Global validation of the WSES Sepsis Severity Score for patients with complicated intra-abdominal infections: a prospective multicentre study (WISS Study)

BACKGROUND

To validate a new practical Sepsis Severity Score for patients with complicated intra-abdominal infections (cIAIs) including the clinical conditions at the admission (severe sepsis/septic shock), the origin of the cIAIs, the delay in source control, the setting of acquisition and any risk factors such as age and immunosuppression.

METHODS

The WISS study (WSES cIAIs Score Study) is a multicenter observational study underwent in 132 medical institutions worldwide during a four-month study period (October 2014-February 2015). Four thousand five hundred thirty-three patients with a mean age of 51.2 years (range 18-99) were enrolled in the WISS study.

RESULTS

Univariate analysis has shown that all factors that were previously included in the WSES Sepsis Severity Score were highly statistically significant between those who died and those who survived (p < 0.0001). The multivariate logistic regression model was highly significant (p < 0.0001, R2 = 0.54) and showed that all these factors were independent in predicting mortality of sepsis. Receiver Operator Curve has shown that the WSES Severity Sepsis Score had an excellent prediction for mortality. A score above 5.5 was the best predictor of mortality having a sensitivity of 89.2 %, a specificity of 83.5 % and a positive likelihood ratio of 5.4.

CONCLUSIONS

WSES Sepsis Severity Score for patients with complicated Intra-abdominal infections can be used on global level. It has shown high sensitivity, specificity, and likelihood ratio that may help us in making clinical decisions.

Predicting morbidity and mortality in acute pancreatitis in an Indian population: a comparative study of the BISAP score, Ranson's score and CT severity index

OBJECTIVE

Our aim was to prospectively evaluate the accuracy of the bedside index for severity in acute pancreatitis (BISAP) score in predicting mortality, as well as intermediate markers of severity, in a tertiary care centre in east central India, which caters mostly for an economically underprivileged population.

METHODS

A total of 119 consecutive cases with acute pancreatitis were admitted to our institution between November 2012 and October 2014. BISAP scores were calculated for all cases, within 24 hours of presentation. Ranson's score and computed tomography severity index (CTSI) were also established. The respective abilities of the three scoring systems to predict mortality was evaluated using trend and discrimination analysis. The optimal cut-off score for mortality from the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the development of persistent organ failure and pancreatic necrosis (PNec).

RESULTS

Of the 119 cases, 42 (35.2%) developed organ failure and were classified as severe acute pancreatitis (SAP), 47 (39.5%) developed PNec, and 12 (10.1%) died. The area under the curve (AUC) results for BISAP score in predicting SAP, PNec, and mortality were 0.962, 0.934 and 0.846, respectively. Ranson's score showed a slightly lower accuracy for predicting SAP (AUC 0.956) and mortality (AUC 0.841). CTSI was the most accurate in predicting PNec, with an AUC of 0.958. The sensitivity and specificity of BISAP score, with a cut-off of ≥3 in predicting mortality, were 100% and 69.2%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The BISAP score represents a simple way of identifying, within 24 hours of presentation, patients at greater risk of dying and the development of intermediate markers of severity. This risk stratification method can be utilized to improve clinical care and facilitate enrolment in clinical trials.

Continuity of cancer care in the era of COVID-19 pandemic: Role of social media in low- and middle-income countries

A novel coronavirus (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) first detected in Wuhan, China, has spread rapidly since December 2019, causing more than 1.4 million confirmed infections and 15000 fatalities (as of April 9, 2020). The outbreak was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization on March 11, 2020. Isolation, quarantine, social distancing, and community containment measures were rapidly implemented in China, which helped in containing the disease. However, other low- and middle-income countries lack such extensive infrastructural capacities and resources. Cancer patients are particularly at high risk of infection and mortality due to immunosuppression. Hence self-quarantine is recommended for them. Additionally, it is becoming impossible to maintain the continuity of care when cancer patients have to avoid physical visits. Social media applications, e.g., Facebook and WhatsApp, can provide educational group program and psychosocial support to these patients while maintain social distancing. We have analyzed their use in this review article and how it could change the follow-up of cancer patients during this pandemic.

