Determining optimal air leak resolution criteria when using digital pleural drainage device after lung resection

Objective

There is limited clinical evidence to support any specific parenchymal air leak resolution criteria when using digital pleural drainage devices following lung resection. The aim of this study is to determine an optimal air leak resolution criteria, where duration of chest tube drainage is minimized while avoiding complications from premature chest tube removal.

Methods

Airflow data averaged at 10-minute intervals was collected prospectively using a digital pleural drainage device (Thopaz; Medela) in 400 patients from 2015 to 2019. All permutations of air leak resolution criteria from <10 to 100 mL/minute for 4 to 12 hours were applied retrospectively to the pleural drainage data to determine air leak duration, and air leak recurrence frequency and volume. Air leak recurrence indicates potential for rather than occurrence of adverse events. Descriptive statistics were used to identify the optimal criteria based on patient safety (low frequency and volume of air leak recurrences), and efficiency (shortest initial air leak duration).

Results

The majority of the 400 patients underwent lobectomy (57% [227 out of 400]), wedge resections (29% [115 out of 400]), or segmentectomies (8% [32 out of 400]) for lung cancer (90% [360 out of 400]). An airflow threshold <50 mL/minute resulted in longer air leak duration before meeting the criteria for air leak resolution (P < .0001). Air leak recurrence frequency and volume were greater in patients with a monitoring period <8 consecutive hours (P < .0001).

Conclusions

When using a digital pleural drainage device, a postoperative air leak resolution criteria <50 mL/minute for 8 consecutive hours was associated with the best safety and efficiency profile.

Effect of colchicine on perioperative atrial fibrillation and myocardial injury after non-cardiac surgery in patients undergoing major thoracic surgery (COP-AF): an international randomised trial

BACKGROUND

Higher levels of inflammatory biomarkers are associated with an increased risk of perioperative atrial fibrillation and myocardial injury after non-cardiac surgery (MINS). Colchicine is an anti-inflammatory drug that might reduce the incidence of these complications.

METHODS

COP-AF was a randomised trial conducted at 45 sites in 11 countries. Patients aged 55 years or older and undergoing major non-cardiac thoracic surgery were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive oral colchicine 0·5 mg twice daily or matching placebo, starting within 4 h before surgery and continuing for 10 days. Randomisation was done with use of a computerised, web-based system, and was stratified by centre. Health-care providers, patients, data collectors, and adjudicators were masked to treatment assignment. The coprimary outcomes were clinically important perioperative atrial fibrillation and MINS during 14 days of follow-up. The main safety outcomes were a composite of sepsis or infection, and non-infectious diarrhoea. The intention-to-treat principle was used for all analyses. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03310125.

FINDINGS

Between Feb 14, 2018, and June 27, 2023, we enrolled 3209 patients (mean age 68 years [SD 7], 1656 [51·6%] male). Clinically important atrial fibrillation occurred in 103 (6·4%) of 1608 patients assigned to colchicine, and 120 (7·5%) of 1601 patients assigned to placebo (hazard ratio [HR] 0·85, 95% CI 0·65 to 1·10; absolute risk reduction [ARR] 1·1%, 95% CI -0·7 to 2·8; p=0·22). MINS occurred in 295 (18·3%) patients assigned to colchicine and 325 (20·3%) patients assigned to placebo (HR 0·89, 0·76 to 1·05; ARR 2·0%, -0·8 to 4·7; p=0·16). The composite outcome of sepsis or infection occurred in 103 (6·4%) patients in the colchicine group and 83 (5·2%) patients in the placebo group (HR 1·24, 0·93-1·66). Non-infectious diarrhoea was more common in the colchicine group (134 [8·3%] events) than the placebo group (38 [2·4%]; HR 3·64, 2·54-5·22).

INTERPRETATION

In patients undergoing major non-cardiac thoracic surgery, administration of colchicine did not significantly reduce the incidence of clinically important atrial fibrillation or MINS but increased the risk of mostly benign non-infectious diarrhoea.

FUNDING

Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Accelerating Clinical Trials Consortium, Innovation Fund of the Alternative Funding Plan for the Academic Health Sciences Centres of Ontario, Population Health Research Institute, Hamilton Health Sciences, Division of Cardiology at McMaster University, Canada; Hanela Foundation, Switzerland; and General Research Fund, Research Grants Council, Hong Kong.

Effect of Colchicine on the Risk of Perioperative Acute Kidney Injury: Clinical Protocol of a Substudy of the Colchicine for the Prevention of Perioperative Atrial Fibrillation Randomized Clinical Trial

Background

Inflammation during and after surgery can lead to organ damage including acute kidney injury. Colchicine, an established inexpensive anti-inflammatory medication, may help to protect the organs from pro-inflammatory damage. This protocol describes a kidney substudy of the colchicine for the prevention of perioperative atrial fibrillation (COP-AF) study, which is testing the effect of colchicine versus placebo on the risk of atrial fibrillation and myocardial injury among patients undergoing thoracic surgery.

Objective

Our kidney substudy of COP-AF will determine whether colchicine reduces the risk of perioperative acute kidney injury compared with a placebo. We will also examine whether colchicine has a larger absolute benefit in patients with pre-existing chronic kidney disease, the most prominent risk factor for acute kidney injury.

Design and Setting

Randomized, superiority clinical trial conducted in 40 centers in 11 countries from 2018 to 2023.

Patients

Patients (~3200) aged 55 years and older having major thoracic surgery.

Intervention

Patients are randomized 1:1 to receive oral colchicine (0.5 mg tablet) or a matching placebo, given twice daily starting 2 to 4 hours before surgery for a total of 10 days. Patients, health care providers, data collectors, and outcome adjudicators will be blinded to the randomized treatment allocation.

Methods

Serum creatinine concentrations will be measured before surgery and on postoperative days 1, 2, and 3 (or until hospital discharge). The primary outcome of the substudy is perioperative acute kidney injury, defined as an increase (from the prerandomization value) in serum creatinine concentration of either ≥26.5 μmol/L (≥0.3 mg/dL) within 48 hours of surgery or ≥50% within 7 days of surgery. The primary analysis (intention-to-treat) will examine the relative risk of acute kidney injury in patients allocated to receive colchicine versus placebo. We will repeat the primary analysis using alternative definitions of acute kidney injury and examine effect modification by pre-existing chronic kidney disease, defined as a prerandomization estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 mL/min per 1.73 m2.

Limitations

The substudy will be underpowered to detect small effects on more severe forms of acute kidney injury treated with dialysis.

Results

Substudy results will be reported in 2024.

Conclusions

This substudy will estimate the effect of colchicine on the risk of perioperative acute kidney injury in older adults undergoing major thoracic surgery.

Clinical trial registration number

NCT03310125.

Rationale and design of the colchicine for the prevention of perioperative atrial fibrillation in patients undergoing major noncardiac thoracic surgery (COP-AF) trial

BACKGROUND

Perioperative atrial fibrillation (AF) and myocardial injury after noncardiac surgery (MINS) are common complications after noncardiac surgery. Inflammation has been implicated in the pathogenesis of both disorders. The COP-AF trial tests the hypothesis that colchicine reduces the incidence of perioperative AF and MINS in patients undergoing major noncardiac thoracic surgery.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The 'COlchicine for the Prevention of Perioperative Atrial Fibrillation' (COP-AF) trial is an international, blinded, randomized trial that compares colchicine to placebo in patients aged at least 55 years and undergoing major noncardiac thoracic surgery with general anesthesia. Exclusion criteria include a history of AF and a contraindication to colchicine (eg, severe renal dysfunction). Oral colchicine at a dose of 0.5 mg or matching placebo is given within 4 hours before surgery. Thereafter, patients receive colchicine 0.5 mg or placebo twice daily for a total of 10 days. The 2 independent co-primary outcomes are clinically important perioperative AF (including atrial flutter) and MINS during 14 days of follow-up. The main safety outcomes are sepsis or infection and non-infectious diarrhea. We aim to enroll 3,200 patients from approximately 40 sites across 11 countries to have at least 80% power for the independent evaluation of the 2 co-primary outcomes. The COP-AF main results are expected in 2023.

