Health Care Value in Plastic Surgery Practice

SUMMARY

As value-based care gains traction in response to towering health care expenditures and issues of health care inequity, hospital capacity, and labor shortages, it is important to consider how a value-based approach can be achieved in plastic surgery. Value is defined as outcomes divided by costs across entire cycles of care. Drawing on previous studies and policies, this article identifies key opportunities in plastic surgery to move the levers of costs and outcomes to deliver higher value care. Specifically, outcomes in plastic surgery should include conventional measures of complication rates and patient-reported outcome measures to drive quality improvement and benchmark payments. Meanwhile, cost reduction in plastic surgery can be achieved through value-based payment reform, efficient workflows, evidence-based and cost-conscious selection of medical devices, and greater use of outpatient surgical facilities. Lastly, the authors discuss how the diminished presence of third-party payers in aesthetic surgery exemplifies the cost-conscious and patient-centered nature of value-based plastic surgery. To lead in future health policy and care delivery reform, plastic surgeons should strive for high-value care, remain open to new ways of care delivery, and understand how plastic surgery fits into overall health care delivery.

Early and Late Complications of Mandibulectomy Free Flap Reconstruction: Does the Selective Use of Soft Tissue Only Flaps Reduce Complications?

PURPOSE

This study aims to evaluate the factors most associated with early and late complications following microvascular free tissue transfer (MVFTT) after mandibulectomy.

METHODS

A retrospective review of patients undergoing MVFTT after segmental mandibulectomy from September 2016 to February 2021 was performed across a single academic institution. Surgical variables were collected, including the location of the resultant mandibular defect (anterior vs posterior) and flap type (osseous or non-osseous). The primary outcome variables included postoperative complications (early, <90 days; and late, >90 days) and the patients' functional status (return to oral intake). Descriptive statistics, chi-square test, Fischer's exact test, and 2-sample t tests were used to analyze differences among variables.

RESULTS

We analyzed a cohort of 114 consecutive patients with mandibular defects, comprising 57 anterior and 57 posterior defects. Bony free flaps with hardware were used to reconstruct 98% of anterior defects compared to 58% of posterior defects (P < .001). All soft tissue only flaps did not utilize any hardware during the reconstruction. Anterior defects demonstrated more late complications requiring additional surgery (30% vs 9%, P = .04). A secondary analysis of posterior mandibular reconstructions compared soft tissue only flaps and bony free flaps with hardware and showed equivalent rates of early (12% vs 13%, P > .99) and late (9% vs 8%, P > .99) complications requiring additional surgery while demonstrating a similar return to full oral competence (55% vs 46%, P = .52) and recovery of a 100% oral diet (67% vs 54%, P = .53).

CONCLUSION

Osseous free tissue transfer for segmental mandibular defects remains the gold standard in reconstruction. In our patient cohort, anterior mandibular defects are associated with greater late (>90 day) complications requiring additional surgery. Comparable outcomes may be achieved with soft tissue only versus osseous free flap reconstruction of posterior mandibular defects.

Anterior versus posterior component separation technique for advanced abdominal wall reconstruction: a proposed algorithm

OBJECTIVE

The precise indications for employing the anterior component separation technique (ACST) and the Transversus Abdominis Release (TAR) in abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR) remain uncertain, despite the undeniable value of both techniques. The aim of this study was to analyze the anterior fascial closure rate, postoperative wound morbidity, and hernia recurrence rate for both procedures according to the algorithm used for complex AWR.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data was carried out. Patients undergoing AWR for midline incisional hernias using either open or endoscopic ACST (E-ACST) or TAR between March 2013 and August 2022 were included. Patients with lateral hernia components were excluded. The surgical technique was depending on the pre- and intraoperative findings regarding hernia width and on the estimated traction to achieve anterior fascial closure (see algorithm). Initially, intermediate hernia defects ranging from approximately 10-14 cm in width were repaired using E-ACST. However, as the study advanced, TAR became the preferred method for addressing these types of defects. Open ACST was consistently employed for defects wider than 14-15 cm throughout the entire study duration. Outcomes of interest were anterior fascial closure, surgical site occurrences, and hernia recurrence rate. Follow-up was performed at 1 month, 1 year, and 2 years.

RESULTS

A total of 119 patients underwent AWR with CST: 63 patients (52.9%) were included in the ACST group and 56 patients (47.1%) in the TAR group. No significant differences were observed in patient and hernia characteristics. The use of botulinum toxin A (BTA) injection and preoperative progressive pneumoperitoneum (PPP) was more frequently used in the ACST group (BTA 19.0%, PPP 15.9% versus BTA 5.4%, PPP 1.8% for TAR patients). Anterior fascial closure was achieved in 95.2% of the ACST group and 98.2% of the TAR group (p = 0.369). The TAR group demonstrated a significantly lower SSO rate at one month (44.3% versus 14.3%, p < 0.001) and required fewer procedural interventions (SSO-PI) (31.1% versus 8.9%, p = 0.003). The recurrence rate at one year was low and there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups (ACST 1.8% vs TAR 4.5%, p = 0.422).

CONCLUSION

Following a proposed algorithm, the anterior fascial closure rate was high and similar for both techniques. As postoperative wound morbidity is significantly increased after ACST, our findings support recommending TAR for defects up to 14 cm in width, while favoring open ACST for larger defects.

Concomitant Panniculectomy in Abdominal Wall Reconstruction: A Narrative Review Focusing on Obese Patients

The global prevalence of obesity continues to rise, contributing to an increased frequency of abdominal wall reconstruction procedures, particularly ventral hernia repairs, in individuals with elevated body mass indexes. Undertaking these operations in obese patients poses inherent challenges. This review focuses on the current literature in this area, with special attention to the impact of concomitant panniculectomy. Obese individuals undergoing abdominal wall reconstruction face elevated rates of wound healing complications and hernia recurrence. The inclusion of concurrent panniculectomy heightens the risk of surgical site occurrences but does not significantly influence hernia recurrence rates. While this combined approach can be executed in obese patients, caution is warranted, due to the higher risk of complications. Physicians should carefully balance and communicate the potential risks, especially regarding the increased likelihood of wound healing complications. Acknowledging these factors is crucial in shared decision making and ensuring optimal patient outcomes in the context of abdominal wall reconstruction and related procedures in the obese population.

Component separation repair of incisional hernia: evolution of practice and review of long-term outcomes in a single center

PURPOSE

To review the long-term outcomes of complex abdominal wall reconstruction using anterior and posterior component separation (CS) techniques in our center.

METHODS

This was a descriptive analytical study. Analysis of data from a prospectively collected database of patients who had undergone Component Separation (CS) repair of incisional hernias was performed. Two techniques were used. Anterior component separation (ACS) and posterior component separation with transversus abdominis release (PCS/TAR). Follow-up was clinical review at 6 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months with direct access telephone review thereafter. Long-term outcome data was obtained from electronic records and based on either clinical or CT assessment. Minimum physical follow-up was 6 months for all patients.

RESULTS

89 patients with large incisional hernias underwent CS repair. 29 patients had ACS while 60 underwent PCS/TAR. Mean follow-up was 60 months (range 6-140 months) in the ACS group and 20 months (range 6-72 months) in the PCS group. Twenty-five patients (28%) had simultaneous major procedures including 21 intestinal anastomoses. Twenty-six (29%) of patients had associated stomas. Twenty-seven (30.3%) of the patients had undergone previous hernia repairs. Seromas occurred in 24 (26.97%) patients. Wound infections were more common after ACS. There have been 10 (11.2%) recurrences to date.

CONCLUSION

Component separation repair techniques result in good long-term outcomes with acceptable complication rates. They can be performed simultaneously with gastrointestinal procedures with low morbidity. Appropriate patient selection and use of appropriate mesh are important.

Acceptance of outpatient enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS©) protocols for implant-based breast reconstruction nudged on by the COVID-19 pandemic

We retrospectively identified 295 women undergoing outpatient implant breast reconstruction (IBR) who received standardized ERAS care pre-pandemic (PP; April 2018-March 2020) and during the pandemic (DP; April 2020-March 2022). The majority of IBR was completed as outpatient surgeries DP versus PP (73% versus 38%, p < 0.001). Immediate IBR increased DP versus PP (p < 0.001). Preoperative ERAS© order sets were used 54% of the time. Lack of ERAS© order set use was associated with unplanned admissions (55.3% versus 44.7%, p = 0.02). COVID-19 changed health care and nudged IBR to outpatient procedures. With ERAS© recommendations, IBR can be safely and effectively transitioned to outpatient settings.

Are Metastatic Central Lymph Nodes (D3 volume) in right-sided Colon Cancer a Sign of Systemic Disease? A sub-group Analysis of an Ongoing Multicenter Trial

OBJECTIVE

Assess outcomes of patients with right-sided colon cancer with metastases in the D3 volume after personalized surgery.