A pre-pubertal girl with giant juvenile fibroadenoma: A rare case report

INTRODUCTION

Fibroadenomas are benign neoplasms usually arising between the ages of 15-25 years. Approximately 0.4% fibroadenomas arise in juvenile age group. Usually the diagnosis is straightforward by clinical examination and FNAC. But sometimes rapid growth and giant size may pose difficulty in clinical approach.

CASE PRESENTATION

In this paper we are presenting a rare case of giant juvenile fibroadenoma in a 10 years old girl which was diagnosed by FNAC and treated by excision. Diagnosis was confirmed by histopathology.

DISCUSSION

Giant juvenile fibroadenomas are over 5cm in diameter and tend to show rapid growth mimicking a carcinoma. But histological features are similar to smaller fibroadenomas and can be enucleated.

CONCLUSION

Through this case we want to emphasize that these giant benign neoplasms should be suspected in any pre-pubertal girl with breast lump and should always be treated with breast conserving surgery.

Mucinous cystadenoma of the appendix with enterocutaneous fistula: a therapeutic dilemma

Mucinous cystadenoma of appendix is a rare clinical entity with very few reported cases in the literature. Consensus on optimal surgical management has not been reached. We report the case of a 65-year-old female patient who presented with fistula over the right iliac fossa. Computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen suggested abscess of the parietal wall. Upon exploration, a mass was found to be arising from the tip of the retroperitoneal appendix and the retroperitoneum was studded with mucoid material. Appendectomy was carried out and final histopathology revealed mucinous cystadenoma with no evidence of malignancy. The patient was discharged uneventfully. The unusual presentation of this disease, as retroperitoneal psuedomyxoma without any intraperitoneal pathology, prompted us to report this case.

Primary Intra-Abdominal Rhabdomyosarcoma in an Adult: an Unusual Presentation and Review of Literature

Rhabdomyosarcomas, the commonest soft tissue sarcoma in paediatric age group, represent 5-10 % of all solid tumors in childhood. These tumors are rare in adult population. There are sporadic case reports of intra-abdominal rhabdomyosarcoma, but mostly in paediatric age group. Here we are reporting an unsual case of intra abdominal rhabdomyosarcoma in an elderly which presented with acute intestinal obstruction. CECT abdomen showed a solid mass in retroperitoneum compressing adjacent bowel loops. Upon emergency exploratory laparotomy a hard mass was found to be compressing the ascending colon and infiltrating into duodenum, pancreas and liver. No specific organ of origin could be identified. Biopsy was taken, as the mass was unresectable and ileostomy was done. Histopthological examination revealed embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma. Rarity of this disease and unusual presentation prompted us to report this case.

Validation sentinel lymph node biopsy study in cN0 axilla using low-cost dual dye technique: potential solution for resource poor settings

BACKGROUND

Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) using radio-pharmaceutical and a blue dye is gold standard for axillary staging in clinically node-negative breast cancer. High costs and limited availability of radio-pharmaceutical and/or gamma probe are major deterrents in performing SLNB in developing countries. In this study, we evaluated feasibility of SLN identification (SLN-IR) of fluorescein-guided (FG) SLNB in combination with methylene blue dye (MBD).

METHODS

This was a prospective cross-sectional non-randomized validation study in patients with clinically node-negative axilla. Patients underwent validation SLNB using fluorescein (and blue LED light) and MBD. Axillary dissection was performed irrespective of SLNB histology. SLIN-IR and False Negative Rate (FNR) were assessed for both groups.

RESULTS

The SLNs were identified in 29 (96.6%) pre-chemotherapy patients and 23 (82%) post Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy (NACT) patients. The median number of sentinel lymph nodes identified was 3 (range of 1-5) in pre-chemotherapy patients and 1 (range of 1-3) in post NACT patients. The SLN-IR using MBD was 90%, FD was 86.7% and combined MBD FD was 96.7% in pre-chemotherapy patients. The SLN-IR using MBD was 82%, FD was 71% and combined MBD FD was 82% in in post NACT patients. The false negative rate (FNR) in pre-chemotherapy group was 8.0% (MBD), 8.3% (FD) and 7.4% (MBD + FD). The FNR in post NACT group was 8.7% (MBD), 10% (FD) and 8.7% (MBD + FD).

