Prolonged operative duration is associated with complications: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Systematic review of microvascular coupling devices for arterial anastomoses in free tissue transfer

BACKGROUND

Coupling devices have become commonplace in performing venous anastomoses during microvascular free tissue transfer (FTT). However, arterial anastomoses are still most commonly performed using traditional microvascular suture techniques.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the safety and feasibility of using microvascular coupling devices for free flap arterial anastomosis.

METHODS

A systematic review of English language literature was performed for studies that investigated the use of an arterial coupler for microvascular FTT in human patients. A comprehensive search of MEDLINE (January 1948 to August 2018), EMBASE (January 1974 to August 2018), and Web of Science was performed.

RESULTS

Fifteen studies were included. All studies were retrospective case series. A combined total of 395 arterial anastomoses were attempted with a coupling device. All studies except for one used the 3M Unilink/Synovis coupling device. One study used a novel absorbable coupling device. The coupling device was aborted and converted to a suture technique in 8.4% of attempted anastomoses. Rupture of the anastomotic device was reported in only 1 patient (0.3%). Thrombosis was also infrequent at 1.9%. The quality assessment showed a high risk of bias in all studies.

CONCLUSION

In selected patients, coupling devices for arterial anastomoses have a good success rate with low rates of thrombosis based on limited quality evidence.

A MRI-Based Toolbox for Neurosurgical Planning in Nonhuman Primates

In this paper, we outline a method for surgical preparation that allows for the practical planning of a variety of neurosurgeries in NHPs solely using data extracted from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This protocol allows for the generation of 3D printed anatomically accurate physical models of the brain and skull, as well as an agarose gel model of the brain modeling some of the mechanical properties of the brain. These models can be extracted from MRI using brain extraction software for the model of the brain, and custom code for the model of the skull. The preparation protocol takes advantage of state-of-the-art 3D printing technology to make interfacing brains, skulls, and molds for gel brain models. The skull and brain models can be used to visualize brain tissue inside the skull with the addition of a craniotomy in the custom code, allowing for better preparation for surgeries directly involving the brain. The applications of these methods are designed for surgeries involved in neurological stimulation and recording as well as injection, but the versatility of the system allows for future expansion of the protocol, extraction techniques, and models to a wider scope of surgeries.

The Impact of Surgical Team Familiarity on Length of Procedure and Length of Stay: Inconsistent Relationships Across Procedures, Team Members, and Sites

BACKGROUND

Team familiarity has been shown to be important for operative efficiency and number of complications, but it is unclear for which types of operations and for which team members familiarity matters the most. The objective of this study is to further our understanding of familiarity in the OR by quantifying the relative importance of familiarity among all possible core team dyads, and defining the impact of team level familiarity on outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Using a retrospective chart and administrative data review, five years of data from two health systems (14 hospitals) and across two procedures, (knee arthroplasty and lumbar laminectomy) were included. Multilevel modeling approach and a dominance analysis were conducted.

RESULTS

For each previous surgery that any two members of the core surgical team had participated in together, the length of surgery decreased significantly. The familiarity of the scrub and the surgeon was the most significant relationship for knee arthroplasty across the two hospitals, and laminectomies at one hospital.

CONCLUSIONS

The relationship between familiarity of the surgical team and surgical efficiency may be more complex than previously articulated. Familiarity may be more important for certain types of procedures. The familiarity of certain dyads may be more important for certain types of procedures.

Gonioscopic iridocorneal angle morphology and incidence of postoperative ocular hypertension and glaucoma in dogs following cataract surgery

PURPOSE

To investigate the relationship between gonioscopic iridocorneal angle (ICA) morphology and the incidence of postoperative ocular hypertension (POH) and postoperative glaucoma in dogs undergoing cataract surgery.

ANIMALS STUDIED

Retrospective analysis of 138 eyes of 78 canine patients who underwent phacoemulsification at North Carolina State University from December 1, 2015 through April 30, 2017.

METHODS

Medical records of all phacoemulsification patients with preoperative RetCam gonioscopic images were reviewed for preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative variables. Gonioscopic angle indices were calculated using a novel (ZibWest) angle grading system, and these indices were analyzed for outcome-related significance.

RESULTS

Increased surgeon experience was associated with increased probability of POH and vision loss. Higher average ZibWest Angle indices (ie, more open angles with less pectinate ligament dysplasia/ abnormality) were associated with a significantly decreased probability of medically unresponsive glaucoma. Increased patient age was significantly associated with an increased probability of both postoperative glaucoma and vision loss. Female dogs were significantly more likely to experience postoperative glaucoma compared to male dogs. Increased surgery time was significantly associated with increased probability of vision loss.

CONCLUSIONS

The ZibWest angle index may predict increased risk for developing medically unresponsive glaucoma with cataract surgery. Female sex, and increased patient age, surgical time, and surgeon experience were associated with increased postoperative morbidity.

Adverse Cardiovascular Events Associated With Female Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate national trends in major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) in female pelvic reconstructive surgery (FPRS).

METHODS

Data from the National Inpatient Sample was used to identify women undergoing FPRS between 2012 and 2016. Demographic, procedural, and comorbidity data were collected. Patients were stratified into those with and without MACCE (defined as all-cause mortality, cardiac arrest, myocardial infarction (MI) and acute ischemic stroke). Descriptive statistics are expressed as medians and interquartile ranges. Pairwise analysis was performed using Wilcoxon rank-sum or Fisher exact test as appropriate. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify independent risk factors for MACCE.

RESULTS

During the study period, 53,540 patients underwent FPRS. The rate of MACCE was 4.8 per 1000 surgeries; MI, 3.7; acute ischemic stroke, 0.6; cardiac arrest, 0.4; and all-cause mortality, 0.3. Patients experiencing MACCE were more likely to have major preexisting cardiovascular comorbidities, coagulopathy, neurologic disease (ND), and diabetes and were more likely to undergo robotic colpopexy (20.7% vs 9.6%, P < 0.001), vaginal colpopexy (32.0% vs 28.5%, P = 0.04), and to receive a blood transfusion (8.2% vs 2.5%, P < 0.001).On logistic regression, preexisting coagulopathy was the strongest predictor of MACCE (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 5.53; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.39-12.78), followed by blood transfusion (aOR, 4.84; 95% CI, 1.89-12.45), congestive heart failure (aOR, 3.61; 95% CI, 1.56-8.37), ND (aOR, 3.14; 95% CI, 1.23-8.06), and electrolyte abnormalities (aOR, 1.99; 95% CI, 1.05-3.99).

CONCLUSION

Major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events after FPRS is a rare event, with MI being the most common manifestation. Preexisting ND, congestive heart failure, coagulopathy, electrolyte disturbances, and perioperative transfusions are strongly associated with MACCE.

Surgical learning curve in kidney transplantation: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM

To assess the impact of the learning curve of kidney transplantation on operative and postoperative complications.

METHODS

A literature search was systematically conducted to evaluate the significance of the learning curve on complications in kidney transplantation. Meta-analyses of the effect of the learning curve on warm ischemic time, total operating time (TOT), vascular and urological complications, postoperative bleeding, lymphocele and infection.

