Intraoperative Blood Pressure Management and Its Effects on Postoperative Delirium After Cardiac Surgery: A Single-Center Retrospective Cohort Study

OBJECTIVES

There is accumulating evidence that blood pressure management might be associated with end-organ dysfunction after cardiac surgery. This study aimed to investigate the impact of intraoperative hypotension (IOH) on adverse neurologic outcomes and mortality.

DESIGN

A single-center retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

The Heart and Diabetes Centre Bad Oeynhausen NRW, Ruhr-University Bochum.

PARTICIPANTS

This retrospective cohort study included 31,315 adult patients who underwent elective cardiac surgery at the authors' institution between January 2009 and December 2018.

INTERVENTIONS

All cardiac surgery procedures except assist device implantation, organ transplantation, and emergency surgery.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Adverse neurologic outcomes were defined as postoperative delirium and stroke. IOH was defined as mean arterial pressure below 60 mmHg for >2 minutes. The frequency of IOH episodes and the cumulative IOH duration were recorded. The association between IOH and adverse neurologic outcomes was examined with unadjusted statistical analysis and multiple logistic regression analysis. Eight hundred forty-nine (2.9%) patients developed postoperative stroke, and 2,401 (7.7%) patients developed postoperative delirium. The frequency of IOH episodes was independently associated with postoperative delirium in the multiple logistic regression analysis (odds ratio 1.02, 95% CI 1.003-1.03, p < 0.001), whereas there was no association between it and stroke.

CONCLUSION

This large retrospective monocentric cohort study revealed that increased episodes of IOH were associated with the risk of developing postoperative delirium after cardiac surgery. This might have important clinical implications with respect to careful and precise hemodynamic monitoring and proactive treatment, especially in patients with increased risk for postoperative delirium.

GIANT INTRAOPERATIVE CORNEAL BULLA MANAGED WITH BANDAGE LENS TECHNIQUE DURING VITRECTOMY SURGERY

PURPOSE

To report a case of giant intraoperative corneal bulla formation in a patient with a history of recent phacoemulsification with clear corneal incision that was managed with a bandage contact lens intraoperatively.

METHODS

Retrospective case report with anterior segment optical coherence tomography.

RESULTS

A 77-year-old woman with a history of recent complicated cataract surgery with retained lens fragments underwent pars plana vitrectomy and scleral-fixated intraocular lens placement. During pars plana vitrectomy, a large corneal bulla formed at the site of the main corneal incision, confirmed with anterior segment optical coherence tomography. A bandage contact lens with viscoelastic was used to overcome visualization challenges and safely proceed with the surgery.

CONCLUSION

This is the first report of corneal bullae formation during pars plana vitrectomy that is confirmed by anterior segment optical coherence tomography and successfully managed with a bandage contact lens intraoperatively.

Spike sign - To predict the formation of big bubble in deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty in advanced keratoconus

Lamellar surgeries have revolutionized our understanding and practice of keratoplasties. However, the learning curve in deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) makes it daunting for novice surgeons. This paper describes a unique intraoperative sign - the radial "spike sign," which heralds the commencement of a big bubble in some cases of advanced keratoconus in eyes that have not undergone any previous surgery. The spike sign was noted during big bubble DALK surgery and was then retrospectively looked for in recorded DALK surgical videos and correlated with the formation of a big bubble. The movement of air after injection was classified into the direct formation of a big bubble, stromal emphysema with no big bubble, and emphysema with the spike sign followed by a big bubble. In total, 104 surgical videos of big bubble attempts were evaluated and classified as such. The spike sign helps reduce the number of unnecessary attempts at big bubble formation during DALK, thus improving surgical outcomes.

Epidemiological Predictors of Financial Toxicity in Surgical Burn Injuries: A Multicenter, Longitudinal, Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Burns constitute a major global health challenge, causing over 11 million injuries and 300,000 deaths annually and surpassing the economic burden of cervical cancer and HIV combined. Despite this, patient-level financial consequences of burn injuries remain poorly quantified, with a significant gap in data from low- and middle-income countries. In this study, we evaluate financial toxicity in burn patients.

METHODS

A prospective, multicenter cohort study was conducted across two tertiary care hospitals in India, assessing 123 adult surgical in-patients undergoing operative interventions for burn injuries. Patient sociodemographic, clinical, and financial data were collected through surveys and electronic records during hospitalization and at 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively. Out-of-pocket costs (OOPCs) for surgical burn treatment were evaluated during hospitalization. Longitudinal changes in income, employment status, and affordability of basic subsistence needs were assessed at the 1-, 3-, and 6-month postoperative time point. Degree of financial toxicity was calculated using a combination of the metrics catastrophic health expenditure and financial hardship. Development of financial toxicity was compared by sociodemographic and clinical characteristics using logistic regression models.

RESULTS

Of the cohort, 60% experienced financial toxicity. Median OOPCs was US$555.32 with the majority of OOPCs stemming from direct nonmedical costs (US$318.45). Cost of initial hospitalization exceeded monthly annual income by 80%. Following surgical burn care, income decreased by US$318.18 within 6 months, accompanied by a 53% increase in unemployment rates. At least 40% of the cohort consistently reported inability to afford basic subsistence needs within the 6-month perioperative period. Significant predictors of developing financial toxicity included male gender (odds ratio, 4.17; 95% confidence interval, 1.25-14.29; P = 0.02) and hospital stays exceeding 20 days (odds ratio, 11.17; 95% confidence interval, 2.11-59.22; P ≤ 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical treatment for burn injuries is associated with substantial financial toxicity. National and local policies must expand their scope beyond direct medical costs to address direct nonmedical and indirect costs. These include burn care insurance, teleconsultation follow-ups, hospital-affiliated subsidized lodging, and resources for occupational support and rehabilitation. These measures are crucial to alleviate the financial burden of burn care, particularly during the perioperative period.