CONCLUSIONS

COP-AF is a large randomized and blinded trial designed to determine whether colchicine reduces the risk of perioperative AF or MINS in patients who have major noncardiac thoracic surgery.

Surgical, Radiation, and Systemic Treatments of Patients With Thymic Epithelial Tumors: A Systematic Review

INTRODUCTION

Thymic epithelial tumors are rare and are classified as thymoma, thymic carcinoma, and thymic neuroendocrine tumors. The objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the treatment options for patients with thymic epithelial tumors.

METHODS

This systematic review was developed by Ontario Health (Cancer Care Ontario)'s Program in Evidence-Based Care and by the Lung Cancer Disease Site Group. MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library were searched for studies comparing surgical, radiotherapy, or systemic treatments against any combination of these treatments in patients with thymic epithelial tumors. Meta-analyses were conducted with clinically homogenous studies.

RESULTS

A total of 106 studies were included, mainly from observational studies. There was an overall survival benefit with postoperative radiotherapy for patients with thymic carcinoma (hazard ratio = 0.65, 95% confidence interval: 0.47-0.89) and for patients with thymoma (hazard ratio = 0.70, 95% confidence interval: 0.59-0.82), especially for those with a high risk for mortality. Patients with thymic carcinoma or thymoma had a response to chemotherapy. Selection bias affected the results for studies that evaluated neoadjuvant chemotherapy or minimally invasive surgical techniques. Furthermore, the overall survival benefit found for adjuvant chemotherapy may have been confounded by the administration of postoperative radiotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

For patients with thymoma or thymic carcinoma, the literature is of low quality and subject to bias. There were overall survival benefits with postoperative radiotherapy. The results of this systematic review were used to inform treatment recommendations in a clinical practice guideline. Future large-scale prospective studies that control for confounders are needed.

Surgical, Radiation, and Systemic Treatments of Patients with Thymic Epithelial Tumours: A Clinical Practice Guideline

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this guideline was to provide recommendations for the most effective therapy for patients with thymic epithelial tumours, including thymoma, thymic carcinoma, and thymic neuroendocrine tumours. This guideline is intended to be used by all healthcare professionals managing patients with thymic epithelial tumours.

METHODS

The guideline was developed by Ontario Health (Cancer Care Ontario)'s Program in Evidence-Based Care and by the Lung Cancer Disease Site Group through a systematic review of the evidence, expert consensus, and formal internal and external reviews.

RESULTS

Evidence-based recommendations were developed to improve the management of patients with thymic epithelial tumours. The guideline includes recommendations for surgical, radiation, and systemic treatments for patients with thymoma, thymic carcinoma, and thymic neuroendocrine tumours separated by stage of disease using the TNM staging system. Recommendations for patients with thymic neuroendocrine tumours were endorsed from the 2021 National Comprehensive Cancer Network Neuroendocrine and Adrenal Tumors Guideline.

CONCLUSION

This guideline reflects the new staging system for patients with thymoma and thymic carcinoma and includes supporting evidence from the best available studies.

Early oral intake and early removal of nasogastric tube post-esophagectomy: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Early oral intake (EOI: initiated within 1 day) and early nasogastric tube removal (ENR: removed ≤2 days) post-esophagectomy is controversial and subject to significant variation.

AIM

Our aim is to provide the most up-to-date evidence from published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) addressing both topics.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE and Embase (1946-06/2019) for RCTs that investigated the effect of EOI and/or ENR post-esophagectomy with gastric conduit for reconstruction. Our main outcomes of interest were anastomotic leak, aspiration pneumonia, mortality, and length of hospital stay (LOS). Pooled mean differences (MD) and risk ratios (RR) estimates were obtained using a DerSimonian random effects model.

RESULTS

Two reviewers screened 613 abstracts and identified 6 RCTs eligible for inclusion; 2 regarding EOI and 4 for ENR. For EOI (2 studies, n = 389), was not associated with differences in risk of: anastomotic leak (RR: 1.01; 95% CI: 0.407, 2.500; I2 : 0%), aspiration pneumonia (RR: 1.018; 95% CI: 0.407, 2.500), mortality (RR: 1.00; 95% CI: 0.020, 50.0). The LOS was significantly shorter in the EOI group: LOS (MD: -2.509; 95% CI: -3.489, -1.529; I2 : 90.44%). For ENR (4 studies, n = 295), ENR (removed at POD0-2 vs. 5-8 days) was not associated with differences in risk of: anastomotic leak (RR: 1.11; 95% CI 0.336, 3.697; I2 : 25.75%) and pneumonia group (RR: 1.11; 95% CI: 0.336, 3.697; I2 : 25.75%), mortality (RR: 0.87; 95% CI: 0.328, 2.308; I2 : 0%)or LOS (MD: 1.618; 95% CI: -1.447, 4.683; I2 : 73.03%).

CONCLUSIONS

Our analysis showed that EOI as well as ENR post-esophagectomy do not significantly increase the risk of anastomotic leak, pneumonia, and mortality. The LOS was significantly shorter in the EOI group, and there was no significant difference in the ENR group. A paucity of RCTs has evaluated this question, highlighting the need for further high-quality evidence to address these vital aspects to post-esophagectomy care.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

CRD42019138600.

Evolution of Process and Outcome Measures during an Enhanced Recovery after Thoracic Surgery Program

Background

A time course analysis was undertaken to evaluate how perioperative process-of-care and outcome measures evolved after implementation of an enhanced recovery after thoracic surgery (ERATS) program.

Methods

Outcome and process-of-care measures were compared between patients undergoing major elective thoracic surgery during a 9-month pre-ERATS implementation period to those at 1–3, 4–6, and 7–9 months post-ERATS implementation. Outcome measures included length of stay, the 30-day readmission rate, 30-day emergency department visits, and minor and major adverse events. Process measures included first time to activity, out-of-bed, ambulation, fluid diet, diet as tolerated, as well as removal of the first and last chest tube, epidural, patient-controlled analgesia, and Foley and intravenous catheters.

Results

In total, 704 patients (352 pre-ERATS, 352 post-ERATS) were included. Mobilization-related process measures, including time to first activity (16.5 vs. 6.8 hours, p<0.001), out-of-bed (17.6 vs. 8.9 hours, p<0.001), and ambulation (32.4 vs. 25.4 hours, p=0.04) saw statistically significant improvements by 1–3 months post-ERATS implementation compared to pre-ERATS. Time to Foley removal improved by 4–6 months post-ERATS (19.5 vs. 18.2 hours, p=0.003). Outcome measures, including the 30-day readmission rate and emergency department visits, steadily decreased post-ERATS. By 7–9 months post-ERATS, both minor (18.2% vs. 7.9%, p=0.009) and major (13.6% vs. 4.4%, p=0.007) adverse events demonstrated statistically significant improvements. Length of stay trended towards improvement from 6.2 days pre-ERATS to 4.8 days by 7–9 months post-ERATS (p=0.06).

Conclusion

The adoption of ERATS led to improvements in multiple process-of-care measures, which may collectively and gradually achieve optimization of clinical outcomes.

The longitudinal impact of division-wide implementation of an enhanced recovery after thoracic surgery programme

OBJECTIVES

Data regarding enhanced recovery after thoracic surgery (ERATS) are sparse and inconsistent. This study aims to evaluate the effects of implementing an enhanced ERATS programme on postoperative outcomes, patient experience and quality of life (QOL).

METHODS

We conducted a prospective, longitudinal study evaluating 9 months before (pre-ERATS) and 9 months after (post-ERATS) a 3-month implementation of an ERATS programme in a single academic tertiary care centre. All patients undergoing major thoracic surgeries were included. The primary outcomes included length of stay (LOS), adverse events (AEs), 6-min walk test scores at 4 weeks, 30-day emergency room visits (without admission) and 30-day readmissions. The process-of-care outcomes included time to 'out-of-bed', independent ambulation, successful fluid intake, last chest tube removal and removal of urinary catheter. Perioperative anaesthesia-related outcomes were examined as well as patient experience and QOL scores.

