Prospective study of healing time after hemorrhoidectomy: influence of HIV infection, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, and anal wound infection

Ten-year multicentric retrospective analysis regarding postoperative complications and impact of comorbidities in hemorrhoidal surgery with literature review

BACKGROUND

Hemorrhoidal disease (HD) is considered a low-severity pathology by both general population and physicians, but the lengthy conservative therapy and postoperative complications suggest otherwise.

AIM

To assess the effectiveness of different treatment options, both conservative and surgical, in contrast with some preexisting comorbidities.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective, 10-yearlong study between January 2011 and December 2021 in two surgical centers, a private and a state-owned hospital. We compared the efficacy and safety of several treatment options, such as open hemorrhoidectomy, stapled hemorrhoidopexy, rubber band ligation and infrared coagulation in terms of complication rates and types and their correlation with different preexisting comorbidities such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), use of anticoagulant medication (AM) and liver cirrhosis. We also conducted a 20-years long PubMed research (1.263 articles) for relevant comparisons.

RESULTS

Our study recorded 10940 patients with HD, 10241 with conservative and 699 with surgical treatment. Out of these, the male-to-female ratio of 1.3, and a peak in age distribution between 59 and 68 years old (32% of patients). For the entire study, we recorded a 90% incidence of immediate pain, immediate bleeding in 1.5% (11 cases), delayed bleeding in 1.0% (7 cases), and 0.6% surgical site infections. Urinary retention was also present, with 0.2% of patients, anal stricture in 1% and fecal incontinence for 0.5% of patients (4 cases). We recorded no severe complications such as Fournier`s gangrene or rectovaginal perforations. IBD accounted for 6% of the patients, with ulcerative colitis in 12% and Chron`s disease in 10.5%. 6.6% of the patients had AM, determining 4% immediate and 2% delayed bleeding, in surgically treated patients.

CONCLUSION

Our study determined that most common complications (pain, urinary retention, bleeding, and stricture) are correlated with each surgical technique and pre-existing comorbidities.

Symptomatic human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients have poorer outcomes following emergency general surgery: A study of the nationwide inpatient sample

BACKGROUND

The impact of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection on outcomes following common emergency general surgery procedures has not been evaluated since the widespread introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample. Records of patients who underwent laparoscopic or open appendectomy, cholecystectomy, or colon resection after emergency admission from 2004 to 2011 were obtained. Outcomes analyzed included in-hospital mortality, length of stay, total charges, and selected postoperative complications. Patients were divided among three groups, HIV-negative controls, asymptomatic HIV-positive patients, and symptomatic HIV/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients. Data were analyzed using χ and multivariable regression with propensity score matching among the three groups, with p value less than 0.05 significant.

RESULTS

There were 974,588 patients identified, of which 1,489 were HIV-positive and 1,633 were HIV/AIDS-positive. The HIV/AIDS patients were more likely to die during their hospital stay than HIV-negative patients (4.4% vs. 1.6%, adjusted odds ratio, 3.53; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.67-4.07; p < 0.001). The HIV/AIDS patients had longer hospital stays (7 days vs. 3 days; adjusted difference, 3.66 days; 95% CI, 3.53-4.00; p < 0.001) and higher median total charges than HIV-negative patients (US $47,714 vs. US $28,405; adjusted difference, US $15,264; 95% CI, US $13,905-US $16,623; p < 0.001). The HIV/AIDS patients also had significantly increased odds of certain postoperative complications, including sepsis, septic shock, pneumonia, urinary tract infection, acute renal failure and need for transfusion (p < 0.05 for each). Differences persisted irrespective of case complexity and over the study period. Asymptomatic HIV-positive patients had outcomes similar to HIV-negative patients.

CONCLUSION

The HIV/AIDS patients have a greater risk of death, infectious, and noninfectious complications after emergency surgery regardless of operative complexity and despite advanced highly active antiretroviral therapy. Patients who have not developed advanced disease, however, have similar outcomes to HIV-negative patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic and epidemiologic study, level III.

European Society of ColoProctology: guideline for haemorrhoidal disease

AIM

The goal of this European Society of ColoProctology project was to establish a multidisciplinary, international guideline for haemorrhoidal disease (HD) and to provide guidance on the most effective (surgical) treatment for patients with HD.