The practical and educational value of scleral buckling with chandelier illumination

PURPOSE

To compare the surgical results in cases of primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachments between standard scleral buckling (SSB) and scleral buckling with chandelier illumination (SBC) and to analyse the differences in SBC surgical results between an experienced ophthalmologist and inexperienced ophthalmologists.

METHODS

Consecutive surgical case series of 155 eyes that underwent scleral buckling were retrospectively reviewed and divided into four groups: SSB performed by an experienced ophthalmologist (n = 54), SBC performed by an experienced ophthalmologist (n = 52), SBC performed by inexperienced ophthalmologists (n = 40) and SSB performed by inexperienced ophthalmologists (n = 9). Then, these four groups were compared.

RESULTS

No significant differences were observed between SSB and SBC procedures both performed by the experienced ophthalmologist with regard to demographics, preoperative findings, contents of the surgery, intraoperative complications, retinal reattachment, postoperative findings and postoperative complications. Between SBC performed by the experienced ophthalmologist and SBC performed by the inexperienced ophthalmologists, no significant differences were found regarding intraoperative complications, retinal reattachment, postoperative findings and postoperative complications. Between SSB and SBC procedures both performed by the inexperienced ophthalmologist, a significant difference was found regarding intraoperative complications.

CONCLUSION

There were no significant differences in surgical results between SSB and SBC when both were performed by the experienced ophthalmologist. In addition, the surgical results were equal between the experienced ophthalmologist and the inexperienced ophthalmologist as far as SBC was concerned. Learning scleral buckling skills by using SBC is a reasonable course of action for inexperienced ophthalmologists.

Operative efficiency: a comparative analysis of Versius and da Vinci robotic systems in abdominal surgery

Robotic-assisted surgery has gained momentum in the pursuit of improved minimally invasive procedures. The adoption of new robotic platforms, such as the Versius, raises concerns about safety, efficacy, and learning curves. This study compares the Versius to the well-established da Vinci in terms of operative time and patient population. Retrospective data collection was conducted on patient data from inguinal hernia surgery, ventral hernia surgery, and cholecystectomies performed between February 2022 and March 2023 at the American Hospital of Dubai. Only experienced cases were included, ensuring proficiency with robotic technology. Versius had longer procedure times in inguinal and ventral hernia surgeries but not in cholecystectomy. No intraoperative complications were observed in either system. This study demonstrates that Versius can provide comparable outcomes to the da Vinci in abdominal surgery, with no observed intraoperative complications.

Gasless transvaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery for hysterectomy and salpingectomy on a robot platform with flexible devices in a porcine model

In this report, we described a new technique of gasless V-NOTES for hysterectomy and salpingectomy on a robotic platform with flexible devices in a porcine model. As a result, the gynecological procedures were successfully completed. The total operative time was 110 min, while the docking time was 10 min. The estimated blood loss was estimated to be 10 mL with no intraoperative complications. It revealed that gasless V-NOTES for hysterectomy and salpingectomy on a robotic platform with flexible devices appeared to be feasible and safe in the porcine model and has the potential for clinical use in human beings.

Comparison of perioperative outcomes between robot-assisted adrenalectomy and laparoscopic adrenalectomy: a propensity score matching analysis

This study aimed to evaluate and compare the perioperative outcomes of robot-assisted adrenalectomy (RAA) and laparoscopic adrenalectomy (LA) using propensity score matching. This retrospective study included 395 patients who underwent minimally invasive adrenalectomy: 354 who underwent LA and 41 who underwent RAA between February 2015 and March 2023. To mitigate potential confounding factors, 2:1 propensity score matching was conducted based on age, sex, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, tumor laterality, and tumor size. Perioperative outcomes and complications were compared between the two groups, and prognostic factors for complications were analyzed. Propensity score matching analysis identified 123 patients, with 82 and 41 in the LA and RAA groups, respectively. Operative time (81.4 ± 26.6 min vs. 83.5 ± 25.9 min, P = 0.675), estimated blood loss (77.7 ± 68.3 mL vs. 83.2 ± 73.9 mL, P = 0.683), and post-operative stay (3.8 ± 1.0 days vs. 4.0 ± 0.9 days, P = 0.211) showed no significant differences between two groups. Intraoperative complications occurred in 8 patients (9.8%) in the LA group, while no patients (0%) experienced intraoperative complications in the RAA group (P = 0.051). In both groups, post-operative complications occurred in 2.4% (P = 1). The only factor contributing to complications after adrenalectomy was tumor size (OR 1.026, 95% CI 1.001-1.051, P = 0.042). RAA exhibited comparable perioperative outcomes and presented an improved intraoperative complication rate compared with LA. Tumor size was the only factor that contributed to complications after adrenalectomy.

The Utility of Transcranial Electrical Stimulation Motor Evoked Potential Monitoring in Predicting Postoperative Supplementary Motor Area Syndrome and Motor Function Recovery

BACKGROUND

Postoperative hemiparesis following frontal lobe lesion resection is alarming, and predicting motor function recovery is challenging. Supplementary motor area (SMA) syndrome following resection of frontal lobe lesions is often indistinguishable from postoperative motor deficit due to surgical injury of motor tracts. We aimed to describe the use of intraoperative transcranial electrical stimulation (TES) with motor evoked potential monitoring data as a diagnostic tool to distinguish between SMA syndrome and permanent motor deficit (PMD).

