.1%, P = 0.007), malignancy (5.6% vs 0.6%, P = 0.006), coagulopathy (10.8% vs 1.8%, P = 0.000), and previous VTE (3.2% vs 0%, P = 0.019) were significant on univariate analysis. Patients with DVT had 3.70 ± 1.75 RFs and a 9.61 ± 4.93 VTE score, whereas, patients without DVT had 2.66 ± 1.50 RFs and a 6.83 ± 3.91 VTE score ( P = 0.000). DVTs had a direct positive relationship with higher VTE scores, length of stay, and number of VDS (>1 r, P ≤ 0.001). Increasing age was a weak risk factor (0.03 r, P = 0.5). First two VDS diagnosed 77 per cent of DVTs. Patients with injury severity score of ≥15 and 25 had higher DVTs compared with the ones with lower injury severity score levels ( P ≤ 0.05). Pulmonary embolism was silent in 63 per cent and DVTs were asymptomatic in 68 per cent.
Risk Factors for Pressure Ulcer Development in a Best Practice Surgical Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Frankel Heidi , Sperry Jason , Kaplan Lewis
Published: June 2020

We describe the incidence of and define risk factors for pressure ulcers (PU) in the surgical intensive care unit (ICU). Twelve months of data were collected on all patients admitted to the intensivist-run surgical ICU of a university hospital. PU patients were those who developed a new stage II or greater lesion during or after a surgical ICU stay as identified in Project Impact®, ICD9 discharge, or ICU complications databases. Patients were nursed in pressure-relieving beds with nutrition initiated by 72 hours. χ2, t test, and logistic regression statistics were used. Three percent (25/820) developed PU. Age, ICU length of stay, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation Score (APACHE), and gender were not different between those with and without PU. Patients with PU had a higher blood urea nitrogen/creatinine (30.5/2.2 mg/dL vs 22.0/1.6 mg/dL) and were more frequently vascular patients (28 vs 14.1%), diabetics (40 vs 17.2%), paraplegics (8 vs 0.2%) (all P < 0.01), and patients on pressors (28.0 vs 11.8%, P < 0.02). Multivariate analysis revealed that diabetes (odds ratio [OR] 2.7, 95%, confidence interval [CI] 1.1-6.4), spinal cord injury (OR 16.8, 95%, CI 1.5-183), age > 60 years (OR 2.9,95%, CI 1.2-7.1), and a creatinine >3 mg/dL (OR 3.7,95%, CI 1.2-9.3) were independent predictors of PU. Despite universal use of specialty beds and early nutrition, pressure ulcers developed in 3 per cent. Independent risk factors include age greater than 60 years, diabetes, spinal cord injury, and renal insufficiency. Additional modalities, such as aggressive early mobilization, might be warranted in this cohort.
Conservative Treatment for Patients with Acute Right Colonic Diverticulitis
Authors: Moon Hyoun Jong , Park Jea Kun , Lee Jong In , Lee Jong Hoon , Shin Hyuk Jai , Kim Wan Sung , Kim Mi Sung , Jeong Jin Ho
Published: June 2020

Little is known about the natural history of right colonic diverticulitis treated with conservative management. The purpose of this study was to analyze the short-term outcome of a conservative approach to the treatment of patients with acute right colonic diverticulitis. A retrospective review of the clinical and radiological findings of 62 patients with acute right colonic diverticulitis was carried out. Conservative treatment was provided to 47 patients and surgical treatment to 15 patients with the diagnosis of acute right colonic diverticulitis. An initial ultrasound was performed in 45 of 62 patients (73%) and a CT was performed in 16 of 62 patients (26%). Diverticulitis was confirmed pretreatment diagnosis in 56 of 61 (91.8%) patients who had radiological evaluation. There were seven (11.3%) pericolic abscesses identified as a complication of the diverticulitis. All 47 patients who received conservative management were successfully treated and had improvement of symptoms with no sign of clinical deterioration. For the fifteen patients who had surgery: 5 had right hemicolectomies, 8 had appendectomies without diverticulectomy, 1 had an appendectomy with diverticulectomy, and 1 had diverticulectomy alone. During a median follow-up of 23.9 months, two of 55 (3.6%) patients who did not have surgical resection for inflamed diverticulum had recurrences one and ten months after the initial treatment; they were successfully treated again with bowel rest and antibiotics without complication. Conservative treatment should be considered as a safe and effective option for acute right colonic diverticulitis. In addition, a less aggressive approach may be more suitable for recurrent diverticulitis than extended surgical resection.
Variable Phenotypic Expression of Identical MYH Germline Mutations in Siblings with Attenuated Familial Adenomatous Polyposis
Authors: Raoof Mustafa , Canter Robert J. , Paty Philip B.
Published: June 2020

