Outcomes of Repeat Surgery in Pediatric Severe Traumatic Brain Injury: An Analysis from Approaches and Decisions in Acute Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury Trial

BACKGROUND

Early operative intervention, craniotomy, and/or craniectomy are occasionally warranted in severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). Persistent increased intracranial pressure or accumulation of intracranial hematoma postsurgery can result in higher mortality and morbidity. There is a gap in information regarding the outcome of repeat surgery (RS) in pediatric patients with severe TBI.

METHODS

An observational cohort study titled Approaches and Decisions in Acute Pediatric TBI Trial data was obtained from the Federal Interagency Traumatic Brain Injury Research Informatics System. All pediatric patients who underwent craniotomy or decompressive craniectomy, survived more than 44 hours and were found to have persistent elevated intracranial pressure >20 mmHg for 2 consecutive hours were included in the study. The purpose of the study was to find the outcomes of RS in pediatric severe TBI. Propensity based matching was used to find the outcomes. The primary outcome was 60-day mortality.

RESULTS

Out of 1000 total patients enrolled in the Approaches and Decisions in Acute Pediatric Trial, 160 patients qualified for this study. Propensity score matching created 13 pairs of patients. There were no significant differences found between the groups who had RS versus those who did not have repeat surgery on baseline characteristics. There were no significant differences found between the groups regarding 60-day mortality, median hospital days, median intensive care unit days, and 6-month favorable outcome on Glasgow Outcome Scale Extended score.

CONCLUSIONS

There was no difference in mortality between patients who underwent a second surgery and patients who did not have to undergo a second surgery.

Visual outcomes and optimal timing for repeat surgery in cases of postoperative hematoma following transsphenoidal surgery for pituitary neuroendocrine tumors: A retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the visual outcomes and optimal timing for repeat surgery in cases of postoperative hematoma following transsphenoidal surgery for pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs).

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted on 28 patients who developed evident postoperative hematoma out of a total of 9,010 patients. The hematomas were classified into three types based on their CT appearance. Type 1a - mild high density with no tension, Type 1b - thin-layer high density; Type 2a - solid high density with large empty cavities, Type 2b - solid high density with small empty cavities; Type 3 -solid high density with no cavity showing high tension. Patient data were collected for analysis.

RESULTS

The study cohort comprised 10 female and 18 male patients, with a mean age of 51.5±11.9 years. Most patients presented with large adenomas (median diameter 36mm). Postoperative visual sight improved in 12 patients, remained stable in 11 patients, and worsened in 5 patients. Notably, no patients experienced worsened visual sight beyond twenty-four hours after the operation. Among the five patients with visual deterioration, four had CT type 3 hematoma (4/6, 66.7%), and one had CT type 2b hematoma (1/9, 11.1%). Patients in the type 3 CT group were significantly more prone to experience visual deterioration compared to those in the type 2 group (odds ratio [OR] 2.154 [95% CI 1.858-611.014], P=.027). Four patients underwent repeat surgery after visual deterioration, resulting in visual improvement following a prolonged recovery period. Postoperative hematoma had limited impact on pituitary dysfunction and hyponatremia.

CONCLUSION

Our study reveals a significant association between postoperative hematoma CT types and visual deterioration. For patients with stable visual sight and type 1 or 2a hematoma, conservative strategies may be considered. Conversely, type 2b and 3 patients are at higher risk of visual deterioration, especially within the first 24 hours after the operation. Consequently, early reoperation before vision worsens may be a prudent approach to reduce risks and improve visual outcomes, particularly in type 3 patients.

Repeat Surgery for Recurrent or Refractory Trigeminal Neuralgia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

Surgery can effectively treat Trigeminal neuralgia (TN), but postoperative pain recurrence or nonresponse are common. Repeat surgery is frequently offered but limited data exist to guide the selection of salvage surgical procedures. We aimed to compare pain relief outcomes after repeat microvascular decompression (MVD), percutaneous rhizotomy (PR), or stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) to determine which modality was most efficacious for surgically refractory TN.

METHODS

A PRISMA systematic review and meta-analysis was performed, including studies of adults with classical or idiopathic TN undergoing repeat surgery. Primary outcomes included complete (CPR) and adequate (APR) pain relief at last follow-up, analyzed in a multivariate mixed-effect meta-regression of proportions. Secondary outcomes were initial pain relief and facial numbness.