RESULTS

Nine studies met the inclusion criteria and 2762 patients were included in the present meta-analyses. Surgeons at the beginning of the learning curve were found to have longer TOT (mean difference 41.77 (95% CI: 4.48-79.06; P = .03) and more urological complications (risk ratio 3.93; 95% CI: 1.87-8.25; P < .01). No differences were seen in warm ischemic time, postoperative bleeding, lymphocele, and vascular complications.

CONCLUSION

Surgeons at the beginning of their learning curve have a longer TOT and more urological complications, without an effect on postoperative bleeding, lymphocele, infection and vascular complications. For interpretation of the outcomes, the quality and sample size of the evidence should be taken into consideration.

Postoperative Complications in Obese Patients After Tracheostomy

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence of varying classes of obesity in patients undergoing tracheostomy and the associated complication rates as compared with nonobese patients.

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective chart review was performed from 2012 to 2018 on all patients who underwent open tracheostomy by the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery.

SETTING

All tracheostomies were performed at a single tertiary care center.

METHODS

Patients were classified by body mass index (BMI) according to the World Health Organization classification system: underweight (<18.5), normal-overweight (18.5-29.9), class I (30-34.9), class II (35-39.9), and class III (>40). Charts were reviewed for patient demographic information, Charlson Comorbidity Index score, surgical indication, operative time, tracheostomy tube type, and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

A total of 387 patients (mean ± SD BMI, 31.3 ± 14.2) were identified per the inclusion/exclusion criteria. Of patients with BMI >30 (n=153), 34.6% were categorized as obesity class I, 29.4% as class II, and 35.9% as class III. The most common indication for tracheostomy was malignancy in nonobese patients (41.5%) and respiratory failure for obese patients (58.2%). Operative time was significantly longer in obese patients, and most of these patients required an extended-length tracheostomy tube. Patients with a BMI >40 had higher rates of multiple postoperative complications or death (P = .009). Underweight patients also had a higher rate of complication than normal-overweight patients (P = .016).

CONCLUSION

Class III and underweight patients had higher rates of postoperative complications, which should be taken into consideration during perioperative counseling.

Automated histologic diagnosis of CNS tumors with machine learning

The discovery of a new mass involving the brain or spine typically prompts referral to a neurosurgeon to consider biopsy or surgical resection. Intraoperative decision-making depends significantly on the histologic diagnosis, which is often established when a small specimen is sent for immediate interpretation by a neuropathologist. Access to neuropathologists may be limited in resource-poor settings, which has prompted several groups to develop machine learning algorithms for automated interpretation. Most attempts have focused on fixed histopathology specimens, which do not apply in the intraoperative setting. The greatest potential for clinical impact probably lies in the automated diagnosis of intraoperative specimens. Successful future studies may use machine learning to automatically classify whole-slide intraoperative specimens among a wide array of potential diagnoses.

Recognizing Risks and Optimizing Perioperative Care to Reduce Respiratory Complications in the Pediatric Patient

There have been significant advancements in the safe delivery of anesthesia as well as improvements in surgical technique; however, the perioperative period can still be high risk for the pediatric patient. Perioperative respiratory complications (PRCs) are some of the most common critical events that can occur in pediatric surgical patients and they can lead to increased length of hospitalization, worsened patient outcomes, and higher hospital and postoperative costs. It is important to determine the various factors that put pediatric patients at increased risk of PRCs. This will allow for more detailed and accurate informed consent, optimized perioperative management strategy, improved allocation of clinical resources, and, hopefully, better patient experience. There are only a few risk prediction models/scoring tools developed for and validated in the pediatric patient population, but they have been useful in helping identify the key factors associated with a high likelihood of developing PRCs. Some of these factors are patient factors, while others are procedure-related factors. Some of these factors may be modified such that the patient’s clinical status is optimized preoperatively to decrease the risk of PRCs occurring perioperatively. Fore knowledge of the factors that are not able to be modified can help guide allocation of perioperative clinical resources such that the negative impact of these non-modifiable factors is buffered. Additional training in pediatric anesthesia or focused expertise in pediatric airway management, vascular access and management of massive hemorrhage should be considered for the perioperative management of the less than 3 age group. Intraoperative ventilation strategy plays a key role in determining respiratory outcomes for both adult and pediatric surgical patients. Key components of lung protective mechanical ventilation strategy such as low tidal volume and moderate PEEP used in the management of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in pediatric intensive care units have been adopted in pediatric operating rooms. Adequate post-operative analgesia that balances pain control with appropriate mental status and respiratory drive is important in reducing PRCs.

Total Hip Arthroplasty for Developmental Dysplasia of Hip vs Osteoarthritis: A Propensity Matched Pair Analysis

Background

The purpose of this study was to use the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program to compare the perioperative and postoperative outcomes after total hip arthroplasty (THA) for DDH and primary OA via a propensity-matched pair analysis and the valuation of THA between both groups.

Material and Methods

All patients who underwent THA between 2008 and 2016 were identified from National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database via the current procedural terminology (CPT) code. Patients were further identified and stratified based on International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems-9/International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems-10 diagnosis codes for primary OA (n = 115,166) and DDH (n = 603), which included codes for congenital hip dislocation, hip dysplasia, or juvenile osteochondrosis. Demographic variables were used to create 557 propensity-matched pairs.

Results

The DDH group was associated with a significantly longer operative time (120.3 vs 95.9 min), higher postoperative transfusion rate (12% vs 6.6%), and longer hospital length of stay (2.8 vs 2.5 days) compared with the primary OA group (P < .001, P < .001, and P = .002, respectively). There were no statistically significant differences found between the two groups with respect to inpatient complications, discharge disposition (P = .123), readmissions (P = .615), or reoperations (P = .404).

Conclusions

Health policy makers should be cognizant of the higher complexity of THA for DDH when determining whether DDH and primary OA should be in the same bundle. Owing to the limitations of our data set, all the observed associations are likely an underestimate of the true risk posed to patients with severe DDH, as these patients were unable to be stratified in the present analysis.

Selective lateral lymph node dissection after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy in rectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Lateral lymph node metastasis is one of the leading causes of local recurrence in patients with advanced mid or low rectal cancer. Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NCRT) can effectively reduce the postoperative recurrence rate; thus, NCRT with total mesorectal excision (TME) is the most widely accepted standard of care for rectal cancer. The addition of lateral lymph node dissection (LLND) after NCRT remains a controversial topic.

AIM

To investigate the surgical outcomes of TME plus LLND, and the possible risk factors for lateral lymph node metastasis after NCRT.

METHODS

This retrospective study reviewed 89 consecutive patients with clinical stage II-III mid or low rectal cancer who underwent TME and LLND from June 2016 to October 2018. In the NCRT group, TME plus LLND was performed in patients with short axis (SA) of the lateral lymph node greater than 5 mm. In the non-NCRT group, TME plus LLND was performed in patients with SA of the lateral lymph node greater than 10 mm. Data regarding patient demographics, clinical workup, surgical procedure, complications, and outcomes were collected. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the possible risk factors for lateral lymph node metastasis in NCRT patients.