Germline mutations in the Mutant-Y-homologue (MYH) gene have been linked to an attenuated form of familial adenomatous polyposis in patients who express a wild-type adenomatous polyposis coli gene. However, the diverse clinical manifestations of MYH mutations have not been fully elucidated. We report a case of siblings with identical germline mutations in the MYH gene, one of whom developed a locally advanced colon adenocarcinoma with few other adenomatous lesions, whereas the other had numerous benign colonic polyps. The variable genotype–phenotype manifestations of MYH mutations and the attenuated familial adenomatous polyposis syndrome are discussed.
Efficacy of Feeding Tube Placement during Pancreaticoduodenectomy for Chronic Pancreatitis
Authors: Schnelldorfer Thomas , Adams David B.
Published: June 2020

Malnutrition, intestinal dysmotility, and gastroparesis are frequent problems in patients with chronic pancreatitis who undergo pancreaticoduodenectomy. This has led to the practice of operative placement of enteral feeding tubes. The purpose of this study is to examine the efficacy of feeding tubes placed during pancreaticoduodenectomy in patients with chronic pancreatitis. The records of 78 consecutive patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy for chronic pancreatitis were retrospectively reviewed and analyzed. Forty-nine patients who received feeding tubes at the time of operation were compared with 29 who did not have feeding tubes placed. Both groups had similar disease progress measured by duration of symptoms and preoperative nutritional status. During the observation period, there was a trend toward not using operative feeding tubes (first 6 years 84 per cent versus last 2 years 33%). The overall complication rate after pancreaticoduodenectomy was 54 per cent. Placement of a feeding tube was associated with an increase in intra-abdominal morbidity from 34 per cent to 57 per cent ( P < 0.03). None of the patients had a complication directly related to placement of the feeding tube. Eighty-eight per cent of the placed feeding tubes were used. Despite feeding tube placement, 49 per cent of patients with feeding tubes required postoperative use of total parenteral nutrition compared with 55 per cent of patients without feeding tubes ( P > 0.05). Length of hospital stay and hospital readmission during the first postoperative year were not affected by feeding tube placement. In conclusion, simultaneous feeding tube placement along with pancreatic head resection for chronic pancreatitis can be performed safely. The majority of the feeding tubes are used in postoperative care, but they do not prevent the need for total parenteral nutrition and do not shorten length of hospital stay.
Fourth-Portion Duodenal Diverticulum Causing Massive Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Authors: Ruiz-Tovar Jaime , SÁInz Renato , Sanjuanbenito Alfonso , MartÍNez Molina Enrique
Published: June 2020

Most duodenal diverticula are asymptomatic, incidentally discovered at endoscopy or barium studies. Upper gastrointestinal bleeding has been described, but it is an infrequent complication. We describe the 14th case reported in the literature of massive upper gastrointestinal bleeding originating from a duodenal diverticulum.
Primary Alveolar Soft-Part Sarcoma of the Liver: Anomalous Presentation of a Rare Disease
Authors: Shaddix Kyle K. , Fakhre G. Peter , Nields William W. , Steers Jeffery L. , Hewitt Winston R. , Menke David M.
Published: June 2020