RESULTS

Of 1299 records screened, 61 studies with 68 treatment arms (29 MVD, 14 PR, and 25 SRS) comprising 2165 patients were included. Combining MVD, PR, and SRS study data, 68.8% achieved initial CPR after a repeat TN procedure. On average, 49.6% of the combined sample of MVD, PR, and SRS had CPR at final follow-up, which was on average 2.99 years postoperatively. The proportion (with 95% CI) achieving CPR at final follow-up was 0.57 (0.51-0.62) for MVD, 0.60 (0.52-0.68) for PR, and 0.35 (0.30-0.41) for SRS, with a significantly lower proportion of pain relief with SRS. Estimates of initial CPR for MVD were 0.82 (0.78-0.85), 0.68 for PR (0.6-0.76), and 0.41 for SRS (0.35-0.48).

CONCLUSIONS

Across MVD, PR, and SRS, about half of TN patients maintain complete CPR at an average follow-up time of 3 years after repeat surgery. In treating refractory or recurrent TN, MVD and PR were superior to SRS in both initial pain relief and long-term pain relief at final follow-up. These findings can inform surgical decision-making in this challenging population.

Potential reasons for failure and recurrence in microvascular decompression for hemifacial spasm

BACKGROUND

To examine the factors contributing to persistent and recurrent hemifacial spasms (HFS) following a microvascular decompression (MVD) procedure and to suggest technical improvements to prevent such failures.

METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted on fifty-two cases of repeat surgery. The extent of the previous craniotomy and the location of neurovascular compression (NVC) were investigated. The operative findings were categorized into two groups: "Missing Compression" and "Teflon Contact". The analysis included long-term outcomes and operative complications after repeat MVD procedures.

RESULTS

Missing compression was identified in 29 patients (56%), while Teflon contact was observed in 23 patients (44%). Patients with missing compression were more likely to experience improper craniotomy (66%) compared to those with Teflon contact (48%). Medially located NVC was a frequent finding in both groups, mainly due to compression by the anterior inferior cerebellar artery. In the missing compression group, during the repeat MVD, Teflon sling retraction was utilized in 79% of cases, while in the Teflon contact group, the most common procedure involved removing the Teflon in contact (65%). After the repeat MVD procedure, immediate spasm relief was achieved in 42 patients (81%), with six (12%) experiencing delayed relief. After a median follow-up of 54 months, 96% of patients were free from spasms. Delayed facial palsy, facial weakness, and hearing impairment were more frequently observed in the Teflon contact group.

CONCLUSIONS

A proper craniotomy that provides adequate exposure around the REZ is crucial to prevent missing the culprit vessel during the initial MVD procedure. Teflon contact on the REZ should be avoided, as it poses a potential risk of procedure failure and recurrence.

Evaluation of the effect of previous endometriosis surgery on clinical and surgical outcomes of subsequent endometriosis surgery

PURPOSE

Patients often undergo repeat surgery for endometriosis, due to recurrent or residual disease. Previous surgery is often considered a risk factor for worse surgical outcome. However, data are scarce concerning the influence of subsequent endometriosis surgery.

METHODS

A retrospective study in a centre of expertise for endometriosis was conducted. All endometriosis subtypes and intra-operative steps were included. Detailed information regarding surgical history of patients was collected. Surgical time, intra-operative steps and major post-operative complications were obtained as outcome measures.

RESULTS

595 patients were included, of which 45.9% had previous endometriosis surgery. 7.9% had major post-operative complications and 4.4% intra-operative complications. The patient journey showed a median of 3 years between previous endometriosis surgeries. Each previous therapeutic laparotomic surgery resulted on average in 13 additional minutes (p = 0.013) of surgical time. Additionally, it resulted in more frequent performance of adhesiolysis (OR 2.96, p < 0.001) and in a higher risk for intra-operative complications (OR 1.81, p = 0.045), however no higher risk for major post-operative complications (OR 1.29, p = 0.418). Previous therapeutic laparoscopic endometriosis surgery, laparotomic and laparoscopic non-endometriosis surgery showed no association with surgical outcomes. Regardless of previous surgery, disc and segmental bowel resection showed a higher risk for major post-operative complications (OR 3.64, p = 0.017 respectively OR 3.50, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Previous therapeutic laparotomic endometriosis surgery shows an association with longer surgical time, the need to perform adhesiolysis, and more intra-operative complications in the subsequent surgery for endometriosis. However, in a centre of expertise with experienced surgeons, no increased risk of major post-operative complications was observed.

Laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy mesh excision step-by-step

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The objective was to demonstrate the surgical procedure of laparoscopic mesh removal after sacrocolpopexy to aid clinicians facing mesh complications.

METHODS

Video footage shows the laparoscopic management of mesh failure and mesh erosion after sacrocolpopexy with narrated video sequences of two patients.