CONCLUSION

This prospective validation study showed adequate SLN-IR and FNR using low-cost dual dyes in early breast cancer patients and can be used in low resource settings. However, SLNB in post NACT axilla though viable along with a satisfactory FNR, is associated with low identification rate and needs further evaluation.

"GRASP" Module of Self-assessment with Virtual Mentoring for Uninterrupted Surgical Training During COVID-19 Pandemic

Disruption in surgical training during the COVID-19 pandemic has prompted many innovative "virtual" modules to address the loss of learning exposure during these difficult times. We suggest "GRASP" (Gain, Recognize, Analyze, Simulate, and Perform) module of self-assessment with virtual mentoring for uninterrupted surgical training. This idea merges the advantages of self-assessment and mentoring for the benefit of surgical trainees. Its embedded continuous close individualized mentoring can change the surgical training culture by initiating an assessment of surgical learning and skills right from the beginning of surgical training.

Strategies for Optimizing the Use of PPE During Surgery in COVID-19 Pandemic: Rapid Scoping Review of Guidelines

Personal protective equipment (PPE) plays a fundamental role in the prevention of spread to Health Care Professionals (HCP) ; especially in a surgical setting. This scoping review of surgery guidelines was performed to appraise the quality of appropriate PPE recommendations and propose a strategy to optimize the PPE usage. This rapid scoping review of guidelines on surgery during COVID-19 was conducted according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews protocol. Important databases were searched from January 1, 2020 to July 31, 2020, for relevant studies produced by a national/international academic association/organization, in English literature, using relevant keywords. Quality of evidence was graded according to GRADE guidelines. The searches yielded a total of 1725 studies, out of these 41 guidelines on surgery during COVID-19 matching with pre-defined criteria were evaluated. The level of evidence was uniformly rated "low," as assessed by GRADE guidelines and recommendations provided by them were mostly non-specific covering a narrow range of items. The crucial issue of optimization of PPE was not addressed at all. Economic implications demand optimization of PPE and conservation of resources. A simple decision-making algorithm addressing all the limitations of guidelines can be constructed, which allows HCPs to safeguard themselves and at the same time optimize/ conserving resources.

Low-Cost Vacuum Assisted Core Needle Biopsy Technique for Breast Lumps

BACKGROUND

Core biopsy has replaced fine needle aspiration cytology in the assessment of breast lumps to diagnose malignancy and is now standard of care in developed countries. Unfortunately, cost of core biopsy system is a major limitation in low-and middle-income countries (LMICs). This prompted us to devise and appraise a low-cost technique of core biopsy using negative pressure.

METHODS

We devised and prospectively evaluated a simple model of core biopsy (vacuum assisted core needle biopsy-VACNB) using a 50 ml syringe, a 10 ml syringe and a 14G needle.

RESULTS

57 consecutive women (median age 42.66 years) with breast lumps (median diameter 5.2 cm) underwent VACNB. The sensitivity for diagnosing malignancy was 92%, specificity was 100%, and diagnostic accuracy was 92.98%. The positive predictive value of this technique was 100%, and negative predictive value was 63.64%. The cost (~ 5.5 USD) of the system was significantly less than the cost of core biopsy needle (~ 41.00 USD) and vacuum assisted breast biopsy needle (~ 341.00 USD) in India.

CONCLUSION

Frugal innovations are needed to overcome cost constraints in LMICs. Our low-cost VACNB technique is easy to use and accurate.

