N0 neck trial: Does intensification of follow-up (Ultrasound + Physical Examination) influence outcomes in early-stage oral cancer?

AIM OF THE STUDY

We previously reported a survival benefit of elective neck dissection (END) over therapeutic neck dissection (TND) in patients with clinically node-negative early-stage oral cancer. We now report the results of the second question in the same study addressing the impact of adding neck ultrasound to physical examination during follow-up on outcomes.

METHODS

Patients with lateralized T1/T2 oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) were randomized to END or TND and to follow-up with physical-examination plus neck ultrasound (PE+US) versus physical-examination (PE). The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

Between January 2004 and June 2014, 596 patients were enrolled. This is an intention to treat analysis of 592 analysable patients, of whom 295 were allocated to PE+US and 297 to PE with a median follow-up of 77.47 months (interquartile range (IQR) 54.51-126.48). There was no significant difference (unadjusted hazard ratio [HR], 0.92, 95% CI, 0.71-1.20, p = 0.54) in 5-year OS between PE+US (70.8%, 95% CI, 65.51-76.09) and PE (67.3%, 95% CI, 61.81-72.79). Among 131 patients with neck node relapse as the first event, the median time to relapse detection was 4.85 (IQR 2.33-9.60) and 7.62 (IQR 3.22-9.86) months in PE+US and PE arms, respectively. The N stage in the PE+US arm was N1 33.8%, N2a 7.4%, N2b/c 44.1% and N3 14.7% while in PE was N1 28.6%, N2a 9.5%, N2b/c 39.7%, N3 20.6% and unknown 1.6%.

CONCLUSION

Adding neck ultrasound to physical examination during follow-up detects nodal relapses earlier but does not improve overall survival.

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

BACKGROUND

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSION

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

Association between blood markers and the progression of osseointegration in percutaneous prostheses patients-A pilot study

Patients implanted with osseointegrated (OI) prosthetic systems have reported vastly improved upper and lower extremity prosthetic function compared with their previous experience with socket-suspension systems. However, OI systems have been associated with superficial and deep-bone infections and implant loosening due, in part, to a failure of the osseointegration process. Although monitoring the osseointegration using circulating biomarkers has clinical relevance for understanding the progression of osseointegration with these devices, it has yet to be established. Ten patients were enrolled in this study. Blood samples were collected at pre-selected times, starting before implantation surgery, and continuing to 12 months after the second surgery. Bone formation markers, bone resorption markers, and circulating amino acids were measured from blood samples. A linear mixed model was generated for each marker, incorporating patient ID and age with the normalized marker value as the response variable. Post hoc comparisons were made between 1 week before Stage 1 Surgery and all subsequent time points for each marker, followed by multiple testing corrections. Serial radiographic imaging of the residual limb containing the implant was obtained during follow-up, and the cortical index (CI) was calculated for the bone at the porous region of the device. Two markers of bone formation, specifically bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (Bone-ALP) and amino-terminal propeptide of type I procollagen (PINP), exhibited significant increases when compared with the baseline levels of unloaded residual bone prior to the initial surgery, and they subsequently returned to their baseline levels by the 12-month mark. Patients who experienced clinically robust osseointegration experienced increased cortical bone thickness at the porous coated region of the device. A medium correlation was observed between Bone-ALP and the porous CI values up to PoS2-M1 (p = .056), while no correlation was observed for PINP. An increase in bone formation markers and the lack of change observed in bone resorption markers likely reflect increased cortical bone formation induced by the end-loading design of the Utah OI device used in this study. A more extensive study is required to validate the correlation observed between Bone-ALP and porous CI values.

Associations with Discharge to Post-Acute Care Facilities Among Patients Undergoing Open Reduction Internal Fixation of Distal Radius Fractures

Introduction: Distal radius fractures are a common injury of the hand and wrist that often require intensive rehabilitation. We sought to identify risk factors associated with discharge to a post-acute care facility following distal radius fracture repair. Methods: The 2011 to 2016 National Surgical Quality Improvement Program® (NSQIP) database was queried for all Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes that corresponded with open distal radius fracture repair. Patients with concomitant traumatic injuries were excluded. Patient demographics, comorbidities, perioperative factors, laboratory data, and surgical details were collected. Our primary outcome was to determine postoperative discharge destination: home versus a post-acute care facility, and to identify factors that predict discharge to post-acute care facility. Secondary outcomes included unplanned readmission, reoperation, and complications. Results: Between 2011 and 2016, a total of 12,001 patients underwent open distal radius fracture repair and had complete information for their discharge. Of these analyzed patients, 3.24% (n  =  389) were discharged to rehabilitation facilities. The following factors were identified on multivariate analysis to have an association with discharge to a post-acute care facility: 65 years or older, White race, underweight, using steroids preoperatively, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification > 2, admitted from a nursing home or already hospitalized, anemic, undergoing bilateral surgery, wound classification other than clean, and complications prior to discharge. Conclusion: Factors identified by our study to have associations with discharge to post-acute care facilities following distal radius fracture repair can help in appropriate patient counseling and triage from the hospital to home versus a post-acute care facility.

The Effect of Body Mass Index on Free Flap Breast Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

 Literature addressing the risks associated with increasing body mass index (BMI) for patients undergoing free flap breast reconstruction is limited. Often, an arbitrary BMI cutoff (i.e., BMI of 30 kg/m2) is used to determine candidacy for a free flap without substantial backing evidence. This study utilized a national multi-institutional database to analyze outcomes of free flap breast reconstruction and stratified complications by BMI class.

METHODS

 Using the 2010 to 2020 National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database, patients who underwent free flap breast reconstruction were identified. Patients were divided into six cohorts based on the World Health Organization BMI classes. Cohorts were compared by basic demographics and complications. A multivariate regression model was created to control for age, diabetes, bilateral reconstruction, American Society of Anesthesiologists class, and operative time.

RESULTS

 Surgical complications increased with each BMI class, with the highest rates occurring in class I, II, and III obesity, respectively. In a multivariable regression model, the risk for any complication was significant for class II and III obesity (odds ratio [OR]: 1.23, p < 0.004; OR: 1.45, p < 0.001, respectively). Diabetes, bilateral reconstruction, and operative time were independently associated with an increased risk of any complication (OR: 1.44, 1.14, 1.14, respectively, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

 This study suggests that the risks of postoperative complications following free flap breast reconstruction are highest for patients with a BMI greater than or equal to 35 kg/m2, having nearly 1.5 times higher likelihood of postoperative complications. Stratifying these risks by weight class can help guide preoperative counseling with patients and help physicians determine candidacy for free flap breast reconstruction.

Outcomes after tissue expander exchange to implant in two-stage prepectoral breast reconstruction with and without acellular dermal matrix: A retrospective cohort study

As prepectoral implant placement becomes widely adopted, recent studies investigating the use of acellular dermal matrix (ADM) during tissue expander placement have demonstrated no major benefit with regard to postoperative outcomes. We sought to evaluate second-stage outcomes 1 year after tissue expander exchange to implant with and without ADM. Consecutive patients who underwent prepectoral tissue expander-based breast reconstruction with and without ADM were identified. Patients were followed up for 1 year after tissue expander exchange to implant. Second-stage outcomes of interest including implant rippling, capsular contracture, implant explantation, additional revision surgeries, and patient-reported outcomes were collected and compared. Sixty-eight breasts in the ADM cohort and sixty-one breasts in the no ADM cohort underwent tissue expander exchange to implant. Second-stage outcomes of interest were similar between the ADM and no ADM cohorts with no statistically significant differences identified regarding incidences of implant rippling (24.6% vs. 12.1%, p = 0.08), capsular contracture (4.5% vs. 3.3%, p = 1.00), and explantation (6.6% vs. 1.7%, p = 0.67) between the two cohorts. BREAST-Q scores were similar between the two cohorts with the exception of physical wellbeing and satisfaction in terms of implant rippling, as can be seen, which improved in the no ADM cohort (p = 0.04). Our study reports no major benefit for the inclusion of ADM with respect to implant rippling, capsular contracture, explantation, need for additional revision surgeries, and patient-reported satisfaction in prepectoral second-stage implant-based breast reconstruction.

Long Term Outcomes of Conventional Palliative Radiotherapy in Bone Metastases of Lung Cancer: A Prospective Study

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Bone metastases (BM) are highly prevalent in metastatic lung cancer (LC) leading to consequential morbidity and a decline in quality of life. The identification of oncogenes mutation and introduction of targeted therapy has prolonged the survival and therefore evaluation of long-term pain response rates, durability and re-irradiation (Re-RT) with conventional radiotherapy (RT) is crucial, especially in LMIC where penetration of stereotactic body radiotherapy for BM is poor.