RESULTS

Laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy represents the gold standard in advanced prolapse repair. Mesh complications occur infrequently but infections, failure of prolapse repair and mesh erosions necessitate mesh removal and repeat sacrocolpopexy if applicable. The video deals with two women referred to our tertiary referral urogynecology unit in the University Women's Hospital of Bern, Switzerland, after laparoscopic sacrocolpopexies that were carried out in remote hospitals. Both patients were asymptomatic more than 1 year after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Complete mesh removal after sacrocolpopexy and repeat prolapse surgery can be challenging but is feasible and is aimed at improving patients' complaints and symptoms.

Predictors of outcomes in patients with repeat surgery for obstetric fistula: a retrospective review

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Predictors of surgical outcomes in patients with an obstetric fistula who have been operated before should be identified in order to guide surgical strategy and optimize counseling of the patient.

METHODS

This retrospective study is aimed at identifying predictors of outcomes for repeat surgery in 346 patients who had been operated on before for an obstetrics fistula at the Fistula Care Center (FCC) in Lilongwe, Malawi. Repeat cases were only undertaken by advanced and expert surgeons. The primary outcome was successful anatomical closure, based on a negative postoperative dye test. The secondary outcomes involved urinary continence, based on a patient-reported questionnaire and an objective 1-h pad weight test. Logistic regression models were used to test the predictors for statistical significance.

RESULTS

Successful fistula closure was achieved in 288 (83%) patients and continence was achieved in 185 (64%) patients after the first repeat attempt at the FCC. Lack of urethral involvement (Goh classification: proximity to the urethra) was shown to be a good predictor of the outcomes: fistula closure and subjective and objective continence.

CONCLUSIONS

Absence of urethral involvement is an independent predictor for successful outcomes in repeat surgery for obstetric fistulas. Even in the hands of an expert surgeon, the risk of another failure in achieving anatomical closure or subjective or objective continence is between 4 and 5 times higher than when the urethra is not involved.

Reoperation etiologies in the initial hospital stay after liver transplantation: a single-center study from Iran

Background

Liver transplantation (LT) is widely recognized as a life-saving therapy for patients with end-stage liver disease. However, due to certain posttransplant complications, reoperations or endovascular interventions may be necessary to improve patient outcomes. This study was conducted to examine reasons for reoperation during the initial hospital stay following LT and to identify its predictive factors.

Methods

We evaluated the incidence and etiology of reoperation in 133 patients who underwent LT from brain-dead donors over a 9-year period based on our experiences.

Results

A total of 52 reoperations were performed for 29 patients, with 17 patients requiring one reoperation, seven requiring two, three requiring three, one requiring four, and one requiring eight. Four patients underwent liver retransplantation. The most common cause of reoperation was intra-abdominal bleeding. Hypofibrinogenemia was identified as the sole predisposing factor for bleeding. Frequencies of comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus and hypertension did not differ significantly between groups. Among patients who underwent reoperation due to bleeding, the mean plasma fibrinogen level was 180.33±68.21 mg/dL, while among reoperated patients without bleeding, it was 240.62±105.14 mg/dL (P=0.045; standard mean difference, 0.61; 95% confidence interval, 0.19-1.03). The initial hospital stay was significantly longer for the reoperated group (47.5±15.5 days) than for the non-reoperated group (22.5±5.5 days).

Conclusions

Meticulous pretransplant assessment and postoperative care are essential for the early identification of predisposing factors and posttransplant complications. In order to enhance graft and patient outcomes, any complications should be addressed without hesitation, and appropriate intervention or surgery should not be delayed.

Repeat operations in patients with anal fistula, a retrospective study across England and Wales

AIM

This article reports the frequency of repeat operations including waiting times within the National Health Service (NHS) of England and Wales.

METHODS

Retrospective study on repeat operations for anal fistula (AF) performed between 1st January 2010 and 31st December 2016. Data were extracted from the national registry of data entered into Hospital Episode Statistics (HES). Patient factors (age, sex, self-declared ethnicity) and geographical location were tested for association with repeat operations and time to the second operation.

RESULTS

We analysed 36,223 patients that had an operation for AF within 148 NHS trusts. The median follow-up time was 28 months. The majority of patients (67.4%) had only one operation. Eighty-five per cent of them remained under the care of a single consultant. Six per cent of the repeat surgeries occurred in at least three different treatment sites. Young age and female sex were associated with higher rates of repeat operations. Non-declared and Black or Black British ethnicity were associated with fewer operations. The median waiting time between the first and second operations was 27.4 weeks (IQR: 14.7-55.3); between the second and third 28.0 weeks (IQR: 14.7-57.0); between the third and fourth 29.0 weeks.