METHODS

The development process consisted of six phases. In phase one we defined the scope of the guideline. The patient population included patients with all stages of haemorrhoids. The target group for the guideline was all practitioners treating patients with haemorrhoids and, in addition, healthcare workers and patients who desired information regarding the treatment management of HD. The guideline needed to address both the diagnosis of and the therapeutic modalities for HD. Phase two consisted of the compilation of the guideline development group (GDG). All clinical members needed to have affinity with the diagnosis and treatment of haemorrhoids. Further, attention was paid to the geographical distribution of the clinicians. Each GDG member identified at least one patient in their country who could read English to comment on the draft guideline. In phase three review questions were formulated, using a reversed process, starting with possible recommendations based on the GDG's knowledge. In phase four a literature search was performed in MEDLINE (Ovid), PubMed, Embase (Ovid) and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. The search was focused on existing systematic reviews addressing each review question, supplemented by other studies published after the time frame covered by the systematic reviews. In phase five data of the included papers were extracted by the surgical resident (RT) and checked by the methodologist (JK) and the GDG. If needed, meta-analysis of the systematic reviews was updated by the surgical resident and the methodologist using Review Manager. During phase six the GDG members decided what recommendations could be made based on the evidence found in the literature using GRADE.

RESULTS

There were six sections: (i) symptoms, diagnosis and classification; (ii) basic treatment; (iii) outpatient procedures; (iv) surgical interventions; (v) special situations; (vi) other surgical techniques. Thirty-four recommendations were formulated.

CONCLUSION

This international, multidisciplinary guideline provides an up to date and evidence based summary of the current knowledge of the management of HD and may serve as a useful guide for patients and clinicians.

Portuguese Society of Gastroenterology Consensus on the Diagnosis and Management of Hemorrhoidal Disease

Hemorrhoidal disease (HD) is a frequent health problem with considerable repercussions on patients' quality of life. However, much of the clinical practice related to HD is based on knowledge without scientific evidence and supported largely by empirical experience of the physician who deals with this pathology. As in other countries, the goal of this consensus is to establish statements supported by solid scientific evidence and whose purpose will be to standardize and guide the diagnosis and management of HD both in the general population and in some particular groups of patients.

Consensus statement of the Italian society of colorectal surgery (SICCR): management and treatment of hemorrhoidal disease

Hemorrhoidal disease (HD) is the most common proctological disease in the Western countries. However, its real prevalence is underestimated due to the frequent self-medication.The aim of this consensus statement is to provide evidence-based data to allow an individualized and appropriate management and treatment of HD. The strategy used to search for evidence was based on application of electronic sources such as MEDLINE, PubMed, Cochrane Review Library, CINAHL, and EMBASE.These guidelines are inclusive and not prescriptive.The recommendations were defined and graded based on the current levels of evidence and in accordance with the criteria adopted by American College of Chest Physicians. The recommendations were graded A, B, and C.

The Effect of Human-Immunodeficiency Virus Status on Outcomes in Penetrating Abdominal Trauma: An Interim Analysis

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to determine whether the outcomes of hemodynamically stable patients undergoing exploratory laparotomy for penetrating abdominal trauma differed as a result of their HIV status.

METHODS

This was an observational, prospective study from February 2016 to May 2017. All hemodynamically stable patients with penetrating abdominal trauma requiring a laparotomy were included. The mechanism of injury, the HIV status, age, the penetrating abdominal trauma index (PATI), and the revised trauma score (RTS) were entered into a binary logistic regression model. Outcome parameters were in-hospital death, morbidity, admission to intensive care unit (ICU), relaparotomy within 30 days, and length of stay longer than 30 days.

RESULTS

A total of 209 patients, 94% male, with a mean age of 29 ± 10 years were analysed. Twenty-eight patients (13%) were HIV positive. The two groups were comparable. Ten (4.8%) laparotomies were negative. There were two (0.96%) deaths, both in the HIV negative group. The complication rate was 34% (n = 72). Twenty-nine patients (14%) were admitted to the ICU. A higher PATI, older age, and a lower RTS were significant risk factors for ICU admission. After 30 days, 12 patients (5.7%) were still in hospital. Twenty-four patients (11%) underwent a second laparotomy. The PATI score was the single independent predictor for complications, relaparotomy, and hospital stay longer than 30 days.

CONCLUSIONS

Preliminary results reveal that HIV status does not influence outcomes in patients with penetrating abdominal trauma.

Are Prophylactic Antibiotic Agents Indicated in Anorectal Surgery for Patients with Human Immunodeficiency Virus?