Alveolar soft-part sarcoma is a highly vascular soft-tissue tumor that is uniformly malignant. It comprises less than 1 per cent of all soft-tissue sarcomas. Patients with alveolar soft-part sarcoma most frequently are aged 15 to 35 years, and the soft tissues of the lower extremities typically are affected. In the pediatric population, it most frequently occurs in the head and neck and particularly affects the tongue and orbit. Alveolar soft-part sarcoma has been described as a primary lesion in the trunk, upper extremities, and retroperitoneum; more novel locations include the mediastinum, female genital tract, stomach, bone, and larynx. Numerous case reports describe alveolar soft-part sarcoma in diverse anatomic locations, but this report is, to our knowledge, the first documentation of primary alveolar soft-part sarcoma of the liver. We describe a 47-year-old woman with such a manifestation. Despite surgical resection and numerous chemotherapeutic regimens, this patient had widespread metastasis and died approximately 2 years after the diagnosis was established.
Adenocarcinoma Arising from Chronic Perianal Crohn's Disease: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Smith Richard , Hicks David , Tomljanovich Paul I. , Lele Shashikant B. , Rajput Ashwani , Bullard Dunn Kelli
Published: June 2020

Perianal disease is a common manifestation of Crohn's disease. Rarely malignancy arises in perianal fistulas. The etiology of fistula related cancer remains a subject of debate. We present a unique case of a perianal Crohn's disease with adenomatous epithelialization of a fistula tract and an associated mucinous adenocarcinoma. Our case demonstrates that mucinous adenocarcinoma can arise in long standing perianal Crohn's disease and may be associated with adenomatous transformation of the epithelial lining of the fistula tract.
Hepatic Malignant Epithelioid Hemangioendothelioma: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Woodall Charles E. , Scoggins Charles R. , Lewis Angela M. , Mcmasters Kelly M. , Martin Robert C.G.
Published: June 2020

Malignant epithelioid hemangioendothelioma is a rare hepatic tumor of vascular origin. It is most commonly found in young to middle aged women, and the tumors vary in reported malignant potential. Compounds such as oral contraceptive pills, poly vinyl chloride, and Thorotrast have been identified as risk factors for subsequent disease development. Radiologic (“lollipop” sign, capsular flattening) and pathologic (Factor-VIII antigen staining positive) evaluation aids in the diagnosis. As with most mesenchymal tumors, surgical resection is the most effective means of controlling local disease and preventing distant metastasis, though adjuvant therapies have been offered for those that are unresectable or not transplant candidates. We present our case of a hepatic malignant epithelioid hemangioendothelioma and a review of the English-language literature.
Does Single, Low-Dose Preoperative Dexamethasone Improve Outcomes after Colorectal Surgery Based on an Enhanced Recovery Protocol? Double-Blind, Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Kirdak Turkay , Yilmazlar Aysun , Cavun Sinan , Ercan Ilker , Yilmazlar Tuncay
Published: June 2020

Preoperative single, high-dose methylprednisolone administration improves postoperative outcomes after colonic surgery. Several randomized studies, including major surgeries, assessed various high-dose steroid regimens; however, evidence about the effect of administration of lower doses on postoperative outcomes in colorectal surgery is not available. The aim of the present study is to determine whether the administration of a single, low dose of dexamethasone before surgery would confer an outcome advantage after colorectal surgery. Thirty patients undergoing colorectal surgery were included in this randomized, double-blind study. Patients received 8 mg dexamethasone or serum physiologic preoperatively. Levels of Interleukin-6 and C-reactive protein, pain scores, postoperative nausea and vomiting, mobilization, complications, hospital stay, and readmissions were compared. Age, sex, indications, and operations were similar in both groups ( P > 0.05). C-reactive protein and Interleukin-6 levels increased significantly postoperatively in each group ( P < 0.05), but there were no differences between groups when compared ( P > 0.05). There were also no significant differences between pain scores, bowel functions, mobilization, hospital stay, complication rates, and readmission rates between the two groups ( P > 0.05). Preoperative 8 mg dexamethasone administration has no significant effect on reducing postoperative inflammatory response and also does not improve outcomes of colorectal surgery.
Schistosomiasis: A Rare Cause of Acute Appendicitis in the African American Population in the United States
Authors: Nandipati Kalyana , Parithivel Vellore , Niazi Masooma
Published: June 2020