MATERIALS/METHODS

This prospective observational study included consecutive patients with histologically proven LC with radiologically confirmed BM. The primary objective was to evaluate the pain response rates in lung cancer patients with bone metastases treated with palliative RT. Palliative RT to BM was delivered using a conventional/conformal technique. The International Bone Metastases Consensus response criteria using Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and Oral Morphine Equivalent Dose (OMED) was used to evaluate the pain response at 12, 24, and 52 weeks. Assuming the worst-case scenario, pain progression-free survival (PPFS) was calculated from the date of baseline assessment to the date of pain progression (PP) or death using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Known prognostic factors were evaluated using Cox regression analysis.

RESULTS

From June 2020 to August 2022, 250 patients of NSCLC (94%) were accrued. The majority were male (66%), smokers (35%), lytic lesions (75%) and in the axial skeleton (82%). The oncogenic mutation was seen in 123 (49%) patients. At baseline, the mean OMED was 20mg/day (SD-21), and the mean pain score was 6 (SD-2.3). The majority (66%) received an 8 Gy single fraction with only 3% treated with SBRT. In evaluable patients, the CR and PR rates at 12 (n-161) and 24 weeks (n-121) were 34%, 40%, and 44%, 35% respectively. The indeterminate response rate (IRR) at 3 and 6 months were 18% while the rate of PP was 6%. On multivariate analysis, negative oncogene mutation {HR-0.34 (CI 0.22- 0.50), p<0.0001} and soft tissue mass {HR-0.46 (CI 0.31- 0.68) p<0.0001} were significant prognostic factors for pain progression. Of 71 evaluable patients at 1 year, 56% had a complete response with an ORR of 87%. In patients with oncogene mutation, the CR rates at 12 (n-101), 24 (n-77), and 52 weeks were 40%, 47%, and 60% with an ORR of 86%. PP is observed in less than 4%. Pain response was significantly more durable than mutation negative (8 vs 3 months, p-0.003). Re-RT rate was overall 11% (n = 27) and 8.2% in oncogene mutation patients. Re-RT rate with single-fraction was 8% and 3% with fractionated RT. The median time to Re-RT was 9.7 weeks. The PPFS was 70% and 60% at 12 and 24 weeks, respectively.

CONCLUSION

This prospective study in an LC-specific population demonstrated excellent CR and PR rates with conventional RT. Durable pain relief with modest Re-RT rates with single fraction, particularly in oncogene mutation compels us to evaluate the role of SBRT for BM, especially in LMIC in a randomized setting.

A Comparison of Postoperative Outcomes Between Immediate, Delayed Immediate, and Delayed Autologous Free Flap Breast Reconstruction: Analysis of 2010-2020 NSQIP Data

BACKGROUND

 While many factors influence decisions related to the timing between mastectomy and flap-based breast reconstruction, there is limited literature comparing postoperative complications between immediate (IBR), delayed immediate (DIBR), and delayed (DBR) reconstruction modalities. Using the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP), we sought to compare postoperative complication rates of each timing modality.

METHODS

 The NSQIP 2010-2020 database was queried for patients who underwent free flap breast reconstruction. Cases were categorized to include mastectomy performed concurrently with a free flap reconstruction, removal of a tissue expander with free flap reconstruction, and free flap reconstruction alone which are defined as IBR, DIBR, and DBR, respectively. The frequency of postoperative outcomes including surgical site infection (SSI), wound dehiscence, intraoperative transfusion, deep venous thrombosis (DVT), and return to operating room (OR) was assessed. Overall complication rates, hospital length of stay (LOS), and operative time were analyzed. Multivariable regression analysis controlling for age, race, BMI, diabetes, hypertension, ASA class, and laterality was performed.

RESULTS

 A total of 7,907 cases that underwent IBR, DIBR (n = 976), and DBR reconstruction (n = 6,713) were identified. No statistical difference in occurrence of SSIs, wound dehiscence, or DVT was identified. DIBR (9%) and DBR (11.9%) were associated with less occurrences of reoperation than IBR (13.2%, p < 0.001). Univariate and multivariate regression analysis demonstrated that DIBR and DBR were associated with a lower odds of complications and shorter operation time versus IBR. No statistically significant differences between DIBR and DBR in surgical complications, LOS, and operative time were identified.

CONCLUSION

 Awareness of overall complication rates associated with each reconstructive timing modality can be used to help guide physicians when discussing reconstructive options. Our data suggests that DIBR and DBR are associated with less overall complications than IBR. Physicians should continue to consider patients' unique circumstances when deciding upon which timing modality is appropriate.

Deep learning based automated epidermal growth factor receptor and anaplastic lymphoma kinase status prediction of brain metastasis in non-small cell lung cancer

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of developing a deep learning (DL) algorithm for classifying brain metastases from non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) into epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation and anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) rearrangement groups and to compare the accuracy with classification based on semantic features on imaging.

Methods

Data set of 117 patients was analysed from 2014 to 2018 out of which 33 patients were EGFR positive, 43 patients were ALK positive and 41 patients were negative for either mutation. Convolutional neural network (CNN) architecture efficient net was used to study the accuracy of classification using T1 weighted (T1W) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequence, T2 weighted (T2W) MRI sequence, T1W post contrast (T1post) MRI sequence, fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) MRI sequences. The dataset was divided into 80% training and 20% testing. The associations between mutation status and semantic features, specifically sex, smoking history, EGFR mutation and ALK rearrangement status, extracranial metastasis, performance status and imaging variables of brain metastasis were analysed using descriptive analysis [chi-square test (χ2)], univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis assuming 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

In this study of 117 patients, the analysis by semantic method showed 79.2% of the patients belonged to ALK positive were non-smokers as compared to double negative groups (P = 0.03). There was a 10-fold increase in ALK positivity as compared to EGFR positivity in ring enhancing lesions patients (P = 0.015) and there was also a 6.4-fold increase in ALK positivity as compared to double negative groups in meningeal involvement patients (P = 0.004). Using CNN Efficient Net DL model, the study achieved 76% accuracy in classifying ALK rearrangement and EGFR mutations without manual segmentation of metastatic lesions. Analysis of the manually segmented dataset resulted in improved accuracy of 89% through this model.

Conclusions

Both semantic features and DL model showed comparable accuracy in classifying EGFR mutation and ALK rearrangement. Both methods can be clinically used to predict mutation status while biopsy or genetic testing is undertaken.

A Comparison of Postoperative Outcomes between Unilateral and Bilateral Palatoplasty: Analysis of 2015-2020 Pediatric NSQIP Data

OBJECTIVE

We sought to identify differences in 30-day medical and surgical complications in unilateral versus bilateral palatoplasty.

DESIGN

The NSQIP-P 2015-2020 database was queried to identify cleft palate repairs using CPT codes. Cases were stratified as unilateral (Veau III) and bilateral (Veau IV) using ICD-9 and -10 codes.

SETTING

A nationally representative random sample.

PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS

A total of 3791 cases were identified with 2608 undergoing unilateral repair and 1183 undergoing bilateral repair.

MAIN OUTCOMES/MEASURES

The postoperative outcomes of interest included surgical complications (surgical site infections, wound dehiscence), medical complications (pneumonia, urinary tract infection, seizure, cardiac arrest, bleeding/transfusions, systemic sepsis, unplanned intubation), readmission, and reoperation.

RESULTS

The bilateral cohort was older (696 days versus 619 days, P < .001) and had longer operative times (157.3 min versus 144.5 min, P < .001). The unilateral cohort had more comorbidities including developmental delay, structural CNS abnormalities, need for nutritional support, and bleeding disorders. The bilateral cohort had statistically significant higher occurrences of wound dehiscence (2.1% versus. 1.2%, P = .03) and readmission (3.2% versus 1.7%, P = .01). On multivariate analysis, bilateral cleft repair (OR: 1.83, CI: 1.176-2.840, P = .007) and ASA class 4 (OR: 13.1, CI 2.288- 62.586, P = .002) were associated with greater odds of readmission.

CONCLUSION

Patients who underwent bilateral cleft repair had a higher proportion of 30-day postoperative complications and a two-fold increased odds of readmission. While palatoplasty is generally regarded as a safe procedure in the pediatric population, identifying factors related to an increased risk of early postoperative complications can help surgical teams better manage high-risk individuals.

An Evaluation of Early Complications after Prepectoral Tissue Expander Placement in First-Stage Breast Reconstruction with and without Acellular Dermal Matrix

PURPOSE

Prepectoral breast reconstruction has become popularized with the concurrent use of acellular dermal matrix (ADM). We sought to compare three-month postoperative complication rates and explantation rates for first stage, tissue expander based prepectoral breast reconstruction with and without the use of ADM.