CONCLUSION

This large real world population-based study shows that the majority of patients with AF undergo only one operation. Patients requiring multiple procedures tend to stay under the care of a small number of consultants but waiting times between operations are long. There is a geographical variation in the number of operations and the time between them.

Evaluation of diagnostic efficacy for localization of parathyroid adenoma in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism undergoing repeat surgery

Purpose

Repeat surgery in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (pHPT) is associated with an increased risk of complications and failure. This stresses the need for optimized strategies to accurately localize a parathyroid adenoma before repeat surgery is performed. However, evidence on the extent of required diagnostics for a structured approach is sparse.

Methods

A retrospective single-center evaluation of 28 patients with an indication for surgery due to pHPT and previous thyroid or parathyroid surgery was performed. Diagnostic workup, surgical approach, and outcome in terms of complications and successful removement of parathyroid adenoma with biochemical cure were evaluated.

Results

Neck ultrasound, sestamibi scintigraphy, C11-methionine PET-CT, and selective parathyroid hormone venous sampling, but not MRI imaging, effectively detected the presence of a parathyroid adenoma with high positive predictive values. Biochemical cure was revealed by normalization of calcium and parathormone levels 24–48h after surgery and was achieved in 26/28 patients (92.9%) with an overall low rate of complications. Concordant localization by at least two diagnostic modalities enabled focused surgery with success rates of 100%, whereas inconclusive localization significantly increased the rate of bilateral explorations and significantly reduced the rate of biochemical cure to 80%.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that two concordant diagnostic modalities are sufficient to accurately localize parathyroid adenoma before repeat surgery for pHPT. In cases of poor localization, extended diagnostic procedures are warranted to enhance surgical success rates. We suggest an algorithm for better orientation when repeat surgery is intended in patients with pHPT.

Recurrent stress urinary incontinence surgery in the United Kingdom: an analysis of the British Society of Urogynaecology database (2007-2015)

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

There is a lack of robust evidence guiding treatment options for recurrent stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and limited comparative outcome data. The aim of this study was to examine the pattern of surgery for recurrent SUI performed by gynaecologists in the UK and compare subjective success rates.

METHODS

Retrospective review of the British Society of Urogynaecologists database for patients having repeat incontinence procedures (2007-2015) including the number of each procedure and outcome recorded by the International Consultation on Incontinence Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICIQ-UI-SF) questionnaire. Procedures were compared by year and outcomes by operation. Categorical comparisons were performed using Chi-squared test and numerical comparisons using appropriate non-parametric tests.

RESULTS

A total of 2,938 records were obtained (269 were excluded) and 2,164 women (88.8%) had undergone one previous procedure, most commonly retropubic midurethral sling (MUS; 28.6%). Pelvic floor exercises were offered to 76.2% women. Urodynamic investigation was carried out in 96.2% women: 76.5% had urodynamic stress incontinence. Repeat MUS was the most common procedure (77.3%), followed by bladder neck injections (BNI; 10.2%). Follow-up details were available for 66.1%. Outcome data were poorly reported. Median ICIQ-UI-SF score fell from 16 (0-21) to 0 (0-21) (p < 0.001), 81.6% felt "much better" or "very much better" on Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I), and 89.3% "cured" or "improved". MUS, colposuspension and fascial sling showed the best results with regard to the PGI-I score and "change in SUI" (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

MUS and BNI were the most common repeat continence procedures. Follow-up data suggest that MUS, colposuspension and fascial sling are most effective.

MRI after Whoops procedure: diagnostic value for residual sarcoma and predictive value for an incomplete second resection

OBJECTIVE

To determine the value of MRI for the detection and assessment of the anatomic extent of residual sarcoma after a Whoops procedure (unplanned sarcoma resection) and its utility for the prediction of an incomplete second resection.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study included consecutive patients who underwent a Whoops procedure, successively followed by gadolinium chelate-enhanced MRI and second surgery at a tertiary care sarcoma center.

RESULTS

Twenty-six patients were included, of whom 19 with residual tumor at the second surgery and 8 with an incomplete second resection (R1: n = 6 and R2: n = 2). Interobserver agreement for residual tumor at MRI after a Whoops procedure was perfect (κ value: 1.000). MRI achieved a sensitivity of 47.4% (9/19), a specificity of 100% (7/7), a positive predictive value of 100% (9/9), and a negative predictive value of 70.0% (7/17) for the detection of residual tumor. MRI correctly classified 2 of 19 residual sarcomas as deep-seated (i.e., extending beyond the superficial muscle fascia) but failed to correctly classify 3 of 19 residual sarcomas as deep-seated. There were no significant associations between MRI findings (presence of residual tumor, maximum tumor diameter, anatomic tumor extent, tumor margins, tumor spiculae, and tumor tail on the superficial fascia) with an incomplete (R1 or R2) second resection.

