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Di Lisa FS, Villa A, Filomeno L, Arcuri T, Chiofalo B, Sanguineti G, Pizzuti L, Krasniqi E, Barba M, Sergi D, Lombardo F, Romanelli F, Botti C, Zoccali G, Ciliberto G, Vici P. Breast and cervical cancer in transgender men: literature review and a case report. Ther Adv Med Oncol 2024; 16:17588359241259466. [PMID: 39131728 PMCID: PMC11316962 DOI: 10.1177/17588359241259466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Transgender individuals exhibit a higher prevalence of cancer-related risk factors, such as substance abuse and sexually transmitted infections. These factors, coupled with suboptimal adherence to cancer screening recommendations, may lead to a higher incidence of cancers, such as breast and cervical cancer, and contribute to delayed diagnoses in transgender patients. Herein, we report a unique case of a transgender man with a history of alcohol and drug abuse, undergoing gender-affirming exogenous testosterone therapy, who developed synchronous locally advanced breast cancer and human papilloma virus (HPV)-related cervical cancer. He underwent concurrent chemoradiation for cervical cancer and surgery followed by endocrine therapy for breast cancer. The treatments were suboptimals due to patient's comorbidities, among them liver cirrhosis leading to an early death. Additionally, we have conducted a review of existing literature, including case reports, clinical studies, and review articles investigating the role of potential risk factors specifically related to breast and cervical tumors in transgender men. Gender-affirming testosterone therapy is common among transgender men to induce gender affirmation, but its link to breast cancer risk remains ambiguous, with studies being limited and sometimes contradictory. Conversely, HPV is a well-established cause of up to 99% of cervical cancers. Despite persistent risk for cervical cancer in transgender men who retain their cervix, several studies indicate notable disparities in screening adherence, due to personal and structural barriers. Moreover, alcohol and drug use disorders, commonly encountered in transgender population, may negatively influence the adherence to screening programs. Current cancer screening guidelines for this population are somewhat unclear, and specific programs based on more robust data are urgently required along with further tailored studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alice Villa
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Lorena Filomeno
- Phase IV Clinical Studies Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, Rome 00144, Italy
| | - Teresa Arcuri
- Phase IV Clinical Studies Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
- Medical Oncology A, Policlinico Umberto I, Department of Radiological, Oncological and Anatomo-Pathological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Benito Chiofalo
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, Department of Experimental Clinical Oncology, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Sanguineti
- Department of Radiation Oncology, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Pizzuti
- Division of Medical Oncology 1, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Eriseld Krasniqi
- Phase IV Clinical Studies Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Maddalena Barba
- Division of Medical Oncology 1, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Domenico Sergi
- Division of Medical Oncology 2, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Lombardo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Romanelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Botti
- Division of Breast Surgery, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Zoccali
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Gennaro Ciliberto
- Scientific Direction, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Patrizia Vici
- Phase IV Clinical Studies Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
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Thornton SM, Edalatpour A, Gast KM. A systematic review of patient regret after surgery- A common phenomenon in many specialties but rare within gender-affirmation surgery. Am J Surg 2024; 234:68-73. [PMID: 38688814 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2024.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Regret after gender-affirming surgery (GAS) is a complex issue. Comparing regret after GAS to regret after plastic surgery operations and other major life decisions is a novel approach that can provide insight into the magnitude of this issue. A systematic review of three databases was conducted to investigate regret after common plastic surgery operations. Three separate literature reviews on regret after GAS, regret after elective operations, and regret after major life decisions were performed. A total of 55 articles examining regret after plastic surgery were included. The percentage of patients reporting regret ranged from 0 to 47.1 % in breast reconstruction, 5.1-9.1 % in breast augmentation, and 10.82-33.3 % in body contouring. In other surgical subspecialties, 30 % of patients experience regret following prostatectomy and up to 19.5 % following bariatric surgery. Rate of regret after GAS is approximately 1 %. Other life decisions, such as having children and getting a tattoo have regret rates of 7 % and 16.2 %, respectively. When comparing regret after GAS to regret after other surgeries and major life decisions, the percentage of patients experiencing regret is extremely low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah M Thornton
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Armin Edalatpour
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Katherine M Gast
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA.