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 235 patients undergoing craniotomy and resection with TES-MEP monitoring for a frontal lobe lesion was performed. Patients who developed immediate postoperative motor deficit were included. Motor deficit and TES-MEP findings were categorized by muscle group as left upper extremity, left lower extremity, right upper extremity, or right lower extremity. Statistical analysis was performed to determine the predictive value of stable TES-MEP for SMA syndrome versus PMD.

RESULTS

This study included 20 patients comprising 29 cases of immediate postoperative motor deficit by muscle group. Of these, 27 cases resolved and were diagnosed as SMA syndrome, and 2 cases progressed to PMD. TES-MEP stability was significantly associated with diagnosis of SMA syndrome (P = 0.015). TES-MEP showed excellent diagnostic utility with a sensitivity and positive predictive value of 100% and 92.6%, respectively. Negative predictive value was 100%.

CONCLUSIONS

Temporary SMA syndrome is difficult to distinguish from PMD immediately postoperatively. TES-MEP may be a useful intraoperative adjunct that may aid in distinguishing SMA syndrome from PMD secondary to surgical injury.

Air Embolism-Induced Ischemic Stroke Following Orthognathic Surgery in a Patient With Goldenhar Syndrome

Goldenhar syndrome, a rare congenital anomaly, manifests as craniofacial malformations often necessitating intricate surgical interventions. These procedures, though crucial, can expose patients to diverse postoperative complications, including hemorrhage or infection. A noteworthy complication is stroke, potentially linked to air embolism or local surgical trauma. We highlight a case of a male patient, aged 20 years, who experienced a significant postoperative complication of an ischemic stroke, theorized to be due to an air embolism, after undergoing orthognathic procedures for Goldenhar syndrome. The patient was subjected to LeFort I maxillary osteotomy, bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy of the mandible, and anterior iliac crest bone grafting to the right maxilla. He suffered an acute ischemic stroke in the left thalamus post-surgery, theorized to stem from an air embolism. Advanced imaging demonstrated air pockets within the cavernous sinus, a rare and concerning finding suggestive of potential air embolism. This case underscores the intricate challenges in treating Goldenhar syndrome patients and the rare but significant risk of stroke due to air embolism or surgical trauma. Limited literature on managing air embolism complications specific to Goldenhar syndrome surgeries exists. Generally, management includes immediate recognition, positional adjustments, air aspiration via central venous catheters, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, hemodynamic support, and high-flow oxygen administration to expedite air resorption. Our patient was conservatively managed post-surgery, and at a 3-month neurology follow-up, he showed significant improvement with only residual right arm weakness. It emphasizes the imperative of a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach.

A Novel Surgical Indication for Scheuermann's Kyphosis

Scheuermann kyphosis can be treated surgically to restore proper sagittal alignment. Thoracic curves >70° are typically indicated for surgical intervention. However, patients who have reached their natural limit of compensatory lumbar hyperlordosis are at risk of accelerated degeneration. This can be determined by comparing lumbar lordosis on standing neutral radiographs and supine extension radiographs. Minimal additional lordosis in extension compared with neutral, abutment of the spinous processes, or greater lumbar lordosis standing than with attempted extension suggest the patient is maximally compensated. We present a case of an adolescent boy with Scheuermann kyphosis who had reached the limit of his hyperlordosis compensation reserve. He subsequently underwent a T4 to L2 posterior spinal fusion with T7 to T11 Ponte Smith-Petersen grade two osteotomies. He tolerated the procedure well with no intraoperative complications or neuromonitoring changes. The patient has continued to do well and progressed to normal activity at 5-month follow-up.

Association between postinduction hypotension and postoperative mortality: a single-centre retrospective cohort study

PURPOSE

We aimed to elucidate whether postinduction hypotension (PIH), defined as hypotension between anesthesia induction and skin incision, and intraoperative hypotension (IOH) are associated with postoperative mortality.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of adult patients with an ASA Physical Status I-IV who underwent noncardiac and nonobstetric surgery under general anesthesia between 2015 and 2021 at Nagoya City University Hospital. The primary and secondary outcomes were 30-day and 90-day postoperative mortality, respectively. We calculated four hypotensive indices (with time proportion of the area under the threshold being the primary exposure variable) to evaluate the association between hypotension (defined as a mean blood pressure < 65 mm Hg) and mortality using multivariable logistic regression models. We used propensity score matching and RUSBoost (random under-sampling and boosting), a machine-learning model for imbalanced data, for sensitivity analyses.

RESULTS

Postinduction hypotension and IOH were observed in 82% and 84% of patients, respectively. The 30-day and 90-day postoperative mortality rates were 0.4% (52/14,210) and 1.0% (138/13,334), respectively. Postinduction hypotension was not associated with 30-day mortality (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.03; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.93 to 1.13; P = 0.60) and 90-day mortality (aOR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.94 to 1.07; P = 0.82). Conversely, IOH was associated with 30-day mortality (aOR, 1.19; 95% CI, 1.12 to 1.27; P < 0.001) and 90-day mortality (aOR, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.06 to 1.19; P < 0.001). Sensitivity analyses supported the association of IOH but not PIH with postoperative mortality.

CONCLUSION

Despite limitations, including power and residual confounding, postoperative mortality was associated with IOH but not with PIH.