METHODS

A single institution retrospective chart review was performed to identify consecutive patients undergoing prepectoral tissue-expander based breast reconstruction from August 2020 to January 2022. Chi-squared tests were used to compare demographic categorical variables and multiple variable regression models were used to identify variables associated with three-month postoperative outcomes.

RESULTS

We enrolled 124 consecutive patients. Fifty-five patients (98 breasts) were included in the no-ADM cohort and 69 patients (98 breasts) were included in the ADM cohort. There were no statistically significant differences between ADM and no-ADM cohort in regard to 90-day postoperative outcomes. On multivariable analysis, there were no independent associations between seroma, hematoma, wound dehiscence, mastectomy skin flap necrosis, infection, unplanned return to the OR, or explanation in the ADM or no ADM groups after controlling for age, BMI, history of diabetes, tobacco use, neoadjuvant chemotherapy, and postoperative radiotherapy.

CONCLUSION

Our results reveal no significant differences in odds of postoperative complications, unplanned return to the OR, or explantation between ADM and no-ADM cohorts. More studies are needed to evaluate the safety of prepectoral, tissue expander placement without ADM.

Challenges in the Sustainability of Brachytherapy Service in Contemporary Radiotherapy

Brachytherapy has a long history of delivering a highly conformal radiation dose to the target volume with sparing of adjacent normal tissue and has an irreplaceable role in certain cancers, such as cervical and prostate cancers. There have been futile attempts to replace brachytherapy with other radiation techniques. Despite that there are multifaceted challenges in preserving this dying art, from establishment, to a trained workforce, to maintenance of the equipment and source replacement costs. Here we focus on the challenges to access brachytherapy, the availability and distribution of care across the globe and appropriate training leading to proper implementation of the procedure. Brachytherapy holds a significant place in the treatment armamentarium of most common cancers, such as cervical, prostate, head and neck and skin cancers. However, there is an uneven distribution of brachytherapy facilities, not only across the globe, but also at a national level, with a larger proportion of facilities concentrated in certain regions, more so in low and low-middle income countries. The regions with the highest incidence of cervical cancer have the least access to brachytherapy facilities. Attempts to bridge the gap are essential and should be focused on uniform distribution and access to care, improving training of the workforce through specialised training programmes, reducing the cost of care, planning to reduce the recurring cost, generating evidence and research guidelines, renewing interest in brachytherapy through rebranding, use of social media and building an attainable long-term roadmap.

Fluorapatite-Coated Percutaneous Devices Promote Wound Healing and Limit Epithelial Downgrowth at the Skin-Device Interface

A percutaneous osseointegrated device becomes deeply ingrown by endosteal bone and traverses the overlying soft tissues of the residual limb, providing a direct link to the bone-anchored artificial limb. Continuous wound healing around these devices can result in the formation of sinus tracts as “down-growing” epithelial cells are unable to recognize and adhere to the “nonbiological” implant surface. Such sinus tracts provide paths for bacterial colonization and deep infection. In order to limit adverse outcomes and provide a robust seal, it was hypothesized that by coating the titanium surface of the percutaneous post with the mineral component of dental enamel, down-growing epidermal cells might recognize the coating as “biological” and adhere to this nonliving surface. To test this hypothesis, sintered partially and fully fluoridated hydroxyapatite (HA) was chosen as coatings. Using an established surgical protocol, fluorapatite (FA), hydroxyfluorapatite (FHA), HA-coated percutaneous posts, and titanium controls were surgically placed under the dorsal skin in 20 CD hairless rats. The animals were sacrificed at four weeks, and implants and surrounding tissues were harvested and subjected to further analyses. Downgrowth and granulation tissue area data showed statistically significant reductions around the FA-coated devices. Moreover, compared to the control group, the FA- and HA-coated groups showed downregulation of mRNA for EGFr, EGF, and FGF-10. Interestingly, the FA-coated group had upregulation of TGF-α. These data suggest that FA could become an ideal coating material for preventing downgrowth, assuming the long-term stability of these coated surfaces can be verified in a clinically relevant animal model.

Serum procalcitonin level is independently associated with mechanical ventilation and case-fatality in hospitalized COVID-19-positive US veterans-A potential marker for disease severity

The Coronavirus-19 disease (COVID-19) has claimed over 6.8 million lives since first being reported in late 2019. The virus that causes COVID-19 disease is highly contagious and spreads rapidly. To date, there are no approved prognostic tools that could predict why some patients develop severe or fatal disease outcomes. Early COVID-19 studies found an association between procalcitonin (PCT) and hospitalization or duration of mechanical ventilation and death but were limited by the cohort sizes. Therefore, this study was designed to confirm the associations of PCT with COVID-19 disease severity outcomes in a large cohort. For this retrospective data analysis study, 27,154 COVID-19-positive US veterans with post-infection PCT laboratory test data and their disease severity outcomes were accessed using the VA electronic healthcare data. Cox regression models were used to test the association between serum PCT levels and disease outcomes while controlling for demographics and relevant confounding variables. The models demonstrated increasing disease severity (ventilation and death) with increasing PCT levels. For PCT serum levels above 0.20 ng/ml, the unadjusted risk increased nearly 2.3-fold for mechanical ventilation (hazard ratio, HR, 2.26, 95%CI: 2.11-2.42) and in-hospital death (HR, 2.28, 95%CI: 2.16-2.41). Even when adjusted for demographics, diabetes, pneumonia, antibiotic use, white blood cell count, and serum C-reactive protein levels, the risks remained relatively high for mechanical ventilation (HR, 1.80, 95%CI: 1.67-1.94) and death (HR, 1.76, 95%CI: 1.66-1.87). These data suggest that higher PCT levels have independent associations with ventilation and in-hospital death in veterans with COVID-19 disease, validating previous findings. The data suggested that serum PCT level may be a promising prognostic tool for COVID-19 severity assessment and should be further evaluated in a prospective clinical trial.

Masseter-to-facial nerve transfer for facial nerve reanimation

Smooth symmetric facial muscle function is important for social interactions. When lesions of the facial nerve occur, achieving complete restoration of balanced and spontaneous facial function can be challenging. In this video, the authors demonstrate the surgical details and long-term follow-up of a masseter-to-facial nerve transfer in a 3-year-old girl who had insidious onset of a left facial palsy due to a facial nerve schwannoma. After resection, she underwent distal nerve repair with a masseter-to-zygomatic branch transfer. She demonstrated decreased lagophthalmos and good activation and excursion on the left side with near symmetry to the right side, but lacked left frontalis function. The video can be found here: https://stream.cadmore.media/r10.3171/2022.9.FOCVID22107.

A Nationwide Analysis Evaluating the Safety of Using Acellular Dermal Matrix with Tissue Expander-Based Breast Reconstruction

Background  In March 2021, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) safety communication cautioned against the use of acellular dermal matrix (ADM) products in breast reconstruction and reiterated that the FDA does not approve ADM use in breast surgery. This study aims to assess the safety of ADM use in breast reconstruction. Methods  Women who underwent ADM and non-ADM assisted tissue expander (TE)-based breast reconstruction were identified using the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database (2012-2019). Trends of ADM use over time, and 30-day outcomes of surgical site infection (SSI), dehiscence, and unplanned reoperation were assessed. Results  Of the 49,049 TE-based breast reconstructive cases, 42.4% were ADM assisted and 57.6% non-ADM assisted. From 2012 to 2019, the use of ADM increased from 26.1 to 55.6% (relative risk [RR] =1.10; p  < 0.01). Higher rates of SSI (3.9 vs. 3.4%; p  = 0.003) and reoperation (7.4 vs. 6.0%; p  < 0.001) were seen in the ADM cohort. There was no significant difference seen in dehiscence rates (0.7 vs. 0.7%; p  = 0.73). The most common reoperation within 30 days for the ADM group (17.6%) was removal of TE without insertion of implant (current procedural terminology: 11,971). ADM-assisted breast reconstruction was associated with increased relative risk of SSI by 10% (RR = 1.10, confidence interval [CI]: 1.01-1.21; p  = 0.03) and reoperation by 15% (RR = 1.15, CI: 1.08-1.23; p  < 0.001). Conclusions  ADM-assisted breast reconstruction more than doubled from 2012 to 2019. There are statistically higher complication rates of SSI (0.5%) and reoperation (1.4%) with ADM use in TE-based breast reconstruction, suggesting that reconstruction without ADM is safe when comparing immediate postoperative outcomes.

Analysis of Readmissions and Reoperations in Pediatric Microvascular Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

 Free tissue transfer is utilized as a reconstructive option for various anatomic defects. While it has long been performed in adults, reconstructive surgeons have used free tissue transfer to a lesser degree in children. As such, there are few analyses of factors associated with complications in free tissue transfer within this population. The aim of this study is to assess factors associated with readmission and reoperation in pediatric free flap patients utilizing the pediatric National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database.

