bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Organ System Surgery on Intensive Care Unit Mortality in a Cohort of Critically Ill Surgical Patients
Authors: Shchatsko Anastasiya , Purcell Laura N. , Tignanelli Christopher J. , Charles Anthony 
Published: December 2020

Background The critical illness burden in the United States is growing with an aging population obtaining surgical intervention despite age-related comorbidities. The effect of organ system surgical intervention on intensive care units (ICUs) mortality is unknown. Methods We performed an 8-year retrospective analysis of surgical ICU patients. Poisson regression analysis was performed assessing the relative risk of in-hospital mortality based on surgical intervention. Results Of 468 000 ICU patients included, 97 968 (20.9%) were surgical admissions and 97 859 (99.9%) had complete outcomes data. Nonsurvivors were older (68.8 ± 15.4 vs. 62.7 ± 15.8 years, P < .001) with higher Acute Physiology, Age, Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) III Scores (81.4 ± 33.6 vs. 46.7 ± 20.1, P < .001. Patients with gastrointestinal (GI) (n = 1,558, 7.8%), musculoskeletal (n = 277, 5.5%), and neurological (n = 884, 4.6%) system operations had the highest mortality. Upon Poisson regression model, patients undergoing emergent operative interventions on the neurologic system (RR 1.86, 95% CI 1.67-2.07, P < .001) had increased relative risk of mortality when compared to emergent operative interventions on the cardiovascular system after controlling for pertinent covariates. Elective operative interventions on the respiratory (RR 2.39, 95% CI 2.03-2.80, P < .001), GI (RR 2.34, 95% CI 2.10-2.61, P < .001), and skin and soft tissue (RR 2.26, 95% CI 1.77-2.89, P < .001) systems had increased risk of mortality when compared to elective cardiovascular system surgery after controlling for pertinent covariates. Conclusion We found significant differences in the risk of mortality based on organ system of operative intervention. The prognostication of critically ill patients undergoing surgical intervention is currently not accounted for in prognostic scoring systems.
Facility of Origin Predicts Mortality After Colonic Perforation
Authors: Butensky Samuel D. , Gazzara Emma , Sugiyama Gainosuke , Coppa Gene F. , Alfonso Antonio , Chung Paul J. 
Published: December 2020

Introduction Colonic perforation often requires emergent intervention and carries high morbidity and mortality. The objective of this study was to determine whether nonclinical factors, such as transition of care from outpatient facilities to inpatient settings, are associated with increased risk of mortality in patients who underwent emergent surgical intervention for colonic perforation. Materials and Methods Using the 2006-2015 ACS National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database, we identified adult patients who underwent emergent partial colectomy with primary anastomosis ± protecting ostomy or partial colectomy with ostomy with intraoperative finding of wound class III or IV for a diagnosis of perforated viscus. The outcome of interest was 30-day postoperative mortality. Univariate and multivariate analyses using logistic regression were performed. Results 4705 patients met criteria, of which 841 (17.9%) died. Univariate analysis showed that patients who died after emergent surgery for perforated viscus were more likely to present from a chronic care facility (13.4% vs. 4.4%, P < .0001) and had longer time from admission to undergoing surgery (mean 4.1 vs. 2.0 days, P < .0001. Logistic regression demonstrated that septic shock vs. none (OR 3.60, P < .0001), sepsis vs. none (OR 1.57, P = .00045), transfer from chronic care facility vs. home (OR 1.87, P < .0001), and increased time from admission vs. operation (OR 1.01, P = .0055) were independently associated with increased risk of death. Discussion Transfer from a chronic care facility was independently associated with increased mortality in patients undergoing emergent surgery for perforated viscus.
Pathologic Complete Response Following Neoadjuvant Therapy for Gastric Adenocarcinoma: A National Cancer Database Analysis on Incidence, Predictors, and Outcomes
Authors: Kaltenmeier Christof , Althans Alison , Mascara Maria , Nassour Ibrahim , Khan Sidrah , Hoehn Richard , Zureikat Amer , Tohme Samer 
Published: December 2020