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Hegde S, Carroll EF, Doo FX, Drzewiecki B, Jensen KK, Sertic M, Pierce TT. Imaging the acute complications of gender-affirming surgeries: a primer for radiologists in the emergency setting. Abdom Radiol (NY) 2024; 49:2812-2832. [PMID: 38832942 DOI: 10.1007/s00261-024-04385-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Gender-affirming surgery (GAS) is increasingly being performed. GAS is tailored to the patient leading to a diverse spectrum of radiologic post-operative findings. Radiologists who are unfamiliar with expected anatomic alterations after GAS may misdiagnose important complications leading to adverse patient outcomes. This collaborative multi-institutional review aims to: Describe relevant embryology and native anatomy. Describe relevant Gender-Affirming Surgery (GAS) techniques and expected neo-anatomy with associated complications, including common terminology. Review expected imaging appearance of neo-anatomy/postoperative findings. Review multi-modality [ultrasound, plain film, retrograde urethrogram, computed tomography] emergent imaging findings. Understand unique patient evaluation and imaging protocol considerations in the GAS population. Discuss pearls and pitfalls of imaging in the acute post-GAS setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siddhi Hegde
- Department of Radiology, Center for Ultrasound Research and Translation (CURT), Massachusetts General Hospital, 101 Merrimac St, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.
| | - Evelyn F Carroll
- Breast Imaging/Hospital and Emergency Radiology Divisions, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Florence X Doo
- Body/Abdominal Imaging Division, University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Beth Drzewiecki
- Pediatric Surgical Services (MGfC), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kyle K Jensen
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Madeleine Sertic
- Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Theodore T Pierce
- Department of Radiology, Center for Ultrasound Research and Translation (CURT), Massachusetts General Hospital, 101 Merrimac St, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
- Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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4
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Miller AS, Beagles CB, Kaur MN, Marano AA, Hu S, Ghoshal S, Dey T, Coon D, Succi MD. Temporary Declines and Demand Resurgence: Gender-Affirming Surgery Volume and Complication Trends During and After the COVID-19 Pandemic. Aesthetic Plast Surg 2024:10.1007/s00266-024-04243-3. [PMID: 38992249 DOI: 10.1007/s00266-024-04243-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic prompted surgical volume reductions due to lockdown measures. This study evaluates COVID-19's impact on gender-affirming surgery (GAS) volume and complications from the pandemic onset through the recovery period. METHODS The 2019-2021 National Surgical Quality Improvement Program databases were queried for transgender or gender-diverse patients using ICD-10 codes. Five time periods were analyzed: Pre-pandemic, Immediate pre-pandemic and COVID-19 outbreak, Initial COVID-19 peak, Pre-COVID-19 vaccine, and Post-vaccine release. Complications included reoperation, urinary tract infections, and wound complications. Multivariate logistic regressions assessed factors associated with undergoing surgery during the initial COVID-19 peak and experiencing surgical complications. RESULTS Out of 2,963,230 patients, 4637 underwent GAS between 2019 and 2021. Chest feminizing and masculinizing procedures comprised 60.1% of all GAS. During the initial COVID-19 peak, all GAS surgeries nearly halved, with breast augmentations dropping to 15.3% of pre-pandemic volumes. White patients constituted a significantly higher proportion of GAS patients during the initial COVID-19 peak than in 2019 (74.7% vs. 61.0%, p = 0.014). Post-vaccine, GAS levels surged, exceeding pre-pandemic volumes by 45.5% and initial peak levels by 188.5%. The overall complication rate was 4.9%, and was significantly associated with older age, increased operative time, feminizing and masculinizing genital surgeries, and hysterectomies. The initial COVID-19 peak showed no significant correlations with surgical complications. CONCLUSIONS GAS volume temporarily decreased during the initial COVID-19 outbreak and has since rebounded and surpassed pre-pandemic levels, corresponding with past-decade trends. Complication risks remained consistent despite the pandemic, though the results highlight potentially significant race-based disparities in GAS access during COVID-19. IMPORTANT POINTS During the COVID-19 pandemic, public health measures led to severe volume reductions in gender-affirming surgical (GAS) procedures. Since the initial COVID-19 peak, GAS volumes have fully recovered and surpassed pre-pandemic volumes. Surgical complication rates for various GAS procedures were within expected ranges, emphasizing the overall safety of these surgeries. The study's results highlight racial disparities in undergoing GAS during the COVID-19 pandemic, with White patients disproportionately represented among those who had surgery during the COVID-19 lockdown. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these evidence-based medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Amitai S Miller