RESULTS

LLN metastasis was pathologically confirmed in 35 patients (39.3%): 26 (41.3%) in the NCRT group and 9 (34.6%) in the non-NCRT group. The most common site of metastasis was around the obturator nerve (21/35) followed by the internal iliac artery region (12/35). In the NCRT patients, 46% of patients with SA of LLN greater than 7 mm were positive. The postoperative 30-d mortality rate was 0%. Two (2.2%) patients suffered from lateral local recurrence in the 2-year follow up. Multivariate analysis showed that cT4 stage (odds ratio [OR] = 5.124, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.419-18.508; P = 0.013), poor differentiation type (OR = 4.014, 95%CI: 1.038-15.520; P = 0.044), and SA ≥ 7 mm (OR = 7.539, 95%CI: 1.487-38.214; P = 0.015) were statistically significant risk factors associated with LLN metastasis.

CONCLUSION

NCRT is not sufficient as a stand-alone therapy to eradicate LLN metastasis in lower rectal cancer patients and surgeons should consider performing selective LLND in patients with greater LLN SA diameter, poorer histological differentiation, or advanced T stage. Selective LLND for NCRT patients can have a favorable oncological outcome.

Safety of leadless pacemaker implantation in the very elderly

BACKGROUND

The Micra leadless pacemaker (MLP) has proven to be an effective alternative to a traditional transvenous pacemaker (TVP). However, there has been concern about using the MLP in frail elderly patients because of the size of the implant sheath and perceived risk of perforation.

OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this study were to report the safety of the MLP and compare MPLs with TVPs in the very elderly.

METHODS

All patients 85 years and older who received an MLP or a single-chamber TVP across 6 hospitals in the Northwell Health system from December 2015 to November 2019 were included. Demographic characteristics, procedural details, and procedure-related complications were reviewed.

RESULTS

Over 4 years, 564 patients underwent MLP implantation. During this time, 183 MLPs and 119 TVPs were implanted in patients 85 years and older. The mean age was 89.7 ± 3.4 years, and 47.4% were men. MLP implantation was successful in all but 3 patients (98.4% success rate). There was no difference in procedure-related complications (3.3% vs 5.9%; P = .276). Complications included 5 (2.7%) access site hematomas in the MLP group, 3 (2.5%) in the TVP group, 1 (0.5 vs 0.8%) pericardial effusion in each group, and 3 (2.5%) acute lead dislodgments (<24 hours) in the TVP group. MLP implantation resulted in a significantly shorter mean procedure time (35.7 ± 23.0 minutes vs 62.3 ± 31.5 minutes, P < .001).

CONCLUSION

In a large multicenter study of patients 85 years and older, MLP implantation (1) was successful in 98.4% of patients, (2) was safe with no difference in procedure-related complications compared to the TVP group, and (3) resulted in significantly shorter procedure times.

Trends, factors, and disparities associated with length of stay after lower extremity bypass for tissue loss

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to determine predictors of increased length of stay (LOS) in patients who underwent lower extremity bypass for tissue loss.

METHODS

Using 2011 to 2016 National Surgical Quality Improvement Program vascular targeted databases, we compared demographics, comorbidities, procedural characteristics, and 30-day outcomes of patients who had expected LOS vs extended LOS (>75th percentile, 9 days) after nonemergent lower extremity bypass for tissue loss. We also compared factors associated with short LOS (<25th percentile, 4 days) and extended LOS (>75th percentile, 9 days) vs the interquartile range of LOS (4-9 days). Yearly trends and independent predictors were determined by linear and logistic regression. This study was exempt from Institutional Review Board approval.

RESULTS

In 4964 analyzed patients, there were no significant yearly trends or changes in LOS in the recent 5 years (P > .05). Overall 30-day mortality, major amputation, and reintervention rates were 1.6%, 4.5%, and 4.8%, respectively, also with no significant yearly trends (all P > .05). On univariate analysis, nonwhite race, dependent functional status, transfers, dialysis, congestive heart failure, hypertension, beta blockers, distal bypass targets, and extended operative time were associated with extended LOS (P < .05). Extended LOS was also associated with higher rates of 30-day major adverse limb and cardiac events, additional procedures related to wound care, deep venous thrombosis, complications (pulmonary, renal, septic, bleeding, and wound), and discharge to facility but lower 30-day readmission rates. After adjustment for covariates, the independent factors for extended LOS included dialysis, beta blockers, prolonged operative time, reintervention, major amputation, additional procedures related to wound care, deep venous thrombosis, complications (pulmonary, renal, septic, bleeding, and wound), and discharge to facility (P < .05). On the other hand, multivariable analysis showed that patients with expected LOS were significantly more likely to have been of white race or readmitted postoperatively (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

From 2011 to 2016, there were no significant changes in LOS. Efforts to decrease LOS without increasing readmission rates while focusing on some of the identified factors, including preventable postoperative complications and pre-existing socioeconomic factors, may improve the overall vascular care of these challenging patients.

Reamed Versus Unreamed Intertrochanteric Femur Fractures, Is It Time?

OBJECTIVES

This study compares the intraoperative and postoperative outcomes of the traditional technique of femoral canal reaming to placement of an unreamed 10-mm nail.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Academic Level I Trauma Center, Southeastern US.

PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS

Intertrochanteric femur fractures treated with a CMN (January 2016-December 2018) were retrospectively identified. Inclusion criteria were as follows: low-energy mechanism, at least 60 years of age, and long CMN. Exclusion criteria were as follows: short CMN, polytrauma, and subtrochanteric fractures.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Records were reviewed for demographics, hematologic markers, transfusion rates, operative times, and postoperative complications. Variables were assessed with a χ or Student T-test. Significance was set at 0.05.

RESULTS

Sixty-five patients were included (37 reamed and 28 unreamed), with a mean age of 76.2 years and mean body mass index of 25.1. Between the reamed and unreamed groups, respectively, mean nail size was 11.0 (SD 1.1) and 10.0 (SD 0.0), P < 0.001; mean blood loss was 209.1 mL (SD 177.5) and 195.7 mL (SD 151.5), P = 0.220; 55% (21/38), and 43% (12/28) were transfused, P = 0.319; operative time was 98.2 (SD 47.3) and 81.5 minutes (SD 40.7); P = 0.035. Changes in hemoglobin/hematocrit were not significant between the study groups. Two patients from the reamed group experienced implant failure due to femoral head screw cut out and returned to the operating room. Two patients from the unreamed group returned to operating room for proximal incision infection, without implant removal. One reamed patient and 2 unreamed patients died before 6-month follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Unreamed CMNs for geriatric intertrochanteric femur fractures provide shorter operative times with no difference in perioperative complications. Both reamed and unreamed techniques are safe and effective measures for fixation of these fractures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Frailer Patients Undergoing Robotic Colectomies for Colon Cancer Experience Increased Complication Rates Compared With Open or Laparoscopic Approaches

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive surgical techniques are routinely promoted as alternatives to open surgery because of improved outcomes. However, the impact of robotic surgery on certain subsets of the population, such as frail patients, is poorly understood.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of our study was to examine the association between frailty and minimally invasive surgical approaches with colon cancer surgery.

DESIGN

This is a retrospective study of prospectively collected outcomes data. Thirty-day surgical outcomes were compared by frailty and surgical approach using doubly robust multivariable logistic regression with propensity score weighting, and testing for interaction effects between frailty and surgical approach.