BACKGROUND

With increased survival among patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), surgeons have been seeing more cases of anal dysplasia and cancer. There is, however, no data on the incidence of surgical site infections (SSIs) in HIV-positive patients undergoing elective anorectal procedures, nor on the administration of prophylactic antibiotic agents. We reviewed a HIV-positive population that has undergone elective anorectal biopsy of areas of dysplasia observed on office anoscopy to assess the need for antibiotic prophylaxis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective chart review was performed of all HIV-positive patients seen as outpatients in the Colorectal Surgery Division from 2007-2016. Demographics, dates of surgery and follow-up, antibiotic prophylaxis, and pre-operative CD4 count and HIV viral load were recorded for 229 patients. Post-operative examination notes were reviewed to determine the presence of SSIs. The proportion of patients who received prophylaxis was assessed and the SSI rate was calculated.

RESULTS

Surgical site infections occurred in 2 of 237 (0.8%) cases without antibiotic prophylaxis and in none of the 38 cases with prophylaxis. This infection rate was found to be lower than that of the general surgery population, with no statistical difference from hemorrhoidectomy patients without HIV. One SSI occurred in a 51-year-old male with a pre-operative CD4 count of 612 per microliter and viral load of zero. Another occurred in a 57-year-old female with an unknown CD4 count and viral load. A χ² analysis showed the incidence of SSIs in the groups with and without prophylaxis was not significantly different (p = 0.563).

CONCLUSION

Surgical site infection rates in HIV-positive patients undergoing biopsies for anal dysplasia were similar to patients without HIV undergoing similar minor anorectal procedures, and no difference was noted in the rate of SSI with the administration of prophylactic antibiotic agents. We do not recommend routine use of prophylactic antibiotic agents in this population.

Treatment of Prolapsing Hemorrhoids in HIV-Infected Patients with Tissue-Selecting Technique

The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the outcome of a tissue-selecting therapy stapler (TST) for prolapsing hemorrhoids in HIV-infected patients. Sixty-two patients with stage III-IV hemorrhoidal prolapse were treated with TST by a single surgeon between June and November 2014. The TST group comprised 32 patients (4 females), and the TST + HIV group comprised 30 HIV-infected patients (3 females). Age, gender, and preoperative examination as well as intraoperative and postoperative features were assessed. There was no marked difference in hemorrhoidal prolapse between the TST and HIV + TST groups, except for patient satisfaction at 12 months. TST is an effective and safe technique for treatment of prolapsing hemorrhoids in HIV-infected patients.

Executive Summary - The Association of Colon & Rectal Surgeons of India (ACRSI) Practice Guidelines for the Management of Haemorrhoids-2016

This paper outlines the recommendations from the Association of Colon & Rectal Surgeons of India (ACRSI) practice guidelines for the management of haemorrhoids-2016. It includes diagnosis and management of haemorrhoids including dietary, non-surgical, and surgical techniques. These guidelines are intended for the use of general practitioners, general surgeons, colorectal surgeons, and gastrointestinal surgeons in India.

The effect of HIV infection on the surgical, chemo- and radiotherapy management of breast cancer. A prospective cohort study

INTRODUCTION

Breast cancer is the most common cancer of women in the world. Twenty-five percent of people living with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) reside in South Africa. The coincidence of breast cancer and HIV infection is therefore common in South Africa. There is a perception that systemic and local surgical complications are more common in HIV-infected patients, and that these patients tolerate chemo- and radiotherapy poorly.

AIM

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of HIV infection on the management of breast cancer by comparing HIV-infected to -noninfected patients. The outcomes of surgery and adjuvant/neoadjuvant therapy were examined in these groups.

METHOD

The study was performed at the Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria, South Africa, during 2009-2014. Patients scheduled for surgery for breast cancer were recruited prospectively and their HIV status was determined. All patients were managed according to standard guidelines for breast cancer. Patients were followed up for 30 days and local and systemic surgical complications documented. Completion or non-completion of courses of chemo- and radiotherapy, and reasons for non-completion were documented. HIV-infected and -noninfected patients respectively were grouped, and compared statistically.