CONCLUSION

Gadolinium chelate-enhanced MRI is a reproducible method to rule in residual sarcoma, but it is insufficiently accurate to rule out and assess the anatomic extent or residual sarcoma after a Whoops procedure. Furthermore, MRI has no utility in predicting an incomplete second resection.

Local treatment for relapsing glioblastoma: A decision-making tree for choosing between reirradiation and second surgery

In case of circumscribed recurrent glioblastoma (rec-GBM), a second surgery (Re-S) and reirradiation (Re-RT) are local strategies to consider. The aim is to provide an algorithm to use in the daily clinical practice. The first step is to consider the life expectancy in order to establish whether the patient should be a candidate for active treatment. In case of a relatively good life expectancy (>3 months) and a confirmed circumscribed disease(i.e. without multiple lesions that are in different lobes/hemispheres), the next step is the assessment of the prognostic factors for local treatments. Based on the existing prognostic score systems, patients who should be excluded from local treatments may be identified; based on the validated prognostic factors, one or the other local treatment may be preferred. The last point is the estimation of expected toxicity, considering patient-related, tumor-related and treatment-related factors impacting on side effects. Lastly, patients with very good prognostic factors may be considered for receiving a combined treatment.

Feasibility and efficacy of repeat laparoscopic liver resection for recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Repeat hepatectomy is an acceptable treatment for recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, repeat laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) has not been widely adopted due to its technical difficulty. This study aimed to assess the feasibility and efficacy of repeat LLR compared with repeat open liver resection (OLR) for recurrent HCC.

METHODS

We performed 42 repeat OLR and 30 repeat LLR for cases of recurrent HCC between January 2007 and March 2018. This study retrospectively compared the patients' clinicopathological characteristics and operative and short-term outcomes including surgical time, intraoperative blood loss, duration of hospital stay, and postoperative complications between the two groups.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in patient characteristics between the two groups except in terms of Child-Pugh grade. The repeat LLR group had lower median intraoperative blood loss (100 mL vs. 435 mL; P = 0.001) and shorter median postoperative hospital stay (10 days vs. 14.5 days; P = 0.002). The other results including postoperative complications were comparable between the two groups. Further, comparison of two subpopulations of the repeat LLR group stratified by previous hepatectomy type (open or laparoscopic) or tumor location (segments 7 and 8 or other) revealed no significant differences in the postoperative clinical characteristics between them, although the morbidity rate tended to be higher in patients who underwent open hepatectomy for primary HCC than in patients who underwent laparoscopic hepatectomy.

CONCLUSIONS

Repeat LLR for recurrent HCC is feasible and useful with good short-term outcomes although an appropriate patient selection seems to be necessary.

Effectiveness of repeat surgery for recurrence after primary hepatectomy in patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (IHCC) has a poor prognosis, and surgery remains the only effective treatment. However, tumor recurrence after primary hepatectomy is common. We examined the significance of repeat surgery for IHCC.

METHODS

We collected data for all patients with IHCC between 1992 and 2018 (n = 67) in our database. Fifty-three (79.1%) of all 67 patients experienced recurrence after primary hepatectomy and we analyzed data for those 53 recurrent patients. We divided recurrent patients into a repeat surgery group (n = 9), chemotherapy group (n = 19), and best supportive care group (n = 25). We analyzed differences in patients' clinicopathological factors, including prognosis, between the three groups.

RESULTS

The IHCC recurrence rate after hepatectomy in our institution was 79.1%. Of the 53 patients with recurrence, nine underwent repeat surgery (17.0%). The characteristics of the patients undergoing repeat surgery was lower stage at primary hepatectomy. Recurrence sites in the repeat surgery group were liver (n = 6), lung (n = 2), and adrenal gland (n = 1), as a single nodule. The period between primary hepatectomy and recurrence was comparatively longer in the repeat surgery group, at 1.8 years. The prognosis in patients undergoing repeat surgery was significantly better compared with the other groups. Not undergoing repeat surgery (hazard ratio: 5.506; p = 0.0077) and positive lymph node metastasis (hazard ratio: 2.207; p = 0.0242) were independent poor prognostic factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Repeat surgery should be considered in patients with IHCC with a single recurrence site and negative lymph node metastasis at primary surgery and at least more than 6 months of disease-free period after primary surgery.