Introduction With advances in multimodal therapy, survival rates in gastric cancer have significantly improved over the last two decades. Neoadjuvant therapy increases the likelihood of achieving negative margins and may even lead to pathologic complete response (pCR). However, the impact of pCR on survival in gastric cancer has been poorly described. We analyzed the rate and predictors of pCR in patients receiving neoadjuvant therapy as well as impact of pCR on survival. Methods We conducted a National Cancer Database (NCDB) analysis (2004-2016) of patients with gastric adenocarcinoma who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by surgical resection. Results The pCR rate was 2.2%. Following adjustment, only neoadjuvant chemoradiation, non-signet histology, and tumor grade remained as significant factors predicting pCR. pCR was a statistically significant predictor of survival. Conclusion In this NCDB study, pCR was a predictor of survival. Though chemoradiation rather than chemotherapy alone was a predictor of pCR, it was not a predictor of survival. Further studies are needed to elucidate the role of radiation in the neoadjuvant setting and to discern the impact of pCR on survival.
Surgical Intensivist-Led Training in Critical Care Ultrasound Improves Performance
Authors: Lauerman Margaret H. , Haase Daniel J. , Teeter William , Kufera Joseph , Ghneim Mira , Betzold Richard , Scalea Thomas , Murthi Sarah 
Published: December 2020

Background Critical care ultrasound (CCUS) is essential in modern practice, with CCUS including cardiac and noncardiac ultrasound. The most effective CCUS training is unknown, with a diverse skill set and knowledge needed for competence. The objective of this project was to evaluate the effect of a surgical intensivist-led training program on CCUS competence in critical care fellows. Methods This was a single institution retrospective review from 2016 to 2018 at the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center. Our yearlong surgical intensivist (SI)-led CCUS training program for critical care fellows includes a daylong CCUS training class, CCUS lectures, a CCUS rotation, and bedside CCUS instruction during rotations. Fellows take a knowledge test and skills test before (pretest) and after (posttest) this program. Critical care ultrasound skill was graded on a scale from 1-5, with 4 (minimal help) or 5 (no help) considered competent. Emergency medicine, surgery, and medicine-trained critical care fellows were included. Results Forty-two critical care fellows were included. Mean posttest scores increased significantly for 21/22 (96%) of skills tested and for 14/30 (47%) of knowledge questions compared to pretest scores. The mean composite skill score increased from 3.25 to 4.82 from pretest to posttest ( P < .001). The mean composite knowledge score increased from 60% to 80% from pretest to posttest ( P < .001). Conclusion SI-led training improves CCUS competence and knowledge despite the breadth of CCUS.
Patient Comorbidities Drive High Mortality Rates Associated with Major Liver Resections Irrespective of Hospital Volume
Authors: Diggs Laurence P. , Aversa John G. , Wiemken Timothy L. , Martin Sean P. , Drake Justin A. , Ruff Samantha M. , Wach Michael M. , Brown Zachary J. , Blakely Andrew M. , Davis Jeremy L. , Luu Carrie , Hernandez Jonathan M. 
Published: December 2020

Introduction Major hepatectomies are utilized to manage primary hepatic malignancies. Reports from high-volume centers (HVCs) with minimal perioperative mortality focus on multiple aspects of perioperative care, although patient-specific factors remain unelucidated. We identified patient factors associated with outcomes and examined whether these contribute to survival differences. Methods We queried the National Cancer Database (2006-2015) for patients with primary liver malignancies managed with major hepatectomy. Facilities were dichotomized by volume (high volume: >15 hepatectomies/year). Perioperative outcomes were compared based on patient demographic and clinical characteristics as well as center volume. Results 4263 patients were included with 78.5% receiving care in low-volume centers (LVCs). 90-day postoperative mortality was higher in LVCs vs. HVCs (12% vs. 7.5%; P < .001). Factors associated with undergoing surgery in LVCs included: living in areas with lower income ( P = .006) and education ( P < .001), having nonprivate insurance ( P < .001), residing near the care center ( P < .001), and having a comorbidity score (CDS) >1 ( P = .014). Patients with CDS ≤ 1 had higher 90-day mortality in LVCs (11.3% vs. 6.6%; P < .001) and had similar outcomes in LVCs and HVCs (15.6% vs. 13.7% P = .6). Patients with CDS > 1 were more likely to receive care in LVCs (16.3% vs. 12.7%; P < .001). Conclusion Reduced perioperative mortality following major hepatectomy in HVCs is driven by optimal management of patients with low CDS. However, nearly 1 in 5 patients who undergo major hepatectomies have a high CDS and approximately 15% of them succumb in the perioperative period irrespective of the treating centers’ experience.
Level of Comfort With Pediatric Trauma Transports: Survey of Prehospital Providers
Authors: Bayouth Lilly , Edgar Lauren , Richardson Brent , Ebler David , Tepas Joseph J. , Crandall Marie L. 
Published: December 2020