BACKGROUND

Patients with central lymph node metastasis (D3-PNG) are considered to have a systemic disease with a poor prognosis. A 3-dimensional definition of the dissection volume allows the removal of all central nodes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

D3-PNG includes consecutive patients from an ongoing clinical trial. Patients were stratified into residual disease negative (D3-RDN) and residual disease positive (D3-RDP) groups. D3-RDN was further stratified into 4 periods to identify a learning curve. A personalized D3 volume (defined through arterial origins and venous confluences) was removed " en bloc" through medial-to-lateral dissection, and the D3 volume of the specimen was analyzed separately.

RESULTS

D3-PNG contained 42 (26 females, 63.1 SD 9.9 y) patients, D3-RDN:29 (17 females, 63.4 SD 10.1 y), and D3-RDP:13 (9 females, 62.2 SD 9.7 y). The mean overall survival (OS) days were D3-PNG:1230, D3-RDN:1610, and D3-RDP:460. The mean disease-free survival (DFS) was D3-PNG:1023, D3-RDN:1461, and D3-RDP:74 days. The probability of OS/DFS were D3-PNG:52.1%/50.2%, D3-RDN:72.9%/73.1%, D3-RDP: 7.7%/0%. There is a significant change in OS/DFS in the D3-RDN from 2011-2013 to 2020-2022 (both P =0.046) and from 2014-2016 to 2020-2022 ( P =0.028 and P =0.005, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that surgery can achieve survival in most patients with central lymph node metastases by removing a personalized and anatomically defined D3 volume. The extent of mesenterectomy and the quality of surgery are paramount since a learning curve has demonstrated significantly improved survival over time despite the low number of patients. These results imply a place for the centralization of this patient group where feasible.

Outpatient Prescription Opioid Use following Discharge after Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator Breast Reconstruction with and without an Educational Intervention

BACKGROUND

 There is limited evidence for appropriate postoperative opioid prescribing in autologous breast reconstruction. We sought to describe postoperative outpatient prescription opioid use following discharge after deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) breast reconstruction with and without an educational video.

METHODS

 Patients undergoing DIEP reconstruction were given a 28-day postoperative pain and medication logbook from August 2022 to June 2023. Our practice implemented an educational video upon discharge on proper opioid consumption. Descriptive statistics on patient characteristics, intraoperative and postoperative opioid consumption, and outpatient prescription opioid use after discharge were compared between the two cohorts.

RESULTS

 A total of 53 logbooks were completed with 20 patients in the no video cohort and 33 in the video cohort. On average, the days to cessation of opiates was longer in the no video cohort (8.2 vs. 5.1 days, p = 0.003). The average number of oxycodone 5 mg equivalents consumed following discharge was 13.8 in the no video cohort and 7.8 in the video cohort, which was statistically significant (p = 0.01). Overall, the percentage of opioids prescribed that were consumed in the video cohort was 28.3% versus 67.1% in the no video cohort.

CONCLUSION

 For patients discharging home after DIEP reconstruction, we recommend a prescription for 12 oxycodone 5 mg tablets. With the use of an educational video regarding proper opioid consumption, we were able to reduce the total outpatient opioid use to 5 oxycodone 5 mg tablets following hospital discharge.

The Value of the Nutritional Indicators in Predicting Free Flap Failure From a Multicentre Database

OBJECTIVE

Nutritional and inflammatory statuses have been associated with complications in microvascular-free flaps during head and neck surgeries. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of nutritional indicators in predicting postoperative free flap complications.

STUDY DESIGN

We conducted a 20-year retrospective, case-control study within a defined cohort.

SETTING

The study involved head and neck cancer patients from the Chang Gung Research Database who underwent simultaneous tumor ablation and free flap wound reconstruction between January 1, 2001, and December 31, 2019.

METHODS

We employed logistic regression and stratified analysis to assess the risk of free flap complications and the subsequent need for flap revision or redo in relation to nutritional indicators and other clinical variables.

RESULTS

Of the 8066 patients analyzed, 687 (8.5%) experienced free flap complications. Among these, 197 (2.4%) had free flap failures necessitating a redo of either a free flap or a pedicled flap. Beyond comorbidities such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, end-stage renal disease, and a history of prior radiotherapy, every 10-unit decrease in the preoperative prognostic nutritional index (PNI) was consistently associated with an increased risk of both free flap complications and failure. The covariate-adjusted odds ratios were 1.90 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.42-2.54) and 1.89 (95% CI: 1.13-3.17), respectively.

CONCLUSION

A lower preoperative PNI suggests a higher likelihood of microvascular free flap complications in head and neck surgeries. Further randomized controlled trial designs are required to establish causality.

An innovative reconstruction of an enbloc resected composite giant chest and abdominal wall chondrosarcoma with 3D-composite mesh

BACKGROUND

Chest wall chondrosarcomas, although common, pose unique challenges due to their aggressive nature, rarity of abdominal wall involvement, and propensity for recurrence. We highlight the critical role of meticulous surgical planning, multidisciplinary collaboration, and innovative reconstruction techniques in achieving optimal outcomes for patients with composite giant chest and abdominal wall chondrosarcoma.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 38-year-old female patient presented with progressive left chest and abdominal wall swelling for two years; on evaluation had a large lobulated lytic lesion arising from the left ninth rib, scalloping eighth and tenth ribs measuring 13.34 × 8.92 × 10.71 cm (anteroposterior/transverse/craniocaudal diameter) diagnosed with chondrosarcoma grade 2. A three-dimensional (3D) composite mesh was designed based on computed tomography using virtual surgical planning and computer-assisted design and manufacturing technology. She underwent wide local excision and reconstruction of the chest and abdominal wall with 3D-composite mesh under general anesthesia. The postoperative condition was uneventful, with no recurrence at 12 months follow-up.

CONCLUSION

A 3D-composite mesh facilitates patient-specific, durable, and cost-effective chest and abdominal wall reconstruction.

Tipping the scale in abdominal wall reconstruction: An analysis of short- and long-term outcomes by body mass index

BACKGROUND

Morbid obesity, with a body mass index 35 kg/m2, is a commonly used cutoff for denying elective transversus abdominis release. Although obesity is linked to short-term wound morbidity, its effect on long-term outcomes remains unknown, calling into question if a cutoff is justified. We sought to compare 1-year recurrence rates after transversus abdominis release based on body mass index and to evaluate short- and long-term outcomes.

METHODS

Patients undergoing open, clean transversus abdominis release from August 2014 to January 2022 at our institution with 1-year follow-up completed were identified. Univariate and multivariable analyses were performed to determine the association of body mass index with 90-day wound events, 1-year hernia recurrence, and hernia-specific quality of life. Covariates included body mass index, diabetes, recurrent hernia, hernia width, fascial closure, surgical site occurrence requiring procedural intervention, previous abdominal wall surgical site infection, inflammatory bowel disease, mesh weight, and mesh-to-hernia size ratio.

RESULTS

A total of 1,089 patients were included. Increasing body mass index was associated with surgical site infection (adjusted odds ratio = 1.59; 95% confidence interval, 1.14-1.77; P < .01) and surgical site occurrence (adjusted odds ratio = 1.42; 95% confidence interval, 1.13-1.74; P < .01) but was not associated with surgical site occurrence requiring procedural intervention. Hernia width was associated with surgical site occurrence (adjusted odds ratio = 1.4; 95% confidence interval, 1.08-1.82; P < .01) and surgical site occurrence requiring procedural intervention (adjusted odds ratio = 1.4; 95% confidence interval, 1.08-1.82; P = .01). Hernia recurrence rate at 1 year was lower for the body mass index ≥35 kg/m2 group (7% vs 12%; P = .02). Hernia width (odds ratio = 1.33; 95% confidence interval, 1.02-1.74; P = .04) was associated with recurrence; body mass index was not (P = .11). Both groups experienced significant improvement in hernia-specific quality of life at 1 year.

CONCLUSION

Morbid obesity is associated with 90-day wound morbidity; however, short-term complications did not translate to higher reoperation or long-term recurrence rates. The impact of body mass index on hernia recurrence is likely overstated. An arbitrary body mass index cutoff of 35 kg/m2 should not be used to deny symptomatic patients abdominal wall reconstruction.

Age is just a number: The role of advanced age in predicting complications following ventral hernia repair with component separation

BACKGROUND

While advanced age is often considered a risk factor for complications following abdominal surgery, its impact on outcomes after complex open ventral hernia repair (VHR) with component separation technique (CST) remains unclear.

METHODS

A single-center retrospective review of patients who VHR with CST from November 2008 to January 2022 was performed and cohorts were stratified by presence of advanced age (≥60 years).