RESULTS

The pre-ERATS group (n = 352 patients) and post-ERATS group (n = 352) demonstrated no differences in demographics. Post-ERATS patients had improved LOS (4.7 vs 6.2 days, P < 0.02), 6-min walk test scores (402 vs 371 m, P < 0.05) and 30-day emergency room visits (13.7% vs 21.6%, P = 0.03) with no differences in AEs and 30-day readmissions. Patients experienced shorter mean time to 'out-of-bed', independent ambulation, successful fluid intake, last chest tube removal and urinary catheter removal. There were no differences in postoperative analgesia administration, patient satisfaction and QOL scores.

CONCLUSIONS

ERATS implementation was associated with improved LOS, expedited feeding, ambulation and chest tube removal, without increasing AEs or readmissions, while maintaining a high level of patient satisfaction and QOL.

The need for speed in advanced non-small cell lung cancer: A population kinetics assessment

BACKGROUND

Systemic therapy prolongs overall survival (OS) in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but diagnostic tests, staging and molecular profiling take time, and this can delay therapy initiation. OS approximates first-order kinetics.

METHODS

We used OS of chemo-naive NSCLC patients on a placebo/best supportive care trial arm to estimate % of patients dying while awaiting therapy. We digitized survival curves from eight studies, calculated OS half-life, then estimated the proportion surviving after different times of interest (t_n ) using the formula: X = exp - t n ∗ 0 .693 / t 1 / 2 , where EXP signifies exponential, * indicates multiplication, 0.693 is the natural log of 2, and t_1/2 is the survival half-life in weeks.

RESULTS

Across trials, the OS half-life for placebo/best supportive care in previously untreated NSCLC was 19.5 weeks. Hence, based on calculations using the formula above, if therapy were delayed by 1, 2, 3, or 4 weeks then 4%, 7%, 10%, and 13% of all patients, respectively, would die while awaiting treatment. Others would become too sick to consider therapy even if still alive.

CONCLUSIONS

This quantifies why rapid baseline testing and prompt therapy initiation are important in advanced NSCLC. It also illustrates why screening procedures for clinical trial inclusion must be faster. Otherwise, it is potentially hazardous for a patient to be considered for a trial due to risk of death or deterioration while awaiting eligibility assessment. It is also important to not delay initiation of systemic therapy for procedures that add relatively little value, such as radiotherapy for small, asymptomatic brain metastases.

Guiding Principles on the Importance of Thoracic Surgical Education on Establishing Integrated Thoracic Surgery Program, Interdisciplinary Thoracic Oncology Conferences, and an Interdisciplinary Approach to Management of Thoracic Malignancies

The objective of these notes is to stress the principles underlying the management of primary lung cancers and other types of malignancies in the thorax-diffuse malignant mesothelioma, invasive mediastinal tumors, chest wall sarcoma, and tracheal neoplasms-and from these considerations to outline a routine scheme for management, which can be followed easily by all staff. It is hoped that by adherence to this routine, adequate and efficient management of all cases will be obtained, both in the very important matter of preoperative preparation, as well in the postoperative management.

Paraneoplastic Syndromes in Lung Cancers: Manifestations of Ectopic Endocrinological Syndromes and Neurologic Syndromes

Paraneoplastic syndromes are clinical entities associated with cancers and often overlap with metabolic and endocrine syndromes. The cell types of lung cancer involved are frequently small cell, squamous cell, adenocarcinoma, large cell, and carcinoid tumor. A number of neurologic paraneoplastic syndromes have been described for which the tumor product remains unknown. These include peripheral neuropathies, a myasthenia-like syndrome, and subacute cerebellar degeneration. Although all of these syndromes may improve with successful treatment of the primary tumor, complete resolution is rare.

Oligometastatic Lung Cancer Defined by Biology, Science, and Secondary Growths

Breast cancer was the first malignant tumor for which TNM classification was proposed by the International Union Against Cancer. Volume and distribution of tumor burden were considered clinically important in this cancer. Lung cancer is caused by excessive cigarette smoking. Prognosis is worst in small cell lung cancer and in non-small cell lung cancer measuring over 3 cm in size and having regional lymphatic spread. Metastatic spread from lung cancer is favored by lymphatic spread to the locoregional lymph nodes and blood-borne spread to 5 sites-lung, brain, bone, liver, and adrenal-all of which are unfavorable prognostic indicators.

Adjuvant melatonin for the prevention of recurrence and mortality following lung cancer resection (AMPLCaRe): A randomized placebo controlled clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Despite curative intent resection in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), recurrence leading to mortality remains too common. Melatonin has shown promise for the treatment of patients with lung cancer; however, its effect following cancer resection has not been studied. We evaluated if melatonin taken after complete resection reduces lung cancer recurrence and mortality, or impacts quality of life (QOL), symptomatology or immune function.

METHODS

Participants received melatonin (20 mg) or placebo nightly for one year following surgical resection of primary NSCLC. The primary outcome was two-year disease-free survival (DFS). Secondary outcomes included five-year DFS, adverse events, QOL, fatigue, sleep, depression, anxiety, pain, and biomarkers assessing for immune function/inflammation. This study is registered at https://clinicaltrials.gov NCT00668707.

FINDINGS

709 patients across eight centres were randomized to melatonin (n = 356) versus placebo (n = 353). At two years, melatonin showed a relative risk of 1·01 (95% CI 0·83-1·22), p = 0·94 for DFS. At five years, melatonin showed a hazard ratio of 0·97 (95% CI 0·86-1·09), p = 0·84 for DFS. When stratified by cancer stage (I/II and III/IV), a hazard reduction of 25% (HR 0·75, 95% CI 0·61-0·92, p = 0·005) in five-year DFS was seen for participants in the treatment arm with advanced cancer (stage III/IV). No meaningful differences were seen in any other outcomes.

INTERPRETATION

Adjuvant melatonin following resection of NSCLC does not affect DFS for patients with resected early stage NSCLC, yet may increase DFS in patients with late stage disease. Further study is needed to confirm this positive result. No beneficial effects were seen in QOL, symptoms, or immune function.

FUNDING

This study was funded by the Lotte and John Hecht Memorial Foundation and the Gateway for Cancer Research Foundation.

Interventions to prevent anastomotic leak after esophageal surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Anastomotic leakage (AL) is a common and serious complication following esophagectomy. We aimed to provide an up-to-date review and critical appraisal of the efficacy and safety of all previous interventions aiming to reduce AL risk.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE and Embase from 1946 to January 2019 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating interventions to minimize esophagogastric AL. Pooled risk ratios (RR) for AL were obtained using a random effects model.

Results

Two reviewers screened 441 abstracts and identified 17 RCTs eligible for inclusion; 11 studies were meta-analyzed. Omentoplasty significantly reduced the risk of AL by 78% [RR: 0.22; 95% CI: 0.10, 0.50] compared to conventional anastomosis (3 studies, n = 611 patients). Early removal of NG tube significantly reduced the risk of AL by 62% [RR: 0.38; 95% CI: 0.02, 0.65] compared to prolonged NG tube removal (2 studies, n = 293 patients); Stapled anastomosis did not significantly reduce the risk of AL [RR: 0.92; 95% CI: 0.45, 1.87] compared to hand-sewn anastomosis (6 studies, n = 1454 patients). The quality of evidence was high for omentoplasty (vs. conventional anastomosis), moderate for early NG tube removal (vs. prolonged NG tube removal), and very low for stapled anastomosis (vs. hand-sewn anastomosis).

Conclusions

This is the first meta-analysis to summarize the graded quality of evidence for all RCT interventions designed to reduce the risk of AL following esophagectomy. Our findings demonstrated that omentoplasty significantly reduced the risk of AL with a high quality of evidence. Although early NG tube removal significantly reduced AL risk, there is a need for further research to strengthen the quality of evidence for this finding. Evidence profiles presented in our review may help inform the development of future clinical practice recommendations.

Systematic review registration: CRD42019127181.

Variation in management of post-operative atrial fibrillation (POAF) after thoracic surgery

OBJECTIVES

New-onset post-operative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is a frequent adverse event following major thoracic surgery and is associated with increased risk of perioperative morbidity, length of stay and stroke. It is managed initially with rate and rhythm control therapy; however, optimal duration and the need for anticoagulation are poorly understood. This study aims to assess practice variation regarding POAF management and duration.