Background Unintentional injury is the leading cause of death in pediatric patients. Despite a heavy burden of pediatric trauma, prehospital transport and triage of pediatric trauma patients are not standardized. Prehospital providers report anxiety and a lack of confidence in transport, triage, and care of pediatric trauma patients. Materials and Methods Prehospital transport providers with 3 organizations across southeast Georgia and northeast Florida were contacted via email (n = 146) and asked to complete 2 Web-based surveys to evaluate their comfort level with performing tasks in the transport of pediatric and adult trauma patients. Bivariate statistics and qualitative thematic analyses were performed to assess comfort with pediatric trauma transports. Results Survey 1 (N = 35) showed that mean comfort levels of prehospital providers were significantly lower for pediatric patients than adult trauma patients in 7 out of 9 tasks queried, including airway management and interpreting children’s physiology. The following themes emerged from survey 2 (N = 14) responses: additional clinical knowledge resources would be beneficial when caring for pediatric trauma patients, pediatric medication administration is a source of uncertainty, prehospital transport teams would benefit from additional pediatric trauma training, infrequent transport of pediatric trauma patients affects provider comfort level, and pediatric trauma generates higher levels of anxiety among providers. Discussion Prehospital transport of pediatric trauma patients is infrequent and a source of anxiety for prehospital providers. Rigs should be equipped with a reference tool addressing crucial tasks and deficiencies in training.
Anemia at Intensive Care Unit Admission and Hospital Mortality Among Patients at a Referral Hospital in Malawi
Authors: Prin Meghan , Rui Shumin , Pan Stephanie , Kadyaudzu Clement , Mehta Parth S. , Li Guohua , Charles Anthony 
Published: December 2020

Background Anemia is associated with intensive care unit (ICU) outcomes, but data describing this association in sub-Saharan Africa are scarce. Patients in this region are at risk for anemia due to endemic conditions like malaria and because transfusion services are limited. Methods This was a prospective cohort study of ICU patients at Kamuzu Central Hospital (KCH) in Malawi. Exclusion criteria included age <5 years, pregnancy, ICU readmission, or admission for head injury. Cumulative incidence functions and Fine-Gray competing risk models were used to evaluate hemoglobin (Hgb) at ICU admission and hospital mortality. Results Of 499 patients admitted to ICU, 359 were included. The median age was 28 years (interquartile ranges (IQRs) 20-40) and 37.5% were men. Median Hgb at ICU admission was 9.9 g/dL (IQR 7.5-11.4 g/dL; range 1.8-18.1 g/dL). There were 61 (19%) patients with Hgb < 7.0 g/dL, 59 (19%) with Hgb 7.0-8.9 g/dL, and 195 (62%) with Hgb ≥ 9.0 g/dL. Hospital mortality was 51%, 59%, and 54%, respectively. In adjusted analyses, anemia was associated with hospital mortality but was not statistically significant. Conclusions This study provides preliminary evidence that anemia at ICU admission may be an independent predictor of hospital mortality in Malawi. Larger studies are needed to confirm this association.
Implications of the United States Medical Licensing Examination Step 1 Examination Transition to Pass/Fail on Medical Students Education and Future Career Opportunities
Authors: Ehrlich Haley , Sutherland Mason , McKenney Mark , Elkbuli Adel 
Published: December 2020

Background United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1 will transition to pass/fail score by 2022. We aim to investigate US medical students’ perspectives on the potential implications this transition would have on their education and career opportunities. Methods A cross-sectional study investigating US medical students’ perspectives on the implications of transition of the USMLE Step 1 exam to pass/fail. Students were asked their preferences regarding various aspects of the USMLE Step 1 examination, including activities, educational opportunities, expenses regarding preparation for the examination, and future career opportunities. Results 215 medical students responded to the survey, 59.1% were women, 80.9% were allopathic vs. 19.1% osteopathic students. 34.0% preferred the USMLE Step 1 to be graded on a pass/fail score, whereas 53.5% preferred a numeric scale. Osteopathic vs. allopathic students were more likely to report that the pass/fail transition will negatively impact their residency match (aOR = 1.454, 95% CI: 0.515, 4.106) and specialty of choice (aOR = 3.187, 95% CI: 0.980, 10.359). 57.7% of respondents reported that the transition to a pass/fail grading system will change their study habits. Conclusions The transition of the USMLE Step 1 to a pass/fail system has massive implications on medical students and residency programs alike. Though the majority of medical students did not prefer the USMLE Step 1 to have a pass/fail score, they must adapt their strategies to remain competitive for residency applications. Residency programs should create a composite score based off all aspects of medical students’ applications in order to create a holistic and fair evaluation and ranking system.
A Comparison of Colectomy Outcomes Utilizing Open, Laparoscopic, and Robotic Techniques
Authors: McCarthy Elizabeth , Gough Benjamin L. , Johns Michael S. , Hanlon Alexandra , Vaid Sachin , Petrelli Nicholas 
Published: December 2020