RESULTS

Of 219 patients who underwent VHR with CST, 114 patients (52.1 ​%) were aged ≥60 years. Multivariate analysis demonstrated BMI to be an independent predictor for any complication (OR 1.1, p ​= ​0.002) and COPD was positively associated with seroma development (OR 20.1, p ​= ​0.012). Advanced age did not independently predict postoperative outcomes, including hernia recurrence (OR 0.8, p ​= ​0.766).

CONCLUSIONS

VHR with CST is generally safe to perform in patients of advanced age. Every patient's comorbidity profile should be thoroughly assessed preoperatively for risk stratification regardless of age.

Comparison of Pain Management Strategies to Reduce Opioid Use Postoperatively in Free Flap Breast Reconstruction: Pain Catheter versus Nerve Block in Addition to Refinements in the Oral Pain Management Regime

Background  Perioperative management in autologous breast reconstruction has gained focus in recent years. This study compares two pain management protocols in patients undergoing abdominal-based free flap breast reconstruction: a past protocol (PP) and a current protocol (CP)-both intended to reduce opioid consumption postoperatively. The PP entails use of a pain catheter in the abdominal wound and the CP consists of an intraoperative nerve block in addition to refinements in the oral pain management. We hypothesize that the CP reduces opioid consumption compared to PP. Methods  From December 2017 to January 2020, 102 patients underwent breast reconstruction with an abdominal-based free flap. Two postoperative pain management strategies were used during the period; from December 2017 to September 2018, the PP was used which entailed the use of a pain catheter with ropivacaine applied in the abdominal wound with continuous distribution postoperatively in addition to paracetamol orally and oxycodone orally pro re nata (PRN). From October 2018 to January 2020, the CP was used. This protocol included a combination of intraoperative subfascial nerve block and a postoperative oral pain management regime that consisted of paracetamol, celecoxib, and gabapentin as well as oxycodone PRN. Results  The CP group ( n  = 63) had lower opioid consumption compared to the PP group ( n  = 39) when examining all aspects of opioid consumption, including daily opioid usage in morphine milligram equivalents and total opioid usage during the stay ( p  < 0.001). The CP group had shorter length of hospital stay (LOS). Conclusion  Introduction of the CP reduced opioid use and LOS was shorter.

Component Separation Decreases Hernia Recurrence Rates in Abdominal Wall Reconstruction with Biologic Mesh

BACKGROUND

It is not clear whether mesh-reinforced anterior component separation (CS) for abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR) results in better outcomes than mesh-reinforced primary fascial closure (PFC) without CS, particularly when acellular dermal matrix is used. The authors compared outcomes of CS versus PFC repair in AWR procedures aiming to determine whether CS results in better outcomes.

METHODS

This retrospective study of prospectively collected data included 461 patients who underwent AWR with acellular dermal matrix during a 10-year period at an academic cancer center. The primary endpoint was hernia recurrence; the secondary outcome was surgical-site occurrence (SSO).

RESULTS

A total of 322 patients (69.9%) who underwent mesh-reinforced AWR with CS (AWR-CS) and 139 (30.1%) who underwent AWR with PFC (AWR-PFC) without CS were compared. AWR-PFC repairs had a higher hernia recurrence rate than AWR-CS repairs (10.8% versus 5.3%; P = 0.002) but similar overall complication (28.8% versus 31.4%; P = 0.580) and SSO (18.7% versus 25.2%; P = 0.132) rates. CS repairs experienced significantly higher wound separation (17.7% versus 7.9%; P = 0.007), fat necrosis (8.7% versus 2.9%; P = 0.027), and seroma (5.6% versus 1.4%; P = 0.047) rates than PFC repairs. The best cutoff with respect to hernia recurrence was 7.1 cm of abdominal defect width.

CONCLUSION

AWR-CS repair resulted in a lower hernia recurrence rate than AWR-PFC but, despite the additional surgery, had similar SSO rates on long-term follow-up.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, III.

T-line Hernia Mesh Repairs of Large Umbilical Hernias: Technique and Short-term Outcomes

Background

The T-line hernia mesh is a synthetic, polypropylene mesh specifically designed to prevent anchor point failure by evenly distributing tension through mesh suture extensions. This case series illustrates the first clinical application of the T-line mesh for umbilical hernia repair (UHR).

Methods

This study is a retrospective, consecutive cases series of all adult patients presenting to a single surgeon with symptomatic umbilical hernia requiring surgical repair using the T-line hernia mesh. Patient demographics, surgical details, and 30-day postoperative complications were collected. Descriptive statistics were computed in Microsoft Excel (Redmond, Va.).

Results

Three patients presented for UHR. All three patients were obese with mean body mass index of 37.5 ± 6.6. Two patients were former smokers, and two had presented after hernia recurrence. The average defect size was 80.1 cm2 ± 94.0 cm2. Two patients had UHR with onlay mesh placement, whereas one had a transversus abdominus release followed by retrorectus mesh placement. The average mesh size was 192.3 cm2 ± 82.5 cm2. All three cases were classified as clean. There were no intraoperative complications. No patients experienced 30-day postoperative complications or recurrence.

Conclusions

We present a case series of three patients presenting with large, symptomatic umbilical hernias who underwent UHR with T-line hernia mesh reinforcement without short term complications or hernia recurrence at last follow-up.

Expanding the Armamentarium of Donor Sites in Microvascular Head and Neck Reconstruction

The field of microsurgical head and neck reconstruction has witnessed tremendous advancements in recent years. While the historic goals of reconstruction were simply to maximize flap survival, optimizing both aesthetic and functional outcomes has now become the priority. With an increased understanding of perforator anatomy, improved technology in instruments and microscopes, and high flap success rates, the reconstructive microsurgeon can push the envelope in harvesting and designing the ideal flap to aid patients following tumor extirpation. Furthermore, with improvements in cancer treatment leading to improved patient survival and prognosis, it becomes increasingly important to have a broader repertoire of donor sites. The present review aims to provide a review of newly emerging soft tissue flap options in head and neck reconstruction. While certainly a number of bony flap options also exist, the present review will focus on soft tissue flaps that can be harvested reliably from a variety of alternate donor sites. From the upper extremity, the ulnar forearm as well as the lateral arm, and from the lower extremity, the profunda artery perforator, medial sural artery perforator, and superficial circumflex iliac perforator flaps will be discussed, and we will provide details to aid reconstructive microsurgeons in incorporating these alternative flaps into their armamentarium.

Postoperative Magnesium Sulfate Repletion Decreases Narcotic Use in Abdominal-Based Free Flap Breast Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

 Microsurgical breast reconstruction after mastectomy is now the standard of care for breast cancer patients. However, the costs and resources involved in free flap reconstruction can vary across different medical settings. To enhance patient outcomes in a cost-effective manner, we investigated the effect of intravenous magnesium sulfate (IV Mg) on postoperative opioid usage in this context.

METHODS

 A retrospective chart review was performed on all consecutive patients who underwent abdominal-based free flap breast reconstruction in a single institute following an enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol. Patients who received IV Mg were compared with those who did not receive supplementation. Serum magnesium levels at different time points, narcotic consumption in units of oral morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs), and other postoperative recovery parameters were compared.

RESULTS

 Eighty-two patients were included. Those who received IV Mg on postoperative day 0 (n = 67) showed significantly lower serum magnesium levels before repletion (1.5 vs. 1.7 mg/dL, p = 0.004) and significantly higher levels on postoperative day 1 after repletion (2.2 vs. 1.7 mg/dL, p = 0.0002) compared to patients who received no magnesium repletion (n = 13). While both groups required a similar amount of narcotics on postoperative day 0 (20.2 vs. 13.2 MMEs, p = 0.2), those who received IV Mg needed significantly fewer narcotics for pain control on postoperative day 1 (12.2 MMEs for IV Mg vs. 19.8 MMEs for No Mg, p = 0.03). Recovery parameters, including maximal pain scores, postoperative mobilization, and length of hospital stay, did not significantly differ between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

 This is the first study to describe the potential analgesic benefits of routine postoperative magnesium repletion in abdominal-based free flap reconstruction. Further research is necessary to fully understand the role of perioperative magnesium supplementation as part of an ERAS protocol.

Co-surgeon versus Single-surgeon Outcomes in Free Tissue Breast Reconstruction: A Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

 Autologous breast reconstruction offers superior long-term patient reported outcomes compared with implant-based reconstruction. Universal adoption of free tissue transfer has been hindered by procedural complexity and long operative time with microsurgery. In many specialties, co-surgeon (CS) approaches are reported to decrease operative time while improving surgical outcomes. This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesizes the available literature to evaluate the potential benefit of a CS approach in autologous free tissue breast reconstruction versus single-surgeon (SS).

METHODS

 A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted using PubMed, Embase, and MEDLINE from inception to December 2022. Published reports comparing CS to SS approaches in uni- and bilateral autologous breast reconstruction were identified. Primary outcomes included operative time, postoperative outcomes, processes of care, and financial impact. Risk of bias was assessed and outcomes were characterized with effect sizes.