METHODS

 Pediatric patients who underwent microvascular reconstruction between 2015 and 2020 were included. Patients were identified by five microvascular reconstruction Current Procedural Terminology codes and were then stratified by flap site (head and neck, extremities, trunk) and defect etiology (congenital, trauma, infection, neoplasm). Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with readmissions and reoperations.

RESULTS

 The study cohort consisted of 258 patients. The average age was 10.0 ± 4.7 years and the majority of patients were male (n = 149, 57.8%), were of white race (n = 164, 63.6%), and had a normal body mass index. Twenty-two patients (8.5%) experienced an unplanned readmission within 30 days of the initial operation, most commonly for wound disruption (31.8% of readmissions). The overall rate of unplanned reoperation within 30 days was 11.6% (n = 30) for all patients, with an average of 8.9 ± 7.5 days to reoperation. On multivariate regression analysis, each hour increase in operative time was associated with an increased odds of reoperation (odds ratio [OR]: 1.27; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.12, 1.45) and readmission (OR: 1.16; 95% CI: 1.02, 1.34).

CONCLUSION

 In pediatric patients undergoing free tissue transfer, higher readmission and reoperation risk was associated with longer operative duration. Overall, free tissue transfer is safe in the pediatric population with relatively low rates of readmission and reoperation.

Hospitalization, mechanical ventilation, and case-fatality outcomes in US veterans with COVID-19 disease between years 2020-2021

PURPOSE

Although veterans represent a significant proportion (7%) of the USA population, the COVID-19 disease impact within this group has been underreported. To bridge this gap, this study was undertaken.

METHOD

A total of 419,559 veterans, who tested positive for COVID-19 disease in the Veterans Affairs hospital system from March 1st, 2020 to December 31st, 2021 with 60-days follow-up, was included in this retrospective review. Primary outcome measures included age-adjusted incidences and relative incidences of COVID-19 hospitalization, mechanical ventilation, and case-fatality outcomes.

RESULTS

Of this veteran cohort with COVID-19 disease, predominately 85.7% were male, 59.1% were White veterans, 27.5% were ages 50-64, and 40.5% were obese. Although Black veterans were at 63% higher relative risk (RR) for hospitalization incidences, they had a similar risk RR for in-hospital deaths compared to the White-veteran referent. Asian, American Indian/Alaska Native races, advanced age ≥65, and the underweight were at high RR for mechanical ventilator and/or in-hospital deaths compared to respective referent groups. Veterans who are ≥85 years old had a nearly 5-fold higher incidence of death compared respective referent group. The monthly outcomes for hospitalization, ventilation, and case-fatality data showed decreasing trends with time.

CONCLUSION

An increased incidence of death was associated with age ≥65 years and underweight veterans compared to the referent group. Age-adjusted data, however, did not show any increased incidence of death in Black veterans compared to White veterans.

RATINGS OF THE QUALITY OF THE EVIDENCE

3 (Case-control studies; retrospective cohort study).

Meshed Acellular Dermal Matrix for Two-Staged Prepectoral Breast Reconstruction: An Institutional Experience

The introduction of acellular dermal matrix (ADM) to breast reconstruction has allowed surgeons to reexplore the prepectoral implant placement technique in postmastectomy breast reconstruction. Our institution adopted a novel approach using meshed ADM to lessen the financial burden of increased ADM utilization with the prepectoral breast reconstruction. This is a retrospective, single-center review of two-stage prepectoral breast reconstruction using meshed human-derived ADM for anterior prosthesis coverage. Patient demographics, oncologic data, perioperative characteristics, and complications were examined and reported as means with standard deviations. Cost-saving with the meshed technique was evaluated. Forty-eight patients (72 breasts) with a mean age of 48.5 ± 15.0 years (range 26–70 years) were included in the study. The mean follow-up time was 13.2 ± 4.4 months (range 4.1–25.8 months). Nineteen breasts (24.6%) experienced complications, with seromas being the most common complication (12.5%, n  = 9). Expander removal and reoperation occurred at a rate of 8.3 and 9.7%, respectively. The average time to drain removal was 18.8 ± 6.6 days (range 8–32 days). Meshed ADM provided an average cost savings of $6,601 for unilateral and $13,202 for bilateral reconstructions. Our study found that human-derived meshed ADM can be safely used in two-staged prepectoral tissue expander-based breast reconstruction and can result in significant cost savings.

Characteristics of Nonelderly Adult Health Care Persistent Super Utilizers in Utah

In the United States, the top 1% and top 5% of health care spenders account for 23% and 50% of total health care spending, respectively. These high spenders have been coined the term super utilizers (SU). The aim of this study was to identify the characteristics associated with these patients to aid in developing public health interventions aimed at transitioning patients out of the SU category and thus ultimately helping to control health care costs. The authors utilized the Utah All-Payer Claims Database and Utah Population Database from 2013 to 2015 to identify demographics, comorbid conditions, health care utilization, and cost characteristics of persistent super utilizers (PSU) (≥3 hospitalizations per year for 3 years) of health care compared with persistent nonsuper utilizers (PNSU) (<3 hospitalizations per year for 3 years). Multivariable logistic regression was utilized to identify the characteristics associated with PSU versus PNSU. Higher outpatient/Emergency Department/noninpatient (eg, visits with imaging and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services preventive visits) health care utilization and spending, and prevalence of comorbid disease and psychosocial conditions were associated with PSU. In multivariable analysis, factors such as heart disease, chronic kidney disease (CKD), diabetes, alcohol abuse, and depression were statistically significantly associated with higher odds of PSU, with the most noteworthy being CKD (odds ratio [OR] 6.85, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 5.84-8.02; P < 0.001), alcohol abuse (OR 5.90, 95% CI 4.49-7.69; P < 0.001), and heart diseases (OR 4.41, 95% CI 3.74-5.18; P < 0.001). The annual health care cost of a PSU is about 11.5 times greater than a PNSU ($54,776 vs. $4801; P < 0.001).

Salvage radiotherapy for postoperative locoregional failure in esophageal cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Locoregional recurrences following surgery for esophageal cancers represent a significant clinical problem with no standard recommendations for management. We conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis with the objective of studying safety and efficacy of salvage radiotherapy in this setting. All prospective and retrospective cohort studies, which studied patients who developed locoregional recurrence following initial radical surgery for esophageal cancer and subsequently received salvage radiation therapy (RT)/chemoradiation with all relevant information regarding survival outcome and toxicity available, were included. The quality of eligible individual studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale score for risk of bias. R package MetaSurv was used to obtain a summary survival curve from survival probabilities and numbers of at-risk patients collected at various time points and to test the overall heterogeneity using the I2 statistic. Thirty studies (27 retrospective, 3 prospective) published from 1995 to 2020 with 1553 patients were included. The median interval between surgery and disease recurrence was 12.5 months. The median radiation dose used was 60 Gy and 57% received concurrent chemotherapy. The overall incidence of acute grade 3/4 mucositis and dermatitis were 8 and 4%, respectively; grade 3/4 acute pneumonitis was reported in 5%. The overall median follow-up of all studies included was 27 months. The 1-, 2- and 3-year overall survival (OS) probabilities were 67.9, 35.9 and 30.6%, respectively. Factors which predicted better survival on multivariate analysis were good PS, lower group stage, node negativity at index surgery, longer disease-free interval, nodal recurrence (as compared to anastomotic site recurrence), smaller disease volume, single site of recurrence, RT dose >50 Gy, conformal RT, use of concomitant chemotherapy and good radiological response after radiotherapy. Salvage radiotherapy with or without concomitant chemotherapy for locoregional recurrences after surgery for esophageal cancer is safe and effective. Modern radiotherapy techniques may improve outcomes and reduce treatment-related morbidity.

Transverse Rectus Abdominis Muscle Flow-Through to Free Fibula Flap for Lumbar Spinal Reconstruction in a Pediatric Patient: A Case Report

CASE

A 7-week-old girl presented with a recurrent primitive myxoid mesenchymal tumor of infancy requiring extensive resection of lower back musculature, L3-S2 vertebral bodies, and left L5 nerve root. Reconstruction consisted of transverse rectus abdominis muscle (TRAM) flow-through to free fibular flap to reconstruct the bony defect and fill the soft-tissue void. One-year postoperative imaging revealed a well-incorporated fibula graft. At the 30-month follow-up, the patient can bear weight on the autograft while sitting upright, allowing for efficient ambulation with a wheelchair.

CONCLUSION

TRAM flow-through to free fibular flap is an efficacious reconstructive method for a multilevel vertebral spinal defect in a pediatric patient.

An Analysis of the Modified Five-Item Frailty Index for Predicting Complications following Free Flap Breast Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

The modified five-item frailty index is a validated and effective tool for assessing risk in surgical candidates. The authors sought to compare the predictive ability of the modified five-item frailty index to established risk factors for complications in free flap breast reconstruction.