RESULTS

One hundred and sixty patients (31 HIV-infected) were included. The frequency of surgical complications did not differ significantly between HIV-noninfected and infected patients (p = 0.08), more occurring in the HIV-noninfected patients. The risk ratio of HIV infection for surgical complications was 0.20 and the odds ratio 0.23. The completion of courses of chemo- and radiotherapy did not differ between the HIV-infected and -noninfected patients. Twenty-five of 27 HIV-infected patients (93%) and 100 of 113 HIV-noninfected patients (94%) completed their courses of chemotherapy (p = 0.68). Twelve of 14 HIV-infected patients (86%) and 40 of 41 HIV-noninfected patients (98%) completed their courses of radiotherapy (p = 0.16).

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that HIV-infected patients with breast cancer do not experience more treatment-related complications and can be treated according to standard guidelines.

Wounds in patients with HIV

Highly active antiretroviral therapy has dramatically reduced morbidity and mortality among patients who are HIV-positive. A retrospective review of the authors' data separated subjects into cohorts based on HIV status and matched them for age and gender. The authors' data reveal a higher fraction of venous ulcers compared with a lower fraction of pressure ulcers in the seropositive population.

Colorectal Surgery in Patients with HIV and AIDS: Trends and Outcomes over a 10-Year Period in the USA

BACKGROUND

HIV has become a chronic disease, which may render this population more prone to developing the colorectal pathologies that typically affect older Americans.

METHODS

A retrospective review of the Nationwide Inpatient Sample was performed to identify patients who underwent colon and rectal surgery from 2001 to 2010. Multivariate analysis was used to evaluate outcomes among the general population, patients with HIV, and patients with AIDS.

RESULTS

Hospital admissions for colon and rectal procedures of patients with HIV/AIDS grew at a faster rate than all-cause admissions of patients with HIV/AIDS, with mean yearly increases of 17.8 and 2.1 %, respectively (p < 0.05). Patients with HIV/AIDS undergoing colon and rectal operations for cancer, polyps, diverticular disease, and Clostridium difficile were younger than the general population (51 vs. 65 years; p < 0.01). AIDS was independently associated with increased odds of mortality (OR 2.11; 95 % CI 1.24, 3.61), wound complications (OR 1.53; 95 % CI 1.09, 2.17), and pneumonia (OR 2.02; 95 % CI 1.33, 3.08). Risk-adjusted outcomes of colorectal surgery in patients with HIV did not differ significantly from the general population.

CONCLUSION

Postoperative outcomes in patients with HIV are similar to the general population, while patients with AIDS have a higher risk of mortality and certain complications.

Review of Hemorrhoid Disease: Presentation and Management

Symptomatic hemorrhoid disease is one of the most prevalent ailments associated with significant impact on quality of life. Management options for hemorrhoid disease are diverse, ranging from conservative measures to a variety of office and operating-room procedures. In this review, the authors will discuss the anatomy, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and management of hemorrhoid disease.

Complications Following Anorectal Surgery

Anorectal surgery is well tolerated. Rates of minor complications are relatively high, but major postoperative complications are uncommon. Prompt identification of postoperative complications is necessary to avoid significant patient morbidity. The most common acute complications include bleeding, infection, and urinary retention. Pelvic sepsis, while may result in dramatic morbidity and even mortality, is relatively rare. The most feared long-term complications include fecal incontinence, anal stenosis, and chronic pelvic pain.

Does HIV infection have an impact upon dental implant osseointegration? A systematic review

OBJECTIVE

A systematic review is made to determine whether human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection has an impact upon dental implant osseointegration.

STUDY DESIGN

A PubMed (MEDLINE) literature search was made of articles published up until 14 April 2014. The systematic review was conducted based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA). The quality of the studies included in the review was assessed using the Methodological Index for Nonrandomized Studies (MINORS) and levels of evidence (based on the University of Oxford's Center for Evidence Based Medicine criteria).

RESULTS

The combinations of search terms resulted in a list of 132 titles. Nine studies finally met the inclusion criteria and were selected for inclusion in the systematic review. A total of 173 dental implants were placed in 80 patients (135 implants in 56 HIV-positive subjects and 38 implants in 24 HIV-negative patients), and a single loss of dental implant osseointegration was recorded in an HIV-positive patient.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that dental implant placement in HIV-positive patients does not increase the dental implant failure rate. Prophylactic antibiotic treatment, the administration of highly active antiretroviral therapy, and control of the CD4+ T lymphocyte counts appear to be the main influencing factors in this respect. Given the few studies included in our systematic review, further prospective studies involving larger sample sizes and longer durations of follow-up are required in order to confirm the results obtained.