Schistosomal appendicitis is rarely reported in developed countries. In this article we report a case series of schistosomal appendicitis at our community teaching hospital. In this retrospective study, we conducted a thorough database search for schistosomiasis in patients who had undergone appendectomy for acute appendicitis from 1995 to 2005. Of 1690 total appendectomies performed during this period, three cases of schistosomal appendicitis were identified. Data obtained included patient demographics, laboratory investigations, and pathological specimen. All patients belong to the African American race, are between the ages of 20 and 40 (mean 29.3 ± 9.5) years, and had onset of symptoms <24 hours in duration. Sudden onset of right lower abdominal pain with leucocytosis (14.1 ± 1.4 x 103) is a common feature. All patients underwent appendectomy and each was found to have an enlarged and inflamed appendix intraoperatively. Histopathology revealed transmural inflammation predominantly with neutrophils and scanty eosinophils. Schistosomal granulations are present in all layers of appendix including serosa. All patients had an uneventful postoperative recovery. Schistosomal appendicitis is an uncommon condition especially in developed countries like the United States. However, with recent changes in global migration, schistosomiasis should be considered as one of the causes for appendicitis, especially in the African American population.
Randomized, Controlled Study of Branched Chain Amino Acid-Enriched Total Parenteral Nutrition in Malnourished Patients with Gastrointestinal Cancer Undergoing Surgery
Authors: Sun Li-Chu , Shih Ying-Ling , Lu Chien-Yu , Hsieh Jan-Sing , Chuang Jui-Fen , Chen Fang-Ming , Ma Cheng-Jen , Wang Jaw-Yuan
Published: June 2020

The objective of this study was to investigate the potential benefit of branched chain amino acid (BCAA)-enriched total parenteral nutrition (TPN) for malnourished surgical patients with gastrointestinal cancer. Sixty-four malnourished patients with gastrointestinal cancer with elective surgical intervention were equally allocated into two groups to receive isonitrogenous and iso-caloric TPN. All of them must have received TPN soon after surgery and were subsequently randomized and divided into either BCAA-enriched TPN (30% BCAA; intervention group) or standard TPN (24% BCAA; control group). Patient biochemical data, nutritional parameters, and clinical outcome were collected to analyze the significance of BCAA-enriched TPN. After a period of TPN, laboratory data, including white blood cell (WBC), C-reactive protein (CRP), alkaline phosphatase (ALK-P), and gamma-glutamyltransferase (γ-GT) levels, were significantly different between these two groups (all P < 0.05). Decreasing white blood cell and C-reactive protein levels were observed in the intervention group that might partially explain the reduced numbers of infectious complications. Furthermore, elevating alkaline phosphatase and gamma-glutamyltransferase levels being also less prominent might indicate a lesser hepatic burden by using BCAA-enriched TPN. The BCAA-enriched TPN can maintain a patient's serum visceral protein (albumin and prealbumin) and positive nitrogen balance better than standard TPN (all P < 0.05). Furthermore, a prominently decreased frequency of postoperative morbidity was also found in the BCAA-enriched TPN group (P = 0.021) despite no difference regarding surgical mortality. Our observations show that BCAA-enriched TPN may be beneficial in improving the nutritional status and reducing postoperative complications for malnourished patients with gastrointestinal cancer undergoing major surgery.
Profile and Significance of Emergency Colonic Resections
Authors: Paton B. Lauren , Mostafa Gamal , Lincourt Amy E. , Kercher Kent W. , Heniford B. Todd
Published: June 2020

The objectives of this study are to define the distinguishing features between elective and emergency colonic surgery. The records of adult patients who underwent elective and emergent colonic resection over a 4-year period were retrospectively reviewed. Univariate analysis was performed to compare outcomes for elective and emergency procedures and multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the significant predictors of outcome. Three hundred and thirty-eight elective and 147 emergency colonic resections were performed. Diverticular disease was most common in the emergency group (43.5% vs 14.2%, P = 0.001) whereas malignancy predominated in the elective group (56.2% vs 5.4%, P = 0.001). The emergency group accounted for 54.7 per cent and 79.3 per cent of the total morbidity and mortality. Emergency colonic surgery has distinctive features and significance. Emergency surgery for colonic obstruction and total/subtotal resection are associated with higher morbidity and mortality. Diverticular disease compares favorably to other pathologies in postoperative outcome.
Rett Syndrome and Gastric Perforation
Authors: Shah Malay B. , Bittner James G. , Edwards Michael A.
Published: June 2020