METHODS

The 2012 to 2018 American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was queried for free flap breast reconstructive procedures. Univariate and multivariate regression analysis models were used to assess how modified five-item frailty index and factors commonly used to risk stratify (age, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists classification, and history of smoking) were associated with complications.

RESULTS

Of the total 10,550 cases, 24.1 percent experienced complications. A high modified five-item frailty index score is associated with a higher overall rate of postoperative complications (p < 0.001). This significant trend was demonstrated in both surgical (p < 0.001) and medical (p < 0.001) complications. When controlling for other risk factors commonly used for risk stratification such as age, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists classification, and history of smoking, the modified five-item frailty index was significantly associated with medical (OR, 1.75; 95 percent CI, 1.37 to 2.22; p = 0.001) and any complications (OR, 1.58; 95 percent CI, 1.29 to 1.93; p < 0.001) and had the largest effect size. Assessing for specific complications, the modified five-item frailty index is the strongest independent predictor of reoperation (OR, 1.41; 95 percent CI, 1.08 to 1.81; p = 0.009).

CONCLUSION

The modified five-item frailty index is a useful predictor of postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing free flap breast reconstruction when compared to other historically considered risk factors for surgical complications.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Risk, III.

Hand and wrist injuries among collegiate athletes vary with athlete division

BACKGROUND

The rates, severity and consequences of hand and wrist injuries sustained by National Collegiate Athletic Association athletes are not well characterized. This study describes the epidemiology of hand and wrist injuries among collegiate athletes competing in different divisions.

METHODS

The National Collegiate Athletic Association Injury Surveillance Program (NCAA-ISP) was accessed from 2004 to 2015 for the following sports: baseball, basketball, football, ice hockey, lacrosse, soccer, wrestling, field hockey, gymnastics, softball and volleyball. The data were used to identify all hand and wrist injuries, the specific injury diagnosis, mean time loss of activity following injury, and need for surgery following injury. These were then stratified by gender. Descriptive statistics were performed to examine the association between sports, event type and division. Student's t test was used to calculate p-values for independent variables. Chi-Square test was used to calculate odds ratio. P < 0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

103,098 hand and wrist injuries were reported in in the studied NCAA sports from 2004 to 2015. Male athletes sustained 72,423 injuries (6.01/10,000 athlete exposure) and female athletes sustained 30,675 injuries (4.13/10,000 athlete exposure). Division I athletes sustained significantly more injuries compared to divisions II and III. Overall, 3.78% of hand and wrist injuries required surgical intervention. A significantly higher percentage of division I athletes (both male and female) underwent surgical intervention compared to divisions II and III. The mean time lost due to hand and wrist injury was 7.14 days for all athletes. Division I athletes missed the fewest days due to injury at 6.29 days though this was not significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Hand and wrist injuries are common among collegiate athletes. Division I athletes sustain higher rates of injuries and higher surgical intervention rates, while tending to miss fewer days due to injury. Improved characterization of divisional differences in hand and wrist injuries can assist injury management and prevention.

Post-cricoid and Upper Oesophagus Cancers Treated with Organ Preservation Using Intensity-modulated Image-guided Radiotherapy: a Phase II Prospective Study of Outcomes, Toxicity and Quality of Life

AIMS

To prospectively examine the outcomes, toxicity and quality of life (QoL) of patients with post-cricoid and upper oesophagus (PCUE) cancers treated with an organ-preservation approach of (chemo)-radiotherapy using intensity-modulated image-guided radiotherapy (IM-IGRT).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This phase II prospective study was conducted at a tertiary cancer centre from February 2017 to January 2020. Forty patients with squamous cell carcinoma of PCUE of stage T1-3, N0-2, M0 were accrued. Gross exolaryngeal extension/dysfunctional larynx were major exclusion criteria. Patients received 63-66 Gy in once-daily fractions using volumetric modulated arc therapy with daily IGRT. Outcome measures included disease-related outcomes, patterns of failure, Radiation Therapy Oncology Group toxicities, feeding tube dependency and QoL.

RESULTS

The median follow-up was 22 months. Twenty-six (87.5%) patients had locoregionally advanced disease and 34 (85%) patients received (chemo)-radiotherapy. A complete response was observed in 26 (65%) patients. The 2-year locoregional control, event-free survival and cause-specific survival were 59.6%, 40.2% and 44.8%, respectively. The volume of primary tumour (GTVPvol) exceeding 28 cm³ had inferior overall survival (P = 0.005) on univariate analysis. Multivariable analysis showed GTVPvol and positron emission tomography-computed tomography maximum standardised uptake value to be independently predictive for event-free and overall survival. A feeding tube requirement at presentation was seen in 11 (27.5%) patients, whereas long-term feeding tube dependency at 6 months was seen in 10 (37%) patients. For QoL, a statistical improvement in pain, appetite loss and swallowing was observed over time.

CONCLUSION

Although the outcomes of PCUE cancers remain dismal, the use of state of the art diagnostic modalities, careful case selection and modern radiotherapy techniques improved outcomes as compared with before in this exclusive analysis of PCUE cancers.

Elective surgery resource utilization

Purpose

Cessation of elective surgery during COVID-19 was partly driven by concern for consumption of hospital resources required by critically ill patients. We aim to determine the extent of resource utilization by elective outpatient surgery to assist in ensuring future resource conservation decisions are data driven.

Methods

The study utilized a retrospective cohort gathered from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. Participants were adult patients who underwent elective or non-elective surgery between 2017 and 2018. Outcomes included patient characteristics and post-operative outcomes for elective and non-elective surgeries. Post-operative outcomes were used as a surrogate for the consumption of hospital resources.

Results

A total of 1,558,938 (79.8%) elective and 393,339 (20.2%) non-elective surgeries were identified. Elective surgery patients were more likely to be outpatient status, have an ASA class < 3, and exhibited lower rates of prolonged ventilation, 30-day reoperation, and 30-day readmissions, and averaged 5 days less of inpatient stay. Elective outpatient surgery (vs. elective inpatient surgery) averaged shorter operative times and exhibited lower rates of readmissions (2.1% vs. 5.5%; p < 0.001), reoperations (1.1% vs. 2.8%; p < 0.001), prolonged ventilation (0.0% vs. 0.3%; p < 0.001), and 30-day mortality (0.1% vs. 0.5%; p < 0.001) and accounted for 30.2% of the overall relative value units ($339,815,038).

Conclusion

We evaluated utilization of hospital resources by patients undergoing elective outpatient surgery by identifying surgeries performed in 2017–2018 then stratifying them by outpatient status. Elective outpatient surgeries consumed negligible amounts of hospital resources and should not be considered a threat to resources in the setting of high demand by critically ill COVID-19 patients.

South Asian Declaration-Consensus Guidelines for COVID-19 Vaccination in Cancer Patients

We provide the South Asian Declaration, containing the consensus guidelines for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination in cancer patients.

Hand and Wrist Injuries Among Collegiate Athletes: The Role of Sex and Competition on Injury Rates and Severity

Background:

There is a high incidence of hand and wrist injuries in athletes participating in collegiate sports, but there is little information published characterizing them.

Purpose:

To characterize hand and wrist injuries in collegiate athletes using a large national database.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods:

This retrospective cross-sectional analysis was designed using data from the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Injury Surveillance Program database to identify hand and wrist injuries (exclusive of any radial or ulnar fractures) in male and female collegiate athletes participating in NCAA Division I, II, and III sports from 2004 to 2015. Descriptive analyses were performed on stratified data to examine the associations between these injuries and sport, event type, and sex.

Results:

Men’s ice hockey (8.25 per 10,000 athlete-exposures [AEs]) and women's ice hockey (8.21 per 10,000 AEs) had the highest rate of hand and wrist injuries in all exposures. In every sport except women’s gymnastics (P = .107), injuries were more commonly sustained during competition rather than during practice. Ligamentous injury to the phalynx was the most commonly sustained injury overall (1.416 per 10,000 AEs), and a metacarpal fracture was the most commonly sustained hand or wrist fracture (0.507 per 10,000 AEs). Injuries sustained during men’s wrestling (14.08 days) and women’s gymnastics (10.39 days) incurred the most time lost from sport. Surgery for hand and wrist injuries was most commonly required for men’s football (0.413 per 10,000 AEs) and women’s field hockey (0.404 per 10,000 AEs).

Conclusion:

Hand and wrist injuries were common among collegiate athletes. Male athletes experienced injuries with more frequency and severity. Injuries occurred more commonly during competition. While the majority of injuries were minor and did not require surgery, certain sports conferred a much higher risk of significant injuries requiring a surgical intervention.