SETTING

Patients undergoing an open, laparoscopic, or robotic colectomy for primary colon cancer, 2012 to 2016, were identified from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database.

PATIENTS

Patients undergoing a colectomy with an operative indication for primary colon cancer were selected.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcomes measured were 30-day postoperative complications.

RESULTS

After propensity score weighting of patients undergoing colectomy, 33.8% (n = 27,649) underwent an open approach versus 34.3% (n = 28,058) underwent laparoscopic surgery versus 31.9% (n = 26,096) underwent robotic surgery. Robotic (OR, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.42-0.69, p < 0.001) and laparoscopic (OR, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.52-0.66, p < 0.001) surgeries were independently associated with decreased rates of major complications. Frailer patients had increased complication rates (OR, 1.56; 95% CI, 1.07-2.25, p = 0.018). When considering the interaction effects between surgical approach and frailty, frailer patients undergoing robotic surgery were more likely to develop a major complication (combined adjusted OR, 3.15; 95% CI, 1.34-7.45, p = 0.009) compared with patients undergoing open surgery.

LIMITATIONS

Use of the modified Frailty Index as an associative proxy for frailty was a limitation of this study.

CONCLUSIONS

Although minimally invasive surgical approaches have decreased postoperative complications, this effect may be reversed in frail patients. These findings challenge the belief that robotic surgery provides a favorable alternative to open surgery in frail patients. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B163. LOS PACIENTES MÁS FRÁGILES SOMETIDOS A COLECTOMÍA ROBÓTICA POR CÁNCER DE COLON EXPERIMENTAN MAYORES TASAS DE COMPLICACIONES EN COMPARACIÓN CON ABORDAJES LAPAROSCÓPICO O ABIERTO: Las técnicas quirúrgicas mínimamente invasivas estan frecuentement promovidas como alternativas a la cirugía abierta debido a sus mejores resultados. Sin embargo, el impacto de la cirugía robótica en ciertos subgrupos de población, como el caso de los pacientes endebles, es poco conocido.El propósito de nuestro estudio fue examinar la asociación entre la fragilidad de los pacientes y el aborgaje quirúrgico mínimamente invasivo para la cirugía de cáncer de colon.Estudio retrospectivo de datos de resultados recolectados prospectivamente. Los resultados quirúrgicos a 30 días se compararon entre fragilidad y abordaje quirúrgico utilizando la regresión logística multivariable doblemente robusta con ponderación de puntaje de propensión y pruebas de efectos de interacción entre fragilidad y abordaje quirúrgico.Los pacientes identificados en la base de datos del Programa Nacional de Mejora de la Calidad Quirúrgica del Colegio Estadounidense de Cirujanos, que fueron sometidos a una colectomía abierta, laparoscópica o robótica por cáncer de colon primario, de 2012 a 2016.Todos aquellos pacientes seleccionados con indicación quirúrgica de cáncer primario de colon que fueron sometidos a una colectomía.Las complicaciones postoperatorias a 30 días.Luego de ponderar el puntaje de propensión de los pacientes colectomizados, el 33.8% (n = 27,649) fué sometido a laparotomía versus el 34.3% (n = 28,058) operados por laparoscopía versus el 31.9% (n = 26,096) operados con tecnica robótica. Las cirugías robóticas (OR 0.53, IC 95% 0.42-0.69, p < 0.001) y laparoscópicas (OR 0.58, IC 95% 0.52-0.66, p < 0.001) se asociaron de forma independiente con una disminución de las tasas de complicaciones mayores. Los pacientes más delicados tenían mayores tasas de complicaciones (OR 1.56, IC 95% 1.07-2.25, p = 0.018). Al considerar los efectos de interacción entre el abordaje quirúrgico y la fragilidad, los pacientes más débiles sometidos a cirugía robótica tenían más probabilidades de desarrollar una complicación mayor (OR ajustado combinado 3.15, IC 95% 1.34-7.45, p = 0.009) en comparación con los pacientes sometidos a cirugía abierta.El uso del índice de fragilidad modificado como apoderado asociativo de la fragilidad.Si bien los abordajes quirúrgicos mínimamente invasivos han disminuido las complicaciones postoperatorias, este efecto puede revertirse en pacientes lábiles. Estos hallazgos desafían la creencia de que la cirugía robótica proporciona una alternativa favorable a la cirugía abierta en pacientes frágiles. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B163. (Traducción-Dr. Xavier Delgadillo).

Is out-of-hours cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis associated with complications?

Background

Existing data on the safety of out-of-hours cholecystectomy are conflicting. The aim of this study was to investigate whether out-of-hours cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis is associated with a higher risk for complications compared with surgery during office hours.

Methods

This was a population-based cohort study. The Swedish Gallstone Surgery and Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography Register (GallRiks) was used to investigate the association between out-of-hours cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis and complications developing within 30 days. Data from patients who underwent cholecystectomy between 2006 and 2017 were collected. Out-of-hours surgery was defined as surgery commencing between 19.00 and 07.00 hours on weekdays, or any time at weekends (Friday 19.00 hours to Monday 07.00 hours). Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to assess the risk of complications, with time of procedure as independent variable. The proportion of open procedures and proportion of procedures exceeding 120 min were also analysed. Adjustments were made for sex, age, ASA grade, time between admission and surgery, and hospital-specific features.

Results

Of 11 153 procedures included, complications occurred within 30 days in 1573 patients (14·1 per cent). The adjusted odds ratio (OR) for complications for out-of-hours versus office-hours surgery was 1·12 (95 per cent c.i. 0·99 to 1·28). The adjusted OR for procedures completed as open surgery was 1·39 (1·25 to 1·54), and that for operating time exceeding 120 min was 0·63 (0·58 to 0·69).

Conclusion

Out-of-hours complications may relate to patient factors and the higher proportion of open procedures.

Retrograde open mesenteric stenting should be considered as the initial approach to acute mesenteric ischemia

OBJECTIVE

Retrograde open mesenteric stenting (ROMS) is an alternative to traditional bypass in patients who present with acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI). However, there is a paucity of data comparing outcomes of ROMS with other open surgical approaches. This study represents the largest single-institution experience with ROMS and aims to compare outcomes of ROMS with those of conventional mesenteric bypass.

METHODS

All patients who presented with AMI from 2008 to 2019 and who were treated with either ROMS or mesenteric bypass were included in the study. Patient, procedure, and outcome variables were compared. Bypass and ROMS patients were compared using univariate statistics.

RESULTS

A total of 34 patients who presented with AMI needing bypass were included in the study; 16 underwent mesenteric bypass, and 18 underwent ROMS. ROMS patients tended to be older than bypass patients and had higher rates of comorbidities. Bypass patients were more likely to have a history of chronic mesenteric symptoms (68.8% vs 27.8%; P = .019). Bypass procedures also took longer than ROMS procedures (302 vs 189 minutes; P < .01). The majority of ROMS procedures were not performed in a hybrid room (77.8%). Within 1 year, one stent thrombosed in a ROMS patient, requiring later mesenteric bypass. In the bypass group, one conduit thrombosed, ultimately resulting in perioperative death, and one bypass anastomosis stenosed, requiring angioplasty. Complication, unanticipated reintervention, and mortality rates were otherwise similar between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Complication, reintervention, and mortality rates after ROMS are similar to those of mesenteric bypass in the setting of AMI. Given similar postoperative outcomes and ability to perform these procedures in a conventional operating room but with significantly shorter operative times, ROMS should be considered a first-line option in acute situations when the operator is comfortable performing the procedure.