Introduction Robotic colectomy could reduce morbidity and postoperative recovery over laparoscopic and open procedures. This comparative review evaluates colectomy outcomes based on surgical approach at a single community institution. Methods A retrospective review of all patients who underwent colectomy by a fellowship-trained colon and rectal surgeon at a single institution from 2015 through 2019 was performed, and a cohort developed for each approach (open, laparoscopic, and robotic). 30-day outcomes were evaluated. For dichotomous outcomes, univariate logistic regression models were used to quantify the individual effect of each predictor of interest on the odds of each outcome. Continuous outcomes received a similar approach; however, linear and Poisson regression modeling were used, as appropriate. Results 115 patients were evaluated: 14% (n = 16) open, 44% (n = 51) laparoscopic, and 42% (n = 48) robotic. Among the cohorts, there was no statistically significant difference in operative time, rate of reoperation, readmission, or major complications. Robotic colectomies resulted in the shortest length of stay (LOS) (Kruskal-Wallis P < .0001) and decreased estimated blood loss (EBL) (Kruskal-Wallis P = .0012). Median age was 63 years (interquartile range [IQR] 53-72). 54% (n = 62) were female. Median American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status classification was 3 (IQR 2-3). Median body mass index was 28.67 (IQR 25.03-33.47). A malignant diagnosis was noted on final pathology in 44% (n = 51). Conclusion Among the 3 approaches, there was no statistically significant difference in 30-day morbidity or mortality. There was a statistically significant decreased LOS and EBL for robotic colectomies.
The Role of Nutritional Access in Malnourished Elderly Undergoing Major Surgery for Acute Abdomen: A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis
Authors: Gogna Shekhar , Samson David , Choi James , Con Jorge , Prabhakaran Kartik , Rhee Peter , Latifi Rifat 
Published: December 2020

Background About 50% of the elderly undergoing emergency abdominal surgery are malnourished. The role of timely surgical nutritional access in this group of patients is unknown. Methods We analyzed the National Inpatient Sample database from 2009 through the first three-quarters of 2015 of patients aged ≥65 years who were malnourished and underwent major abdominal surgery for the acute abdomen within the first 2 days of hospital admission. Results Of 3 246 721 patients analyzed, 4311 patients met inclusion criteria. Of these, only 507 (11.8%) patients had surgical nutritional access (gastrostomy or jejunostomy) (group I), while 3804 patients (88.2%) did not (group II). In the propensity score-matched population, there were 482 patients in each group. The patients in group I had lower odds of mortality and postoperative gastrointestinal complications (paralytic ileus, anastomotic dehiscence, and intestinal fistulae) ( P-value <.01, respectively). Discussion Elderly who receive surgical nutritional access have lower rates of gastrointestinal complications and mortality.
Initial Surgical Treatment for Breast Cancer and the Distance Traveled for Care
Authors: Kirkpatrick Daniel R. , Markov Nickolay P. , Fox Justin P. , Tuttle Rebecca M. 
Published: December 2020