Rett Syndrome is associated with decreased peristaltic esophageal waves and gastric dysmotility, resulting in swallowing difficulties and gastric dilation. Rarely, gastric necrosis and perforation occur. Our case represents the third reported case of gastric necrosis and perforation associated with Rett Syndrome. A 31-year-old female after 11 hours of intermittent emesis and constant, sharp abdominal pain presented with evidence of multiorgan system failure including hypovolemic shock, metabolic acidosis, coagulopathy, and hepatorenal failure. A chest radiograph revealed intra-abdominal free air necessitating emergent laparotomy. During exploration, a severely dilated, thin-walled stomach with an area of necrosis and gross perforation was noted. Wedge resection of the necrotic tissue and primary closure were performed. Despite aggressive perioperative resuscitation and ventilation support, the patient died 3 hours postoperatively secondary to refractory shock and hypoxemia. Severe gastric dilation can occur with Rett Syndrome and may cause gastric necrosis and perforation. Prolonged elevated gastric pressures can decrease perfusion and may contribute to perforation. Timely decompression via percutaneous endoscopic or surgical gastrostomy could decrease the risk of perforation particularly when significant gastric distention is present. Consideration of gastric necrosis and perforation in patients with Rett Syndrome may lead to earlier intervention and decreased mortality.
Splenic Artery Embolization and Endovascular Stapler Integrity in a Porcine Model
Authors: Bellows Charles F. , Choi Yong U. , Sweeney John F. , Jaffe Bernard M. , Dominguez Edward P.
Published: June 2020

Splenic artery embolization is often used before laparoscopic splenectomy in cases of splenomegaly to reduce blood loss and facilitate the procedure. The aim of this study was to examine the general reliability of endovascular staplers when fired at the site of embolization coil deployment using a porcine model. Ex vivo and in vivo experiments were conducted on porcine abdominal aortas, which are similar in diameter to those of the splenic artery in the human. When the endovascular staplers were fired across the porcine vessels at the area of embolization coil deployment ex vivo, the staple lines all failed. In contrast, in vivo, the staple lines remained intact with no bleeding despite resistance imposed by the intravascular coils. Despite consistent failure in the ex vivo studies, in vivo all staple lines held and permitted safe transection of the vessel. We presume that the hemostatic properties of the coils caused sufficient thrombosis in this model, which mimics the clinical situation, to permit division of the previously embolized splenic vessel.
Sentinel Node Mapping for Breast Cancer: The Operative Experience of a Breast Surgeon in a Rural Community
Authors: Davit Flavia E. , Gatmaitan Patrick , Garguilo Gerard
Published: June 2020

Sentinel lymph node biopsy has become an accepted procedure for staging the axilla in early stage breast cancer. Our objectives were to review our practice of sentinel lymph node (SLN) mapping in breast cancer, to determine the impact of frozen section (FS) analysis of the SLN on patient management, and to compare our results to national data. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of our patients with breast cancer who underwent SLN mapping with or without axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) between 1999 and 2006. During this period, 478 patients were treated for breast cancer, with 227 patients undergoing SLN mapping. The SLN was identified in 201 patients, with a positive SLN found in 52 patients (25.9%). There was a discrepancy between the intraoperative analysis (FS/touch prep) and final pathology in 20 patients (11.3%). Nineteen of those patients had a negative FS with positive final pathology. Six of these patients underwent completion ALND. One patient had a false-positive FS with a negative ALND. No axillary recurrences were observed. Eight patients (3.5%) developed postoperative complications. Our practice has been to use intraoperative evaluation of the SLN to reduce the number of patients requiring a secondary ALND. In our study, six patients returned to the operating room for a completion ALND. Our complication rate and axillary recurrence rates were similar to national data.
Retroperitoneal Leiomyosarcoma of the Inferior Vena Cava Mimicking a Liver Tumor
Authors: Sokolich Julio , Mejia Alejandro , Cheng Stephen , Dunn Ernest
Published: June 2020