How common is repeat surgery and multi-level treatment in Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy? Findings from a patient perspective survey

Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy (DCM) is a common condition which causes significant disability and reduces health-related quality of life. The only evidence-based treatment and current management guidance is surgery to decompress the spinal cord and stop further damage in moderate to severe cases. However, this guidance is mainly informed by studies that only include first time surgery and/or single level disease, but DCM can reoccur after primary surgery and affect multiple levels of the spine. It is unclear whether patients in these subgroups; repeat surgery and multi-level DCM, differ significantly in their baseline and disease characteristics from those with single-level, single-operation disease. To investigate this, we conducted an online survey of people with DCM looking at key demographic, disease (e.g. mJOA) and treatment characteristics. We received a total of 778 respondents, of which 159 (20%) had undergone surgery for DCM. Around 75% of these respondents had a single operation and 65% at a single level. We found no statistically significant difference in key participant and disease characteristics between respondents with single-level or single-operation and those with multi-level DCM or multiple operations. These data support generalisability of research to these subgroups but also warrants further investigations as these subgroups are underrepresented in current research.

Status and perspective of laparoscopic repeat liver resection

Liver resection (LR) is now actively applied to intrahepatic recurrence of liver metastases and hepatocellular carcinoma. Although indications of laparoscopic LR (LLR) have been expanded, there are increased risks of intraoperative complications and conversion in repeat LLR. Controversy still exists for the indication. There are 16 reports of small series to date. These studies generally reported that repeat LLR has better short-term outcomes than open (reduced bleedings, less or similar morbidity and shorter hospital stay) without compromising the long-term outcomes. The fact that complete adhesiolysis can be avoided in repeat LLR is also reported. In the comparison of previous procedures, it is reported that the operation time for repeat LLR was shorter for the patients previously treated with LLR than open. Furthermore, it is speculated that LLR for minor repeat LR of cirrhotic liver can be minimized the deterioration of liver function by LR. However, further experience and evaluation of anatomical resection or resections exposing major vessels as repeat LLR, especially after previous anatomical resection, are needed. There should be a chance to prolong the overall survival of the patients by using LLR as a powerful local therapy which can be applied repeatedly with minimal deterioration of liver function.

The predictors and oncological outcomes of repeat surgery for recurrence after hepatectomy for colorectal liver metastases

PURPOSE

Although recurrence after hepatectomy for colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) is common, the optimal treatment strategy remains unclear. The aims of this study were to clarify the impact of repeat surgery and identify the predictive factors for repeat surgery.

METHODS

Among the 170 patients who underwent potentially curative surgery for CRLM, 113 developed recurrence. The predictive factors for the performance of repeat surgery were identified and a predictive model was constructed.

RESULTS

The patterns of recurrence were as follows; single site [n = 100 (liver, n = 61; lung, n = 22; other, n = 17)], multiple site (n = 13). Repeat surgery was performed in 54 patients (47.8%) including re-hepatectomy (n = 25), radiofrequency ablation (n = 12), and resection of the extrahepatic recurrent disease (n = 17), and their overall survival (OS) was significantly better than that of those who could not (5-year OS 60.7 vs 19.5%, P < 0.0001). A multivariate analysis revealed that a primary N-negative status [relative risk (RR) 2.93, P = 0.017], indocyanine retention rate at 15 min ≤ 10% before hepatectomy (RR 2.49, P = 0.04), and carcinoembryonic antigen ≤ 5 ng/mL before hepatectomy (RR 2.96, P = 0.017) independently predicted the performance of repeat surgery. For patients who did not present any factors, the probability of repeat surgery was 19.6%. The addition of each subsequent factor increased the probability to 41.9, 67.8, and 84.0% (for 1, 2, and 3 factors, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Repeat surgery for not only intrahepatic but also extrahepatic recurrence is crucial for prolonging the survival of CRLM patients. The proposed model may help to predict the possibility of repeat surgery and provide optimal individualized treatment.

Transcatheter Closure Versus Repeat Surgery for the Treatment of Postoperative Left-to-Right Shunts: A Single Center 15-Year Experience

Background

Repeat surgery and the percutaneous approach (transcatheter closure (TCC)) have been used for the management of postoperative left-to-right shunts. In this study, we described our 15 years of experience in treating postoperative left-to-right shunts with these two approaches.

Methods

From February 2002 to February 2017, 50 patients with residual left-to-right shunts, following cardiac surgery, were treated using TCC or repeat surgery. Clinical examination, standard 12-lead electrocardiography, chest X-ray, and a transthoracic echocardiogram were performed before hospital discharge and at all follow-ups.