RESULTS

 Eight retrospective studies reporting on 9,425 patients were included. Compared with SS, CS approach was associated with a significantly shorter operative time (SMD -0.65, 95% confidence interval [CI] -1.01 to -0.29, p < 0.001), with the largest effect size in bilateral reconstructions (standardized mean difference [SMD] -1.02, 95% CI -1.37 to -0.67, p < 0.00001). CS was also associated with a significant decrease in length of hospitalization (SMD -0.39, 95% CI -0.71 to -0.07, p = 0.02). Odds of flap failure or surgical complications including surgical site infection, hematoma, fat necrosis, and reexploration were not significantly different.

CONCLUSION

 CS free tissue breast reconstruction significantly shortens operative time and length of hospitalization compared with SS approaches without compromising postoperative outcomes. Further research should model processes and financial viability of its adoption in a variety of health care models.

Acellular dermal matrix in urethral reconstruction

The management of severe urethral stricture has always posed a formidable challenge. Traditional approaches such as skin flaps, mucosal grafts, and urethroplasty may not be suitable for lengthy and intricate strictures. In the past two decades, tissue engineering solutions utilizing acellular dermal matrix have emerged as potential alternatives. Acellular dermal matrix (ADM) is a non-immunogenic biological collagen scaffold that has demonstrated its ability to induce layer-by-layer tissue regeneration. The application of ADM in urethral reconstruction through tissue engineering has become a practical endeavor. This article provides an overview of the preparation, characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages of ADM along with its utilization in urethral reconstruction via tissue engineering.

A novel technique of reverse-sequence endoscopic nipple-sparing mastectomy with direct-to-implant breast reconstruction: medium-term oncological safety outcomes and feasibility of 24-hour discharge for breast cancer patients

BACKGROUND

Due to the short operation time and no need for special instruments, reverse-sequence endoscopic nipple-sparing mastectomy (R-E-NSM) with direct-to-implant breast reconstruction (DIBR) has been rapidly becoming popular in the last three years. However, there has yet to be an evaluation of its oncologic safety or the feasibility of discharging patients within 24 hours.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this single-center retrospective cohort study, individuals diagnosed with stage 0-III breast cancer between May 2020 and April 2022 who underwent traditional open mastectomy or R-E-NSM with DIBR were included. Follow-up started on the date of surgery and ended in December 2023. Data, including demographics, tumor characteristics, medium-term oncological outcomes, and postoperative complications, were collected and analyzed. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to minimize selection bias.

RESULTS

This study included 1679 patients (median [IQR] age, 50 [44-57] years). Of these, 344 patients underwent R-E-NSM with DIBR (RE-R group), and 1335 patients underwent traditional open mastectomy (TOM group). The median [IQR] follow-up time was 30 [24-36] months (29 [23-33] months in the RE-R group and 30 [24-36] months in the TOM group). Regarding before or after PSM, the P value of local recurrence-free survival (LRFS, 0.910 and 0.450), regional recurrence-free survival (RRFS, 0.780 and 0.620), distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS, 0.061 and 0.130), overall survival (OS, 0.260 and 0.620), disease-free survival (DFS, 0.120 and 0.330) were not significantly different between the RE-R group and the TOM group. The 3y-LRFS and 3y-DFS rates were 99.0% and 97.1% for the RE-R group and 99.5% and 95.3% for the TOM group, respectively. The rates of any complications and major complications were not significantly different between the RE-R patients who were discharged within 24 hours and the RE-R patients who were not discharged within 24 hours (P=0.290, P=0.665, respectively) or the TOM patients who were discharged within 24 hours (P =0.133, P=0.136, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

R-E-NSM with DIBR is an innovative oncologic surgical procedure that not only improves cosmetic outcomes but also ensures reliable oncologic safety and fewer complications, enabling patients to be safely discharged within 24 hours. A long-term prospective multicenter assessment will be supporting.

Risk factors for incisional hernia after liver transplantation in the era of mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors use: a retrospective study of living donor liver transplantation dominant center in Korea

Purpose

Incisional hernia (IH) is a common complication after liver transplantation (LT) with an incidence rate of 5% to 46%. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the risk factors for IH development after LT in the era of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors use.

Methods

Data on patients who underwent LT between 2015 and 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were divided into 2 groups (IH group and non-IH group) according to the postoperative occurrence of IH.

Results

We analyzed data from 878 patients during the study period, with 28 patients (3.2%) developing IH. According to multivariate analysis, body mass index exceeding 25 kg/m2 and the use of mTOR inhibitors within the first month after LT were the sole significant factors for both IH occurrence and the subsequent need for repair operations. Notably, a history of wound complications, a Model for End-stage Liver Disease score, and the timing of LT-whether conducted during regular hours or at night-did not emerge as significant risk factors for IH after LT.

Conclusion

Our study reveals a higher incidence of IH among obese patients following LT, often requiring surgical repair, particularly in cases involving mTOR inhibitor usage within the initial month after LT. Consequently, it is crucial to exercise increased vigilance, especially in obese patients, and exercise caution when considering early mTOR inhibitor administration after LT.

Lower-Extremity Fillet Flap for Reconstruction of Complex Stage IV Pressure Sores and Plantar Flap for Lumbosacral Padding

BACKGROUND

The lower-extremity fillet flap is a suitable option for the repair of complex (multiple or complicated with osteomyelitis) stage IV pressure sores. If prepared from a nonfunctional extremity, it can close complex wounds and avoid the unnecessary burden of a nonfunctional organ that restricts patient movement, thereby improving quality of life.

METHODS

We used a lower extremity fillet flap for reconstruction in 5 patients with complex stage IV pressure sores. The flaps were prepared from the nonfunctional lower extremity with multiple lesions by using iliofemoral disarticulation. The mean age of the patients was 60 years old, and the mean follow-up period was 18 months. A plantar flap was used in 1 patient for prophylactic padding of the lumbosacral region. In another patient, the plantar flap was used as a sensate flap.

RESULTS

No major complications, such as total or partial flap loss, occurred in these patients. In 1 patient, a hematoma developed under the flap that led to dehiscence; however, it healed uneventfully without flap loss. Patients developed minimal pelvic stability and balance loss because of iliofemoral disarticulation, but it did not affect their sitting ability and mobility. After the operation, all patients became increasingly active and mobile because of the absence of excess weight on their nonfunctional legs, allowing them to easily perform daily activities such as turning in bed, using a wheelchair, eating, and dressing. Pressure sores did not develop in any of the patients during the postoperative follow-up period. The patient who underwent lumbosacral padding with a sensate plantar flap began to perceive touch over the flap in the fifth postoperative month.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that a lower-extremity fillet flap can be a good repair option in complex stage IV pressure sores because it prevents recurrence and enables patients to perform daily activities more easily. Furthermore, plantar flaps can provide prophylactic padding in the lumbosacral region.

Implementation and Outcomes of ERAS Protocol for Major Oncologic Head and Neck Surgery

BACKGROUND

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols have been developed and successfully implemented for many surgical specialties, demonstrating reductions in length of stay, post-operative complications, and resource utilization. Currently, there are few documented applications of ERAS protocols in head and neck surgery. Additional description of head and neck surgery protocol design, implementation, and outcomes will help advance postoperative care.

METHODS

An ERAS protocol was designed for patients undergoing glossectomy and primary or salvage laryngectomy with or without free flap reconstruction. Following successful protocol implementation, patient outcomes and perioperative metrics were retrospectively reviewed and compared between patients prior to and following the ERAS protocol.

RESULTS

Global comparison of ERAS and control group did not show statistically significant differences in measured perioperative outcomes. There were no statistically significant differences between the ERAS and control groups in age, sex, BMI, surgery type, or cancer stage. The ERAS protocol was associated with reduced variability in hospital length of stay (LOS), demonstrated through tighter interquartile ranges. For patients undergoing salvage laryngectomy, the ERAS protocol was associated with a significant reduction in 30-day readmission rates. Although not statistically significant, the median length of stay in the step-down unit (ISCU) and hospital was lower for specific patient groups.

CONCLUSION

The implementation and evaluation of the ERAS protocol demonstrated improvement in select patient outcomes as well as areas for process improvement. This study demonstrates the insights that arise from review of this protocol even for an institution with perceived standardized procedures for major oncologic head and neck surgeries.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3 Laryngoscope, 134:732-740, 2024.