Propensity score-matched analysis of clinical outcome after enucleation versus regular pancreatectomy in patients with small non-functional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors

OBJECTIVES

The effectiveness of enucleation in treatment for low-grade (G1, G2) small (≤2 cm) non-functional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (sNF-pNETs) remains controversial. This study investigated short- and long-term outcome of enucleation comparing with regular pancreatectomy in patients with sNF-pNETs.

METHODS

The clinical data of patients with sNF-pNETs who underwent surgery in our hospital from January 2000 to December 2017 were retrospectively collected. Short- and long-term outcomes of two operations were analyzed. The propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to reduce potential selection bias.

RESULTS

A total of 123 patients with sNF-pNETs were enrolled with 62 males, 69 G1, and median age was 56.91 ± 10.04 years old. During the follow-up period (mean 87 ± 58.1 months), 9(7.32%) disease progressed (recurrence or metastasis) and 2 died (1.62%), 5-years OS was 100%, 5-years DFS was 91.4%. Both lymph node metastasis (p = 0.117) and pathological grade (p = 0.050) were not prognostic factors for sNF-pNETs. The propensity score-matched cohort comprised 27 patients with enucleation and 44 patients with regular pancreatectomy. Enucleation was noninferior to regular pancreatectomy in terms of DFS, before or after PSM. The surgical duration (P < 0.01) and blood loss (P < 0.01) significantly decreased in enucleation compared with regular pancreatectomy. The other postoperative complications tended to occur in regular pancreatectomy than in enucleation, but no statistically significant difference (all p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Enucleation seems to be an effective option for the treatment of sNF-pNETs with a lower total rate of postoperative complications and similar long-term prognosis, compared with regular pancreatectomy.

Postoperative Venous Thromboembolism in Extramedullary Spinal Tumors

Context:

Venous thromboembolism (VTE), including deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), is the fatal complication following spine surgery and the appropriate perioperative prophylaxis is still debated.

Aims:

The aim of this study is to evaluate the incidence of along with risk factors for postoperative VTE in surgically treated extramedullary spinal tumor patients.

Setting and Designs:

The study design involves single institute and retrospective cohort study.

Subjects and Methods:

The cohort database was reviewed between the periods of January 2014 and June 2019. Patients undergoing surgery for spine tumor, extradural tumor, and intradural extramedullary were consecutively collected.

Statistical Analysis Used:

The incidence of VTE and clinical factors reported to be associated with VTE were identified, and then analyzed with an appropriate Cox regression model.

Results:

The study identified 103 extramedullary spinal tumor patients. Three patients (2.9%) were diagnosed with a proximal leg DVT, while symptomatic PE did not identify. Risk factors associated with DVT occurrence were as follows: operative time ≥8 h (Hazard ratio [HR] 13.98, P = 0.03) and plasma transfusion (HR 16.38, P = 0.02), whereas plasma transfusion was the only significant factor, after multivariate analysis (HR 11.77, P = 0.05).

Conclusions:

Patients who underwent surgery for extramedullary spinal tumors showed a 2.9% incidence of DVT. The highest rate of DVT was found in patients who received plasma transfusion. More attention should be paid on perioperative associated factors for intensive prevention coupled with early screening in this group.

Comparable outcomes in mini-midvastus versus mini-medial parapatellar approach in total knee arthroplasty: a meta-analysis and systematic review

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) techniques in total knee arthroplasties (TKA) have gained popularity over conventional techniques due to benefits of hastened recovery and reduced complications. There are a variety of MIS techniques available and two most common techniques currently employed are the mini-midvastus (mMV) and mini-medial parapatellar (mMPP) approaches. This meta-analysis aims to compare the clinical outcomes and peri-operative parameters between mMV and mMPP in TKA in order to determine the presence of a superior technique.

METHODS

A multi-database search was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. Data from studies comparing clinical outcomes and peri-operative parameters between mMV and mMPP approaches in TKA were extracted and analysed.

RESULTS

A total of five randomized controlled trials were included for analysis, consisting of 190 mMV and 189 mMPP knees. Clinically unimportant differences were noted in blood loss and surgical time between the groups (5 mL less blood loss and 7 min less surgical time in mMV, P < 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference between both groups for Knee Society Score at 1 and 2 years, range of motion at 1 and 2 years, incision length or incidence of lateral retinacular release (all non-significant, P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The mMV and mMPP MIS TKA approaches have equivalent clinical outcomes. Despite a statistically significant longer operative time and higher mean blood loss in mMV than mMPP approach, clinically significant difference was not demonstrated. Both mMV and mMPP MIS techniques are reliable and safe to perform in TKA.

A review of surgical and peri-operative factors to consider in emergency laparotomy care

Patients undergoing emergency laparotomy are a heterogeneous group with regard to comorbidity, pre-operative physiological state and surgical pathology. There are many factors to consider in the peri-operative period for these patients. Surgical duration should be as short as possible for adequate completion of the procedure. This is of particular importance in the elderly and comorbid population. To date, there are limited data addressing the role of damage control surgery in emergency general surgery. Dual consultant-led care in all stages of emergency laparotomy care is increasing, with increased presence out of hours and also for high-risk patients. The role of the stoma care team should be actively encouraged in all patients who may require a stoma. Due to the emergent and unpredictable nature of surgical emergencies, healthcare teams may need to employ novel strategies to ensure early input from the stoma care team. It is important for all members of the medical teams to ensure that patients have given consent for both anaesthesia and surgery before emergency laparotomy. Small studies suggest that patients and their families are not aware of the high risk of morbidity and mortality following emergency laparotomy before operative intervention. Elderly patients should have early involvement from geriatric specialists and careful attention paid to assessment of frailty due to its association with mortality and morbidity. Additionally, the use of enhanced recovery programmes in emergency general surgery has been shown to have some impact in reducing length of stay in emergency surgical patients. However, the emergent nature of this surgery has been shown to be a detrimental factor in full implementation of enhanced recovery programmes. The use of a national database to collect data on patients undergoing emergency laparotomy and their processes of care has led to reduced mortality and length of stay in the UK. However, internationally, fewer data are available to draw conclusions.

Risk Factors Related to Operative Duration and Their Relationship With Clinical Outcomes in Pediatric Patients Undergoing Roux-en-Y Hepaticojejunostomy

Background: Operative duration might be important for perioperative morbidity, and its involvement has not been fully characterized in pediatric patients. We identified perioperative variables associated with operative duration and determined their influence on clinical outcomes in pediatric patients. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 701 patients who underwent elective removal of choledochal cysts followed by Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy. The patients were separated into the long operative time group (>165 min) and short operative time group (<165 min) based on the median operative time (165 min). Propensity score matching was performed to adjust for any potential selection bias. The independent risk factors for operative time were determined using multivariable logistic regression analyses. Results: The operative time was often increased by excision difficulty caused by a larger choledochal cyst size (OR = 1.56; 95% CI, 1.09-2.23; p < 0.001), a greater BMI (OR = 1.02; 95% CI, 1.00-1.15; p = 0.018), and older age (OR = 1.17; 95% CI, 1.02-1.39; p = 0.012) in the multivariate analysis. A long surgical duration was associated with delayed gastrointestinal functional recovery, as measured using the time to first defecation (p = 0.027) and first bowel movement (p = 0.019). Significantly lower levels of serum albumin were found in the long operative time group than in the short operative time group (p = 0.0035). The total length of postoperative hospital stay was longer in patients in the long operative time group (7.51 ± 2.03 days) than in those in the short operative time group (6.72 ± 1.54 days, p = 0.006). Conclusions: Our data demonstrated that a short operative time was associated with favorable postoperative results. The influencing factors of operative time should be ameliorated to achieve better outcomes.