Partial nephrectomy series using Versius robotic surgical system: technique and outcomes of an initial experience

Partial nephrectomy (PN) represents a procedure where the use of a robot has further enabled successful completion of this complex surgery. The results of this procedure using Versius Robotic Surgical System (VRSS) still need to be evaluated. Our working group described the technique and reported the initial results of a series of PN using VRSS. We presented our setting, surgical technique and outcomes for PN, using VRSS. Between 2022 and 2023, 15 patients underwent PN performed by two surgeons in two different centers. Fifteen patients underwent PN. The median lesion size identified on preoperative imaging was 4 (IQR 2.3-5) cm. Median PADUA score was 8 (IQR 7-9). Two procedures were converted to radical nephrectomy for enhanced oncological disease control. Of the 13 nephrectomies that were completed as partial, 7 were performed clampless and 6 with warm ischemia clamping. Median clamping time was 10 (IQR 9-11) minutes. No procedure was converted to open. Median blood loss was 200 (IQR 100-250) mL. Median total operative time was 105 (IQR 100-110) minutes. Median console time was 75 (IQR 66-80) minutes. Median set-up time was 13 (IQR 12-14) minutes. No intraoperative complications were reported. The median hospitalization time was 4 (IQR 3.5-4) days. None of the patients were transfused and none of the patients required readmission. In a pathology report, one patient had a positive surgical margin. Our initial experience suggests that performing PN using VRSS is feasible with good short-term outcomes.

Evaluation of the accuracy of fully guided implant placement by undergraduate students and postgraduate dentists: a comparative prospective clinical study

PURPOSE

This study aimed to assess the accuracy of implant placement through three-dimensional planning and fully guided insertion, comparing outcomes between undergraduate and postgraduate surgeons.

METHODS

Thirty-eight patients requiring 42 implants in posterior single-tooth gaps were enrolled from the University Clinic for Prosthodontics at the Martin Luther University Halle Wittenberg and the Department of Prosthodontics, Geriatric Dentistry, and Craniomandibular Disorders of Charité University Medicine, Berlin. Twenty-two implants were placed by undergraduate students (n = 18), while 20 implants were placed by trainee postgraduate dentists (n = 5). Pre-operative intraoral scans and cone beam computed tomography images were performed for implant planning and surgical template fabrication. Postoperative intraoral scans were superimposed onto the original scans to analyze implant accuracy in terms of apical, coronal, and angular deviations, as well as vertical discrepancies.

RESULTS

In the student group, two implant insertions were performed by the assistant dentist because of intraoperative complications and, thus, were excluded from further analysis. For the remaining implants, no statistically significant differences were observed between the dentist and student groups in terms of apical (p = 0.245), coronal (p = 0.745), or angular (p = 0.185) implant deviations, as well as vertical discrepancies (p = 0.433).

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms the viability of fully guided implant placement by undergraduate students, with comparable accuracy to postgraduate dentists. Integration into dental education can prepare students for implant procedures, expanding access and potentially reducing costs in clinical practice. Collaboration is essential for safe implementation, and future research should explore long-term outcomes and patient perspectives, contributing to the advancement of dental education and practice.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

DRKS, DRKS00023024, Registered 8 September 2020-Retrospectively registered, https://drks.de/search/de/trial/DRKS00023024 .

Intraoperative complications and visual outcomes of cataract surgery in neovascular age-related macular degeneration

PURPOSE

To compare the rate of intraoperative complications and visual outcomes in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (NvAMD) and control eyes without NvAMD undergoing phacoemulsification.

SETTING

Multicenter study.

DESIGN

Retrospective, nonrandomized comparative study.

METHODS

Eyes were classified based on the presence or absence of an NvAMD diagnosis. The main outcomes were (1) the rate of intraoperative complications, (2) the logMAR visual acuity (VA) at 4 to 12 weeks postoperatively in both groups, and (3) the reinjection rate of intravitreal antivascular endothelial growth factor after phacoemulsification.

RESULTS

Preoperative VA was worse in the NvAMD group (0.9 ± 0.5) compared with the reference group (0.6 ± 0.5). We observed no difference in the rate of posterior capsule rupture (PCR) (2.90% vs 2.77%; P = .889), dropped lens fragments (0.46% vs 0.29%; P = .618), or zonular dialysis (0.46% vs 0.58%, P = .749) between the 2 groups. Receiving ≥10 intravitreal injections before cataract surgery predicted the likelihood of PCR with an odds ratio of 2.86 (P = .027). Proportions of eyes achieving a visual gain of ≥0.3 logMAR (∼3 Snellen lines equivalent) was lower in NvAMD eyes (39.2% vs 63.7%; P < .0001). We observed 203 eyes (73%) in the active treatment group and 139 eyes (36%) in the inactive treatment group received >1 intravitreal injection after phacoemulsification (P < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS

The risk for PCR was higher for eyes receiving ≥10 intravitreal injections before phacoemulsification. Only 39% of eyes with NvAMD had visual improvement by ≥3 Snellen lines.

Submental intubation in complex maxillofacial trauma: Pilot balloon protection

AIMS

This study aims to describe our refined technique of submental intubation to avoid the recorded intraoperative complications related to tube passage and pilot balloon rupture.

CASE SERIES

This is a retrospective case series of 21 patients with complex maxillofacial trauma who underwent submental intubation from January 2019 to January 2023. All the patients underwent to the same procedure with a new technique of pilot balloon protection: the pilot balloon was not deflated because, once the connector was removed, only the tube was curved and passed through the incision extraorally while the cuff remained inflated. The wire of the pilot balloon was passed behind the last tooth so as not to interfere with the maxillary-mandibular fixation, remaining extraorally under the anesthetist's view.