The Value of a Co-surgeon in Microvascular Breast Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Using a co-surgeon model has been suggested to improve perioperative outcomes and reduce the risk of complications. Therefore, we evaluated if a co-surgeon model compared with a single microsurgeon model could decrease the surgical time, length of stay, rate of complications, and healthcare-associated costs in adult patients undergoing microvascular breast reconstruction (MBR). A comprehensive search was performed across PubMed MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science. Studies evaluating the perioperative outcomes and complications of MBR using a single-surgeon model and co-surgeon model were included. A random-effects model was fitted to the data. Seven retrospective comparative studies were included. Ultimately, 1411 patients (48.23%) underwent MBR using a single-surgeon model, representing 2339 flaps (48.42%). On the other hand, 1514 patients (51.77%) underwent MBR using a co-surgeon model, representing 2492 flaps (51.58%). The surgical time was significantly reduced using a co-surgeon model in all studies compared with a single-surgeon model. The length of stay was reduced using a co-surgeon model compared with a single-surgeon model in all but one study. The log odds ratio (log-OR) of recipient site infection (log-OR = -0.227; P = 0.6509), wound disruption (log-OR = -0.012; P = 0.9735), hematoma (log-OR = 0.061; P = 0.8683), and seroma (log-OR = -0.742; P = 0.1106) did not significantly decrease with the incorporation of a co-surgeon compared with a single-surgeon model. Incorporating a co-surgeon model for MBR has minimal impact on the rates of surgical site complications compared with a single-surgeon model. However, a co-surgeon optimized efficacy and reduced the surgical time and length of stay.

Reduced length of intensive care unit stay and early mechanical ventilator weaning with enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) in free fibula flap surgery

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) program on postoperative recovery of patients who underwent free fibula flap surgery for mandibular reconstruction. This retrospective study included 188 patients who underwent free fibula flap surgery for complex mandibular and soft tissue defects between January 2011 and December 2022. We divided them into two groups: the ERAS group, consisting of 36 patients who were treated according to the ERAS program introduced from 2021 to 2022. Propensity score matching was used for the non-ERAS group, which comprised 36 cases selected from 152 patients between 2011 and 2020, based on age, sex, and smoking history. After propensity score matching, the ERAS and non-ERAS groups included 36 patients each. The primary outcome was the length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay; the secondary outcomes were flap complications, unplanned reoperation, 30-day readmission, postoperative ventilator use length, surgical site infections, incidence of delirium within ICU, lower-limb comorbidities, and morbidity parameters. There were no significant differences in the demographic characteristics of the patients. However, the ERAS group showed the lower length of intensive care unit stay (ERAS vs non-ERAS: 8.66 ± 3.90 days vs. 11.64 ± 5.42 days, P = 0.003) and post-operative ventilator use days (ERAS vs non-ERAS: 1.08 ± 0.28 days vs. 2.03 ± 1.05 days, P < 0.001). Other secondary outcomes were not significantly different between the two groups. Additionally, patients in the ERAS group had lower postoperative morbidity parameters, such as postoperative nausea, vomiting, urinary tract infections, and pulmonary complications (P = 0.042). The ERAS program could be beneficial and safe for patients undergoing free fibula flap surgery for mandibular reconstruction, thereby improving their recovery and not increasing flap complications and 30-day readmission.

Long-Term Outcome of Chest Wall and Diaphragm Repair with Biological Materials

INTRODUCTION

 Chest wall and/or diaphragm reconstruction aims to preserve, restore, or improve respiratory function; conserve anatomical cavities; and upkeep postural and upper extremity support. This can be achieved by utilizing a wide range of different grafts made of synthetic, biological, autologous, or bioartificial materials. We aim to review our experience with decellularized bovine pericardium as graft in the past decade.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

 We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent surgical chest wall and/or diaphragm repair with decellularized bovine pericardium between January 1, 2012 and January 13, 2022 at our institution. All records were screened for patient characteristics, intra-/postoperative complications, chest tube and analgesic therapy duration, length of hospital stay, presence or absence of redo procedures, as well as morbidity and 30-day mortality. We then looked for correlations between implanted graft size and postoperative complications and gathered further follow-up information at least 2 months after surgery.

RESULTS

 A total of 71 patients either underwent isolated chest wall (n = 51), diaphragm (n = 12), or pericardial (n = 4) resection and reconstruction or a combination thereof. No mortality was recorded within the first 30 days. Major morbidity occurred in 12 patients, comprising secondary respiratory failure requiring bronchoscopy and invasive ventilation in 8 patients and secondary infections and delayed wound healing requiring patch removal in 4 patients. There was no correlation between the extensiveness of the procedure and extubation timing (chi-squared test, p = 0.44) or onset of respiratory failure (p = 0.27).

CONCLUSION

 A previously demonstrated general viability of biological materials for various reconstructive procedures appears to be supported by our long-term results.

Enhanced recovery after surgery pathways for deep inferior epigastric perforator flap breast reconstruction: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) surgery is one of the most difficult breast reconstruction techniques available, both in terms of operating complexity and patient recovery. Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathways were recently introduced in numerous subspecialties to reduce recovery time, patient pain, and cost by providing multimodal perioperative care. Plastic surgery has yet to widely integrate ERAS with DIEP reconstruction, mostly due to insufficient data on patient outcomes with this combined approach.

METHODS

Five major medical databases were queried using predetermined search criteria according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses statement. Statistical analysis was performed using Cochrane's RevMan (v5.4).

RESULTS

A total of 466 articles were identified. A total of 14 studies were included in the review with a combined sample of 2102 patients. Eight studies were included in the meta-analysis with a combined sample of 1679 patients. On average, the included studies utilized 11.69 of 18 suggested protocols for ERAS with breast reconstruction. Our primary outcome, length of stay, was reduced by a mean of 1.12 (95% confidence interval [CI] [-1.30, -0.94], n = 1627, p < 0.001) days in the ERAS group. Postoperative oral morphine equivalents (OME) were also reduced in the ERAS group by 104.02 (95% CI [-181.43, -26.61], n = 545, p = 0.008) OME. The ERAS group saw a significant 3.54 (95% CI [-4.43, -2.65], n = 527, p < 0.001) standardized mean difference cost reduction relative to the control groups. The surgery time was reduced by 60.46 (95% CI [-125, 4.29], n = 624, p < 0.07) min, although this was not statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

The ERAS pathway in DIEP breast reconstruction is consistently associated with reduced hospital stay, opioid use, and patient cost. Moreover, there appears to be no evidence of serious adverse outcomes associated with the application of the ERAS protocol.

Close the GAPS: A Standardized Perioperative Protocol Reduces Breast Reconstruction Implant Infections

BACKGROUND

Implant-based breast reconstruction (IBBR) is a complex process with significant practice variability. Infections after IBBR are associated with higher rates of readmission, reoperation, and reconstructive failure. To reduce process variability and postoperative infections, the authors implemented an evidence-based, standardized protocol for IBBR.

METHODS

The protocol was applied to all patients undergoing IBBR at a single institution from December of 2019 to February of 2021. Intraoperative protocol adherence was recorded, and infection events were considered minor (managed with outpatient antibiotics) or major (managed with readmission or reoperation). A historic control group was retrospectively analyzed for comparison.

RESULTS

Sixty-nine patients (120 breasts) in the protocol group were compared with 159 patients (269 breasts) in the retrospective group. No differences were found in demographic characteristics, comorbidities, or type of reconstruction (expander versus implant). Intraoperative protocol adherence was 80.5% (SD, 13.9%). Overall infection rate was significantly lower in the protocol group versus controls (8.7% versus 17.0%; P < 0.05). When dichotomized, protocol patients had a lower rate of both minor (2.9% versus 5.7%; P = 0.99) and major (5.8% versus 11.3%; P = 0.09) infections, although this was not statistically significant. Rate of reconstructive failure secondary to infection was significantly lower in the protocol group (4.4% versus 8.8%; P < 0.05). Among protocol patients, those without infection had higher protocol adherence (81.5% versus 72.2%; P < 0.06), which neared statistical significance.

CONCLUSION

A standardized perioperative protocol for IBBR reduces process variability and significantly decreases rate of overall infections and reconstructive failure secondary to infection.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, III.

Attenuating Chronic Fibrosis: Decreasing Foreign Body Response with Acellular Dermal Matrix

Surgical implants are increasingly used across multiple medical disciplines, with applications ranging from tissue reconstruction to improving compromised organ and limb function. Despite their significant potential for improving health and quality of life, biomaterial implant function is severely limited by the body's immune response to its presence: this is known as the foreign body response (FBR) and is characterized by chronic inflammation and fibrotic capsule formation. This response can result in life-threatening sequelae such as implant malfunction, superimposed infection, and associated vessel thrombosis, in addition to soft tissue disfigurement. Patients may require frequent medical visits, as well as repeated invasive procedures, increasing the burden on an already strained health care system. Currently, the FBR and the cells and molecular mechanisms that mediate it are poorly understood. With applications across a wide array of surgical specialties, acellular dermal matrix (ADM) has emerged as a potential solution to the fibrotic reaction seen with FBR. Although the mechanisms by which ADM decreases chronic fibrosis remain to be clearly characterized, animal studies across diverse surgical models point to its biomimetic properties that facilitate decreased periprosthetic inflammation and improved host cell incorporation. Impact Statement Foreign body response (FBR) is a significant limitation to the use of implantable biomaterials. Acellular dermal matrix (ADM) has been observed to decrease the fibrotic reaction seen with FBR, although its mechanistic details are poorly understood. This review is dedicated to summarizing the primary literature on the biology of FBR in the context of ADM use, using surgical models in breast reconstruction, abdominal and chest wall repair, and pelvic reconstruction. This article will provide readers with an overarching review of shared mechanisms for ADM across multiple surgical models and diverse anatomical applications.