Results

The closure rate was 100% in both groups and there was no procedure-related mortality. Patients with TCC had few complications. The procedure time and duration of hospital stay for TCC patients were 58.9 ± 27.7 min and 6.1 ± 0.8 days, respectively. Eleven out of 19 patients receiving reoperation suffered serious complications after surgery, e.g., bleeding and nosocomial infections. The operation time and duration of hospital stay for reoperation patients were 256.7 ± 60.5 min and 17.0 ± 4.0 days, respectively. No other serious complications were seen at all follow-up visits for both groups.

Conclusions

In conclusions, TCC is safe and effective for the management of postoperative left-to-right shunts, and is associated with few complications, which can be the favored closure strategy over repeat surgery for the management of postoperative left-to-right shunts.

[Allograft reconstruction in revision elbow arthroplasty]

BACKGROUND

There is limited knowledge on composite allograft reconstructions in revision elbow arthroplasty. A major reason for the restricted use of freshly frozen allografts is the divergent legal requirements for allograft procurement in European countries.

RESULTS

The opportunities and limitations of this complex revision surgery of the elbow are outlined based on our own restricted experiences, as well as on current literature. Our experience is in accordance with that of other institutions. The results are heterogeneous and range from satisfying to poor. The main problems are the increased risk of infection and the lack of allograft incorporation. Therefore, salvage procedures such as resection arthroplasty still need to be considered. It is not possible to define universally applicable treatment guidelines due to the limited caseload, even when an acceptable functional outcome can be achieved in the majority of cases. Due to the lack of a "simple solution" or valid guidelines, treatment strategies should be individualized for each patient. Complications such as infection and failed allograft incorporation represent the key issues of this procedure and remain a major challenge in revision surgery.

Risk factors associated with postoperative recurrence and repeat surgery in Japanese patients with Crohn's disease

PURPOSE

To avoid frequent surgery in patients with Crohn's disease, it is important to identify the risk factors for postoperative recurrence or repeat surgery. However, there have so far been few studies on this topic from Asian countries. In addition, the recent development of anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) therapy may have changed the risk factors. We aimed to identify the factors associated with postoperative recurrence and repeat surgery.

METHODS

The postoperative courses of 168 patients were reviewed. We analyzed the cumulative postoperative recurrence and repeat surgery rates and identified the factors affecting these rates.

RESULTS

Postoperative recurrence was observed in 70 patients, and the 1-, 3-, and 5-year cumulative recurrence rates were 17.1, 40.1, and 54.9%, respectively. The recurrence rate was significantly higher in patients with anal lesions and lower in patients newly treated with anti-TNF agents following surgery. In a multivariate analysis, the new introduction of anti-TNF agents was identified as an independent suppressor (hazard ratio 0.50, 95% confidence interval 0.28-0.88). Twenty-four patients underwent repeat surgery, and the 1-, 3-, and 5-year cumulative repeat surgery rates were 4.6, 11.2, and 18.7%, respectively. The surgery rate was significantly higher in patients with penetrating-type disease. In a multivariate analysis, penetrating-type disease (6.98, 2.37-23.35), anal lesions (4.40, 1.14-30.53), and first-time surgery (5.28, 1.17-17.93) were identified as independent risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Anti-TNF agents have the potential to prevent postoperative recurrence. The new introduction, dose escalation, or switching of anti-TNF agents is recommended in patients with some risk factors.

Smoking increases the risk of early meniscus repair failure

PURPOSE

The goal of this study is to determine whether patients who smoke cigarettes at the time of surgery are at significantly increased risk of early meniscus repair failure relative to non-smokers.

METHODS

Retrospective chart review identified 64 current smokers within a series of 444 consecutive patients who underwent meniscus repair during a 7 years period. Fifty-two of these 64 smokers were available for follow-up and were matched by age, sex, and ACL status with non-smokers from the same cohort. Records of these 104 patients with a total of 120 meniscus repairs were reviewed to identify meniscus repair failure (defined as repeat surgery on the index meniscus) during the median 13-month (range: 3-79 months) follow-up period.

RESULTS

The smoking and non-smoking groups were similar in age, sex, ACL status, BMI, meniscus repair technique, and meniscus involved. Meniscus repair failure occurred in 19 of the 112 menisci in 104 patients, for an overall failure risk of 17 %. Of the 19 failures, 14 occurred in 79 repaired medial menisci (18 % failure risk) and 5 occurred in 33 repaired lateral menisci (15 % failure risk). Meniscus repair failure occurred in significantly more smokers (15 failures in 56 menisci in 52 patients -27 % failure risk) than non-smokers (4 failures in 56 menisci in 52 patients -7 % failure risk) (p = 0.0076).