METHODS

This retrospective, single-center cohort study included patients who underwent major thoracic surgery and developed POAF between 2008 and 2017, managed with rate and rhythm control therapy alone. Demographic, clinical, and surgical variables/outcomes, POAF management, and incidence of POAF recurrence in the 30-day post-operative period were collected. Chi-square and T-tests determined significance.

RESULTS

Of 2054 patients undergoing thoracic surgery, 155 (75%) patients developed POAF. Different rate and rhythm control agents were used, most commonly metoprolol. 107 (69%) continued rate and rhythm control therapy upon hospital discharge for a mean of 56 days. Among the 48 patients with discontinuation of rate and rhythm control therapy on discharge, none demonstrated recurrence of POAF; in contrast to 3 of 107 patients who continued on therapy. Among patients with CHA₂DS₂-VASc score ≥ 2, 15% were prescribed anticoagulation on discharge.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of rate and rhythm control therapy and anticoagulation for POAF is significantly varied in practice. Many patients are not continued on rate and rhythm control after hospital discharge, which does not appear to impact risk of POAF recurrence. Further research to inform guidelines for POAF management, including therapy duration and indications for anticoagulation is warranted.

Long-term Symptom Control After Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy and Dor Fundoplication for Achalasia

BACKGROUND

Achalasia is a primary esophageal motility disorder in which there is incomplete relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter and absence of peristalsis in the lower two thirds of the esophagus. A favored treatment is laparoscopic modified Heller myotomy with Dor fundoplication (LHMDor) with more than 90% immediate beneficial effect. The short-term outcomes of LHMDor are well documented, but stability and durability of postoperative symptom control over time is less understood.

METHODS

Between 2004 and 2016, 54 patients with achalasia underwent LHMDor (single center). Using validated questionnaires, patients rated their symptoms in five domains: pain, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), dysphagia, regurgitation, and quality of life. Symptom ratings were done preoperatively, 4 weeks postoperatively, 6 months postoperatively, and yearly after the operation.

RESULTS

As expected, patients reported marked improvement in dysphagia, odynophagia, regurgitation, GERD, and quality of life after the operation (P < .001). From then on, the symptom control remained durable with respect to absence of pain, regurgitation, and odynophagia; however, we observed a recurrence of GERD symptoms beginning 3 to 5 years postoperatively (P = .001 and P = .04, respectively), with associated increased antireflux medication use. After initial LHMDor, 5 patients required endoscopic dilatation an average of 1.5 years postoperatively, and no patient required reoperation. Patients reported preserved improved quality of life to 11 years after the operation (P = .001).

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrate the durability of LHMDor in the definitive management of achalasia, offering consistent symptomatic relief and significant improvement in quality of life over the decade after surgery, despite some increase in GERD symptoms and antireflux medication use.

Screening for esophageal adenocarcinoma and precancerous conditions (dysplasia and Barrett's esophagus) in patients with chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease with or without other risk factors: two systematic reviews and one overview of reviews to inform a guideline of the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care (CTFPHC)

BACKGROUND

Two reviews and an overview were produced for the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care guideline on screening for esophageal adenocarcinoma in patients with chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) without alarm symptoms. The goal was to systematically review three key questions (KQs): (1) The effectiveness of screening for these conditions; (2) How adults with chronic GERD weigh the benefits and harms of screening, and what factors contribute to their preferences and decision to undergo screening; and (3) Treatment options for Barrett's esophagus (BE), dysplasia or stage 1 EAC (overview of reviews).

METHODS

Bibliographic databases (e.g. Ovid MEDLINE®) were searched for each review in October 2018. We also searched for unpublished literature (e.g. relevant websites). The liberal accelerated approach was used for title and abstract screening. Two reviewers independently screened full-text articles. Data extraction and risk of bias assessments were completed by one reviewer and verified by another reviewer (KQ1 and 2). Quality assessments were completed by two reviewers independently in duplicate (KQ3). Disagreements were resolved through discussion. We used various risk of bias tools suitable for study design. The GRADE framework was used for rating the certainty of the evidence.

RESULTS

Ten studies evaluated the effectiveness of screening. One retrospective study reported no difference in long-term survival (approximately 6 to 12 years) between those who had a prior esophagogastroduodenoscopy and those who had not (adjusted HR 0.93, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.58-1.50). Though there may be higher odds of a stage 1 diagnosis than a more advanced diagnosis (stage 2-4) if an EGD had been performed in the previous 5 years (OR 2.27, 95% CI 1.00-7.67). Seven studies compared different screening modalities, and showed little difference between modalities. Three studies reported on patients' unwillingness to be screened (e.g. due to anxiety, fear of gagging). Eleven systematic reviews evaluated treatment modalities, providing some evidence of early treatment effect for some outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Little evidence exists on the effectiveness of screening and values and preferences to screening. Many treatment modalities have been evaluated, but studies are small. Overall, there is uncertainty in understanding the effectiveness of screening and early treatments.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATIONS

PROSPERO (CRD42017049993 [KQ1], CRD42017050014 [KQ2], CRD42018084825 [KQ3]).

Implementing a one-day testing model improves timeliness of workup for patients with lung cancer

Background

Patients with lung cancer often experience stressful delays throughout the diagnostic phase of care. To address that situation, our multidisciplinary team created a "Navigation Day," during which patients partake in a single-day visit that comprises nurse-led teaching, social work, smoking cessation counselling, symptom control, and dedicated test slots for integrated positron-emission tomography and computed tomography (pet/ct), pulmonary function tests (pfts), and magnetic resonance imaging (mri) of the brain. We evaluated the effects of that program on wait times and patient satisfaction.

Methods

Patients with a suspicion of lung cancer on chest ct imaging referred during 3 time periods were reviewed: 1 year before launch of the Navigation Day, 1 year post-launch, and 2 years post-launch. Patients were further stratified according to concordance of their test date with a Navigation Day date. Mean wait times for pet/ct, pfts, and mri brain were calculated for each group. Patient satisfaction was measured using a standardized provincial survey. The Student t-test and analysis of variance were used to assess for significance.

Results

After implementation, mean wait times in the first year improved to 9.2 days from 15.5 days for pet/ct (p < 0.0001), to 9.6 days from 15.7 days for pfts (p < 0.0001), and to 10.2 days from 16.0 days for mri brain (p < 0.0001). Patients who used a dedicated test slot experienced the shortest wait times, at 5.8 days for pet/ct, 5.8 days for pfts, and 6.3 days for mri brain (p < 0.0001). Those improvements were sustained at 2 years post-launch. Patient satisfaction in the categories of assistance, emotional support, and clarity remained high post-launch.

Conclusions

Navigation Day significantly improved the timeliness of diagnostic testing services in patients with suspected lung cancer.

Intervention Development Process for a Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial: The Thoracic Peri-Operative Integrative Surgical Care Evaluation Trial

BACKGROUND

Use of complementary therapies is high among people with cancer despite research gaps. The Thoracic Peri-Operative Integrative Surgical Care Evaluation (POISE) Trial will evaluate the impact of an integrative care intervention delivered by naturopathic doctors (NDs) in conjunction with usual care for patients undergoing surgery for lung, gastric, and esophageal cancer.

OBJECTIVES

To describe the multistep, multidisciplinary process of defining the integrative care intervention to be used in the Thoracic POISE trial using a principle-based approach that is pragmatic, holistic, safe, feasible, evidence driven, and consensus based.

METHODS

An Intervention Development Committee (IDC) made up of a multidisciplinary team of health care providers (NDs, surgeons, oncologists, nurses, dietitians, physiotherapists, pharmacists, and psychologists), researchers, and patients was established to oversee the process. Potential intervention components were identified through a clinical practice survey and expert opinion. Systematic literature reviews were conducted and scores assigned based on the following criteria: usage, safety, goals, feasibility/scalability, and evidence. The IDC selected an intervention to be piloted that consists of a standard palette including core and optional components. Safety, known risks, and interactions with pharmaceuticals were evaluated using industry and professional monographs, a scoping literature review, and consultations with hospital pharmacists.

RESULTS

The clinical practice survey and expert opinion identified 28 components for consideration. Following literature reviews, scoring, consensus from the IDC, and safety and interaction considerations, an intervention palette consisting of core and optional components was defined. The intervention options vary based on the patient's phase of treatment and symptom-specific needs. The intervention includes supplements, physical recommendations (exercise), nutritional counseling, and psychological support (audio scripts).