Reconstructive Strategies in Pediatric Patients after Oncological Chest Wall Resection: A Systematic Review

An appropriate reconstruction strategy after surgical resection of chest wall tumors in children is important to optimize outcomes, but there is no consensus on the ideal approach. The aim of this study was to provide an up-to-date systematic review of the literature for different reconstruction strategies for chest wall defects in patients less than 18 years old. A systematic literature search of the complete available literature was performed and results were analyzed. A total of 22 articles were included in the analysis, which described a total of 130 chest wall reconstructions. All were retrospective analyses, including eight case reports. Reconstructive options were divided into primary closure (n = 21 [16.2%]), use of nonautologous materials (n = 83 [63.8%]), autologous tissue repair (n = 2 [1.5%]), or a combination of the latter two (n = 24 [18.5%]). Quality of evidence was poor, and the results mostly heterogeneous. Reconstruction of chest wall defects can be divided into four major categories, with each category including its own advantages and disadvantages. There is a need for higher quality evidence and guidelines, to be able to report uniformly on treatment outcomes and assess the appropriate reconstruction strategy.

Outcomes of Complex Abdominal Wall Reconstruction with Biologic Mesh in Patients with 8 Years of Follow-Up

BACKGROUND

While many studies evaluated outcomes of abdominal wall reconstruction with biologic mesh, long-term data is lacking. In this study, we sought to analyze the outcomes of complex AWR with biologic mesh in a robust cohort of patients with a mean follow up of 8 years.

METHODS

We conducted a longitudinal study of AWR patients from 2005 to 2019. Hernia recurrence was the primary outcome, and surgical site occurrence was the secondary outcome. Predictive/protective factors were identified using a Cox proportional hazards regression models.

RESULTS

We identified 109 consecutive patients who met the inclusion criteria. Patient's mean (± SD) age was 57.5 ± 11.8 years, mean body mass index was 30.7 ± 7.2 kg/m2, and mean follow-up time was 96.2 ± 15.9 months. Fifty-six percent had clean defects, 34% had clean-contaminated defects, and 10% had contaminated/infected defects. Patients had a mean defect size of 261 ± 199.6 cm2 and mean mesh size of 391.3 ± 160.2 cm2. Nineteen patients (17.4%) developed HR at the final follow-up date. Obesity was independently associated with a four-fold higher risk of HR (hazard ratio, 3.98; 95%CI, 1.34 to 14.60, p = 0.02). SSOs were identified in 24.8% of patients. A prior hernia repair was associated with a three-fold higher risk of SSOs (Odds ratio, 3.13; 95%CI, 1.10 to 8.94, p = 0.03). No patient developed mesh infection.

CONCLUSION

These longitudinal data demonstrate that complex AWR with biologic mesh provides long-term durable outcomes with acceptable HR and SSO rates despite high contamination levels, patients complexity, and large defect size.

Enhanced Recovery after Surgery Protocol Decreases Length of Stay and Postoperative Narcotic Use in Microvascular Breast Reconstruction

Background

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols have demonstrated efficacy following microvascular breast reconstruction. This study assesses the impact of an ERAS protocol following microvascular breast reconstruction at a high-volume center.

Methods

The ERAS protocol introduced preoperative counseling, multimodal analgesia, early diet resumption, and early mobilization to our microvascular breast reconstruction procedures. Data, including length of stay, body mass index, inpatient narcotic use, outpatient narcotic prescriptions, inpatient pain scores, and complications, were prospectively collected for all patients undergoing microvascular breast reconstruction between April 2019 and July 2021. Traditional pathway patients who underwent reconstruction immediately before ERAS implementation were retrospectively reviewed as controls.

Results

The study included 200 patients, 99 in traditional versus 101 in ERAS. Groups were similar in body mass index, age (median age: traditional, 54.0 versus ERAS, 50.0) and bilateral reconstruction rates (59.6% versus 61.4%). ERAS patients had significantly shorter lengths of stay, with 96.0% being discharged by postoperative day (POD) 3, and 88.9% of the traditional cohort were discharged on POD 4 (P < 0.0001). Inpatient milligram morphine equivalents (MMEs) were smaller by 54.3% in the ERAS cohort (median MME: 154.2 versus 70.4, P < 0.0001). Additionally, ERAS patients were prescribed significantly fewer narcotics upon discharge (median MME: 337.5 versus 150.0, P < 0.0001). ERAS had a lower pain average on POD 0-3; however, this finding was not statistically significant.

Conclusion

Implementing an ERAS protocol at a high-volume microvascular breast reconstruction center reduced length of stay and postoperative narcotic usage, without increasing pain or perioperative complications.

Highly biocompatible material for enhanced abdominal wall repair: a retrospective study with EGIS® porcine dermal matrix

In the early 2000s, medical devices based on acellular matrices multiplied in number. Nowadays, the use of porcine ADMs is to be considered a well-established technology, commonly applied in different surgical specialties. In this retrospective analysis of 110 cases, the use of non-crosslinked porcine ADM EGIS® results a safe and effective tool in many procedures and specialties.

Efficacy of Electronic Reminders in Increasing the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Protocol Use During Major Breast Surgery: Prospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols are patient-centered, evidence-based guidelines for peri-, intra-, and postoperative management of surgical candidates that aim to decrease operative complications and facilitate recovery after surgery. Anesthesia providers can use these protocols to guide decision-making and standardize aspects of their anesthetic plan in the operating room.

OBJECTIVE

Research across multiple disciplines has demonstrated that clinical decision support systems have the potential to improve protocol adherence by reminding providers about departmental policies and protocols via notifications. There remains a gap in the literature about whether clinical decision support systems can improve patient outcomes by improving anesthesia providers' adherence to protocols. Our hypothesis is that the implementation of an electronic notification system to anesthesia providers the day prior to scheduled breast surgeries will increase the use of the already existing but underused ERAS protocols.

METHODS

This was a single-center prospective cohort study conducted between October 2017 and August 2018 at an urban academic medical center. After obtaining approval from the institutional review board, anesthesia providers assigned to major breast surgery cases were identified. Patient data were collected pre- and postimplementation of an electronic notification system that sent the anesthesia providers an email reminder of the ERAS breast protocol the night before scheduled surgeries. Each patient's record was then reviewed to assess the frequency of adherence to the various ERAS protocol elements.

RESULTS

Implementation of an electronic notification significantly improved overall protocol adherence and several preoperative markers of ERAS protocol adherence. Protocol adherence increased from 16% (n=14) to 44% (n=44; P<.001), preoperative administration of oral gabapentin (600 mg) increased from 13% (n=11) to 43% (n=43; P<.001), and oral celebrex (400 mg) use increased from 16% (n=14) to 35% (n=35; P=.006). There were no statistically significant differences in the use of scopolamine transdermal patch (P=.05), ketamine (P=.35), and oral acetaminophen (P=.31) between the groups. Secondary outcomes such as intraoperative and postoperative morphine equivalent administered, postanesthesia care unit length of stay, postoperative pain scores, and incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting did not show statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS

This study examines whether sending automated notifications to anesthesia providers increases the use of ERAS protocols in a single academic medical center. Our analysis exhibited statistically significant increases in overall protocol adherence but failed to show significant differences in secondary outcome measures. Despite the lack of a statistically significant difference in secondary postoperative outcomes, our analysis contributes to the limited literature on the relationship between using push notifications and clinical decision support in guiding perioperative decision-making. A variety of techniques can be implemented, including technological solutions such as automated notifications to providers, to improve awareness and adherence to ERAS protocols.

Free-style technique versus computed tomographic angiography-guided perforator selection in deep inferior epigastric perforator flap harvest: A prospective clinical study

BACKGROUND

Computed tomographic angiography (CTA) is the preferred diagnostic tool in preoperative deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap assessment, though some surgeons prefer approaching perforator selection with intraoperative findings alone.

METHODS

This prospective observational study conducted between 2015 and 2020 assessed our intraoperative decision-making "free-style" technique for DIEP flap harvest. Any patient with indication for immediate or delayed breast reconstruction using abdominally based flaps and who received preoperative CTA was enrolled. Only unilateral cases performed by the same surgeon were considered. Allergy to iodine-based contrast media, renal impairment and claustrophobia were other exclusion criteria. Primary endpoint consisted in comparing operative times and complication rates between free-style technique and CTA-guided approach. Secondary endpoints included evaluation of agreement rate between intraoperative findings and CTA, and identification of variables affecting operative time and complication rate. Demographics, surgical information, agreement versus non-agreement and complications were collected.