Sexually transmitted and anorectal infectious diseases

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are common and they can involve the anus and rectum in both men and women. In this article, the main bacterial and viral STDs that affect the anus and rectum are discussed, including their prevalence, presentation, and treatment.

Conservative and surgical treatment of haemorrhoids

The management of haemorrhoids has evolved rapidly during the past few decades. Several new treatments have been proposed with the aim of reducing patients' postoperative pain, time to return to normal life, risk of early and late complications, and recurrence rate. Although conservative treatment based on dietary and lifestyle changes can help the majority of patients, and rubber band ligation and phlebotonic drugs can effectively treat grade I and II haemorrhoids, surgery is required for the most advanced stages. Milligan-Morgan haemorrhoidectomy is considered to be the gold-standard approach for grade IV haemorrhoids. An increasing number of minimally invasive treatment options, including mucopexy with or without mucosal resection and haemorrhoid artery ligation, have now been proposed for the management of grade III haemorrhoids. These approaches aim to correct the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms involved in the aetiology of haemorrhoids. An increased risk of recurrence is the price to pay for these minimally invasive and less painful treatments, but the sparing of the sensitive anoderm and a rapid return to normal life without pain are greatly appreciated by patients. An algorithm for the management of haemorrhoids using evidence-based medicine is also presented here.

Tissue laser biostimulation promotes post-extraction neoangiogenesis in HIV-infected patients

The aim of the study was to assess the rate of neoangiogenesis in extraction wound healing following exposure to biostimulating laser therapy and to analyze the correlation between parameters of neoangiogenesis as reflected by the number and surface area of newly formed blood vessels and clinical parameters such as gender, position of a tooth in the oral cavity, and CD4 lymphocyte count. Twenty-seven patients with confirmed HIV infection were enrolled in the study (6 women, 21 men). Eighty-nine teeth were extracted; 45 sockets were exposed to 6 J laser radiation (laser parameters were set as follows: wavelength, 820 nm; output, 200 mW; dose, 6 J/cm²; spot size, 38 mm²; continuous radiation) for five consecutive days following tooth extraction, and the remaining extraction wounds were left to heal spontaneously without laser irradiation. Antigen CD34 was assessed by immunohistochemistry as a marker of angiogenesis, and its expression was examined by computer-assisted histomorphometric image analysis. As a result, we report that biostimulating laser therapy in HIV-infected patients of varying degrees of immunodeficiency greatly accelerated post-extraction neoangiogenesis, regardless of the patient's gender, tooth position, number of roots, or number of CD4 lymphocytes in the blood. Application of low-level laser therapy for the treatment of tooth extraction wounds in HIV(+) patients greatly enhanced the formation of new blood vessels, which in turn promoted wound healing.

Management of giant anal condyloma by wide local excision and anoplasty

AIM

Treatment of giant condyloma acuminatum, is controversial, especially in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive patients, owing to concern over wound healing, complications, risk of progression to carcinoma and a high recurrence rate. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome after extensive local excision with V-Y anoplasty.

METHOD

Nine patients were identified from a prospective database, six of whom were HIV positive. All patients had a giant perianal condyloma acuminatum extending into the anal canal and perianal region, which required wide excision with V-Y reconstruction. Postoperative complications, recurrence and continence were all determined.

RESULTS

Nine patients were included (eight men, median age 40 years), six seropositive for HIV infection. A bilateral V-Y anoplasty was performed in six patients, and unilateral in two. There were no postoperative infections, graft failures or flap necrosis. The mean follow-up was 92 (2-137) months. One patient developed local recurrence treated with excision under local anaesthesia.

CONCLUSIONS

Extensive local surgery of giant perianal condyloma with anoplastic reconstruction gives good results even in HIV-positive patients.

Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoid disease is the most common reason patients seek evaluation by a colon and rectal surgeon. The majority of hemorrhoids can be managed nonoperatively with medical management or office-based procedures. The authors review the anatomy, pathophysiology, presentation, and management of hemorrhoids.

Human immunodeficiency disease: how should it affect surgical decision making?

BACKGROUND

The ever-increasing prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and the continued improvement in clinical management has increased the likelihood of surgery being performed on patients with this infection. The aim of the review was to assess current literature on the influence of HIV status on surgical decision-making.

METHODS

A literature review was performed using MEDLINE articles addressing "human immunodeficiency virus," "HIV," "acquired immunodeficiency syndrome," "AIDS," "HIV and surgery." We also manually searched relevant surgical journals and completed the bibliographic compilation by collecting cross references from published papers.