Image-guided ablation of scar-related ventricular tachycardia: towards a shorter and more predictable procedure

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to analyze the feasibility and reproducibility of using image integration software at a remote setting over the MUSIC network to perform image-guided VT ablation. Furthermore, we analyzed the efficacy of a focused workflow with electroanatomical mapping (EAM) limited to imaging-defined scar.

METHODS

In a prospective two-centre study, consecutive patients undergoing image integration-guided VT ablation (magnetic resonance [DE-MRI] and/or multidetector computed tomography [MDCT]) were included. Patients were divided into two groups (Group 1, complete EAM; Group 2, EAM limited to imaging-defined substrate).

RESULTS

Forty-nine patients (62 ± 15 years; 90% male; LVEF 41 ± 14%; ischemic 69%) who underwent image integration-guided VT ablation were included (MDCT 98%; DE-MRI in 35%). Total procedure time was 172 ± 48 min (ablation 31 ± 17 min; fluoroscopy 23 ± 13 min). Procedure time was shorter in Group 2 as compared to Group 1 (Group 2 [n = 26] vs. Group 1 [n = 23]; procedure time: 151 ± 33 vs. 180 ± 53 min, P = 0.01). Non-inducibility of all VT was achieved in 37 (76%), with no difference between Group 1 and 2 (Group 2 vs. Group 1; VT non-inducibility 71 vs. 74%, P = 0.8). During a follow-up period of 19 ± 8 months, 13 patients (27%) had a VT recurrence. Two patients (4%) died during follow-up. There were no differences in VT-free survival between Group 1 and Group 2 (p = 0.77).

CONCLUSION

Image-integrated VT ablation is feasible through a network between highly experienced centers and remotely located centers. Focused image integration-guided VT ablation is associated with short and predictable procedure duration, achieving high-long term success rates.

Influence of use of a bipolar vessel sealing device on short-term postoperative mortality after splenectomy: 203 dogs (2005-2018)

OBJECTIVE

To compare short-term postoperative mortality in dogs after splenectomy performed with or without a bipolar vessel sealing device (BVSD) and to identify variables associated with mortality.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective study.

SAMPLE POPULATION

Client-owned dogs (n = 203).

METHODS

Medical records of dogs that underwent splenectomy from 2005-2018 were reviewed. Mortality rates were compared between dogs that underwent splenectomy with or without BVSD. Causes of death and variables associated with short-term mortality were assessed.

RESULTS

Fifteen of 203 (7.4%) dogs died prior to discharge, and seven (3.4%) dogs died prior to suture removal for a total short-term mortality rate of 22 of 203 (10.8%). The estimated difference in proportion of deaths prior to discharge between the BVSD and non-BVSD groups was -0.01 (95% confidence interval = -0.08 to 0.06). Duration of anesthesia was longer when splenectomy was performed without BVSD (median 168 vs 152 minutes; P = .03). Multivariate analysis identified intraoperative (odds ratio [OR] 5.7) or postoperative (OR 13.6) administration of blood products, increasing duration of anesthesia (OR 1.15 per additional 16 minutes), and intraoperative ventricular arrhythmias (OR 6.8) as significantly associated with death prior to discharge. Intraoperative (OR 3.2) or postoperative (OR 7.7) administration of blood products was associated with death prior to suture removal.

CONCLUSION

Use of a BVSD did not appear to increase short-term mortality after splenectomy.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Dogs undergoing splenectomy that require intraoperative or postoperative transfusions, experience intraoperative ventricular arrhythmias, or have prolonged anesthesia may be at risk for death in the short-term postoperative period.

Feasibility of Linear-Shaped Gastroduodenostomy during the Performance of Totally Robotic Distal Gastrectomy

Purpose

Although linear-shaped gastroduodenostomy (LSGD) was reported to be a feasible and reliable method of Billroth I anastomosis in patients undergoing totally laparoscopic distal gastrectomy (TLDG), the feasibility of LSGD for patients undergoing totally robotic distal gastrectomy (TRDG) has not been determined. This study compared the feasibility of LSGD in patients undergoing TRDG and TLDG.

Materials and Methods: All c

onsecutive patients who underwent LSGD after distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer between January 2009 and December 2017 were analyzed retrospectively. Propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was performed to reduce the selection bias between TRDG and TLDG. Short-term outcomes, functional outcomes, learning curve, and risk factors for postoperative complications were analyzed.

Results

This analysis included 414 patients, of whom 275 underwent laparoscopy and 139 underwent robotic surgery. PSM analysis showed that operation time was significantly longer (163.5 vs. 132.1 minutes, P<0.001) and postoperative hospital stay significantly shorter (6.2 vs. 7.5 days, P<0.003) in patients who underwent TRDG than in patients who underwent TLDG. Operation time was the independent risk factor for LSGD after intracorporeal gastroduodenostomy. Cumulative sum analysis showed no definitive turning point in the TRDG learning curve. Long-term endoscopic findings revealed similar results in the two groups, but bile reflux at 5 years showed significantly better improvement in the TLDG group than in the TRDG group (P=0.016).

Conclusions

LSGD is feasible in TRDG, with short-term and long-term outcomes comparable to that in TLDG. LSGD may be a good option for intracorporeal Billroth I anastomosis in patients undergoing TRDG.

Rate and Risk Factors of Early Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Revision: A Five-Year Retrospective Analysis of a Referral Center

BACKGROUND

Cerebral shunts are the mainstay treatment of hydrocephalus. Because most previous studies have focused on factors related to long-term outcomes of shunt surgery, we aimed to assess the rates and causes of 30-day ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) failure in a single referral center over 5 years in both adult and pediatric patients.

METHODS

Patients who underwent VPS surgery from February 2012 to February 2017 in Ghaem Teaching Hospital, Mashhad, Iran were evaluated retrospectively through clinical history, operative reports, imaging studies, and follow-up notes. Data of 12 possible factors related to shunt failure were collected comprising age, gender, household income, level of education, cause of hydrocephalus, causes of revision, type of failure, anatomic site, duration of operation, time of surgery, surgeons' level of expertise, and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score.

RESULTS

Among 403 VPS placements, 121 VPS revisions were performed, and 82 eligible patients were included in the study (57.3% male and 42.7% female). The 30-day shunt failure rate was 24.4% among all revisions. Obstruction and malposition were the most common causes of early revisions. Six factors were statistically significant in the univariate analysis. After adjustment in a logistic regression model, 2 factors, namely surgeons' level of expertise (odds ratio, 10.33; 95% confidence interval, 1.08-98.80) and anatomic site of the shunt (odds ratio, 10.28; 95% confidence interval, 1.21-87.35) were associated with early shunt revision.