Evolving multidisciplinary treatment of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck in India✰

In this article, we highlight the evolution of a multimodal approach in the overall management of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) in India; present advances in technology (newer surgical techniques), novel medical and radiotherapy (RT) approaches; review their roles for an integrated approach for treating SCCHN and discuss the current role of immunotherapy in SCCHN. For locally advanced (LA) SCCHN, the multidisciplinary approach includes surgery followed by RT, with or without chemotherapy (CT) or concurrent chemoradiotherapy. Improved surgical techniques of reconstruction and voice-preservation are being implemented. Advanced forms of high-precision conformal techniques like intensity-modulated radiotherapy are used to deliver highly conformal doses to tumors, sparing the surrounding normal tissue. Compared with RT alone, novel CT regimens and targeted therapeutic agents have the potential to improve locoregional control and survival and reduce treatment-induced toxicities. Several clinical trials have demonstrated efficacy, safety, and quality of life benefits of adding cetuximab to RT regimens in LASCCHN. Studies have also suggested a cetuximab-related laryngeal preservation benefit. At progression, platinum-based CT combined with cetuximab (a monoclonal anti-epidermal growth factor receptor antibody) is the only validated option available as the first-line therapy. Thus, an integrated multidisciplinary approach plays a key role in maximizing patient outcomes, reduction in treatment related morbidities that consequently impact quality of life of survivors.

Second primary breast cancer after unilateral mastectomy alone or with contralateral prophylactic mastectomy

Background

An increasing number of patients undergo contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) for unilateral breast cancer. However, the benefit of CPM has not been quantified in the setting of contemporary breast cancer therapy.

Methods

We performed an analysis of 180 068 patients in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database, diagnosed with unilateral ductal breast carcinoma between 1998 and 2013 and treated with unilateral mastectomy (UM) or CPM. UM was performed in 146 213 patients (81.2%); CPM was performed in 33 855 patients (19.8%). Primary outcome of interest was cumulative incidence of a second primary breast cancer in the ipsilateral or contralateral breast greater than 3 months after initial diagnosis. Cumulative incidence analysis was based on a Cox proportional model to generate curves of second primary breast cancer in any breast, ipsilateral breast only, or contralateral breast only.

Results

Patients who underwent CPM had a significantly reduced incidence of second primary breast cancer 10 and 15 years after surgery (CPM 0.93% [0.73%, 1.12%] vs UM 4.44% [4.28%, 4.60%]). Patients who underwent CPM had significantly lower adjusted hazard of second primary breast cancer when compared with UM (HR 0.38 vs 1.0, P < .0001).

Conclusions

CPM offers some protection from a second primary breast cancer, attributable to a reduced incidence in the contralateral breast. These findings provide additional information to providers and patients as they make decisions regarding surgical management. They should also be interpreted in the context of the absolute incidence of second primary breast cancer after UM and previous literature demonstrating no survival benefit.

A Nationwide Analysis of Early and Late Readmissions following Free Tissue Transfer for Breast Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

 Traditionally, surgical quality outcomes are assessed using a 30-day postoperative window. For breast cancer patients undergoing free tissue transfer for breast reconstruction, we sought to describe the distribution of and specific risk factors for early and late readmissions within a 0- to 90-day postoperative period.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

 The Nationwide Readmissions Database was used to conduct a retrospective cohort study. Breast cancer patients undergoing free tissue transfer for breast reconstruction were identified using International Classification of Diseases -9 diagnosis and procedure codes. Ninety-day readmissions related to infection or wound complications were identified. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify patient risk factors for readmissions that occurred early (0-30 days) and late (31-90 days) after their index procedure.

RESULTS

 In the weighted sample, we identified approximately 7,305 free flap breast reconstructions and a surgical wound-related readmission rate of 4.3% (n = 312): 65.4% of the readmissions occurred early while 34.6% occurred late after surgery. The mean days to readmission was 26, and 75% of all readmissions occurred within the first 36 days after surgery. Variables independently associated with readmissions during the 0- to 90-day postoperative period included: history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (p = 0.036), hypertension (p = 0.03), obesity (p ≤ 0.001), and history of smoking (p = 0.004). The variables independently associated with the early readmission period were the same as those identified for the 0- to 90-day postoperative period. The variables independently associated with late readmissions were different: history of depression (p = 0.001) and history of smoking (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

 The conventional 30-day hospital readmission rate classically used as a quality metric is overlooking a significant portion of admissions after free flap-based breast reconstruction. Different variables were found to be associated with readmission in the early versus late cohorts. Interventions targeting these variables could decrease readmissions and their associated costs.

Treatment planning comparison of volumetric modulated arc therapy employing a dual-layer stacked multi-leaf collimator and helical tomotherapy for cervix uteri

Purpose

To ascertain the dosimetric performance of a new delivery system (the Halcyon system, H) equipped with dual-layer stacked multi-leaf collimator (MLC) for risk-adapted targets in cervix uteri cancer patients compared to another ring-based system in clinical operation (Helical Tomotherapy, HT).

Methods

Twenty patients were retrospectively included in a treatment planning study (10 with positive lymph nodes and 10 without). The dose prescription (45Gy to the primary tumour volume and a simultaneously integrated boost up to 55Gy for the positive patients) and the clinical planning objectives were defined consistently as recommended by an ongoing multicentric clinical trial. Halcyon plans were optimised for the volumetric modulated arc therapy. The plan comparison was performed employing the quantitative analysis of the dose-volume histograms.

Results

The coverage of the primary and nodal target volumes was comparable for both techniques and both subsets of patients. The primary planning target volume (PTV) receiving at least 95% of the prescription isodose ranged from 97.2 ± 1.1% (node-negative) to 99.1 ± 1.2% (node-positive) for H and from 96.5 ± 1.9% (node-negative) to 98.3 ± 0.9% (node-positive) for HT. The uncertainty is expressed at one standard deviation from the cohort of patient per each group. For the nodal clinical target volumes, the dose received by 98% of the planning target volume ranged 55.5 ± 0.1 to 56.0 ± 0.8Gy for H and HT, respectively. The only significant and potentially relevant differences were observed for the bowels. In this case, V_40Gy resulted 226.3 ± 35.9 and 186.9 ± 115.9 cm³ for the node-positive and node-negative patients respectively for Halcyon. The corresponding findings for HT were: 258.9 ± 60.5 and 224.9 ± 102.2 cm³. On the contrary, V_15Gy resulted 1279.7 ± 296.5 and 1557.2 ± 359.9 cm³ for HT and H respectively for node-positive and 1010.8 ± 320.9 versus 1203.8 ± 332.8 cm³ for node-negative.

Conclusion

This retrospective treatment planning study, based on the dose constraints derived from the Embrace II study protocol, suggested the essential equivalence between Halcyon based and Helical Tomotherapy based plans for the intensity-modulated rotational treatment of cervix uteri cancer. Different levels of sparing were observed for the bowels with H better protecting in the high-dose region and HT in the mid-low dose regions. The clinical impact of these differences should be further addressed.

Oral Cavity Cancer in the Indian Subcontinent - Challenges and Opportunities

Oral cavity cancer (OCC) poses a global challenge that plagues both the Orient and the Occident, accounting for an estimated 350 000 new cases and 177 000 deaths in 2018. OCC is a major public health problem in the Indian subcontinent, where it ranks among the top three cancer types in both incidence and mortality. Major risk factors are the use of tobacco, betel quid and alcohol consumption. OCC is a heterogeneous group of multiple histologies that affects multiple subsites. The oral cavity includes the lips, buccal mucosa, teeth, gingiva, anterior two-thirds of the tongue, floor of the mouth and hard palate. OCC is defined as cancer of lips, mouth and tongue as defined by the International Classification of Diseases coding scheme. The epidemiology, aetio-pathogenesis and treatment philosophy are similar within this group. Although salivary gland malignancies, sarcomas, mucosal melanomas and lymphomas can also arise within the oral cavity, this review will focus on squamous cell cancer, which is the predominant histology in OCC. We review and contrast data from developing and developed countries. We also highlight the unique regional challenges that countries in the East face; citing India as an example, we elaborate on the opportunities and scope for improvement in the management of OCC.