RESULTS

Results of surgery between noninfected and HIV-infected individuals and between HIV-infected and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients are variable in terms of morbidity, mortality, and hospital stay. The risk of major surgery is not unlike that for other immunocompromised or malnourished patients. The multiple co-morbidities associated with HIV infection and the availability of highly active antiretroviral therapy must be considered when assessing and optimizing the patient for surgery. The clinical stage of the patient's disease should be evaluated with a focus on the overall organ system function. For patients with advanced HIV disease, palliative surgery offers relief of acute problems with improvement in the quality of life. When indicated, diagnostic surgery assists with further decision-making in the medical management of these patients and hence should not be withheld.

CONCLUSION

HIV infection should not be considered a significant independent factor for major surgical procedures. Appropriate surgery should be offered as in normal surgical patients without fear of an unfavorable outcome.

Impact of HIV and AIDS on surgical practice

INTRODUCTION

Surgical intervention has become a common component in the management of patients infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or suffering from the clinical consequences of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). We investigated the evolution of this involvement at a tertiary referral centre for this condition over a 16-year period.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Detailed retrospective examination of the medical records of HIV-positive patients treated at the Royal Free Hospital between 1986 and 2002 was undertaken. Clinical, pathological and operative details of those patients who underwent surgical intervention were recorded.

RESULTS

Of the 2100 cases reviewed, 477 patients underwent a combined total of 772 surgical procedures. Of the 772 operations, 95 (12.3%) were performed as emergencies. Anorectal surgery represented the highest group with a total of 195 procedures (25.26%) being undertaken. The majority of patients (59%) had AIDS at the time of surgery, and 27.04% had a significant co-existing medical problem. Overall postoperative complication rate was 10.1%, with the risk being significantly greater in those undergoing intra-abdominal surgery and emergency procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the largest study to audit the impact of HIV/AIDS in general surgical practice in the UK retrospectively. Surgery for HIV patients can be safely conducted with a low complication rate for the diagnostic and anorectal procedures that comprise the vast majority of surgery in HIV/AIDS patients. Medical treatment for patients with HIV/AIDS has developed dramatically over the last two decades. In parallel, this has resulted in a heavy, new and varied workload for general surgeons, who have also had to adapt in order to deal with the challenging spectrum of this disease.

Effect of a topical antimicrobial paste on healing after extraction of molars in HIV positive patients: Randomised controlled clinical trial

AIM

To assess the efficacy of a medicated dressing in the socket on the healing after dental extractions in HIV positive patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Forty HIV positive patients with CD4 counts below 200 cells/mm(3) who were to have molar teeth extracted were randomly allocated to have the socket dressed with a medicated paste (Rifocort) with camphorated parachlorophenol and iodoform) and sutured (treated group), or merely sutured (control group).

RESULTS

The sockets in the treated group healed more quickly than in the control group.

Life-threatening sepsis following treatment for haemorrhoids: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Haemorrhoids are a common complaint with estimates suggesting a prevalence of 4% of the adult population. Treatments such as rubber band ligation (RBL), sclerotherapy and excisional surgery have been in use for many years, and recently stapled haemorrhoidopexy, or procedure for prolapsing haemorrhoids (PPH) has gained acceptance. However, there have been consistent reports of severe sepsis, including a number of deaths. The purpose of this review was to assess the scale of the problem, and identify any predisposing factors, common presenting features, and treatment options in those who suffer these complications.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine papers were identified, reporting 38 patients. Of these, 17 had undergone RBL, three had sclerotherapy, one had cryotherapy, 10 had excisional surgery and seven had PPH. Ten died as a result of their sepsis. The cases included 16 with perineal sepsis, seven with retroperitoneal gas and oedema, and six with liver abscesses. Common presenting features were urinary difficulties, fever, severe pain, septic shock and leucocytosis. Most were managed by means of surgery, although a minority survived having received conservative therapy. With the exception of two patients (one of whom was human immunodeficiency virus positive and the other had a drug-induced agranulocytosis) all were well prior to surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Although extremely uncommon, severe sepsis does occur post-treatment for haemorrhoids and all surgeons who treat such patients should be aware of the potential complications and alert to their presenting features. Early presentation without evidence of tissue necrosis may be managed conservatively, although most cases are managed by means of surgery.

Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in a Patient With Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Infection-Case Report-

A 54-year-old human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1)-infected homosexual Japanese male was found to have collapsed in his bathroom and was brought to our facility with diminished level of consciousness. Computed tomography showed subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). He was severely dehydrated with unstable general status that deterred us from performing emergent surgery. Cerebral angiography performed on the 18th hospital day revealed bilateral distal anterior cerebral artery aneurysms. Clipping of these aneurysms was performed on the 30th hospital day and no postoperative complications were experienced. The scalp wound showed no delayed healing, whereas the tracheostomy wound showed repeated wound dehiscence and delayed healing. Postoperative highly active antiretroviral therapy with antibiotic treatment gradually improved his general and immunological conditions. The patient was finally discharged as independent with mild muscle weakness in the bilateral lower extremities. HIV-1 infection should not be the guiding factor in the decision to aggressively treat concomitant aneurysmal disease. Clipping of cerebral aneurysms with full craniotomy or endovascular obliteration should be considered even in HIV-1-infected patients with SAH.

HIV/AIDS pandemic and surgical practice in a Nigerian teaching hospital

The objective of the study was to determine the effects of the HIV/AIDS pandemic on surgical practice in a Nigerian teaching hospital. It involved a questionnaire survey of all the doctors practising in the surgical specialties at Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex, Ile-Ife, Nigeria, in order to obtain their attitudes and practices toward HIV-positive surgical patients. Sixty-five doctors were interviewed, their ages ranged from 26 years to 62 years with a mean age of 35.1 years. The majority (35.4%) were in general surgery or obstetrics and gynaecology (24.6%). Almost half (47.7%) had operated on known HIV-positive patients and the majority were in support of preoperative HIV screening. Almost all (95.4%) were worried about occupational HIV infection--a significant number of consultants would refuse to be screened if their patient were allowed to know the results (P = 0.014). The cross infection control commonly employed included adequate instrument sterilization, presurgical hand washing and the use of gloves and facemasks. The wearing of eye goggles, double gloving, indirect instrument passing and wearing of water impervious gowns were used less frequently. As HIV/AIDS infected individuals are presenting for surgical procedures in the hospital, there is a need to improve the use of universal infection control measures and to educate all categories of healthcare personnel in order to allay the fears and to prevent discrimination that could militate against effective management of HIV/AIDS patients.

Managing haemorrhoids

Increased understanding of the anatomy of haemorrhoids has led to the development of new procedures to treat them. Among the surgical options for intractable prolapsed haemorrhoids, formal haemorrhoidectomy now competes with stapled haemorrhoidopexy, which is less painful and allows a shorter convalescence but may have a higher recurrence rate and needs further long term evaluation

Management options for symptomatic hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids remain one of the most common colorectal complaints. They are defined as a pathologic engorgement of the submucosal vascular plexus. Although they are often asymptomatic, hemorrhoids may cause bleeding, prolapse and, less commonly, pain. This review gives an update on various treatment options for symptomatic hemorrhoids, which include conservative treatments, office interventions, and surgical procedures, depending on the individual constellation of symptoms. Objective findings and expectations are also addressed. Recent advances (eg, stapled hemorrhoidectomy and use of alternate energy sources) are emphasized, and treatment under special circumstances (HIV, pregnancy, inflammatory bowel disease, and liver disease) is outlined.

Septic complications after treatment of haemorrhoids

BACKGROUND

Recent reports of serious sepsis following stapled haemorrhoidectomy have raised concerns about the appropriate treatment of haemorrhoidal disease.

METHODS

A Medline search was undertaken for reports of sepsis following the commonly practised conservative and surgical treatments of haemorrhoids.

RESULTS

Published accounts of significant septic complications after injection sclerotherapy, rubber-band ligation, cryotherapy, open and closed haemorrhoidectomy, and stapled haemorrhoidectomy are discussed. This is supplemented by the authors' own experiences of stapled haemorrhoidectomy.

CONCLUSION

Septic complications following both conservative and surgical treatment of haemorrhoids are rare but may be catastrophic. Immunological compromise poses an additional risk for many treatment modalities. The technique of stapled haemorrhoidectomy should be learned diligently to avoid septic complications.

Vascular surgical complications of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome

The past twenty years has seen an explosive rise in the number of individuals infected with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). In sub-Saharan Africa, the Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is the leading cause of death among young adults with little sign of abating. Immunosuppression and opportunistic infections associated with HIV infection have been responsible for various unusual and unique surgical syndromes that have only recently been described. This review examines the vascular surgical complications of the disease with particular regard to HIV-associated vasculitides, aneurysms and occlusive disease and the implications for management.