CONCLUSIONS

Shunt surgeries performed by junior residents and shunts placed in the frontal site were associated with early shunt failure.

Preoperative serum albumin is associated with intra-abdominal infection following major hepatectomy

Background

Major hepatectomy is a complex surgical procedure with high morbidity. Intra‐abdominal infection (IAI) is common following hepatectomy and affects treatment outcomes. This study was performed to investigate perioperative factors and determine whether the preoperative serum albumin level is associated with IAI following major hepatectomy.

Methods

From January 2008 to December 2018, 268 patients underwent major hepatectomy. We retrospectively analyzed demographic data and preoperative and perioperative variables. IAI was defined as organ/space surgical site infection. Risk factors for IAI were analyzed by logistic regression analysis.

Results

In total, 268 patients were evaluated. IAI was observed in 38 patients (14.6%). The mortality rate in the IAI group was 15.7%. Multivariate logistic analysis confirmed that the serum albumin level (odds ratio 0.91; 95% confidence interval 0.84–0.97; P = 0.03) and operative duration (odds ratio 1.50; 95% confidence interval 1.18–1.91; P < 0.01) were independent factors associated with IAI. A logistic model using the serum albumin level and operative duration to estimate the probability of IAI was analyzed. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for predicting IAI was 0.78.

Conclusion

The serum albumin level and operative duration were independent factors predicting IAI following major hepatectomy.

Supraglottic devices for airway management in awake craniotomy

Awake craniotomy is a unique technique utilized for mapping neuro and motor function during neurosurgical procedures close to eloquent brain tissue. Since active communication is required only during surgical manipulation of eloquent brain tissue and the patient is "sedated" during other parts of the procedure, different methods for anesthesia management have been explored. Furthermore, airway management ranges from spontaneous breathing to oro or nasotracheal intubation. Case reports have described the use of laryngeal masks (LMs) previously; however, its safety compared to tracheal intubation has not been assessed.We conducted a retrospective analysis of 30 patients that underwent awake craniotomy for tumor surgery to compare the feasibility and safety of different airway management strategies. Nasal fiberoptic intubation (FOI) was performed in 21 patients while 9 patients received LM for airway management. Ventilation, critical events, and perioperative complications were evaluated.Cannot intubate situation occurred in 4 cases reinserting the tube after awake phase, while no difficulties were described reinserting the LM (P < .0001). Furthermore, duration of mechanical ventilation after tumor removal was significantly lower in the LM group compared to FOI group (62 ± 24 vs. 339 ± 82 [min] mean ± sem, P < .0001). Postoperatively, 2 patients in each group were diagnosed with and treated for respiratory complications including pneumonia, without statistical significance between groups.In summary, LM is a feasible airway management method for patients undergoing awake craniotomy, resulting in reduced ventilation duration compared to FOI procedure.

Impact of epidural bupivacaine on perioperative opioid requirements, recovery characteristics, and duration of hospitalization in dogs undergoing cystotomy: A retrospective study of 56 cases

OBJECTIVE

To compare perioperative opioid consumption and duration of hospitalization (DOH) in anesthetized dogs receiving opioid-based analgesia (OBA) vs those receiving bupivacaine epidural-based analgesia (EPID) during cystotomy.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cross-sectional study.

ANIMALS

Fifty-six client-owned dogs undergoing cystotomy.

METHODS

Clinical records of dogs undergoing cystotomy between January 2015 and December 2017 were reviewed. Demographic data, duration of anesthesia and surgery, anesthetic management, perioperative opioid consumption expressed in morphine equivalents (ME), perioperative use of adjuvant analgesics, time to first micturition, time to eat, time to ambulate, and DOH were recorded. Opioid consumption and DOH were compared with a Wilcoxon rank-sum test, followed by linear regression analysis as appropriate. Time to first micturition, time to eat, and time to walk unassisted were modeled with Cox-proportional hazard models.

RESULTS

Dogs treated with EPID during surgery required 1.5 mg/kg ME less compared with those treated with OBA (P = .04) during surgery. Three of 19 dogs treated with EPID vs 15 of 37 dogs receiving OBA required intraoperative adjuvant analgesics (P = .06). Dogs treated with EPID regained motor function slower than dogs treated with OBA (P = .01); however, there was no difference in time to urinate, time to eat, or DOH between treatments.

CONCLUSION

Perioperative lumbosacral epidural with bupivacaine reduced intraoperative opioid consumption in dogs anesthetized for cystotomy.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The use of epidural bupivacaine in dogs undergoing cystotomy may reduce intraoperative opioid requirements without affecting return of bladder function or DOH.

Outcomes in conventional laparoscopic versus robotic-assisted revisional bariatric surgery: a retrospective, case-controlled study of the MBSAQIP database

Introduction

Revisional bariatric surgery is being increasingly performed and is associated with higher operative risks. Optimal techniques to minimize complications remain controversial. Here, we report a retrospective review of the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) Participant User Files (PUF) database, comparing outcomes between revision RBS and LBS.

Methods

The 2015 and 2016 MBSAQIP PUF database was retrospectively reviewed. Revision cases were identified using the Revision/Conversion Flag. Selected cases were further stratified by surgical approach. Subgroup analysis of sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass cases was performed. Case–controlled matching (1:1) was performed of the RBS and LBS cohorts, including gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy cohorts separately. Cases and controls were match by demographics, ASA classification, and preoperative comorbidities.

Results

26,404 revision cases were identified (93.3% LBS, 6.7% RBS). 85.6% were female and 67% white. Mean age and BMI were 48 years and 40.9 kg/m². 1144 matched RBS and LBS cases were identified. RBS was associated with longer operative duration (p < 0.0001), LOS (p = 0.0002) and a higher rate of ICU admissions (1.3% vs 0.5%, p = 0.05). Aggregate bleeding and leak rates were higher in the RBS cohort. In both gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy cohorts, the robotic-assisted surgery remain associated with longer operative duration (p < 0.0001). In gastric bypass, rates of aggregate leak and bleeding were higher with robotic surgery, while transfusion was higher with laparoscopy. For sleeve gastrectomy cases, reoperation, readmission, intervention, sepsis, organ space SSI, and transfusion were higher with robotic surgery.

Conclusion

In this matched cohort analysis of revision bariatric surgery, both approaches were overall safe. RBS was associated with longer operative duration and higher rates of some complications. Complications were higher in the robotic sleeve cohort. Robotic is likely less cost-effective with no clear patient safety benefit, particularly for sleeve gastrectomy cases.

The effect of music on simulated surgical performance: a systematic review

Introduction

Beneficial effects of music have been described on several cognitive domains, task performance, stress, anxiety and pain. Greater surgical skill is a factor that has been associated with improved patient outcome. The aim of this systematic review is to assess the effect of music on surgical performance.

Methods

An exhaustive literature search was performed. The following databases were searched: Embase, Medline Ovid, Web of Science, Cochrane CENTAL, PsycINFO Ovid, CINAHL EBSCOhost, ERIC EBSCOhost and Google Scholar. All prospective studies that assessed the effect of a music intervention compared to either another auditory condition or silence on surgical performance were included in a qualitative synthesis. The study was registered in the PROSPERO-database (CRD42018092021).