RESULTS

Starting from 206 patients, 100 were enrolled. Fifty were assigned to Group A, receiving DIEP flap with free-style technique. The other 50 were assigned to Group B, receiving DIEP flap with CTA-guided perforators selection. Study groups' demographics were homogenous. Operative time was statistically lower (p = .036) in free-style group (252.4 ± 44.77 min vs. 265.6 ± 31.67 min). Complication rates were higher in CTA-guided group (10% vs. 2%) though this was not significant (p = .092). Overall agreement rate in dominant perforator selection between intraoperatively and CTA-based assessment was 81%. Multiple regression analysis showed no variable increased complication rate, though CTA-guided approach, BMI > 30 and harvesting more than one perforator were respectively associated with B-coefficient of 17.391 (2.430-32.351, 95% CI) [p = .023], 3.50 (0.640-6.379, 95% CI) [p = .017] and 18.887 (6.232-31.542, 95% CI) [p = .004], predicting increased operative time.

CONCLUSIONS

The free-style technique proved to be a useful tool for guiding DIEP flap harvest with good sensibility in detecting the dominant perforator suggested by CTA without statistically increasing surgery duration and complications.

Distressed community index as a predictor of presentation and postoperative outcomes in ventral hernia repair

BACKGROUND

We evaluated the impact of socioeconomic status on presentation, management, and outcomes of ventral hernias.

METHODS

The Abdominal Core Health Quality Collaborative was queried for adult patients undergoing ventral hernia repair. Socioeconomic quintiles were assigned using the Distressed Community Index (DCI): prosperous (0-20), comfortable (21-40), mid-tier (41-60), at-risk (61-80), and distressed (81-100). Outcomes included presenting symptoms, urgency, operative details, 30-day outcomes, and one-year hernia recurrence rates. Multivariable regression evaluated 30-day wound complications.

RESULTS

39,494 subjects were identified; 32,471 had zip codes (82.2%).Urgent presentation (3.6% vs. 2.3%) and contaminated cases (0.83% vs. 2.06%) were more common in the distressed group compared to the prosperous group (p < 0.001). Higher DCI correlated with readmission (distressed: 4.7% vs prosperous: 2.9%,p < 0.001) and reoperation (distressed 1.8% vs prosperous: 0.92%,p < 0.001). Wound complications were independently associated with increasing DCI (p < 0.05). Clinical recurrence rates were similar at one-year (distressed: 10.4% vs prosperous: 8.6%, p = 0.54).

CONCLUSIONS

Inequity exists in presentation and perioperative outcomes for ventral hernia repair and efforts should be focused on increasing access to elective surgery and improving postoperative wound care.

Surgical and Patient-Reported Outcomes of Open Perforator-Preserving Anterior Component Separation for Ventral Hernia Repair

BACKGROUND

 Abdominal wall reconstruction is challenging for surgeons and may be life altering for patients. There are scant high-quality studies on patient-reported outcomes following abdominal wall reconstruction. We assess long-term surgical and patient-reported outcomes of perforator-preserving open anterior component separation (OPP-ACS) following large ventral hernia repair.

METHODS

 A retrospective review of patients with large ventral hernia defects who underwent OPP-ACS performed by the authors (B.A.S., M.J.T.) was conducted between 2015 and 2019. Demographics, surgical history, operative details, outcomes, and complications were extracted. A validated questionnaire, Carolinas Comfort Scale (CCS), was used to assess postoperative quality of life.

RESULTS

 Twenty-two patients (12 males and 10 females) with a mean age and BMI of 60.9 ± 10 years and 28.9 ± 4.8 kg/m2, respectively, were included. Mean follow-up was 28.5 ± 16.3 months. All had prior abdominal surgery; 15 (68%) for abdominopelvic malignancy, 3 (14%) for previous failed hernia repair, and 8 (36%) had history of abdominopelvic radiation. Overall, 16 (73%) hernias were in the midline, 4 (18%) in the right lower quadrant, 1 (4.5%) in the right upper quadrant, and 1 (4.5%) in the left lower quadrant. Mean hernia defect surface area was 145 ± 112 cm2. A total of 9 patients (40.9%) underwent bilateral component separation, whereas 13 (59.1%) had unilateral. Bioprosthetic mesh was used in all patients as underlay. Mean mesh size and thickness were 545.6 ± 207.7 cm2 and 3.4 ± 0.5 mm, respectively. One patient presented with a minor wound dehiscence, and two presented with seromas not requiring aspiration/evacuation. One patient had hernia recurrence 22 months after surgery. One patient was readmitted for partial small bowel obstruction and one required wound revision. A total of 14 (65%) patients responded to the CCS questionnaire. At 12 months, mean score for all 23 items was 0.29 ± 0.21 (0.08-0.62), which corresponds to absence or minimal symptoms.

CONCLUSION

 The OPP-ACS is a safe surgical option for large, complex ventral hernias. Our cases showed minimal complication rate and hernia recurrence, and our patients reported significant improvement in life quality.

Impact of coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic on good clinical practice trials in oncology

Aim

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) became pandemic on 11th March 2020 and it deeply stressed the healthcare system. Cancer patients represent a vulnerable population, so many recommendations have been approved to ensure optimal management. Clinical research was notably impacted by COVID too. This review aims to analyze the challenges occurred during a pandemic for the management of enrolled patients (enrollment, use of telemedicine visits, study procedures) and for the clinical trials system (from feasibility to selection visit, site initiation visit, monitorings, use of e-signature, deviations and discontinuations).

Methods

The studies included in the present review were selected from PubMed/Google Scholar/ScienceDirect databases.

Results

During the first phase of pandemic many clinical trials were suspended in accrual and, as the pandemic progressed, recommendations were established to guarantee the safety and the continuity of care of enrolled patients. In addition, lot of new strategies was found during the pandemic to reduce the negative consequences on clinical trial performance and to guarantee new opportunities of care in the respect of good clinical practice (GCP) in a bad scenario.

Conclusions

Among all modifiers, investigators would prefer to maintain the positive ones such as pragmatic and simplified trial designs and protocols, reducing in-person visits when not necessary and to minimizing sponsor and contract research organizations (CROs) visits.

The Effects of Pectin-Honey Hydrogel in a Contaminated Chronic Hernia Model in Rats

Incisional hernia is a frequent complication after abdominal surgery. A previous study on rats evaluated the use of a Pectin-Honey Hydrogel (PHH)-coated polypropylene (PP) mesh for the healing of acute hernias. However, there are no studies investigating the use of PHH in association with PP mesh in chronic contaminated hernia. The aims of this study are to assess the effectiveness of PHH in promoting abdominal hernia repaired with PP mesh and in counteracting infection. Twenty Sprague Dawley male rats were enrolled and a full thickness defect was made in the abdominal wall. The defect was repaired after 28 days using a PP mesh, and a culture medium (Tryptone Soy Broth, Oxoid) was spread onto the mesh to contaminate wounds in both groups. The rats were randomly assigned to a treated or untreated group. In the treated group, a PHH was applied on the mesh before skin closure. At euthanasia-14 days after surgery-macroscopical, microbiological and histopathological evaluations were performed, with a score attributed for signs of inflammation. An immunohistochemical investigation against COX-2 was also performed. Adhesions were more severe (p = 0.0014) and extended (p = 0.0021) in the untreated group. Bacteriological results were not significantly different between groups. Both groups showed moderate to severe values (score > 2) in terms of reparative and inflammatory reactions at histopathological levels. The use of PHH in association with PP mesh could reduce adhesion formation, extension and severity compared to PP mesh alone. No differences in terms of wound healing, contamination and grade of inflammation were reported between groups.

Closing the Gap: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Protocols in Primary Cleft Palate Repair

OBJECTIVE

Assess the evidence for Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols in the cleft palate population.

DESIGN

A systematic review of MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane, and CINAHL databases for articles detailing the use of ERAS protocols in patients undergoing primary palatoplasty.

SETTING

New York-Presbyterian Hospital.

PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS

Patients with cleft palate undergoing primary palatoplasty.

INTERVENTIONS

Meta-analysis of reported patient outcomes in ERAS and control cohorts.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Methodological quality of included studies, opioid use, postoperative length of stay (LOS), rate of return to emergency department (ED)/readmission, and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

Following screening, 6 original articles were included; all were of Modified Downs & Black (MD&B) good or fair quality. A total of 354 and 366 were in ERAS and control cohorts, respectively. Meta-analysis of comparable ERAS studies showed a difference in LOS of 0.78 days for ERAS cohorts when compared to controls (P < .05). Additionally, ERAS patients utilized significantly less postoperative opioids than control patients (P < .05). Meta-analysis of the rate of readmission/return to ED shows no difference between ERAS and control groups (P = .59). However, the lack of standardized reporting across studies limited the power of meta-analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

ERAS protocols for cleft palate repair offer many advantages for patients, including a significant decrease in the LOS and postoperative opioid use without elevating readmission and return to ED rates. However, this analysis was limited by the paucity of literature on the topic. Better standardization of data reporting in ERAS protocols is needed to facilitate pooled meta-analysis to analyze their effectiveness.