Epidermal growth factor receptor genes are overexpressed within the periprosthetic soft-tissue around percutaneous devices: A pilot study

Epidermal downgrowth around percutaneous devices produce sinus tracts, which then accumulate bacteria becoming foci of infection. This mode to failure is epidermal-centric, and is accelerated by changes in the chemokines and cytokines of the underlying periprosthetic granulation tissue (GT). In order to more fully comprehend the mechanism of downgrowth, in this 28-day study, percutaneous devices were placed in 10 Zucker diabetic fatty rats; 5 animals were induced with diabetes mellitus II (DM II) prior to the surgery and 5 animals served as a healthy, nondiabetic cohort. At necropsy, periprosthetic tissues were harvested, and underwent histological and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) studies. After isolating GTs from the surrounding tissue and extracting ribonucleic acids, PCR array and quantitative-PCR (qPCR) analyses were carried-out. The PCR array for 84 key wound-healing associated genes showed a five-fold or greater change in 31 genes in the GTs of healthy animals compared to uninjured healthy typical skin tissues. Eighteen genes were overexpressed and these included epidermal growth factor (EGF) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Thirteen genes were underexpressed. When GTs of DM II animals were compared to healthy animals, there were 8 genes overexpressed and 25 genes underexpressed; under expressed genes included EGF and EGFR. The qPCR and immunohistochemistry data further validated these observations. Pathway analysis of genes up-regulated 15-fold or more indicated two, EGFR and interleukin-10, centric clustering effects. It was concluded that EGFR could be a key player in exacerbating the epidermal downgrowth, and might be an effective target for preventing downgrowth.

Immediate Bilateral Breast Reconstruction Using Abdominally Based Flaps: An Analysis of the Nationwide Inpatient Sample Database

BACKGROUND

 Bilateral mastectomy rates are increasing in the United States. The abdomen is the most common harvest site for autologous reconstruction. Nationwide data were examined to determine differences in hospital charges, length of stay (LOS), and early postoperative complications following immediate bilateral pedicled transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous (pTRAM), free TRAM (fTRAM), deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP), and superficial inferior epigastric artery (SIEA) perforator flaps and were compared with unilateral reconstruction.

METHODS

 Patients who underwent immediate bilateral breast reconstruction using a single method of abdominally based reconstruction were identified using the 2009 to 2014 Nationwide Inpatient Sample Database. Outcomes included total hospital charges, LOS, and immediate postoperative complications.

RESULTS

 We identified 13,348 cases of bilateral mastectomy with a single type of immediate bilateral autologous flap reconstruction. The majority were bilateral DIEP flaps. Mean total cost for bilateral pTRAM, fTRAM, DIEP, and SIEA flaps was US $21,886.80, US $28,839.40, US $30,051.30, and US $33,784.90, respectively (p < 0.0001). Mean LOS for bilateral pTRAM, fTRAM, DIEP, and SIEA was 4.3, 4.9, 4.5, and 5.4 days, respectively (p = 0.0002), and hematoma rates were 1.93, 2.61, 3.68, and 16.59%, respectively, (p = 0.0001), whereas return to the operating room for vascular anastomosis revision was 0, 1.63, 1.99, and 19.07%, respectively (p < 0.0001). Cost is less for unilateral pTRAM, fTRAM, and DIEP flaps (p < 0.0001). LOS is shorter for unilateral fTRAM versus bilateral (p < 0.0001). No differences were appreciated between unilateral and bilateral hematoma and reoperation rates for any reconstruction (p > 0.1).

CONCLUSION

 Immediate complication rates were higher in bilateral free flaps compared with bilateral pedicled flaps. pTRAM and fTRAM flap reconstructions are still performed frequently with acceptable immediate results without considering long-term morbidity, aesthetics, and abdominal muscle function. Bilateral SIEA free flaps were associated with significantly higher total cost, LOS, and complication rates compared with other groups. Complications were similar between unilateral and bilateral reconstruction procedures. While cost is significantly greater for bilateral procedures compared with unilateral pTRAM, fTRAM, and DIEP flaps, it is not doubled.

An Audit for Radiotherapy Planning and Treatment Errors From a Low-Middle-Income Country Centre

AIMS

To report the findings of an audit for radiotherapy errors from a low-middle-income country (LMICs) centre. This would serve as baseline data for radiotherapy error rates, their severity and causes, in such centres where modern error reporting and learning processes still do not exist.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A planned cross-sectional weekly audit of electronic radiotherapy charts at the radiotherapy planning and delivery step for all patients treated with curative intent was conducted. Detailed analysis was carried out to determine the step of origin of error, time and contributing factors. They were graded as per indigenous institutional (TMC) radiotherapy error grading (TREG) system and the contributing factors identified were prioritised using the product of frequency, severity and ease of detection.

RESULTS

In total, 1005 consecutive radically treated patients' charts were audited, 67 radiotherapy errors affecting 60 patients, including 42 incidents and 25 near-misses were identified. Transcriptional errors (29%) were the most common type. Most errors occurred at the time of treatment planning (59.7%), with "plan information transfer to the radiation oncology information system" being the most frequently affected sub-step of the radiotherapy process (47.8%). More errors were noted at cobalt units (52/67; 77.6%) than at linear accelerators. Trend analysis showed an increased number of radiotherapy incidents on Fridays and near-misses on Mondays. Trend for increased radiotherapy errors noted in the evening over other shifts. On severity grading, most of the errors (54/60; 90%) were clinically insignificant (grade I/II). Inadequacies and non-adherence towards standard operating procedures, poor documentation and lack of continuing education were the three most prominent causes.

CONCLUSION

Preliminary data suggest a vulnerability of LMIC set-up to radiotherapy errors and emphasises the need for the development of longitudinal prospective processes, such as voluntary reporting and a continued education system, to ensure robust and comprehensive safe practises on par with centres in developed countries.

Predictors of complications following breast reduction surgery: A National Surgical Quality Improvement Program study of 16,812 cases

BACKGROUND

Breast reduction is one of the most common procedures performed by plastic surgeons. Despite good outcomes and high patient satisfaction, there are little national data on the predictors that lead to complications in this patient population. We accessed a national outcomes database to examine these factors.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study examining the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database from 2006 to 2015. Patients who underwent primary breast reduction were identified. Patients who underwent any cancer-related procedures were excluded. We identified patient-related and procedure-related factors for analysis. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify independent predictors of complications.

RESULTS

In total, 16,812 individual cases were identified. The overall complication rate for the cohort was 6.2%, and the major complication rate was 3.0%. Diabetes, bleeding disorder, hypertension, obesity, smoking, steroid use, and prolonged operative time were associated with increased risk of complications (p < 0.05). Concurrent body contouring was a predictor of increased major complications; however, liposuction was not.

CONCLUSIONS

Common surgical risk factors are associated with complications in breast reduction surgery. Although liposuction is not an independent risk factor, concurrent body contouring is associated with increased complications. Surgeons should be aware of these associations when discussing breast reduction with patients.

Immediate Unilateral Breast Reconstruction using Abdominally Based Flaps: Analysis of 3,310 Cases

BACKGROUND

 The abdomen is the most common area from which tissue is harvested for autologous breast reconstruction. We sought to examine national data to determine the differences in total hospital charges, length of stay (LOS), and early postoperative complications following pedicled transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap (pTRAM), free TRAM (fTRAM), deep-inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP), and superficial inferior epigastric artery perforator (SIEA) flaps.

METHODS

 The 2009-2013 Nationwide Inpatient Sample Database was used to identify patients who underwent a unilateral mastectomy and only one type of abdominally based autologous flap (pTRAM, fTRAM, DIEP, and SIEA) during the same hospital admission. Outcomes of interest included total charges, LOS, and complications including revision of vascular anastomosis and hematoma.

RESULTS

 A total of 3,310 cases were identified, corresponding to 15,991 abdominally based unilateral immediate breast reconstructions after standard weighting was applied; 5,079 (31.8%) were pTRAM flaps, 4,461 (27.9%) were fTRAM flaps, 6,206 (38.8%) were DIEP flaps, and 245 (1.5%) were SIEA flaps. The mean total charges for pTRAM, fTRAM, DIEP, and SIEA flaps were $17,765.5, $22,637.6, $25,814.6, and $26,605.2, respectively (p < 0.0001). The mean LOS for pTRAM, fTRAM, DIEP, and SIEA flaps were 96.5, 106.5, 106.7, and 108.9 hours, respectively (p = 0.002). The rates for return to the OR for the revision of a vascular anastomosis for pTRAM, fTRAM, DIEP, and SIEA were 0.0%, 1.72%, 2.66%, and 5.64%, respectively (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

 There is variation in the total charges, LOS, and early complications between pTRAM, fTRAM, DIEP, and SIEA flap-based breast reconstruction. fTRAM, DIEP, and SIEA flaps incur higher hospital total charges, have longer lengths of stay, and experience more immediate complications compared with pTRAM. Well-designed prospective trials are required to better understand the findings from this study with the inclusion of other critical outcomes such as patient satisfaction, aesthetic results, and long-term outcomes such as abdominal wall morbidity.

Solitary pulmonary nodule evaluation in regions endemic for infectious diseases: Do regional variations impact the effectiveness of fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography

BACKGROUND

Fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG-PET/CT) has become a preferred imaging modality for the evaluation of solitary pulmonary nodule (SPN), particularly in the developed world. Since FDG can concentrate in infective/inflammatory lesions, the diagnostic utility of FDG-PET can be questioned, particularly in regions endemic for infectious decisions.