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard University John F. Kennedy School of Government, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Surgery, Patient-Reported Outcomes, Value and Experience (PROVE) Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Manraj N Kaur
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Surgery, Patient-Reported Outcomes, Value and Experience (PROVE) Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Andrew A Marano
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sophia Hu
- Department of Surgery, Patient-Reported Outcomes, Value and Experience (PROVE) Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Soham Ghoshal
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Medically Engineered Solutions in Healthcare Incubator, Innovation in Operations Research Center (MESH IO), Mass General Brigham, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tanujit Dey
- Center for Surgery and Public Health, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Devin Coon
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Marc D Succi
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.
- Medically Engineered Solutions in Healthcare Incubator, Innovation in Operations Research Center (MESH IO), Mass General Brigham, Boston, MA, USA.
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Moghadam S, Khetpal S, Ozaki W. Use of Titanium Mesh During Frontal Sinus Setback in Facial Feminization Surgery: Clinical Outcomes and Perspectives. J Craniofac Surg 2024; 35:1338-1341. [PMID: 38830026 DOI: 10.1097/scs.0000000000010350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Brow position, hairline shape, and forehead projection may confer cis-feminine identity, and facial feminization surgery (FFS) can improve gender dysphoria among transfeminine patients. Depending on the Ousterhout classification, burring, osteotomy, anterior frontal sinus setback, and augmentation, with subsequent fixation via metal or bioabsorbable plates, can address forehead projection. However, titanium mesh, often used in frontal sinus fracture repair, has not been described for forehead contouring in FFS. The purpose of this study was to study clinical outcomes associated with the use of titanium mesh for the stabilization of bone following anterior frontal sinus setback. A retrospective cohort study of trans-female and nonbinary patients undergoing primary FFS by our senior author between January 2021 and February 2023 was performed. Variables collected include demographics, Ousterhout classification, operative details, complications, and follow-up duration. Patients with prior FFS or facial trauma were excluded. Data were analyzed using SPSS, (IBM, Armonk, NY). Forty-three transfeminine patients were included for analysis. The cohort had an average age of 33.0±8.7 years and a median follow-up time of 3.0 months (IQR = 1.0-7.0). Among our cohort, 26 patients (60.5%) received titanium mesh and 17 patients (39.5%) underwent burring only for forehead contouring. There were no reported complications (ie, infection, hardware extrusion, or mucocele formation) or a need for forehead revisions among the entire cohort regardless of the frontal sinus reconstruction material utilized. Clinical outcomes were favorable among patients receiving titanium mesh anterior table fixation during FFS. Titanium mesh can be considered as an additional technique for frontal bossing reduction and anterior table fixation in FFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahrzad Moghadam
- From the Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA
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LaRosa MX, Chikarmane SA, Yu RN, Grimstad F, Chow JS. Peri-surgical imaging of intersex and gender diverse youths. Pediatr Radiol 2024; 54:1371-1390. [PMID: 38520560 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-024-05900-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
This publication provides an overview of current imaging indications and practices for patients undergoing gender-affirming surgery, with an emphasis on the importance of tailored, patient-specific care. Gender-affirming surgeries are performed with personalized approaches at various stages of life for those with intersex traits or differences in sex development (I/DSD) and transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals. For I/DSD patients, ultrasound, genitography, or MRI occurs during infancy and puberty to evaluate genital and gonadal anatomy. Facial harmonization involves bony and soft tissue modifications, guided by maxillofacial computerized tomography (CT) with three-dimensional reconstruction. Ultrasound is the main modality in assessing hormone-related and post-surgical changes in the chest. Imaging for genital reconstruction uses cross-sectional images and fluoroscopy to assess neoanatomy and complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle X LaRosa
- Department of Radiology, Boston Children's Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Main Building, 2nd Floor, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Sona A Chikarmane
- Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Richard N Yu
- Department of Urology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Frances Grimstad
- Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jeanne S Chow
- Department of Radiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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Rezaei SJ, Miller AS, Miranda N, Ganor O. Gender-affirming surgeries for transgender and gender diverse individuals and associated health outcomes. BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES & THE LAW 2024. [PMID: 38889084 DOI: 10.1002/bsl.2684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Gender-affirming care is treatment that recognizes and affirms the gender identity of transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) individuals. Though not all TGD people choose to surgically transition, gender-affirming surgeries (GAS) are an important part of many TGD people's transition. GAS can include a wide array of procedures aimed at aligning an individual's physical characteristics and gender identity. This review describes the most common procedures considered to be GAS, detailing important relevant considerations for each procedure. These include transfeminine procedures (i.e., breast augmentation, penile inversion vaginoplasty, orchiectomy, tracheal shave, and facial feminization); transmasculine procedures (i.e., chest masculinization, hysterectomy, phalloplasty, and metoidioplasty); and other procedures (i.e., fertility preservation and hair removal). Patient outcomes and the legal landscape for GAS are also discussed to contextualize these procedures within largest discourses surrounding gender-affirming care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawheen J Rezaei
- Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Amitai S Miller
- Harvard University John F. Kennedy School of Government, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Noah Miranda
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
- UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Oren Ganor
- Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Sanchez K, Tollinche L, Reece-Nguyen T. Anesthesia for gender-affirming surgery: a practical review. Curr Opin Anaesthesiol 2024; 37:292-298. [PMID: 38390936 DOI: 10.1097/aco.0000000000001366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Gender-affirming surgery (GAS) is an effective, well studied, and often necessary component of gender-affirming care and mitigation of gender dysphoria for transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) individuals. GAS is categorized as chest surgeries, genitourinary surgeries, facial feminization/masculinization, and vocal phonosurgery. Despite increased incidence of GAS during recent years, there is a gap in knowledge and training on perioperative care for TGD patients. RECENT FINDINGS Our review discusses the relevant anesthetic considerations for the most common GAS, which often involve highly specialized surgical techniques that have unique implications for the anesthesia professional. SUMMARY Anesthesiology professionals must attend to the surgical and anesthetic nuances of various GAS procedures. However, as many considerations are based on common practice, research is warranted on anesthetic implications and outcomes of GAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle Sanchez
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Luis Tollinche
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, MetroHealth Medical System of Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Travis Reece-Nguyen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative, and Pain Medicine, Stanford Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
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Li R. Preoperative hypocoagulative state is an independent risk factor for wound complications and infection in gender-affirming bottom surgeries. J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg 2024; 91:413-420. [PMID: 38479123 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjps.2024.02.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bottom gender affirmation surgery (GAS) involves the risks of bleeding and associated complications. Effective preoperative blood management is paramount across surgical disciplines with international normalized ratio (INR)≤1.5 advised prior to certain surgeries. This study aimed to examine the proportion of patients who were hypocoagulative before they underwent bottom GAS and assess the influence of hypocoagulability on their 30-day post-operative outcomes. METHOD A retrospective study on female-to-male (FtM) and male-to-female (MtF) bottom GAS was performed based on American college of surgeons national surgical quality improvement program (ACS-NSQIP) database from 2005 to 2021. Patients with hypocoagulation were identified when PTT> 60 s, PT > 30 s, and/or INR> 2. Multivariable logistic regression was used to compare the 30-day perioperative outcomes between patients with hypocoagulation and controls. RESULTS In this study, 380 patients (182 FtM, 198 MtF) with hypocoagulation and 1176 controls (886 FtM, 310 MtF) were included. Mortality and organ system complications were infrequent in both groups. Patients with hypocoagulation had higher wound complication rates (13.68% vs. 2.64%, aOR 2.858, p < 0.01), especially wound dehiscence (10.00% vs. 0.60%, aOR 4.424, p < 0.01) and organ space infection rates (2.11% vs. 0.26%, aOR 12.77, p < 0.01). Additionally, patients with hypocoagulation had higher sepsis (0.79% vs. 0.09%, aOR 15.508, p = 0.04) and readmission rates (4.74% vs. 2.47%, aOR 1.919, p = 0.03), but lower rates of discharge not to home (7.92% vs. 25.38%, aOR 0.324, p < 0.01). CONCLUSION Preoperative hypocoagulative state is observed in approximately a quarter of the patients undergoing bottom GAS and is an independent risk factor for increased risks of 30-day wound complications and infections. Therefore, meticulous monitoring of preoperative hemostasis and implementing hemostasis control before surgery may be necessary. Thus, it may be advisable to discontinue oral anticoagulants before the surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renxi Li