DISCUSSION

Only 2 patients (9.5%) reported complications related to submental intubation: in particular a patient (4.8%) reported oral floor infection, and in another patient (4.8%) an unesthetic skin scar was observed. No patients reported intraoperative complications related to the procedure.

CONCLUSION

The technique of pilot balloon protection that we have proposed seems to be effective in reducing the intraoperative complications related to the passage of the pilot balloon, such as rupture, damage or early extubation.

Surgical treatment of paediatric fractures of the mandibular condyle: a systematic review of the literature

This study aims to review surgical treatment in paediatric condylar fractures and describe different types of techniques performed, along with the results obtained from them. A retrospective review was conducted from records of paediatric patients (from one to 17 years old) who sustained fractures of the mandibular condyle and underwent surgical treatment from 2003 to 2023. The number of patients, age, location, and type of fracture, clinical and imaging examinations, treatment methods, intraoperative/postoperative complications, removal of osteosynthesis material, follow up and outcomes were recorded and analysed. A total of 68 patients with 79 fractures were identified. The most common fracture pattern was condylar neck fracture (61.1%). Of the 68 patients who underwent surgical treatment, one had a complication of minimal temporal paraesthesia and another patient had near-complete resorption of the condyle. A total of 55 patients (81%) reported normal dental occlusion, mouth opening (>35 mm), lateral excursions (7-8 mm), TMJ function, no pain, no deviation of the midline or the jaw, and no ankylosis. Thirteen patients (19%) developed an unsatisfactory result, nine patients (13%) had a jaw deviation on mouth opening, four patients (6%) had mandibular retrusion, and seven patients (10%) had signs of TMJ dysfunction. A total of 59 patients (87%) reported bone completely healed with no signs of bone abnormality; seven patients (10%) had shortening of the condylar neck and/or ramus. Surgical treatment can lead to good or excellent results for severely dislocated and displaced condylar fractures in children and can reduce the unsatisfactory results resulting from closed treatment.

Clear rules for clear fluids fasting in children

Preoperative fasting guidelines published in 2022 by the European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care represent a paradigm shift in the preoperative preparation of children undergoing general anaesthesia. Schmitz and colleagues report the results from a multi-institutional prospective cohort study to determine if application of the recent guidelines increased the risk of regurgitation and pulmonary aspiration. This study provides support for the concept of reducing real fasting times by allowing clear fluids until 1 h before induction of anaesthesia. Although the study cohort was large, further prospective multicentre studies with even greater sample sizes are warranted to provide definitive evidence for the safety of the new fasting rules.

Reproducibility and predictive value of three grading systems for intraoperative adverse events in a cohort of abdominal surgery

INTRODUCTION

Intraoperative adverse events (iAEs) are increasingly recognized for their impact on patient outcomes. The Kaafarani classification and Surgical Apgar Score (SAS) were developed to assess the intraoperative course; however, both have their drawbacks. ClassIntra was validated for iAEs of any origin. This study compares the Kaafarani and SAS to ClassIntra considering predictive value and interrater reliability in a cohort of abdominal surgery to support implementation of a classification in clinical practice.

METHODS

The authors made use of the LAParotomy or LAParoscopy and ADhesiolysis (LAPAD) study database of elective abdominal surgery. Detailed descriptions on iAEs were collected in real-time by a researcher. For the current research aim, all iAEs were graded according ClassIntra, Kaafarani, and SAS (score ≤4). The predictive value was assessed using univariable and multivariable linear regression and the area under the receiver operating curve (AUROC). Two teams graded ClassIntra and Kaafarani to assess the interrater reliability using Cohen's Kappa.

RESULTS

A total of 755 surgeries were included, in which 335 (44%) iAEs were graded according to ClassIntra, 228 (30%) to Kaafarani, and 130 (20%) to SAS. All classifications were significantly correlated to postoperative complications, with an AUROC of 0.67 (95% CI: 0.62-0.72), 0.64 (0.59-0.70), and 0.71 (0.56-0.76), respectively. For the secondary endpoint, the interrater reliability of ClassIntra with κ 0.87 (95% CI: 0.84-0.90) and Kaafarani 0.90 (95% CI: 0.87-0.93) was both strong.

CONCLUSION

ClassIntra, Kaafarani, and SAS can be used for reporting of iAEs in abdominal surgery with good predictive value for postoperative complications, with strong reliability. ClassIntra, compared with Kaafarani and SAS, included the most iAEs and has the most comprehensive definition suitable for uniform reporting of iAEs in clinical practice and research.

Potential risks associated with laparoscopic gastrostomy in patients with the COL4A1 variant: Two case reports

The COL4A1 (collagen Type 4 alpha1) pathogenic variant is associated with porencephaly and schizencephaly and accounts for approximately 20% of these patients. This gene variant leads to systemic microvasculopathy, which manifests as brain, ocular, renal, and muscular disorders. However, only a few patients with surgical interventions have been reported and the potential surgical risks are unknown. Here, we present the cases of two female patients between 7 and 8 years of age who were diagnosed with the COL4A1 variant and underwent laparoscopy-assisted percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (LAPEG) for oral dysphagia. Their primary brain lesions were caused by porencephaly and paralysis, which are caused by multiple cerebral hemorrhages and infarctions, and both patients had refractory epileptic complications. Although LAPEG was successfully performed in both patients without any intraoperative complications, one patient developed alveolar hemorrhage postoperatively and required mechanical ventilation. Thus, careful perioperative management of patients with the COL4A1 variant is important.

Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty via a frown incision

PURPOSE

To assess the outcomes of Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) via a sclerocorneal frown incision.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective comparative study.

METHODS

The outcomes of Descement stripping endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) were retrospectively compared between 36 patients (36 eyes) who underwent surgery via a 3.8-mm frown incision (frown incision group) and 20 patients (20 eyes) who underwent surgery via a 4.6-mm straight incision (straight incision group). In all patients, an NS Endo-Inserter was used as the graft inserter and the incision for a frown incision was via the superior sclerocorneal site and for the straight incision via the temporal cornea. DSAEK was performed by the standard technique, except for the incision. At 1 year after surgery, the two groups were compared with respect to the visual acuity, decrease of corneal endothelial cell density, the severity of corneal astigmatism (diopters), the number of sutures for wound closure, and intraoperative/postoperative complications.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of postoperative visual acuity, corneal astigmatism, and intraoperative/postoperative complications one year after surgery. On the other hand, the number of sutures required for wound closure was 1.13 ± 0.42 in the frown incision group, whereas in the straight incision group, it was 3.20 ± 0.40, showing a significant difference (P<0.001). In addition, there was no decreased corneal endothelial cell density associated with the reduction in incision width.

CONCLUSIONS

A sclerocorneal frown incision is useful for performing DSAEK with an NS Endo-Inserter as it does not affect endothelial cell loss despite its short incision width.

New era of robotic surgery: first case in Spain of right hemicolectomy on Hugo RAS surgical platform

We describe the first robot-assisted right hemicolectomy performed in Spain using the new Hugo RAS (robotic-assisted surgery) (Medtronic, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA). No conversion was registered, and no intraoperative complications or technical failures of the system were recorded. The operative time was 200 min, the docking time was 5 min and the length of the hospital stay was 8 days. We conclude that a right hemicolectomy using the Hugo RAS system is safe and feasible. Our earlier experience provides important skills for those who are starting to use this new robotic system.

[Surgical treatment of fecal incontinence]

This article describes the surgical treatment of fecal incontinence. There are many surgical methods for fecal incontinence, and each treatment has its own advantages and disadvantages and indications. The appropriate surgical procedure should be selected according to the patient's history, anatomical structure and severity of incontinence. Injectable bulking agents is suitable for passive fecal incontinence. Sphincteroplasty is suitable for patients with sphincter injury caused by vaginal delivery or surgical trauma. Sacral nerve stimulation and posterior tibial nerve stimulation are relatively conservative methods. Gracilomyoplasty, artificial anal sphincter or magnetic anal sphincter can be used in the treatment of refractory fecal incontinence, but with many complications. Colostomy is the ideal choice for patients who have failed to respond to conservative treatment and cannot undergo these procedures.

Allogeneic versus autogenous shell technique augmentation procedures: a prospective-observational clinical trial comparing surgical time and complication rates

OBJECTIVES

Autogenous and allogeneic blocks for shell augmentation of the jaw have shown comparable results. This observational clinical study aimed to compare both materials for shell augmentation concerning surgery time and intra- and postoperative complications.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Bone augmentation with the shell technique using autogenous or allogenous bone was performed in 117 patients with segmental jaw atrophy. The primary study parameter was the surgical time, comparing both materials. Subsequently, intra- and postoperative complications were recorded.

RESULTS

Allogeneic (n = 60), autogenous (n = 52), or both materials (n = 5) were used. The use of allogeneic material led to a significantly shorter operation time (p < 0.001). A more experienced surgeon needed significantly less time than a less experienced surgeon (p < 0.001). An increasing number of bone shells (p < 0.001), an additional sinus floor elevation, and intraoperative complications also significantly increased the operation time (p = 0.001). Combining allogeneic and autogenous shells (p = 0.02) and simultaneous sinus floor elevation (p = 0.043) significantly impacted intraoperative complications. No correlations were found between the included variables for postoperative complications (all p > 0.05). In total, 229 implants were inserted after a healing time of 4-6 months, with a survival of 99.6% after a mean follow-up duration of 9 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared to the autogenous technique, allogeneic shell augmentation has a shorter surgical time and a similar rate of intra- and postoperative complications as autogenous bone. Together with its promising clinical results, this technique can be recommended.

Functional recovery after cesarean delivery: a prospective cohort study in rural Rwanda

INTRODUCTION

Women who deliver via cesarean section (c-section) experience short- and long-term disability that may affect their physical health and their ability to function normally. While clinical complications are assessed, postpartum functional outcomes are not well understood from a patient's perspective or well-characterized by previous studies. In Rwanda, 11% of rural women deliver via c-section. This study explores the functional recovery of rural Rwandan women after c-section and assesses factors that predict poor functionality at postoperative day (POD) 30.

METHODS

Data were collected prospectively on POD 3, 11, and 30 from women delivering at Kirehe District Hospital between October 2019 and March 2020. Functionality was measured by self-reported overall health, energy level, mobility, self-care ability, and ability to perform usual activities; and each domain was rated on a 4-point likert scale, lower scores reflecting higher level of difficulties. Using the four functionality domains, we computed composite mean scores with a maximum score of 4.0 and we defined poor functionality as composite score of ≤ 2.0. We assessed functionality with descriptive statistics and logistic regression.