Leiomyosarcoma of the inferior vena cava (IVC) is a rare sarcoma, but it is the most common primary malignancy of the IVC. It has an extremely poor prognosis. We describe a 60-year-old white female complaining of abdominal fullness for 7 weeks before she sought medical assistance. Initial work-up including sonography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance showed a tumor in the right upper quadrant of the abdominal cavity originating from the liver with compression of the IVC and displacement of the right kidney. The patient underwent surgical resection of the tumor with clear margins and reconstruction of the IVC using a Dacron tubular graft. Postoperatively, she was placed on Coumadin® and adjuvant chemotherapy was started. Subsequently, the patient developed metastasis into the liver and peripancreatic nodes during the follow-up period. Considering the aggressiveness of this tumor, early radical en block resection with clear margins is still the only chance for long-term survival.
Procedure for Prolapsed Hemorrhoids for Treatment of Rectal Mucosa Prolapse following Anorectoplasty for Imperforate Anus
Authors: Amortegui Jose D. , Solla Julio A.
Published: June 2020

Surgical management of imperforate anus and rectal mucosal prolapse has evolved significantly over the last two decades. The procedure for prolapsed hemorrhoids (PPH) is now widely used primarily for rectal mucosal prolapse and internal hemorrhoids. We describe the use of PPH in the management of symptomatic rectal mucosal prolapse in a 39-year-old man with a history of a high imperforate anus and pelvic floor reconstruction. At 4-year follow up, the prolapse has not recurred and the preoperative symptoms have resolved. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the use of a PPH in the management of rectal mucosal prolapse in a patient with these characteristics.
Surgical Treatment of Alcohol-Associated Chronic Pancreatitis: The Challenges and Pitfalls
Authors: Schnelldorfer Thomas , Adams David B.
Published: June 2020

Long-term excessive alcohol consumption is the most common risk factor for the development of chronic pancreatitis. Management of patients with alcohol-associated chronic pancreatitis can be complicated by problems associated with dependency, psychosocial burden, and physical changes like malnutrition and hepatic insufficiency. The records of 372 consecutive patients who underwent lateral pancreaticojejunostomy (LPJ, n = 184), pancreatoduodenectomy (PD, n = 97), or distal pancreatectomy (DP, n = 91) for chronic pancreatitis were retrospectively analyzed. Long-term outcome was assessed by patient survey with a median follow up of 5.5 ± 0.2 years. Of 372 patients, 171 underwent surgery for alcohol-associated chronic pancreatitis. According to patient questioning, the prevalence of alcohol cessation before surgery in the 171 patients was 81 per cent. Operative morbidity in the 171 patients was 20 per cent, 50 per cent, and 26 per cent after LPJ, PD, and DP, respectively, with an overall perioperative mortality rate of 2 per cent. None of the patients developed delirium tremens using an alcohol withdrawal protocol. Continued alcohol abuse before surgery did not affect perioperative morbidity ( P > 0.05). Follow up was available for a total of 229 patients, of which 39 per cent with alcohol-associated chronic pancreatitis had died compared with 16 per cent in the nonalcohol group ( P < 0.001). Of the remaining 171 patients, 45 per cent with alcohol-associated chronic pancreatitis had good pain control compared with 49 per cent of the remainder ( P > 0.05). Continuation of alcohol abuse after operation did not affect success for pain control at follow up ( P > 0.05). Surgical treatment of alcohol-associated chronic pancreatitis can be performed with similar morbidity and mortality compared with other forms of chronic pancreatitis. Alcohol cessation is preferred but not mandated to achieve good operative long-term outcome. Caution needs to be taken to prevent postoperative alcohol withdrawal. Long-term follow up with psychosocial support and management of co-existing addictions is important.
An Objective Study of Pain Relief in Chronic Pancreatitis from Bilateral Thoracoscopic Splanchnicectomy
Authors: Davis Brian R. , Vitale Michael , Lecompte Michael , Vitale David , Vitale Gary C.
Published: June 2020