CONCLUSION

Through a multistep, multidisciplinary process an integrative care intervention was developed for the Thoracic POISE trial. The intervention will be piloted in a single-arm feasibility study, followed by a single-center randomized controlled trial (RCT), and finally a multicenter RCT.

Early Identification of Patients Who Will Meet 24-Hour Fluid Output Threshold for Chest Tube Removal After Lung Resection

Improving evidence-based chest tube removal may reduce the length of stay following surgery. Presently, most chest tube removal protocols include a fluid output threshold based on a 24-hour observation period. The purpose of this study was to evaluate if, within a 24-hour time period, fluid output measurements at 6, 8, and 12 hours could predict if the total 24-hour fluid output would comply with a predetermined volume threshold considered acceptable for safe chest tube removal. Following lung resection, pleural fluid output data were prospectively recorded by a digital drainage system and analyzed retrospectively. Twenty-four-hour fluid output was calculated from every available 6-, 8-, and 12-hour measurement and compared to set 24-hour output criteria for chest tube removal (ie, 400 mL, 250 mL, and 20% of whole-body lymphatic flow). Performance of interim fluid outputs in predicting whether 24-hour fluid output criteria were satisfied was measured. From 2015 to 2018, 150 patients had digital pleural fluid drainage data suitable for analysis. Performance of interim fluid output data in identifying which patients would satisfy 24-hour output criteria ranged from 85% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 83-86) to 94% (95% CI = 93-94) for specificity, 75% (95% CI = 73-76) to 92% (95% CI = 90-93) for positive predictive value, and 6% (95% CI = 6-7) to 15% (95% CI = 14-17) for false-positive rate. Potential time saved in duration of drainage using interim fluid output data ranged from 10 to 16 hours. Pleural fluid output measured for 6-, 8-, and 12-hour durations can accurately identify patients who will meet 24-hour fluid output threshold for safe chest tube removal.

Regional process redesign of lung cancer care: a learning health system pilot project

Background

The Ottawa Hospital (toh) defined delay to timely lung cancer care as a system design problem. Recognizing the patient need for an integrated journey and the need for dynamic alignment of providers, toh used a learning health system (lhs) vision to redesign regional diagnostic processes. A lhs is driven by feedback utilizing operational and clinical information to drive system optimization and innovation. An essential component of a lhs is a collaborative platform that provides connectivity across silos, organizations, and professions.

Methods

To operationalize a lhs, we developed the Ottawa Health Transformation Model (ohtm) as a consensus approach that addresses process barriers, resistance to change, and conflicting priorities. A regional Community of Practice (cop) was established to engage stakeholders, and a dedicated transformation team supported process improvements and implementation.

Results

The project operationalized the lung cancer diagnostic pathway and optimized patient flow from referral to initiation of treatment. Twelve major processes in referral, review, diagnostics, assessment, triage, and consult were redesigned. The Ottawa Hospital now provides a diagnosis to 80% of referrals within the provincial target of 28 days. The median patient journey from referral to initial treatment decreased by 48% from 92 to 47 days.

Conclusions

The initiative optimized regional integration from referral to initial treatment. Use of a lhs lens enabled the creation of a system that is standardized to best practice and open to ongoing innovation. Continued transformation initiatives across the continuum of care are needed to incorporate best practice and optimize delivery systems for regional populations.

Impact of surgical approach on perioperative and long-term outcomes following esophagectomy for esophageal cancer

BACKGROUND

Surgical resection remains a critical component of esophageal cancer treatment with curative-intent. The aim of this study was to compare open (OE) to minimally invasive Ivor Lewis esophagectomy (MIE) with respect to perioperative and oncologic outcomes.

METHODS

Retrospective single-institution review of MIE and OE patients operated between 2001 and 2015 was conducted. Univariable and multivariable models were created using Cox regression. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to compare oncologic outcomes. Propensity score matching was used to compare oncological outcomes in MIE and OE patients.

RESULTS

Of 210 esophageal resection patients, 47% had OE (137/291) and 25% had MIE (73/291). The MIE and OE groups were comparable with respect to patient factors and operative details. Fewer OE patients received neoadjuvant chemoradiation. MIE was associated with improved lymph node yield, (MIE = 30 [IQR:22-39]; OE = 14 [IQR:7-19], p < 0.001), less intraoperative blood loss (MIE = 312 mL [100-400]; OE = 657 mL [350-700], p < 0.001), and shorter median length of stay (MIE = 10 days [IQR = 8-14]; OE = 14 days [IQR = 11-22] p < 0.01). The OE group had significantly more adverse events resulting in reoperation or intensive care unit admission (MIE = 21%; OE = 34%; p < 0.01). On multivariable analysis, age and positive resection margins were associated with decreased odds of survival. The number of lymph nodes retrieved, positive resection margins, and pathologic stage were significant predictors of disease-free survival. Analysis of 69 matched pairs showed equivalent median overall survival (MIE = 49 months [18-67]; OE = 29 months [17-69]; p = 0.26) and disease-free survival (MIE = 9 [6-22]; OE = 13 [6-22]; p = 0.45) between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Although long-term oncologic outcomes appear to be similar, MIE is associated with significantly less intraoperative blood loss, improved lymph node yield, less risk of severe postoperative adverse events, and shorter length of stay.

All grades of severity of postoperative adverse events are associated with prolonged length of stay after lung cancer resection

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether all grades of severity of postoperative adverse events are associated with prolonged length of stay in patients undergoing pulmonary cancer resection.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study of all patients who underwent pulmonary resection with curative intent for malignancy at The Ottawa Hospital, Division of Thoracic Surgery (January 2008 to July 2015). Postoperative adverse events were collected prospectively with the Thoracic Morbidity & Mortality System, based on the Clavien-Dindo severity classification. Patient demographics, comorbidities, preoperative investigations, cardiopulmonary assessment, pathologic staging, operative characteristics, and length of stay were retrospectively reviewed. Prolonged hospital stay was defined as >75th percentile for each procedure performed (wedge resection 6 days, segmentectomy 6 days, lobectomy 7 days, extended lobectomy 8 days, pneumonectomy 10 days). Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with prolonged hospital stay.

RESULTS

Of 1041 patients, 579 (55.6%) were female, 610 (58.1%) were >65 years old, 232 (22.3%) experienced prolonged hospital stay, and 416 (40.0%) patients had ≥1 postoperative adverse event. Multivariable analyses identified significant (P < .05) factors associated with prolonged hospital stay to be (odds ratio; 95% confidence interval): lower diffusion capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (0.99; 0.98-0.99), surgical approach: open thoracotomy (1.8; 1.3-2.5), and presence of any postoperative adverse event: Grade I (5.8; 3.3-10.2), Grade II (6.0; 4.0-8.9), Grade III (11.4; 7.0-18.7), and Grade IV (19.40; 7.1-55.18).

CONCLUSIONS

Lower diffusion capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide, open thoracotomy approach, and the development of any postoperative adverse event, including minor events that required no additional therapy, were factors associated with prolonged hospital stay.

Lung cancer diagnosis transformation: Aligning the people, processes, and technology sides of the learning system

50

Background: The Ottawa Hospital, serving a population of 1.2 million across a large geographic area, redesigned its regional lung cancer diagnosis and patient intake process using a systems approach. Although having a strong record of excellent coordinated care, recent challenges had created strains on delivery metrics. Prior to the implementation of the project (October 2014), it took patients a range of 15 – 225 days to get from a referral with a suspicion of lung cancer to initial treatment, with a 90th percentile of 117 days. Methods: An innovative care platform was developed to align the people, processes and technology sides of the regional lung cancer care. It formed a basis for a “learning” system mobilizing the wider community for transformational change. We redesigned 12 main business processes facilitating accurate and timely diagnoses using the Communities of Practice approach, the Lean and Constraints methodology and the IBM business process management technology tools. In a series of rapid learning cycles, 270 technology-enabled actions were logged and resolved to support 57 process changes in workflow. The main patient value outcome was defined as improvement in the monthly proportion of patients receiving initial treatment within provincial targets and a reduction of total wait time. Results: In 14 months, the TOH Lung Cancer Transformation program yielded substantial improvement across all levels of diagnostic process including a 48% reduction in the cumulative wait times from referral to initial treatment (surgical, systemic, radiation), increased patient satisfaction with care coordination, implementation of guideline standards, efficiency gains from more intensive use of hospital resources, and sustained engagement of over 100 regional lung cancer care providers in collaborative learning and knowledge sharing across disciplinary and organizational boundaries. Conclusions: A systems approach can improve the hospital capacity to facilitate and support inter-professional and intra-professional teamwork necessary for the diagnostic process transformation.