Enhanced recovery after surgery in patients undergoing craniotomy: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) is a multidisciplinary,and evidence-based perioperative care method. It is effective in shortening hospital stays and improving clinical outcomes. However, the application of ERAS in craniotomy lacks reliable evidence. The purpose of this study is to investigate the efficacy and safety of ERAS in craniotomy.

METHODS

Studies of ERAS in craniotomy were systematically searched in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science. Primary outcomes (total hospital stay and postoperative hospital stay, hospitalization cost, percent of patients with moderate to severe pain) and secondary outcomes (readmission rate and incidence of complication) were compared between ERAS and traditional perioperative care.

RESULT

Of the 10 studies included in this meta-analysis, 6 were randomized-controlled trials (RCTs), 3 were cohort studies, and 1 was non-RCT. A total of 1275 patients were included, with 648 in the ERAS group and 627 in the control group. Compared with the control group, the ERAS group had a significantly shortened total length of stay (LOS) (MD = -2.437, 95% CI: -3.616, -1.077, P = 0.001) and postoperative LOS, reduced hospitalization cost (SMD = -0.631, 95% CI: -0.893, -0.369, P = 0.001), and lower percent of patients with moderate to severe pain. There was no significant difference in readmission rate between the two groups. Though, the ERAS group had a significantly lower risk of pneumonia than the control group.

CONCLUSION

ERAS is safe and effective for craniotomy as it shortens total and postoperative LOS, reduces hospitalization costs, decreases the percent of patients with moderate to severe pain.

Synthetic Versus Biological Mesh in Ventral Hernia Repair and Abdominal Wall Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Recommendations from Evidence-Based Medicine

AIM

To compare the efficacy and safety of synthetic and biological meshes in ventral hernia repair (VHR) and abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR).

METHODS

We screened all clinical trials that reported the application of synthetic and biological meshes in VHR and AWR using Medline, Web of Science, and Embase (Ovid). Only comparative studies with similar baselines such as age, sex, body mass index, degree of wound contamination, and hernia defects between the intervention and control groups were included. Effect sizes with 95% confidence were pooled using a random- or fixed-effects model based on the size of heterogeneity. A sensitivity analysis was performed to test the stability of the results.

RESULTS

Ten studies with 1305 participants were included. Biological meshes were associated with significantly higher recurrence rate (OR, 2.09; 95% CI 1.42-3.08; I2 = 50%), surgical site infection (OR, 1.47; 95% CI 1.10-1.97; I2 = 30%), higher re-admission rate (OR, 1.51; 95% CI 1.05-2.17; I2 = 50%), and longer length of hospital stay (SMD, 0.37; 95% CI 0.10-0.65; I2 = 72%). Similar surgical site occurrence, re-operation rate, and mesh explantation rate were observed among biological and synthetic meshes. Biological meshes have no difference in recurrence rate as compared to synthetic meshes, between the clean-contaminated, and contamination-infected fields (OR, 1.41; 95% CI 0.41-4.87 vs 3.00; 95% CI 1.07-8.46; P = 0.36).

CONCLUSION

Synthetic meshes are a safe alternative to biological meshes for VHR and AWR. Considering the high cost of biological meshes, synthetic meshes are more appropriate for the VHR and AWR.

Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Wound Classification is Prognostic of 30-Day Readmission Following Surgery

BACKGROUND

The goal of this study was to investigate factors associated with 30-day readmission in a multivariate model, including the CDC wound classes "clean," "clean/contaminated," "contaminated," and "dirty/infected."

METHODS

The 2017-2020 American College of Surgeons-National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) database was queried for all patients undergoing total hip replacement, coronary artery bypass grafting, Ivor Lewis esophagectomy, pancreaticoduodenectomy, distal pancreatectomy, pneumonectomy, and colectomies. ACS-defined wound classes were concordant with CDC definitions. Multivariate linear mixed regression was used to determine risk factors for readmission while adjusting for type of surgery as a random intercept.

RESULTS

477,964 cases were identified, with 38,734 (8.1%) patients having experienced readmission within 30 days of surgery. There were 181,243 (37.9%) cases classified as wound class "clean", 215,729 (45.1%) cases classified as "clean/contaminated", 40,684 cases (8.5%) classified as "contaminated", and 40,308 (8.4%) cases classified as "dirty/infected". In the multivariate generalized mixed linear model adjusting for type of surgery, sex, body mass index, race, American Society of Anesthesiologists class, presence of comorbidity, length of stay, urgency of surgery, and discharge destination, "clean/contaminated" (p < .001), "contaminated" (p < .001), and "dirty/infected" (p < .001) wound classes (when compared to "clean") were significantly associated with 30-day readmission. Organ/space surgical site infection and sepsis were among the most common reasons for readmission in all wound classes.

CONCLUSIONS

Wound classification was strongly prognostic for readmission in multivariable models, suggesting that it may serve as a marker of readmissions. Surgical procedures that are "non-clean" are at significantly greater risk for 30-day readmission. Readmissions may be due to infectious complications; optimizing antibiotic use or source control to prevent readmission are areas of future study.

Perioperative protocols in ambulatory breast reconstruction: A systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Recent studies have successfully employed perioperative protocols and Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols to promote and increase the range of breast reconstruction procedures performed in ambulatory settings. This systematic review aims to identify the common perioperative protocol items associated with successful ambulatory breast reconstruction.

METHODS

A systematic review of electronic databases (Ovid Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane) was conducted. Studies that described the perioperative care protocol for postmastectomy breast reconstruction in ambulatory settings (discharge within 24 h) were included. Two reviewers independently screened the literature and extracted the data. Risk of bias was assessed with the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute quality tool. The perioperative protocol details, type of reconstruction, information regarding patient selection criteria, successful discharge rates, and complication rates were extracted.

RESULTS

Twelve studies were included in the systematic review, with 1484 patients undergoing ambulatory breast reconstruction with a well-defined perioperative protocol. Sixteen perioperative items were identified. The most discussed items were preoperative counseling (11/12), preoperative and intraoperative multimodal analgesia (11/12), and postoperative analgesia (10/12). Our recommendation includes two new items and seven modified items compared to previous ERAS guidelines. Overall, the mean number of items was 9.22 in same-day discharge and 6.75 in 24-h discharge (P = 0.169). 78.4% of the patients (1123 of 1433) were successfully discharged within 24 h. No studies identified an increase in readmission or complications with ambulatory discharge.

CONCLUSION

Sixteen core items were defined for a successful perioperative ERAS protocol for 24-h discharge breast reconstruction. Implementing perioperative protocols can facilitate under-24-h discharge for alloplastic and autologous surgery.

Outcomes of Abdominal Wall Reconstruction with a Bovine versus a Porcine Acellular Dermal Matrix: A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis

BACKGROUND

Abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR) is one of the most commonly performed procedures, yet large comparative studies comparing outcomes of AWR using bovine acellular dermal matrix (BADM) and porcine acellular dermal matrix (PADM) are lacking.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent AWR from March of 2005 to June of 2019, the primary comparative outcome measure was hernia recurrence with BADM versus PADM. The secondary outcome was the incidence of surgical-site occurrence (SSO) and surgical-site infection. A propensity score matching approach was applied to compare the clinical outcomes between the two study groups.

RESULTS

The authors identified 725 patients who underwent AWR using BADM (50.5%) or PADM (49.5%). Their mean ± SD age was 59.8 ± 11.5 years, mean body mass index was 31.4 ± 6.7 kg/m 2 , and mean follow-up time was 42 ± 29 months. With propensity score matching, 219 matched pairs were identified. Hernia recurrence rates in BADM (11.4%) and PADM (13.7%) groups did not differ significantly ( P = 0.793). SSO (26.5% versus 29.2%; P = 0.518) and SSI (13.2% versus 11%; P = 0.456) rates did not differ significantly in the PADM and BADM groups, respectively. Conditional logistic regression model and marginal Cox proportional hazards regression model determined that type of acellular dermal matrix was not significantly associated with SSOs (adjusted OR, 1.11; 95% CI, 0.74 to 1.70; P = 0.589) or hernia recurrence (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.50 to 1.42; P = 0.52).

CONCLUSIONS

Both BADMs and PADMs provide durable, long-term outcomes. The hernia recurrence and postoperative surgical complication rates were not significantly different between BADM and PADM.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, III.