Pre-Operative Selective vs Non-Selective α-Blockade in Pheochromocytoma-Paraganglioma Patients Undergoing Surgery: A Meta-Analysis

The main objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to review, assess and report on the studies that have evaluated selective alpha blockade (SAB) vs. non-selective alpha blockade (NSAB) therapy in patients undergoing surgery for pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas (PPGL). We performed a systematic search of electronic databases. A meta-analysis was conducted to examine the effectiveness of the two blockades. RevMan 5.3 was used for the meta-analysis. Of the eight articles that met the inclusion criteria, there was only one randomized control trial. Meta-analysis showed that there was no significant difference between the groups SAB and NSAB with regard to intra-operative systolic blood pressure (SBP) >160 mm Hg (relative risk (RR) 0.95 [95% CI 0.57, 1.56] P = 0·83) and intra-operative vasopressor requirement (RR 1.10 [95% CI 0.96, 1.26] P = 0·16). Meta-analysis revealed that there was a significant difference between the groups (SAB vs NSAB) with respect to post-operative vasopressor requirement (RR 1.66 [95% CI 1.0, 2.74] P = 0·05). There was no significant difference between the groups with respect to post-operative complications (RR 0.84 [95% CI 0.58, 1.22] P = 0·36). In conclusion, as patients blocked selectively may have a higher incidence of vasodilator requirement intra-operatively, NSAB offers some haemodynamic advantage over SAB. However, NSAB's real clinical benefit cannot be ascertained with the current studies as this difference did not result in any significant advantage over SAB with regard to morbidity or mortality.

Characteristics of Hollow Viscus Injury following Blunt Abdominal Trauma; a Single Centre Experience from Eastern India

OBJECTIVE

To determine the presentation, anatomical distribution, diagnostic method, management and outcome of hollow viscus injury (HVI) from blunt abdominal trauma.

METHODS

This  was  a  retrospective  cross-ecnal  study  including  patients  with  blunt  abdominal  trauma leading to HVI admitted at Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences, Ranchi, over a period of 4.5 years (January 2009 to July 2014). Data were retrieved from patients' medical records. Total 173 patients with HVI due to blunt abdominal trauma, who underwent laparotomy at our institute, were reviewed. Data regarding clinical presentation, anatomical distribution, management and outcome were recorded and analysed.

RESULTS

Out of 173 patients 87.1% were men and 12.9% were women. Mean age of patients was 29±14.02 years. The most common site of injury was ileum (46.2%) followed by jejunum (44.5%). There were 5 gastric perforations (2.9%), 2 (1.15%) duodenal, 2 (1.15%) colonic, 2 (1.15%) sigmoidal and 2 (1.15%) rectal injuries. One caecal injury was also recorded. Road traffic accident was the most common mechanism of injury (57.2%) followed by fall from height (36.4%) and assault (6.4%). Free gas under diaphragm on erect abdomen radiography was seen in 85.5% of cases while preoperative CT Abdomen was done in 11.6% of cases. Treatment consisted of simple closure of the perforation (66.5%), resection and anastomosis (11.0%) and stoma (22.5%). Major complication was anastamotic leak which was recorded in 6.4% cases and 15.6% patients developed burst abdomen. Average hospital stay was 13±6 days. Overall mortality rate was 12.7%.

CONCLUSION

Although early recognition of intestinal injuries from blunt abdominal trauma may be difficult in all cases, it is very important due to its tremendous life threatening potential. Age of the patient, anatomical site and time of presentation are probably main prognostic factors.

Total vs less than total thyroidectomy for benign multinodular non-toxic goiter: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

We have performed an updated meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCT) comparing total thyroidectomy (TT) with less than total thyroidectomy (LTT) for benign multinodular non-toxic goiter (BMNG).

OBJECTIVES

The objective was to evaluate the effects and outcomes of TT as compared to LTT.

METHODS

Eligibility criteria: RCTs comparing TT vs LTT.

INFORMATION SOURCES

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and online registers were searched for articles comparing TT with LTT. Risk of bias: Articles were assessed for risk of bias using the Cochrane's revised tool to assess risk of bias in randomized trials (RoB 2 tool).

SYNTHESIS OF RESULTS

The main summary measures were risk difference using a random effects model.

RESULTS

Five randomized controlled trials were included in the meta-analysis. Recurrence rate was lower for TT compared to LTT. Adverse events like temporary or permanent recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) palsy and permanent hypoparathyroidism were similar in both groups except for the rate of temporary hypoparathyroidism which was lower in the LTT group.