Esophagectomy in esophageal perforations: an analysis

This study aimed to study the factors that are associated with urgent esophagectomy for the treatment of esophageal perforations and the impact of this therapy. A retrospective review of all esophageal perforations treated at a tertiary care hospital from January 1984 to January 2012 was performed. Compiling demographics, cause and site of perforations, time to presentation, comorbidities, radiological tests, the length of perforation, the hemodynamic status of the patient, type of treatment required, and outcomes were performed. Univariate, multivariate, and Cox regression analyses were conducted. Of 127 cases of esophageal perforation, it was spontaneous in 44 (35%), iatrogenic in 53 (44%), foreign body ingestion in 22 (17%), and traumatic perforation in 7 (6%) cases. Overall, 85 of the 127 (67%) patients were managed operatively, 35 (27.6%) patients were treated conservatively, and 7 (6.3%) patients were treated by endoscopic stent placement. Of the 85 patients who were managed operatively, 21 (16.5%) required esophagectomies, 13 (15.3%) had esophagectomy with immediate reconstruction, 5 (5.9%) patients had esophagectomy followed by delayed reconstruction, and 3 (3.5%) patients failed primary repair and required an esophagectomy as a secondary definitive procedure. Multivariate analysis revealed that esophagectomy in esophageal perforations was associated with the presence of benign or malignant esophageal stricture (P = 0.001) and a perforation >5 cm (P = 0.001). Mortality was mainly associated with the presence of a benign or malignant esophageal stricture (P = 0.04). The presence of pre-existing benign or malignant stricture or large perforation (>5 cm) is associated with the need for an urgent esophagectomy with or without immediate reconstruction. Performing esophagectomy was not found to be a significant prognosticator for mortality.

Using Surgeon-Specific Outcome Reports and Positive Deviance for Continuous Quality Improvement

BACKGROUND

Using the thoracic morbidity and mortality classification to document all postoperative adverse events between October 2012 and February 2014, we created surgeon-specific outcome reports (SSORs) to promote self-assessment and to implement a divisional continuous quality improvement (CQI) program, on the construct of positive deviance, to improve individual surgeon's clinical performance.

METHODS

Mixed-methods study within a division of six thoracic surgeons, involving (1) development of real-time, Web-based, risk-adjusted SSORs; (2) implementation of CQI seminars (n = 6; September 2013 to June 2014) for evaluation of results, collegial discussion on quality improvement based on identification of positive outliers, and selection of quality indicators for future discussion; and (3) in-person interviews to identify facilitators and barriers to using SSORs and CQI. Interview transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Interviews revealed enthusiastic support for SSORs as a means to improve patient care through awareness of personal outcomes with blinded divisional comparison for similar operations and diseases, and apply the learning objectives to continuous professional development and maintenance of certification. Perceived limitations of SSORs included difficulty measuring surgeon expertise, limited understanding of risk adjustment, resistance to change, and belief that knowledge of sensitive data could lead to punitive actions. All surgeons believed CQI seminars led to collegial discussions, whereas perceived limitations included quorum participation and failing to circle back on actionable items.

CONCLUSIONS

Real-time performance feedback using SSORs can motivate surgeons to improve their practice, and CQI seminars offer the opportunity to review and interpret results and address issues in a supportive environment. Whether SSORs and CQI can lead to improvements in rates of postoperative adverse events is a matter of ongoing research.

Do heart and respiratory rate variability improve prediction of extubation outcomes in critically ill patients?

Introduction

Prolonged ventilation and failed extubation are associated with increased harm and cost. The added value of heart and respiratory rate variability (HRV and RRV) during spontaneous breathing trials (SBTs) to predict extubation failure remains unknown.

Methods

We enrolled 721 patients in a multicenter (12 sites), prospective, observational study, evaluating clinical estimates of risk of extubation failure, physiologic measures recorded during SBTs, HRV and RRV recorded before and during the last SBT prior to extubation, and extubation outcomes. We excluded 287 patients because of protocol or technical violations, or poor data quality. Measures of variability (97 HRV, 82 RRV) were calculated from electrocardiogram and capnography waveforms followed by automated cleaning and variability analysis using Continuous Individualized Multiorgan Variability Analysis (CIMVA™) software. Repeated randomized subsampling with training, validation, and testing were used to derive and compare predictive models.

Results

Of 434 patients with high-quality data, 51 (12%) failed extubation. Two HRV and eight RRV measures showed statistically significant association with extubation failure (P <0.0041, 5% false discovery rate). An ensemble average of five univariate logistic regression models using RRV during SBT, yielding a probability of extubation failure (called WAVE score), demonstrated optimal predictive capacity. With repeated random subsampling and testing, the model showed mean receiver operating characteristic area under the curve (ROC AUC) of 0.69, higher than heart rate (0.51), rapid shallow breathing index (RBSI; 0.61) and respiratory rate (0.63). After deriving a WAVE model based on all data, training-set performance demonstrated that the model increased its predictive power when applied to patients conventionally considered high risk: a WAVE score >0.5 in patients with RSBI >105 and perceived high risk of failure yielded a fold increase in risk of extubation failure of 3.0 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.2 to 5.2) and 3.5 (95% CI 1.9 to 5.4), respectively.

Conclusions

Altered HRV and RRV (during the SBT prior to extubation) are significantly associated with extubation failure. A predictive model using RRV during the last SBT provided optimal accuracy of prediction in all patients, with improved accuracy when combined with clinical impression or RSBI. This model requires a validation cohort to evaluate accuracy and generalizability.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01237886. Registered 13 October 2010.

Incidence, severity and perioperative risk factors for atrial fibrillation following pulmonary resection

OBJECTIVES

Postoperative atrial fibrillation (PAF) occurs commonly following pulmonary resection. Our aims were to quantify the incidence and severity of PAF using the Thoracic Morbidity & Mortality classification system, and identify risk factors for PAF.

METHODS

All consecutive patients undergoing pulmonary resection at a single centre (January 2008 - April 2010) were enrolled. PAF was defined as postoperative, electrocardiographically documented and requiring initiation of pharmacological therapy. Univariate and multivariate analyses of risk factors associated with the development of PAF were conducted.

RESULTS

The incidence of PAF was 11.8% (n = 43) of 363 pulmonary resections (open: n = 173; 47.7%; video-assisted: n = 177; 48.8%; converted: n = 13; 3.6%): sublobar (n = 93; 25.6%), lobectomy (n = 237; 65.3%), bilobectomy (n = 7; 1.9%) and pneumonectomy (n = 24; 6.6%). Twenty-eight cases (65.1%) were uncomplicated/transient, and 15 cases (34.9%) were complicated/persistent PAF, defined as lasting for >7 days (40.0%), requiring cardioversion (13.3%), vasopressors (33.3%), in-hospital use of anticoagulants (46.7%) and/or anticoagulants on discharge (26.7%). Patients with PAF had increased mean lengths of hospital stay (10.5 days vs 6.9 days; P = 0.04). Peak onset of PAF occurred 2.5 (standard deviation (SD) ± 1.3) days after pulmonary resection, lasting for 1.8 ± 2.8 (mean, ±SD) days. Multivariate analysis identified (relative risk; 95% confidence interval): age ≥70 years (2.3; 1.1-5.1), history of angioplasty/stents/angina (4.0; 1.4-11.3), thoracotomy (3.6; 1.4-9.3), conversion to open thoracotomy (16.5; 2.2-124.0) and extent of surgery/stage (7.1; 1.0-49.4) as predictors of PAF.

CONCLUSIONS

While the majority of PAF is uncomplicated and transient, one-third of cases lead to persistence or major intervention. Age, coronary artery disease and extent of surgery/stage increase the risk of PAF following pulmonary resection. Identifying patients with elevated risk may lead to targeted prophylaxis to reduce the incidence of PAF.