RESULTS

Of 617 patients, 54.0%, 25.9%, and 26.8% reported poor functional status at POD3, POD11, and POD30, respectively. At POD30, the most self-reported poor functionality dimensions were poor or very poor overall health (48.1%), and inability to perform usual activities (15.6%). In the adjusted model, women whose surgery lasted 30-45 min had higher odds of poor functionality (aOR = 1.85, p = 0.01), as did women who experienced intraoperative complications (aOR = 4.12, 95% CI (1.09, 25.57), p = 0.037). High income patients had incrementally lower significant odds of poor physical functionality (aOR = 0.62 for every US$1 increase in monthly income, 95% CI (0.40, 0.96) p = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

We found a high proportion of poor physical functionality 30 days post-c-section in this Rwandan cohort. Surgery lasting > 30 min and intra-operative complications were associated with poor functionality, whereas a reported higher income status was associated with lower odds of poor functionality. Functional status assessments, monitoring and support should be included in post-partum care for women who delivered via c-section. Effective risk mitigating intervention should be implemented to recover functionality after c-section, particularly among low-income women and those undergoing longer surgical procedures or those with intraoperative complications.

A technical feasibility study on adaptation of a microsurgical robotic system to an intraoperative complication management in dental implantology: perforated Schneiderian membrane repair using Symani® Surgical System

The aim of the current study was to test the technical and clinical feasibility of a robotic system and investigate its potential in the surgical repair of perforated Schneiderian membranes using an ex-vivo porcine model. Eight pig heads were operated conventionally via a surgical loop and eight pig heads with the surgical robot "Symani® Surgical System" (Medical Microinstruments, Inc., Pisa, Italy). On each specimen, the Schneiderian membrane was incised over a length of 0.7 mm resembling a perforation. Operation time, the maximum sinusoidal pressure, the course of the pressure and the filling volume were measured. Additionally, adaptation of the wound edges has been detected via scanning electron microscopy. There were no significant differences for the pressure maximum (p = 0.528), for the time until the pressure maximum was reached (p = 0.528), or for the maximum filling volume (p = 0.674). The time needed for the suturing of the membrane via robotic surgery was significantly longer (p < 0.001). However, the scanning electron microscope revealed a better adaptation of the wound edges with robotic surgery. The technical feasibility of robot-assisted suturing of Schneiderian membrane laceration using the robotic system has been confirmed for the first time. No differences considering the pressure resistance compared to the conventional repair could be observed, but advantages in wound adaptation could be found with an electron microscope. Regarding the material and training costs and limited indications spectrum, robotic surgery systems still might not present financially feasible options in the daily dental practice yet.

Healthcare disparities and pelvic organ prolapse operative complications: a nationwide analysis

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The objective of this study was to evaluate the differences in the incidence of peri-operative complications at the time of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) repair based on health care disparities such as race and socioeconomic status.

METHODS

The National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database was queried using ICD-9/-10 codes for patients aged >18 years undergoing POP repair in 2008-2018. Demographic information, Elixhauser Comorbidity Index (ECI), insurance status, and peri-operative complications were extracted. Multivariate weighted logistic regression using the discharge weights from NIS were constructed on binary outcomes. Complications with at least 1% incidence were included in the analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 172,483 POP repair patients were analyzed: 130,022 (75.4%) were white, 10,561 (6.1%) were Black, 21,915 (12.7%) were Hispanic, and 9,985 (5.8%) were of other races. Patients with Medicaid as well as Black, Hispanic, and other races had higher odds of developing postoperative complications such as urinary tract infections, sepsis, and acute renal failure (p value <0.001-0.02). These were also more common in smaller, rural hospitals and with patients with an annual income of $45,999 or less (p value <0.001-0.03). Black and Hispanic patients had lower odds of intraoperative complications such as hemorrhage (aOR 0.77, 95% CI 0.71-0.84; aOR 0.75, 95% CI 0.7-0.8 respectively) or abdominopelvic injury (aOR 0.86, 95% CI 0.81-0.92; aOR 0.93, 95% CI 0.79-0.88 respectively) compared with white patients.

CONCLUSION

Nonwhite patients with lower socioeconomic status had increased postoperative complications and fewer intraoperative complications from POP surgery, whereas white patients with higher socioeconomic status had more intraoperative complications.

Early experience with bridging stent graft deployment without sheath support in branched and fenestrated endovascular aortic repair

OBJECTIVE

To assess the early experience with modified version of simplified bare-wire target vessel (SMART) technique, implying delivery of bridging stent grafts without historically established sheath support, and to compare its outcome to standard endovascular aortic repair procedures with fenestrated/branched devices.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 102 consecutive patients treated with fenestrated/branched devices from January 2020 to December 2022 was undertaken. The study population was divided into three groups-a sheath group (SG), SMART group, and nonsheath group (NSG). Primary end points were radiation exposure (dose-area product), fluoroscopy time, dose of contrast agent, operation time, and incidence of intraoperative target vessel (TV) complications and additional procedures. Freedom from secondary TV related reinterventions at the three follow-up phases were defined as secondary end points.

RESULTS

A total of 183 TVs (38.8% visceral arteries [VA]; 56.3% renal arteries [RA]) in the SG, 36 TVs (44.4% VA, 55.6% RA) in the SMART group, and 168 TVs (47.6% VA; 50% RA) in the NSG were accessed. The mean number of fenestrations and bridging stent grafts was equally distributed in all three groups. The SMART group only included cases treated with fenestrated devices. The dose-area product was significantly lower in the SMART (median, 203 Gy × cm2; interquartile range [IQR], 179-365 Gy × cm2) and NSG (median, 340 Gy × cm2; IQR, 220-651 Gy × cm2) groups vs the SG (median, 464 Gy × cm2; IQR, 267-871 Gy × cm2; P = .007). Operation time was also significantly lower in the NSG (median, 265 minutes; IQR, 221-337 minutes) and SMART (median, 292 minutes; IQR, 234-351 minutes) groups vs the SG (median, 326 minutes; IQR, 277-375 minutes; P = .004), respectively. Intraoperative TV-related complications were most frequently observed in the SG (9/183 TVs; P = .008).