DISCUSSION

All studies had unclear risk of bias for blinding of the participants and personnel and high risk of bias for certain selective reporting. This meta-analysis did not show any clear benefit or harm of either procedure (TT vs LTT) for goiter recurrence and re-operation rates (for both recurrence and incidental thyroid cancer). However, re-operation for goiter recurrence was significantly higher in the LTT group based on a single RCT. Evidence suggests increased rates of temporary hypoparathyroidism with TT but there was no difference in the rate of RLN palsy and permanent hypoparathyroidism between the two methods. The overall quality of evidence was low to moderate.

Indian surgery Trainee's perspective on surgical ergonomics principles and education: A long road ahead

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to determine the baseline knowledge and beliefs, along with the impact of incorporating surgical ergonomics lectures during a residency.

METHODS

A cohort of 123 Indian surgical residents participated in this educational intervention, which consisted of two educational webinars on ergonomics. Both pre- and post-intervention surveys were electronically sent to the participants. These included questions related to their demographics, prevalence of musculoskeletal (MSK) symptoms, and factors affecting participant awareness of ergonomic recommendations.

RESULTS

Seventy-one residents responded to the pre-webinar survey. Eighty-five percent of respondents reported MSK symptoms, with the most common being pain (70%) and stiffness (40%), which the residents attributed to their surgical training. Forty-six residents completed the post-webinar survey. The majority of respondents strongly agreed or agreed that surgical ergonomic educational sessions improved their understanding of the fundamental causes of MSK symptoms and increased their awareness of options available for prevention MSK injuries.

CONCLUSION

The rate of MSK symptoms and/or injury was high among this cohort of surgical residents. These surveys and educational session demonstrated there is limited awareness of the comprehension of ergonomics related to surgical procedures. Our study shows that a simple surgical ergonomic educational intervention can lead to improved understanding of prevention and ergonomic changes.

Open-Label Three Arm Trial Comparing Ormeloxifene, Gamma Linolenic Acid With Methylcobalamine + Vitamin C and Placebo in Mastalgia

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated the beneficial effect of Ormeloxifene (Centchroman) versus a combination of Gamma Linolenic acid (GLA), methylcobalamine and vitamin C on mastalgia in a three-arm, open-label, placebo-controlled trial.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients aged above 18 years with mastalgia were recruited between January 2019 and July 2021. Patients were divided in three arms: Ormeloxifene arm, GLA arm and Placebo arm. Response was evaluated using visual analogue scale (VAS) and score below 3/10 was defined as complete relief.

RESULTS

A total of 113 consecutive women with mastalgia were randomized to the GLA group (Group 1, n = 39 women), Ormeloxifene (Group 2, n = 36) and Placebo (Group 3, n = 38). Complete response was observed in 94% patient in Group 1, 96% in Group 2 and 87% in Group 3 at the end of 12 weeks and it was not significant (p = 0.49). Adverse events were reported by eleven patients taking Ormeloxifene, compared to none in the other two groups.

CONCLUSION

In this study Ormeloxifene and GLA were not superior to placebo for pain relief in mastalgia. Furthermore, there were concerning side effects associated with Ormeloxifene therapy. The role of Ormeloxifene in mastalgia needs further evaluation before recommending it as preferred therapy.

Impact of Topical Epinephrine with Xylocaine on Drainage After Axillary Lymph Node Dissection: A Randomized Controlled Trial

INTRODUCTION

We evaluated the impact of topical epinephrine with xylocaine on drainage after axillary lymph node dissection.

METHODS

Fifty-two women were randomized into two groups, epinephrine with xylocaine drainage (ED) and conventional drainage group (CD). The amount of drainage, duration of drainage catheter, incidence of seroma formation and wound infection were noted.

RESULTS

The mean total drainage volume was less in ED group as compared to CD group (195 ml vs. 353 ml; p = .002). Drainage catheter was removed earlier in ED group as compared to CD group (5.07 + / - 0.99 days vs. 6.65 + / - 1.07 days; p = 0.0001). The incidence of seroma and wound infection was similar in two groups.

CONCLUSION

Topical epinephrine with xylocaine after axillary lymph node dissection results in significantly decreased drainage volume and duration of drainage.