Intrapleural fibrinolytic therapy (IPFT) in loculated pleural effusions--analysis of predictors for failure of therapy and bleeding: a cohort study

OBJECTIVES

To assess risk factors associated with failure and bleeding in intrapleural fibrinolytic therapy (IPFT) for pleural effusions.

DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

SETTING

Two tertiary-care centres in North America.

PARTICIPANTS

We identified 237 cases that received IPFT for the treatment of pleural effusions. Data for 227 patients were compiled including demographics, investigations, radiological findings pretherapy and post-therapy and outcomes.

INTERVENTION

Fibrinolytic therapy in the form of tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) or streptokinase.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOMES

Success of therapy is defined as the presence of both clinical and radiological improvement leading to resolution. Failure was defined as persistence (ie, ineffective treatment) or complications requiring intervention from IPFT. Incidence of bleeding post-IPFT, identifying factors related to failure of therapy and bleeding.

RESULTS

IPFT was used in 237 patients with pleural effusions; 163 with empyema/complicated parapneumonic effusions, 32 malignant effusions and 23 with haemothorax. Overall, resolution was achieved in 80% of our cases. Failure occurred in 46 (20%) cases. Multivariate analysis revealed that failure was associated with the presence of pleural thickening (>2 mm) on CT scan (p=0.0031, OR 3, 95% CI 1.46 to 6.57). Bleeding was not associated with any specific variable in our study (antiplatelet medications, p=0.08).

CONCLUSIONS

Pleural thickening on a CT scan was found to be associated with failure of IPFT.

Impact of patient selection, disease progression, and adverse events on esophageal cancer outcomes after trimodality therapy

BACKGROUND

Neoadjuvant chemoradiation followed by surgery (NeoCRT) has been advocated as standard therapy for resectable esophageal cancer. Our objective was to compare oncologic outcomes between NeoCRT and upfront surgical resection (SURG).

METHODS

We conducted a single-institution, retrospective review of all potentially resectable esophageal cancer patients treated with NeoCRT or SURG.

RESULTS

From 2003 to 2010, 151 patients had NeoCRT (n = 48; 31.8%) or SURG (n = 103; 68.1%). Histology was mostly adenocarcinoma (77.5%) or squamous carcinoma (19.2%). Mean radiation dose was 44 ± 0.1 Gy, and 80.8% received platinum-based doublet chemotherapy. There were more women in the SURG group (23.3% vs 4.2%; p < 0.01) and more cardiovascular comorbidity in the NeoCRT group (39.6% vs 21.4%; p = 0.027). There was no difference in age, histology, R0 resection rate, and treatment-related mortality (NeoCRT = 4.2%; SURG = 3.9%; p = 0.15). Failure to undergo resection after NeoCRT (n = 11; 22.9%) was mainly due to disease progression (n = 6) or treatment-related mortality (n = 4). Resection could not be performed in 4 SURG patients (3.9%; p < 0.001; unresectable = 2; occult metastases = 2). NeoCRT did not improve median survival (NeoCRT = 29 ± 6; SURG = 26 ± 3 months; p = 0.376) or recurrence-free interval (NeoCRT = 25.8 ± 5; SURG = 19.4 ± 2 months; p = 0.19). Complete pathologic response (n = 8; 21.6%) was not associated with improved survival. If we exclude from analysis NeoCRT patients who did not undergo surgery, survival was significantly improved after NeoCRT (NeoCRT = 41 ± 15; SURG = 24 ± 8 months; p = 0.0082).

CONCLUSIONS

Patient selection and early assessment of treatment response may be key factors in identifying the best candidates for trimodality therapy.

Assessing the status of thoracic surgical research and quality improvement programs: a survey of the members of the Canadian Association of Thoracic Surgeons

OBJECTIVES

Assessing the degree of involvement and participation in thoracic surgical research as well as surgical quality improvement conducted across Canadian institutions is difficult as no common data collection system and no prior studies exist. As a pilot investigation, we designed and conducted a membership survey of the Canadian Association of Thoracic Surgeons (CATS) to evaluate the extent of participation in research and quality improvement processes among thoracic surgeons.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

A 45-item needs assessment survey was mailed to all national members of CATS (n = 86) in August 2009. Questions primarily focused on clinical research programs and research activity, research funding, database use and interest, and other methods of quality monitoring.

RESULTS

The 49 completed surveys represented a 57.0% response rate and 28 institutions across Canada. Research in basic and clinical science is conducted by 17.0% and 80.9% of the respondents, respectively. The annual budget of research funds is most commonly between $5000 and $50,000. A total of 72.0% (n = 18) of institutions do not have a formal surgery quality assessment program and 92.3% (n = 24) do not participate in a national or international thoracic surgery database. Ten institutions (38.6%) have a local thoracic surgery database for quality monitoring. Other systems of monitoring surgical quality include formal morbidity and mortality rounds (69.2%; n = 8 institutions), formal evaluation of surgical wait times (73.1%; n = 19 institutions), and patient satisfaction surveys (71.4%; n = 10 institutions). Overall, 97.8% of surgeons would be willing to share data on morbidity and mortality with other centers, and 73.1% have a high or very high level of interest in participating in a national thoracic surgery quality database.

CONCLUSIONS

A high level of interest and participation exists in thoracic surgery research. However, more robust quality improvement processes are needed for thoracic surgical oncology services. A national thoracic surgery quality improvement database offers a potential means to improve practice effectiveness, standardize surgical outcomes, and promote thoracic research across Canada.

Autocontouring and manual contouring: which is the better method for target delineation using 18F-FDG PET/CT in non-small cell lung cancer?

Previously, we showed that a CT window and level setting of 1,600 and -300 Hounsfield units, respectively, and autocontouring using an (18)F-FDG PET 50% intensity level correlated best with pathologic results. The aim of this study was to compare this autocontouring with manual contouring, to determine which method is better.

METHODS

Seventeen patients with non-small cell lung cancer underwent (18)F-FDG PET/CT before surgery. The maximum diameter on pathologic examination was determined. Seven sets of gross tumor volumes (GTVs) were defined. The first set (GTV(CT)) was contoured manually using only CT information. The second set (GTV(Auto)) was autocontoured using a 50% intensity level for (18)F-FDG PET images. The third set (GTV(Manual)) was manually contoured using a visual method on PET images. The other 4 sets combined CT and (18)F-FDG PET images fused to one another to become composite volumes: GTV(CT+Auto), GTV(CT+Manual), GTV(CT-Auto), and GTV(CT-Manual). To quantitate the degree to which CT and (18)F-FDG PET defined the same region of interest, a matching index was calculated for each case. The maximum diameter of GTV was compared with the maximum diameter on pathologic examination.

RESULTS

The median GTV(CT), GTV(Auto), GTV(Manual), GTV(CT+Auto), GTV(CT+Manual), GTV(CT-Auto), and GTV(CT-Manual) were 6.96, 2.42, 4.37, 7.46, 10.17, 2.21, and 3.38 cm(3), respectively. The median matching indexes of GTV(CT) versus GTV(CT+Auto), GTV(Auto) versus GTV(CT+Auto), GTV(CT) versus GTV(CT+Manual), and GTV(Manual) versus GTV(CT+Manual) were 0.86, 0.65, 0.88, and 0.81, respectively. Compared with the maximum diameter on pathologic examination, the correlations of GTV(CT), GTV(Auto), GTV(Manual), GTV(CT+Auto), and GTV(CT+Manual) were 0.87, 0.83, 0.93, 0.86, and 0.94, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The matching index was higher for manual contouring than for autocontouring using a 50% intensity level on (18)F-FDG PET images. When using a 50% intensity level to contour the target of non-small cell lung cancer, one should also consider using manual contouring of (18)F-FDG PET to check for any missed disease.

PET CT thresholds for radiotherapy target definition in non-small-cell lung cancer: how close are we to the pathologic findings?