- The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2300 I St NW, Washington, DC 20052, USA.
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Li R, Ranganath B. Higher 30-day pulmonary and wound complications among current smokers in bottom gender affirmation surgery. J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg 2024; 90:70-72. [PMID: 38364670 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjps.2024.02.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Renxi Li
- George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA.
| | - Bharat Ranganath
- George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
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Li R, Ranganath B. Bottom gender affirming surgery is safe in patients with obesity: A national perspective from ACS-NSQIP database from 2005 to 2021. J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg 2024; 90:67-69. [PMID: 38364669 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjps.2024.02.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Renxi Li
- The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA.
| | - Bharat Ranganath
- The George Washington University Hospital, Department of Surgery, Washington, DC, USA
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Zhang TR, Harel D, Rivera A, Shahnawaz S, Qian Y, Berry C, Zhao LC, Radix A, Bluebond-Langner R, Mmonu NA. Incidence, Complications, and Long-term Outcomes of Gender-affirming Phalloplasty: Analysis of a Large Statewide Population-based Dataset. Urology 2024; 185:27-33. [PMID: 38340965 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2023.10.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the incidence of gender-affirming phalloplasty and postoperative complications in a large population-based dataset. METHODS Retrospective cohort study was done using the California Department of Health Care Access and Information datasets which include patient-level data from all licensed hospitals, emergency departments, and ambulatory surgery facilities in California. Adult patients 18 years or older undergoing gender-affirming phalloplasty in California from January 1, 2009 to December 31, 2019 were included. We examined phalloplasty-related complications using International Classification of Disease diagnosis and procedure codes and Current Procedural Terminology codes. Unique record linkage number identifiers were used to follow patients longitudinally. Statistical analysis included Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox proportional hazards analysis. RESULTS We identified 766 patients who underwent gender-affirming phalloplasty in 23 facilities. Of 475 patients with record linkage numbers, 253 (55.3%) had subsequent re-presentations to the inpatient, emergency department, and ambulatory surgery settings related to phalloplasty complications. Survival analysis indicated that 50% of patients re-presented by 1year post-phalloplasty. Asian/Pacific Islander patients had lower risk of complications, and California residents had higher risk of complications. CONCLUSION This population-based study confirms that gender-affirming phalloplasty has a high complication rate, and demonstrates for the first time an association with high rates of return to hospitals, emergency departments, and ambulatory surgery centers. These findings provide additional higher-level evidence that may aid patient counseling, shared surgical decision-making, and institutional and government policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tenny R Zhang
- Department of Urology, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY; Department of Urology, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Daphna Harel
- Department of Applied Statistics, Social Science, and Humanities, New York University, New York, NY
| | - Adrian Rivera
- Department of Biostatistics, New York University, New York, NY
| | - Samia Shahnawaz
- Department of Biostatistics, New York University, New York, NY
| | - Yingzhi Qian
- Department of Biostatistics, New York University, New York, NY
| | - Carolyn Berry
- Department of Population Health, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Lee C Zhao
- Department of Urology, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Asa Radix
- Department of Medicine, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY; Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, New York, NY
| | | | - Nnenaya A Mmonu
- Department of Urology, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY; Department of Population Health, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY.