Rubber band ligation for hemorrhoidal disease can be safely performed in select HIV-positive patients

PURPOSE

Many surgeons have abandoned the use of rubber band ligation for the treatment of hemorrhoids in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus because of the belief that this procedure could lead to disastrous outcomes. This study was designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of rubber band ligation in otherwise healthy human immunodeficiency virus-positive patients.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of healthy human immunodeficiency virus-positive patients who underwent rubber band ligation for symptomatic hemorrhoids between April 1993 and May 2000 was conducted.

RESULTS

The study group comprised 11 patients. All patients were male, with a median age of 48 (range, 32-64) years. Mean T-cell helper count was 450 (range, 200-1,000) cells/microl. A median of 2 (range, 1-4) rubber band ligations were performed per patient. The median length of follow-up was seven (range, 1-28) months. There were no deaths or complications in any study group patient. Eight patients (73 percent) had excellent results, with complete resolution of symptoms. Two patients (18 percent) had initial improvement but subsequently had hemorrhoidectomy because of recurrent symptoms. Only one patient (9 percent) had no benefit from rubber band ligation and underwent hemorrhoidectomy.

CONCLUSION

These data suggest that asymptomatic human immunodeficiency virus-positive patients can be treated safely and effectively with rubber band ligation for symptomatic hemorrhoids.

Injection treatment of hemorrhoids in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome

PURPOSE

Patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome are often in poor general physical condition. Diarrhea and bleeding hemorrhoids frequently contribute to the morbidity, and patients with such problems cause an increasing load on many outpatient clinics.

METHODS

Twenty-two patients (17 males) with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome had injection treatment for bleeding second-degree to fourth-degree hemorrhoids according to standard outpatient clinic routines. Mean follow-up was 24 months.

RESULTS

No complications were recorded. The treatment was successful in all patients, and no hemorrhoidectomy was necessary. Nineteen patients improved after their first injection, whereas 3 patients required two to six weeks repeated treatments to improve. Four subjects with the longer follow-up (4 years) showed an improvement lasting 12 to 18 months and then required one to two treatments per year to stop recurrent bleeding.

CONCLUSIONS

Because of their poor general condition and poor wound healing, a conservative approach is preferable to avoid a formal hemorrhoidectomy in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Sclerotherapy seems to be an attractive alternative.

Dexamethasone facilitates discharge after outpatient anorectal surgery

Corticosteroids can decrease pain and postoperative nausea and vomiting after ambulatory surgery. Therefore, we designed a study to evaluate if the routine use of dexamethasone would facilitate the early recovery process after anorectal surgery. A secondary aim of the study was to determine if dexamethasone would increase the incidence of postoperative wound complications. Eighty adult outpatients undergoing anorectal surgery with a standardized monitored anesthesia care technique were randomly assigned to receive either dexamethasone 4 mg IV or an equal volume of saline before the start of surgery. All patients were premedicated with midazolam 2 mg IV and received ketorolac 30 mg IV as a preemptive analgesic. A propofol infusion, 50 microg. kg(-1). min(-1) IV, was initiated and subsequently titrated to maintain an observer's assessment of alertness/sedation score of 2 or 3 (with 5 = awake/alert to 1 = asleep). Fentanyl 25 microg IV was administered 3-5 min before infiltrating the surgical field with a 30-mL local anesthetic mixture containing 15 mL of lidocaine 1% and 15 mL of bupivacaine 0.25% (with epinephrine 1:200,000 and sodium bicarbonate 3 mL). All patients were fast-tracked directly from the operating room to the step-down recovery area. Even though the incidences of postoperative pain and postoperative nausea and vomiting were small in both treatment groups, the time to "home readiness" was significantly shorter in the dexamethasone group. Importantly, there was no increase in the incidence of wound infections (8% vs 12%) or hematoma formation (3% vs 5%) in the dexamethasone (versus saline) group. We conclude that the administration of dexamethasone, 4 mg IV, shortened the time to home readiness without increasing the incidence of postoperative wound infections in a high-risk outpatient population undergoing anorectal surgery.

IMPLICATIONS

A single dose of dexamethasone (4 mg IV) decreased the time to "home readiness" without increasing the incidence of postoperative wound complications in an outpatient population undergoing anorectal surgery.