Background Geography may influence the operative decision-making in breast cancer treatment. This study evaluates the relationship between distance to treating facility and the initial breast cancer surgery selected, identifying the characteristics of women who travel for surgery. Methods Utilizing Florida state inpatient and ambulatory surgery databases, we identified female breast cancer patients who underwent surgical treatment from January 1 to December 31, 2013. Patients were subgrouped by distance to treatment facility. The primary outcome was the initial surgical treatment choice. Regression models were used to identify factors associated with greater distance to initial treatment. Results The final sample included 12 786 patients who underwent lumpectomy, mastectomy alone, or mastectomy with reconstruction. Compared to women who traveled < 4.0 miles, women who traveled > 14.0 miles were younger ( P < .001), more often identified as white with private insurance ( P < .001) and were less likely to have three or more medical comorbidities ( P < .001). With increased travel to treatment, the frequency of lumpectomy decreased ( P < .001), while the frequency of mastectomy with reconstruction increased ( P < .001). Increasing age in years (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = .98 [95% CI = .98-.99]) and identifying as nonwhite with private (AOR = .70 [.61-.80]) or public insurance (AOR = .64 [.56-.73]) was associated with less frequently travelling for initial breast cancer surgery. Discussion The relationship between the initial surgical treatment for breast cancer and the distance traveled for care highlights a disparity between those who can and cannot travel for treatment.
Clinical Characteristics Associated With Higher Enoxaparin Dosing Requirements for Venous Thromboembolism Prophylaxis in Trauma Patients
Authors: Hashim Yassar M. , Dhillon Navpreet K. , Veatch Jessica M. , Barmparas Galinos , Ley Eric J. 
Published: December 2020

Introduction Enoxaparin dosed by an anti-Xa trough level is effective at reducing venous thromboembolism (VTE) in trauma patients. We identified the patient characteristics associated with higher enoxaparin dosing based on anti-Xa trough levels. Methods A retrospective review was conducted on trauma patients admitted between August 2014 and February 2018 who received enoxaparin dosed by the anti-Xa trough level. Patients who received enoxaparin < 50 mg every 12 hours were compared to those who required ≥ 50 mg every 12 hours. Results Of the 246 patients included, 32 (13.0%) required enoxaparin ≥ 50 mg every 12 hours to achieve the prophylactic trough level. Factors associated with a higher dose of enoxaparin were male (96.8% vs. 3.2%, P < .01), younger age (39.5 vs. 52.7 years, P < .01), higher creatinine clearance (CrCl) (125.9 vs. 93.7 mL/min, P < .01), higher body surface area (2 m2 vs. 1.8 m2, P < .01), and higher injury severity score (18.4 vs. 10.8, P < .01). Height, weight, and body mass index were not significant factors. On regression analysis, CrCl was the only independent predictor for higher enoxaparin dose. There was an increased deep venous thrombosis rate in the higher dose cohort (12.5% vs. 0, P < .01) but no significant differences in transfusion rates. Conclusion Trauma patients who require higher enoxaparin doses to achieve prophylactic anti-Xa trough levels have a higher CrCl. Patients with high CrCl may benefit from an initial higher dose of enoxaparin to achieve a target anti-Xa level in a shorter time interval to decrease VTE risk.
Sleeve Gastrectomy as a Novel Procedure for Gastroparesis
Authors: Alicuben Evan T. , Samaan Jamil S. , Houghton Caitlin C. , Soffer Edy , Lipham John C. , Samakar Kamran 
Published: December 2020

Background Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has recently been considered for the surgical management of refractory gastroparesis. Our study aims to determine the efficacy of LSG as a new treatment modality for gastroparesis. Methods A multi-surgeon single institution retrospective chart review of patients who underwent LSG for refractory gastroparesis from September 2016-December 2017. Pre- and postoperative Patient Assessment of Upper Gastrointestinal Disorders-Symptoms Severity Index and/or Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index (GCSI) questionnaires were reviewed. A telephone survey was conducted. Statistical analysis consisted of two-sample t test and utilized SAS v9.4. A P-value <.05 was considered significant. Results There were 10 patients included and 80% were women with an average age of 43 years (24-63). Mean Body Mass Index was 24.5 (16.8-39.6), and median gastric emptying at 4 hours was 50% (30-85). Etiology of gastroparesis was 50% idiopathic, 40% diabetic, and 10% postsurgical. 80% of patients had previously undergone gastric electrical stimulator implantation, 20% pyloric botox injections, and 1 patient jejunostomy tube placement. One patient required conversion from laparoscopic to open secondary to adhesions. Median length of stay was 5 days (2-13), and median follow-up was 13.3 months. 90% of patients were tolerating a regular diet at longest follow-up with significant improvement in self-reported symptoms. GCSI scores were 33.6 preoperatively and 14.9 postoperatively ( P = .01). Discussion Our study adds to the literature examining the role of LSG in the treatment of gastroparesis. LSG has favorable outcomes at short-term follow-up for patients with refractory gastroparesis.