CONCLUSIONS

Smoking is associated with significantly increased risk of early meniscus repair failure as defined by the incidence of repeat surgery on the index meniscus.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

A case series of re-establishment of neuromuscular block with rocuronium after sugammadex reversal

We report the use of rocuronium to re-establish neuromuscular block after reversal with sugammadex. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the dose of rocuronium needed to re-establish neuromuscular block and the time interval between sugammadex administration and re-administration of rocuronium. Patients who required re-establishment of neuromuscular block within 12 h after the reversal of rocuronium-induced neuromuscular block with sugammadex were included. After inducing general anesthesia and placing the neuromuscular monitor, the protocol to re-establish neuromuscular block was as follows. An initial rocuronium dose of 0.6 mg/kg was followed by additional 0.3 mg/kg doses every 2 min until train-of-four responses were abolished. A total of 11 patients were enrolled in this study. Intervals between sugammadex and second rocuronium were 12-465 min. Total dose of rocuronium needed to re-establish neuromuscular block was 0.6-1.2 mg/kg. 0.6 mg/kg rocuronium re-established neuromuscular block in all patients who received initial sugammadex more than 3 h previously. However, when the interval between sugammadex and second rocuronium was less than 2 h, more than 0.6 mg/kg rocuronium was necessary to re-establish neuromuscular block.

Baerveldt tube implantation following failed deep sclerectomy versus repeat deep sclerectomy

PURPOSE

To compare the surgical outcomes of repeat deep sclerectomy (DS) and the Baerveldt glaucoma implant (BGI) in eyes with failed primary deep sclerectomy.

DESIGN

A retrospective comparative case-control study.

METHODS

Fifty-eight eyes of 56 glaucoma patients with previously failed DS underwent BGI (group BGI) and 58 eyes of 55 patients underwent repeat DS (group DS) at a tertiary referral centre. Visual acuity, intraocular pressure (IOP), number of glaucoma medications, surgical failure rates and complication rates were compared between groups. Surgical failure was defined as loss of IOP control, loss of light perception, or need for further glaucoma surgery.

RESULTS

Baseline demographics were similar between groups. Preoperatively, median IOP was lower in the DS than the BGI group (19 mmHg versus 21 mmHg, p = 0.10). Postoperatively at year 1, median IOP was significantly higher in the DS than BGI group (14 mmHg versus 11 mmHg, p = 0.02). There were no differences between the DS and BGI groups in mean number of medications preoperatively (2.3 versus 2.6) or postoperatively (1.3 versus 1.1). Complication rates were significantly higher in the DS group [41 % (n = 24) versus 14 % (n = 8); p = 0.01]. The failure rate at 1 year was higher in eyes with repeat DS than in eyes with BGI (30 vs. 21 %, respectively; p = 0.07).

CONCLUSIONS

Baerveldt implants were more effective in lowering IOP and resulted in significantly fewer complications than repeat deep sclerectomy in eyes with previously failed deep sclerectomy.

Results of repeated transsphenoidal surgery in Cushing's disease. Long-term follow-up

OBJECTIVE

Transsphenoidal surgery (TSS) is the treatment of choice for Cushing's disease (CD). However, the best treatment option when hypercortisolism persists or recurs remains unknown. The aim of this study was to analyze the short and long-term outcome of repeat TSS in this situation and to search for response predictors.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Data from 26 patients with persistent (n=11) or recurrent (n=15) hypercortisolism who underwent repeat surgery by a single neurosurgeon between 1982 and 2009 were retrospectively analyzed. Remission was defined as normalization of urinary free cortisol (UFC) levels, and recurrence as presence of elevated UFC levels after having achieved remission. The following potential outcome predictors were analyzed: adrenal status (persistence or recurrence) after initial TSS, tumor identification in imaging tests, degree of hypercortisolism before repeat TSS, same/different surgeon in both TSS, and time to repeat surgery.

RESULTS

Immediate postoperative remission was achieved in 12 patients (46.2%). Five of the 10 patients with available follow-up data relapsed after surgery (median time to recurrence, 13 months). New hormone deficiencies were seen in seven patients (37%), and two patients had cerebrospinal fluid leakage. No other major complications occurred. None of the preoperative factors analyzed was predictive of surgical outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

When compared to initial surgery, repeat TSS for CD is associated to a lower remission rate and a higher risk of recurrence and complications. Further studies are needed to define outcome predictors.