AIM

To evaluate the accuracy of FDG-PET/CT in evaluation of SPNs in a population endemic for infectious disease and to assess if regional variations have an impact on its effectiveness.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All patients who underwent an FDG/PET-CT with a clinico-radiological diagnosis of SPN categorized as indeterminate were included. Based on a maximum standardized uptake values (SUVmax) cut-off of 2.5, lesions were classified as benign (<2.5) or malignant (>2.5) and compared with gold standard histopathology. The diagnostic accuracy of PET-CT to detect malignancy was calculated. On the basis of final histopathology, lesions were grouped as (a) malignant nodules (b) infective/granulomatous nodules with a specific diagnosis and (c) nonspecific inflammatory nodules. The SUVmaxbetween these groups was compared using nonparametric statistical tests.

RESULTS

A total of 191 patients (129 males, 62 females) with a median age of 64 years (range: 36-83) were included. Totally, 144 nodules (75.3%) were malignant and 47 were benign (24.7%). Adenocarcinoma (n = 84) was the most common malignancy. Tuberculosis (n = 16) and nonspecific infections (n = 24) were the two most common benign pathologies. There was a significant overlap in the metabolic uptake of malignant (median SUVmax-11.2, range: 3.3-34.6) and tuberculous nodules (median SUVmax-10.3, range: 2.7-22.5) with no statistically difference between their SUVmaxvalues (P = 0.43). The false-positive rate was 65.2% and the false-negative rate was 5.5%. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy of FDG-PET/CT for detecting malignancy were 94.4%, 34.7%, 81.9%, 66.6%, and 79.5%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Though FDG-PET scans show a very high sensitivity for malignant nodules, it has a high false-positive rate and reduced specificity when characterizing SPNs in an infectious endemic region. Physicians must be aware of this limitation in the workup of lung nodules, and regional variations must be considered before further management decisions are taken.

Applying the QUARTZ Trial Results in Clinical Practice: Development of a Prognostic Model Predicting Poor Outcomes for Non-small Cell Lung Cancers with Brain Metastases

AIMS

The role of whole brain radiotherapy (WBRT) in patients with brain metastases from non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC) has been questioned. However, no reliable criteria exist to identify patients who do not benefit from WBRT. The objective of the current study was to develop a prognostic model to identify such patients whose survival matches that of the Quality of Life after Treatment for Brain Metastases (QUARTZ) study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Outcome data of patients with NSCLC with brain metastases undergoing WBRT enrolled in a prospective observational study in a tertiary cancer centre were used to develop a prognostic model. Baseline clinico-radiological factors were used for development of the model. The model was internally validated and calibration accuracy was checked for prediction of 70 day mortality. The generated prognostic model was presented as a nomogram.

RESULTS

The median overall survival of 140 patients enrolled in the study was 166 days (95% confidence interval 108-242 days). The prognostic model identified gender, Karnofsky performance status and epidermal growth factor receptor activating mutation status as significant factors influencing overall survival. The model showed a modest discriminative ability with an optimism-corrected C-index of 0.64. However, model calibration error did reveal a moderate degree of calibration error. The high-risk subgroup identified by the model had a median overall survival of 67 days (95% confidence interval 56-101 days), which was similar to that observed in the QUARTZ trial.

CONCLUSION

This prognostic model derived from traditional clinico-radiological features had a modest ability to identify patients with poor prognosis who may not benefit from WBRT. However, the high-risk subgroup identified using this prognostic model had a survival similar to that observed for patients in the QUARTZ trial.

A comparative analysis of immunohistochemistry and fluorescent in situ hybridization assay to detect anaplastic lymphoma kinase status in lung adenocarcinoma cases: A search for a testing algorithm

INTRODUCTION

Testing for echinoderm microtubule-associated protein-like 4 (EML4) anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) translocation by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) is well established whereas the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ALK immunohistochemical (IHC) test is relatively new.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to compare FDA-approved ALK IHC test (D5F3 clone) with the standard ALK FISH test.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A validation and a test arm with 100 and 200 cases of Formalin-Fixed, Paraffin-embedded blocks of lung adenocarcinoma, respectively, comprised the material. All cases had ALK IHC test on automated Ventana Benchmark XT IHC slide stainer using anti-ALK D5F3 rabbit monoclonal primary antibody; when positive tumor cells (any percentage) showed strong granular cytoplasmic staining. For the FISH test, Vysis ALK Dual Color Break Apart Rearrangement Probe (Abbott Molecular Inc.,) was used to detect ALK gene 2p23 rearrangements; when positive the red and green signals were split two signal diameter apart and/or isolated 3'red signal were detected in more than 15% tumor cells. The ALK FISH results were available in all 100 validation cases and 64-test arm cases which formed the basis of this analysis.

RESULTS

The ALK IHC test was positive in 16% cases; four discordant cases were ALK IHC positive but ALK FISH negative, but no case was ALK IHC negative and ALK FISH positive. There was 100% sensitivity, 90.5% specificity, and 93.75% accuracy.

CONCLUSION

A negative ALK IHC result obviates the need for a FISH test barring those with a strong clinical profile, and a positive ALK IHC result is sufficient basis for the initiation of treatment.

A prospective study of telephonic contact and subsequent physical follow-up of radically treated lung cancer patients

BACKGROUND

We tested the hypothesis that telephonic follow-up (FU) may offer a convenient and equivalent alternative to physical FU of radically treated lung cancer patients.

DESIGN

Prospective study carried out at a tertiary referral cancer care institute, Mumbai.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two hundred consecutive lung cancer patients treated with curative intent were followed up regularly with telephonic interviews paired with their routine physical FU visits. Patient satisfaction with the telephonic call and the physical visit, the anxiety level of the patient after meeting the physician and the economic burden of the visit to the patient were noted in a descriptive manner. Kappa statistics was used to assess concurrence between the telephonic and physical impression of disease status.

RESULTS

With a median FU duration of 21.5 months, the median satisfaction scores for telephonic and physical FU were 8 and 9, respectively. The prevalence and bias adjusted kappa (PABAK) score of the entire cohort of patients was 0.64 (95% confidence interval [CI] =0.58-0.70). Data analyzed up to first disease progression/relapse on FU had a PABAK score of 0.71 (95% CI = 0.64-0.77) indicating substantial agreement. Patients with disease controlled at the FU had a significant PABAK score of 0.88 (95% CI = 0.80-0.94) indicating excellent concurrence. On average, each patient spent Rs. 5117.10 on travel and Rs. 3079.06 on lodging per FU visit.

CONCLUSION

Telephonic FU is substantially accurate in assessing disease status until the first relapse. In a resource-constrained country like India, it is worthwhile to further explore the benefits of such an alternative strategy.

Breast Reconstruction With Postmastectomy Radiation: Choices and Tradeoffs

The Oncology Grand Rounds series is designed to place original reports published in the Journal into clinical context. A case presentation is followed by a description of diagnostic and management challenges, a review of the relevant literature, and a summary of the authors' suggested management approaches. The goal of this series is to help readers better understand how to apply the results of key studies, including those published in Journal of Clinical Oncology, to patients seen in their own clinical practice. A 45-year-old premenopausal woman presented with multifocal cancer in the right breast, with lesions at 1:00 and 4:00, the largest measuring approximately 3 cm on exam, and multiple palpable right axillary lymph nodes. A core biopsy confirmed invasive ductal carcinoma, grade 2 of 3, that was estrogen receptor positive, progesterone receptor positive, and HER2 negative. Fine needle aspiration of a right axillary node confirmed metastatic carcinoma. A positron emission tomography (PET)/ computed tomography done before starting chemotherapy demonstrated an absence of metastatic disease with expected avidity in two separate breast masses and multiple conglomerated 1-2 cm level I and II axillary lymph nodes. She received neoadjuvant chemotherapy with doxorubicin plus cyclophosphamide, followed by paclitaxel, and had a complete clinical response with resolution of the breast and axillary masses on exam. A repeat PET/computed tomography demonstrated reduced size of the breast and axillary disease, and no significant residual PET avidity. Her breast surgeon recommended a right mastectomy with axillary node dissection. As part of her multidisciplinary treatment plan, she consulted with two plastic surgeons to discuss reconstruction options. Plastic Surgeon A advised placement of an implant at the time of mastectomy while Surgeon B contrasted the pros and cons of an autologous transverse rectus abdominis muscle flap reconstruction with an implant based reconstruction. Surgeon B believed that autologous reconstruction would yield the best long-term cosmetic outcome. Before making her surgery decision, the patient consulted with a radiation oncologist to discuss the effect radiation may have on her reconstruction outcome.