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Johnson A, McClurg AB, Baldino J, Das R, Carey ET. Fertility preservation choices and decisional regret after gender-affirming surgery in transgender men or gender nonbinary persons. F S Rep 2024; 5:87-94. [PMID: 38524213 PMCID: PMC10958706 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfre.2023.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate the prevalence of decisional regret regarding preoperative fertility preservation choices after gender-affirming surgery or removal of reproductive organs. Design Cross-sectional. Setting University-based pratice. Patients A total of 57 survey respondents identifying as transgender men or gender nonbinary with a history of gender-affirming surgery or removal of reproductive organs between 2014 and 2023 with the University of North Carolina Minimally Invasive Gynecology division. Intervention Survey or questionnaire. Main Outcome Measures The prevalence and severity of decisional regret regarding preoperative fertility preservation choices were measured with the use of the validated decisional regret scale (DRS) (scored 0-100). Secondary outcomes included patient-reported barriers to pursuing reproductive endocrinology and infertility consultation and fertility preservation treatment. Results The survey response rate was 50.9% (57/112). "Mild" to "severe" decisional regret was reported by 38.6% (n = 22) of survey respondents, with DRS scores among all respondents ranging from 0-85. Higher median DRS scores were associated with patient-reported inadequacy of preoperative fertility counseling regarding implications of surgery on future fertility or family-building (0 vs. 50) and fertility preservation options (0 vs. 12.5). No desire for future fertility at the time of fertility counseling was the most frequent reason (68.4%) for declining a referral to reproductive endocrinology and infertility for additional fertility preservation discussion. Conclusions Decisional regret regarding preoperative fertility preservation choices is experienced among transgender men or gender nonbinary persons after gender-affirming surgery or the removal of reproductive organs. Preoperative, patient-centered fertility counseling and fertility preservation treatments should be provided to reduce the risk of future regret.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin Johnson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Asha B. McClurg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Janine Baldino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Rajeshree Das
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Erin T. Carey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
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Aaen EK, Kesmodel US, Pop ML, Højgaard AD. Requests for vulvoplasty as gender-affirming surgery: a cross-sectional study in Denmark. J Sex Med 2024; 21:262-269. [PMID: 38364298 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdae003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vulvoplasty, described as a promising procedure for transgender and gender diverse (TGD) persons who were assigned male at birth and who, for example, do not need a vagina or who have contraindications to vaginoplasty, is a procedure that in accordance with current guidelines is not offered as genital gender-affirming surgery in Denmark. AIM In this study we sought to quantify the need for offering vulvoplasty in Denmark. MATERIALS AND METHODS An online questionnaire was developed. The target group included TGD persons who were assigned male at birth and a minimum of 18 years old. Prior to data collection, the questionnaire was tested with stakeholders from the target group and was subsequently distributed exclusively in closed groups and online fora for TGD persons. Data collection took place from September 1 to October 31, 2022. OUTCOMES Primary outcomes were type of bottom surgery respondents preferred, when vulvoplasty was chosen, the reason(s) for choosing it. RESULTS A total of 152 responses were included for data analysis, and 134 records were complete responses. Out of 134 respondents, 35 (26.1%) preferred vulvoplasty. The reasons for preferring vulvoplasty were the belief that there is less risk with the procedure (71%), followed by not wanting to dilate (54%), no need for a vagina (48%), and no need for vaginal penetration (40%). Health issues or other reasons were infrequent (5%). Out of 122 respondents who had not had prior bottom surgery, 106 (86.9%) wanted it in the future. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Some TGD individuals in Denmark could benefit from vulvoplasty and would choose it if offered. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS Strengths of this study were that the questionnaire was thoroughly tested prior to application and that the survey could only be accessed via closed fora and groups for TDG persons. Limitations were that the sample size was small, and that the response rate could not be estimated. CONCLUSION The results of this study imply that there is an unmet need for vulvoplasty, and bottom surgery in general, in Denmark.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ulrik Schiøler Kesmodel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aalborg University Hospital, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark and Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Maria Lucia Pop