Results

The literature search identified 3492 articles of which 9 studies (212 participants) were included. Beneficial effects of music were reported on time to task completion, instrument handling, quality of surgical task performance and general surgical performance. Furthermore, a beneficial effect of music on muscle activation was observed.

Conclusion

Although beneficial effects of music on surgical performance have been observed, there is insufficient evidence to definitively conclude that music has a beneficial effect on surgical performance in the simulated setting. Future studies should be conducted using greater numbers of participants focusing on a more limited range of tasks, as well as validation in the live operating environment.

Association of Surgical Overlap during Wound Closure with Patient Outcomes among Neurological Surgery Patients at a Large Academic Medical Center

BACKGROUND

Several studies have explored the effect of overlapping surgery on patient outcomes, but impact of surgical overlap during wound closure has not been studied.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the association of overlap during wound closure and suture time overlap (STO) with patient outcomes in a heterogeneous neurosurgical population.

METHODS

Over 4 yr (7/2013-7/2017), 1 7689 neurosurgical procedures were retrospectively reviewed at a single, multihospital academic medical center. STO was defined as all surgeries for which an overlapping surgery occurred, exclusively, during wound closure of the index case being studied. We excluded nonelective cases and overlapping surgeries that involved overlap during surgical portions of the case other than wound closure. Tests of independence and Wilcoxon tests were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Patients with STO had a shortened length of hospital stay (100.6 vs 135.1 h; P < .0001), reduced deaths in follow-up (1.59% vs 5.45%; P = .0004), and lower 30- to 90-d readmission rates (3.64% vs 7.47%; P = .0026). Patients with STO had no increase in revision surgery. Patients with STO had longer wound closure times (26.5 vs 23.9 min; P < .0001) but shorter total surgical times (nonclosure surgical time 101.8 vs 133.3 min; P < .0001; and total surgical time 128.3 vs 157.1 min; P < .0001).

CONCLUSION

Surgical overlap during wound closure (STO) is associated with improved or at least noninferior patient outcomes, as it pertains to readmissions and wound revisions.

Epidemiology of Surgical Site Infections and Non-Surgical Infections in Neurosurgical Polish Patients-Substantial Changes in 2003⁻2017

Introduction: The objective of the analysis was to determine the epidemiology of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) in neurosurgical patients, paying special attention to two time points, 2003 and 2017, in order to evaluate the effectiveness of a surveillance program introduced in 2003 and efforts to reduce infection rates. Materials and methods: Continuous surveillance during 2003⁻2017 carried out using the HAI-Net methodology allowed us to detect 476 cases of HAIs among 10,332 patients staying in a 42-bed neurosurgery unit. The intervention in this before⁻after study (2003⁻2017) comprised standardized HAI surveillance with regular analysis and feedback. Results: The HAI incidence during the whole study was 4.6%. Surgical site infections (SSIs) accounted for 33% of all HAIs with an incidence rate of 1.5%. The remaining infections were pneumonia (1.1%) and bloodstream infections (0.9%). The highest SSI incidence concerned spinal fusion (FUSN, 2.2%), craniotomy (1.9%), and ventricular shunt (5.1%) while the associated total HAI incidence rates were 4.1%, 8.0%, and 18.6%, respectively. A significant reduction was found in HAI incidence between 2003 and 2017 in regard to the most common surgery types: laminectomy (4.5% vs. 0.8%); FUSN (11.8% vs. 0.8%); and craniotomy (10.1% vs. 0.4%). Significant changes were also achieved in selected elements of the unit's work: pre-hospitalization duration, hospital stay, and surgery length reductions. Simultaneously, the general condition of patients became significantly worse: there was an increase in patients' age and decreases in their general condition as expressed by ASA scores (The American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status classification system). Conclusions: HAI epidemiology changed substantially during the study period. Among the main types of HAI, SSIs were slightly predominant, but non-surgical HAIs accounted for almost two thirds of all infections; this indicates the need for surveillance of infection types other than SSIs in surgical patients. The implementation of active surveillance based on regular analysis and feedback led to a significant reduction in HAI incidence.

Trending Towards Safer Breast Cancer Surgeries? Examining Acute Complication Rates from A 13-Year NSQIP Analysis

As breast cancer surgery continues to evolve, this study highlights the acute complication rates and predisposing risks following partial mastectomy (PM), mastectomy(M), mastectomy with muscular flap reconstruction (M + MF), mastectomy with implant reconstruction (M + I), and oncoplastic surgery (OPS). Data was collected from the American College of Surgeons NSQIP database (2005⁻2017). Complication rate and trend analyses were performed along with an assessment of odds ratios for predisposing risk factors using adjusted linear regression. 226,899 patients met the inclusion criteria. Complication rates have steadily increased in all mastectomy groups (p < 0.05). Cumulative complication rates between surgical categories were significantly different in each complication cluster (all p < 0.0001). Overall complication rates were: PM: 2.25%, OPS: 3.2%, M: 6.56%, M + MF: 13.04% and M + I: 5.68%. The most common predictive risk factors were mastectomy, increasing operative time, ASA class, BMI, smoking, recent weight loss, history of CHF, COPD and bleeding disorders (all p < 0.001). Patients who were non-diabetic, younger (age < 60) and treated as an outpatient all had protective OR for an acute complication (p < 0.0001). This study provides data comparing nationwide acute complication rates following different breast cancer surgeries. These can be used to inform patients during surgical decision making.

Double pyramid technique of transoral laser partial laryngectomy for radiorecurrent laryngeal cancer

Management of recurrent head and neck cancer is challenging. Surgical treatments for residual or radiorecurrent laryngeal cancer include total laryngectomy, open partial laryngectomy and transoral laser microsurgery (TLM). TLM has been shown to achieve good oncological and functional outcomes in radiorecurrent laryngeal cancer. We describe a case of a patient with radiorecurrent T2 (rT2) with impaired vocal cord mobility laryngeal cancer who underwent transoral laser partial laryngectomy using our proposed double pyramid technique. It encompasses two steps: resection of the superior and inferior pyramids. Full resection is achieved by staying close to the thyroid and cricoid cartilages. In this technique, the dissection principle is to remove anterior commissure in two pyramid fashions without having to actually follow the tumour. This method is easy and simple to master. Two years postoperatively, the patient has no signs of recurrence and is able to use her voice and has full swallowing ability.

Welcome to the New Era: A Completely Wireless Interventional Procedure

The number of minimally invasive interventional radiology (IR) and interventional cardiology vascular procedures performed increases every year. As the number of vascular procedures increases, the need for advanced technology and innovative devices increases as well. Traditionally, as a general rule, a catheter is used in conjunction with a guidewire in such procedures. The underlying principle of IR is to always use a guidewire prior to any advancement of a catheter. This article describes a revolutionary theory that utilizes a new technology and contradicts this basic principle. Using a steerable microcatheter, a bilateral uterine artery embolization was performed from a wrist access with no guidewire. Furthermore, this technique reduced the procedure time by more than half when compared to standard of care. This technique may be applicable to other IR procedures, which could potentially reduce the time critically ill patients spend in the procedure area outside the intensive care unit.