Pain from chronic pancreatitis leads to disability, malnutrition, and narcotic dependence. This study demonstrates the efficacy of bilateral thoracoscopic splanchnicectomy in reducing pain associated with chronic pancreatitis. This study reviews results from this procedure between 1998 and 2006. Data included pain levels, hospital admissions, nutritional status, and the duration between splanchnicectomy and pancreatic resection. Narcotic use was determined from the Kentucky All Schedule Prescription Electronic Reporting system. Fifty-four patients underwent splanchnicectomy with technical success in 98 per cent and immediate symptom relief in 43 per cent. Additional surgery occurred in 44 per cent (average time to surgery was 26 months). Failure of pain relief occurred in 17 per cent, early recurrence (6–12 months) occurred in 15 per cent, and 68 per cent had over a year of relief. Admissions decreased from 5.8 to 2.9 post surgery. Average pain levels decreased from 8.7 to 6.1 post surgery ( P < 0.001). Kentucky All Schedule Prescription Electronic Reporting demonstrated decreased or stable narcotic use in half of the patients. Over half (55%) maintained or gained weight, whereas 39 per cent experienced weight loss. Discharge occurred 24-hours after surgery. Bilateral thoracoscopic splanchnicectomy demonstrates a positive impact on pain control, hospital admissions, nutritional status, and narcotic use. Thoracoscopic splanchnicectomy is an effective and safe option in the treatment of pain from chronic pancreatitis.
Contemporary Outcomes of Iliofemoral Bypass Grafting for Unilateral Aortoiliac Occlusive Disease: A 10-Year Experience
Authors: Carsten Christopher G. , Kalbaugh Corey A. , Langan Eugene M. , Cass Anna L. , Cull David L. , Snyder Bruce A. , York John W. , Taylor Spence M.
Published: June 2020

Current treatment of complex aortoiliac occlusive disease (AIOD) includes the aortobifemoral bypass or the femoral-femoral bypass. However, because of bilateral groin exposure and associated risks, there is a significant morbidity associated with these procedures. In appropriate patients with unilateral AIOD, the iliofemoral bypass graft (IFBPG) via a lower abdominal retro-peritoneal incision can be an acceptable alternative. The purpose of this study is to review the safety and efficacy as well as long-term outcomes of IFBPG in patients with unilateral AIOD. From July 1997 through June 2006, 40 patients (64.3 ± 11.2-years-old, range 41–89-years-old, 57.5% critical limb ischemia, 70% male, 95% smokers) with unilateral AIOD were treated with IFBPG. Perioperative complications and symptom resolution were measured and Kaplan-Meier life table analysis was used to analyze outcomes of primary and secondary patency, survival, limb salvage, contralateral intervention, and maintenance of ambulation and independent living status. The perioperative complication rate was 12.5 per cent (n = 5) including one patient who developed atrial-fibrillation and one who developed acute renal failure. Both patients experienced resolution of these symptoms before discharge. Other complications included one limb thrombosis and two wound infections. There were no perioperative deaths. Secondary patency was 97.5 per cent and 93.3 per cent at 1 and 5 years. Limb salvage in patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI) was 85.1 per cent and 79.1 per cent at 1 and 5 years. Limb amputation occurred due to infection (n = 2), or failed IFBPG (n = 2). Thirty-one patients (77.5%) experienced symptom resolution including 15 (88.2%) of the patients treated for claudication. Two patients (5%) required contralateral iliac intervention. Patient survival was 97.5 per cent and 64.5 per cent at 1 and 5 years. Greater than 90 per cent of patients maintained their functional independence at 5 years. IFBPG achieved excellent technical and functional outcomes, particularly in patients treated for vasculogenic claudication. This procedure is relatively safe and efficacious in a population of patients with complex unilateral AIOD and can be an acceptable alternative to the aortobifemoral bypass or fem-fem procedure.