- Center for Gender Identity, Sexological Centre, Aalborg University Hospital, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Astrid Ditte Højgaard
- Center for Gender Identity, Sexological Centre, Aalborg University Hospital, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark
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15
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Lopez CD, Yusuf CT, Girard AO, Lake IV, Cooney DS, Redett RJ. Penile Transplantation in Gender Affirmation Surgery: A Theoretical Feasibility Study. J Reconstr Microsurg 2024; 40:96-101. [PMID: 37142254 DOI: 10.1055/a-2085-9943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It can be argued that individuals in the transgender and gender nonbinary (TGNB) community suffer from a similar impact on quality of life in the face of gender dysphoria, with psychosocial and physical consequences. Indications for penile allotransplantation for patients wishing to undergo gender affirmation surgery have yet to be elucidated, but technical lessons for feasibility can be gleaned from penis transplants that have already been performed on cisgender males to date. METHODS This study investigates the theoretical feasibility for penile-to-clitoral transplantation, prior penile transplants, and current multidisciplinary gender affirmation health care modalities. RESULTS Penile allotransplantation offers a potential solution for individuals in the TGNB community for a more aesthetic penis, improved erectile function without the need of a prosthesis, optimal somatic sensation, and improved urethral outcomes. CONCLUSION Questions remain about ethics, patient eligibility, and immunosuppressive sequelae. Before these issues are addressed, feasibility of this procedure must be established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher D Lopez
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Cynthia T Yusuf
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Alisa O Girard
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Isabel V Lake
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Damon S Cooney
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Richard J Redett
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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16
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Rezaei SJ, Miranda N, Bene NC, Ganor O. The Current State of Transgender Health Curricula in Graduate Surgical Education: A Systematic Review of Survey Data. JOURNAL OF SURGICAL EDUCATION 2023; 80:1826-1835. [PMID: 37658003 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsurg.2023.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals in the U.S. face significant healthcare disparities, which can be further exacerbated by providers' unfamiliarity with this population's specific needs. ACGME currently does not have requirements for gender-affirming surgery (GAS) in the residency programs of surgical specialties that are responsible for providing this care. This systematic review evaluates gender-affirming care (GAC) and GAS training in surgical residency programs in the U.S. through the analysis of survey respondent data. METHODS Six databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Scopus, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar) were searched in December 2022 and May 2023. The search process ultimately yielded 22 survey-based studies, published between 2015 and 2023, with responses from 3020 respondents (2582 trainees and/or attending physicians, 438 program directors). RESULTS Six different surgical specialties were the focus of included studies, and common questions revolved around GAS training availability, comfort in treating TGD patients, and the importance of GAS in graduate surgical education (GSE). Less than half of trainees indicated that they received some form of previous GAC or GAS training, and less than half of program directors indicated that their residency or fellowship program offered such training. CONCLUSIONS While comfort levels around treating TGD patients ranged, the studies indicated an overall perceived importance of GAS training. These findings highlight the need to incorporate GAS training into graduate surgical education to improve access to and quality of care for TGD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawheen J Rezaei
- Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California.