PURPOSE

Optimal target delineation threshold values for positron emission tomography (PET) and computed tomography (CT) radiotherapy planning is controversial. In this present study, different PET CT threshold values were used for target delineation and then compared pathologically.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

A total of 31 non-small-cell lung cancer patients underwent PET CT before surgery. The maximal diameter (MD) of the pathologic primary tumor was obtained. The CT-based gross tumor volumes (GTV(CT)) were delineated for CT window-level thresholds at 1,600 and -300 Hounsfield units (HU) (GTV(CT1)); 1,600 and -400 (GTV(CT2)); 1,600 and -450 HU (GTV(CT3)); 1,600 and -600 HU (GTV(CT4)); 1,200 and -700 HU (GTV(CT5)); 900 and -450 HU (GTV(CT6)); and 700 and -450 HU (GTV(CT7)). The PET-based GTVs (GTV(PET)) were autocontoured at 20% (GTV(20)), 30% (GTV(30)), 40% (GTV(40)), 45% (GTV(45)), 50% (GTV(50)), and 55% (GTV(55)) of the maximal intensity level. The MD of each image-based GTV in three-dimensional orientation was determined. The MD of the GTV(PET) and GTV(CT) were compared with the pathologically determined MD.

RESULTS

The median MD of the GTV(CT) changed from 2.89 (GTV(CT2)) to 4.46 (GTV(CT7)) as the CT thresholds were varied. The correlation coefficient of the GTV(CT) compared with the pathologically determined MD ranged from 0.76 to 0.87. The correlation coefficient of the GTV(CT1) was the best (r=0.87). The median MD of GTV(PET) changed from 5.72 cm to 2.67 cm as the PET thresholds increased. The correlation coefficient of the GTV(PET) compared with the pathologic finding ranged from 0.51 to 0.77. The correlation coefficient of GTV(50) was the best (r=0.77).

CONCLUSION

Compared with the MD of GTV(PET), the MD of GTV(CT) had better correlation with the pathologic MD. The GTV(CT1) and GTV(50) had the best correlation with the pathologic results.

Positron emission tomography in staging early lung cancer: a randomized trial

BACKGROUND

Among patients with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), preoperative imaging tests are important in defining surgical candidates.

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether whole-body positron emission tomography and computed tomography (PET-CT) plus cranial imaging correctly upstages cancer in more patients with NSCLC than does conventional staging plus cranial imaging.

DESIGN

Randomized clinical trial with recruitment from June 2004 to August 2007. The centralized, computer-generated, variable block size randomization scheme was stratified by treatment center and cancer stage. Participants, health care providers, and outcome assessors were not blinded to imaging modality assignment.

SETTING

8 hospitals and 5 PET-CT centers in academic institutions.

PATIENTS

Eligible patients were older than 18 years; had histologic or cytologic proof of stage I, II, or IIIA NSCLC on the basis of chest radiography and thoracic CT; and had a tumor considered to be resectable.

INTERVENTION

PET-CT or conventional staging (abdominal CT and bone scan). All patients also had cranial imaging using CT or magnetic resonance imaging.

MEASUREMENTS

The primary outcome was correct upstaging, thereby avoiding stage-inappropriate surgery. Secondary outcomes were incorrect upstaging and incorrect understaging.

RESULTS

170 patients were assigned to PET-CT and 167 to conventional staging. Eight patients (3 who had PET-CT and 5 who had conventional staging) did not have planned surgery. Disease was correctly upstaged in 23 of 167 PET-CT recipients and 11 of 162 conventional staging recipients (13.8% vs. 6.8%; difference, 7.0 percentage points [95% CI, 0.3 to 13.7 percentage points]), thereby sparing these patients from surgery. Disease was incorrectly upstaged in 8 PET-CT recipients and 1 conventional staging recipient (4.8% vs. 0.6%; difference, 4.2 percentage points [CI, 0.5 to 8.6 percentage points]), and it was incorrectly understaged in 25 and 48 patients, respectively (14.9% vs. 29.6%; difference, 14.7 percentage points [CI, 5.7 to 23.4 percentage points]). At 3 years, 52 patients who had PET-CT and 57 patients who had conventional staging had died.

LIMITATION

The relatively small sample and the fact that some patients did not have planned surgery limited the ability to determine precise differences in clinical outcomes that were attributable to testing strategies.

CONCLUSION

Preoperative staging with PET-CT and cranial imaging identifies more patients with mediastinal and extrathoracic disease than conventional staging, thereby sparing more patients from stage-inappropriate surgery, but the strategy also incorrectly upstaged disease in more patients.

Continuous multi-parameter heart rate variability analysis heralds onset of sepsis in adults

BACKGROUND

Early diagnosis of sepsis enables timely resuscitation and antibiotics and prevents subsequent morbidity and mortality. Clinical approaches relying on point-in-time analysis of vital signs or lab values are often insensitive, non-specific and late diagnostic markers of sepsis. Exploring otherwise hidden information within intervals-in-time, heart rate variability (HRV) has been documented to be both altered in the presence of sepsis, and correlated with its severity. We hypothesized that by continuously tracking individual patient HRV over time in patients as they develop sepsis, we would demonstrate reduced HRV in association with the onset of sepsis.

METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

We monitored heart rate continuously in adult bone marrow transplant (BMT) patients (n = 21) beginning a day before their BMT and continuing until recovery or withdrawal (12+/-4 days). We characterized HRV continuously over time with a panel of time, frequency, complexity, and scale-invariant domain techniques. We defined baseline HRV as mean variability for the first 24 h of monitoring and studied individual and population average percentage change (from baseline) over time in diverse HRV metrics, in comparison with the time of clinical diagnosis and treatment of sepsis (defined as systemic inflammatory response syndrome along with clinically suspected infection requiring treatment). Of the 21 patients enrolled, 4 patients withdrew, leaving 17 patients who completed the study. Fourteen patients developed sepsis requiring antibiotic therapy, whereas 3 did not. On average, for 12 out of 14 infected patients, a significant (25%) reduction prior to the clinical diagnosis and treatment of sepsis was observed in standard deviation, root mean square successive difference, sample and multiscale entropy, fast Fourier transform, detrended fluctuation analysis, and wavelet variability metrics. For infected patients (n = 14), wavelet HRV demonstrated a 25% drop from baseline 35 h prior to sepsis on average. For 3 out of 3 non-infected patients, all measures, except root mean square successive difference and entropy, showed no significant reduction. Significant correlation was present amongst these HRV metrics for the entire population.

CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE

Continuous HRV monitoring is feasible in ambulatory patients, demonstrates significant HRV alteration in individual patients in association with, and prior to clinical diagnosis and treatment of sepsis, and merits further investigation as a means of providing early warning of sepsis.

Substantial variation of both opinions and practice regarding perioperative fluid resuscitation

BACKGROUND

There are no current standards of care guiding perioperative fluid administration, and clinicians continue to debate restrictive versus liberal fluid administration. We sought to simultaneously evaluate the opinions and practice of surgeons, intensivists and anesthesiologists in a single centre regarding perioperative fluid resuscitation.

METHODS

A postal survey sent to surgeons, intensivists and anesthesiologists in a single academic health care centre presented case-based scenarios followed by questions on fluid requirements and 5-point Likert scales involving statements about resuscitation. We performed a retrospective chart review to evaluate amount and type of intra-and postoperative (72-h) fluid administration, urine output and postoperative ventilation time in patients undergoing uncomplicated esophagectomy or pneumonectomy.

RESULTS

Seventy-four of 77 respondents (96%) agreed that precise fluid resuscitation diminishes the risk of adverse events. Surgeons overall gave less fluids than anesthesiologists or intensivists and used fewer resuscitation end points to estimate fluid requirements perioperatively. For right hemicolectomies, only 3% of surgeons chose a fluid rate greater than 150 mL/h, compared with 55% of intensivists. We reviewed 49 patients' charts (25 who had pneumonectomies, 24 who had esophagectomies) retrospectively. The coefficient of variation (COV = standard deviation divided by its mean) of fluid administration intraoperatively was 0.56 for pneumonectomy and 0.35 for esophagectomy; postoperatively, the COV was greater than 0.50 for the first 24 hours, but less than 0.50 after 24 hours postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

The presence of substantial variability of both opinion and practice of perioperative fluid resuscitation in a single centre supports the need for further research to identify objective methods to define perioperative fluid requirements and standards of perioperative resuscitation.