| | - Noah Miranda
- Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Nicholas C Bene
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, Burlington, Massachusetts
| | - Oren Ganor
- Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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Lo Torto F, Mori FR, Bruno E, Giacomini G, Turriziani G, Firmani G, Marcasciano M, Ribuffo D. Gender dysphoria: Quality of online information for gender reassignment surgery. JPRAS Open 2023; 38:117-123. [PMID: 37772032 PMCID: PMC10522961 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpra.2023.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
An ever-increasing number of patients are using the Internet to learn about medical conditions. This study aimed to evaluate the quality of Internet-based patient information on gender reassignment surgery for people who suffer from gender dysphoria. Twenty websites identified using Google and Yahoo search engines were selected and evaluated based on the modified Ensuring Quality Information for Patients (EQIP) instrument (36 items). The EQIP tool comprises 36 questions to which the answer can be "yes" or "no". The final score for each website can be between 0 and 36. An overall score of 26 or above was considered high, because it co-related to the 72nd percentile. The average of the scores turned out to be 22.5 points, lower than our target; 7 (35%) sites were rated higher than the average and 13 (65%) were rated lower. The assessment of the websites included in the study showed a lack of information about the sequence of the medical procedures, perioperative criticalities and qualitative risks and side-effects descriptions. The overall quality of published information on gender reassignment surgery is very low. We believe that the Internet should not be used as the main source of medical information, and physicians should maintain the leadership in guiding patients affected by gender dysphoria. Level of Evidence: Level IV, case study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Lo Torto
- Department of Surgery ‘‘P.Valdoni’’ - Unit of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Policlinico Umberto I, Giovanni Maria Lancisi Street, 2, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Francesco Rocco Mori
- Department of Surgery ‘‘P.Valdoni’’ - Unit of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Policlinico Umberto I, Giovanni Maria Lancisi Street, 2, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Edoardo Bruno
- Department of Surgery ‘‘P.Valdoni’’ - Unit of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Policlinico Umberto I, Giovanni Maria Lancisi Street, 2, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Giorgio Giacomini
- Department of Surgery ‘‘P.Valdoni’’ - Unit of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Policlinico Umberto I, Giovanni Maria Lancisi Street, 2, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Gianmarco Turriziani
- Department of Surgery ‘‘P.Valdoni’’ - Unit of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Policlinico Umberto I, Giovanni Maria Lancisi Street, 2, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Guido Firmani
- Department of Surgery ‘‘P.Valdoni’’ - Unit of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Policlinico Umberto I, Giovanni Maria Lancisi Street, 2, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Marco Marcasciano
- Department of Experimental and clinical medicine – Unit of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Università Magna Graecia di Catanzaro, Tommaso Campanella street, 115, Catanzaro 88100, Italy
| | - Diego Ribuffo
- Department of Surgery ‘‘P.Valdoni’’ - Unit of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Policlinico Umberto I, Giovanni Maria Lancisi Street, 2, Rome 00161, Italy
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Talwar AA, Niu EF, Broach RB, Nelson JA, Fischer JP. Patient-reported outcomes: A primer for plastic surgeons. J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg 2023; 86:35-47. [PMID: 37688832 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjps.2023.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
Surgical care today is no longer evaluated only on clinical outcomes but also on holistic patient wellbeing. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are a representation of the patient's perspective on their results and wellbeing. The aim of this review is to establish PROs as the center of healthcare and plastic surgery, to delineate important PROs in plastic surgery practice and research, to discuss the future of PROs within our discipline, and to encourage surgeons to incorporate PROs into their practice. PROs are an important parallel of clinical outcomes in that they can use the patient's perspective to 1) support clinical findings, 2) detect differences in care when there are no clear clinical differences, 3) track progress longitudinally, and 4) support systemic improvements in healthcare. Plastic surgery as a field is naturally aligned with PROs because, as a discipline, we focus on patient form and function. The emerging forefronts of plastic surgery such as lymphedema care, gender-affirming care, peripheral nerve surgery, migraine surgery, and breast implant illness are critically dependent on PROs. In the next decade, we predict that there will be a continued proliferation of robust PRO measures and integration into healthcare delivery. Outcomes research in surgery should continue to evolve as surgeons provide increasingly more benefits to improve patient wellbeing. Plastic surgeons must continue to play a prominent role in the future of PROs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankoor A Talwar
- Division of Plastic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, United states
| | - Ellen F Niu
- Division of Plastic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, United states
| | - Robyn B Broach
- Division of Plastic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, United states
| | - Jonas A Nelson
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, United States
| | - John P Fischer
- Division of Plastic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, United states.
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