CONCLUSIONS

This study reports the outcomes of three currently available TV stenting approaches. Previously reported SMART technique, and its modified version (NSG) proved to be a safe alternative to historically established TV stenting technique with sheath support (SG).

Intraoperative hypotension affects postoperative acute kidney injury depending on the invasiveness of abdominal surgery: A retrospective cohort study

Intraoperative hypotension (IOH) or highly invasive surgery adversely affects postoperative clinical outcomes. It is, however, unclear whether IOH affects postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI) depending on the invasiveness of abdominal surgery. We speculated that IOH in highly invasive abdominal surgery is a significant risk factor for postoperative AKI. We retrospectively reviewed the data of 448 patients who underwent abdominal surgery. Patients were divided into 3 groups: highly (such as pancreaticoduodenectomy and hepatectomy), moderately (open abdominal surgery), and minimally (laparoscopic surgery) invasive surgeries. The association between the time-weighted average (TWA) of mean arterial pressure (MAP) values (≤60 and ≤ 55 mm Hg) and AKI occurrences in each group was assessed. Postoperative AKI occurred after highly, moderately, and minimally invasive surgeries in 33 of 222 (14.9%), 14 of 110 (12.7%), and 12 of 116 (10.3%) cases, respectively (P = .526). The median [interquartile range] of TWA-MAP ≤ 60 mm Hg, as an IOH parameter, was 0.94 [0.33-2.08] mm Hg in highly, 0.54 [0.16-1.46] mm Hg in moderately, and 0.14 [0.03-0.57] mm Hg in minimally invasive surgeries (P < 0001). In addition, there was a significant association between TWA-MAP and AKI in highly invasive surgery, unlike in moderately and minimally invasive surgery, with adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence interval) for TWA-MAP ≤ 60 and ≤ 55 mm Hg associated with AKI of 1.23 [1.00-1.52] (P = .049) and 1.55 [1.02-2.36] (P = .041), respectively. Intraoperative MAP ≤ 60 mm Hg in highly invasive abdominal surgery is associated with postoperative AKI, compared to moderately and minimally invasive surgeries. Additionally, low MAP thresholds in highly invasive surgery increase postoperative AKI risk.

Risk factors for major complications after surgical treatment of primary ileocecal Crohn's disease. A multicentric Latin American experience

INTRODUCTION

Complications after ileocecal resection for Crohn's disease (CD) are frequent. The aim of this study was to analyze risk factors for postoperative complications after these procedures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients treated surgically for Crohn's disease limited to the ileocecal region during an 8-year period at 10 medical centers specialized in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in Latin America. Patients were allocated into 2 groups: those who presented major postoperative complications (Clavien-Dindo > II), the "postoperative complication" (POC) group; and those who did not, the "no postoperative complication" (NPOC) group. Preoperative characteristics and intraoperative variables were analyzed to identify possible factors for POC.

RESULTS

In total, 337 patients were included, with 51 (15.13%) in the POC cohort. Smoking was more prevalent among the POC patients (31.37 vs. 17.83; P = .026), who presented more preoperative anemia (33.33 vs. 17.48%; P = .009), required more urgent care (37.25 vs. 22.38; P = .023), and had lower albumin levels. Complicated disease was associated with higher postoperative morbidity. POC patients had a longer operative time (188.77 vs. 143.86 min; P = .005), more intraoperative complications (17.65 vs. 4.55%; P < .001), and lower rates of primary anastomosis. In the multivariate analysis, both smoking and intraoperative complications were independently associated with the occurrence of major postoperative complications.

CONCLUSION

This study shows that risk factors for complications after primary ileocecal resections for Crohn's disease in Latin America are similar to those reported elsewhere. Future efforts in the region should be aimed at improving these outcomes by controlling some of the identified factors.

A retrospective study of laparoscopic, robotic-assisted, and open emergent/urgent cholecystectomy based on the PINC AI Healthcare Database 2017-2020

BACKGROUND

Robotic-assisted cholecystectomy (RAC) is becoming increasingly common, but the outcomes of emergent/urgent robotic-assisted cholecystectomies compared to emergent laparoscopic (LC) and open cholecystectomies (OC) remain understudied.

METHODS

The PINC AI Healthcare Database was queried to identify adults who underwent emergent or urgent (Em-Ur) cholecystectomy between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2020. Immediate postoperative and 30-day outcomes were identified including intraoperative complications, transfusion, conversion, postoperative complication, and hospital length of stay. Propensity score matching was done to compare outcomes between Em-Ur robotic-assisted, laparoscopic, and open cholecystectomies Subgroup analyses were performed comparing RAC done with and without fluorescent imaging as well as comparing RAC and LC performed for patients with class 3 obesity (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2).

RESULTS

RAC Em-Ur cholecystectomies are being performed with increasing frequency and is the most utilized modality for patients with class 3 obesity. There was no difference in intraoperative complications (0.3%), bile duct injury (0.2%), or postoperative outcomes between RAC and LC. LC had significantly shorter operating room times (96 min (75,128)) compared to RAC (120 min (90,150)). There was a significant lower rate of conversion to open in RAC (1.9%) relative to LC (3.2%) in both the overall population and the class 3 obesity sub-analysis (RAC-2.6% vs. LC-4.4%). There was no difference in outcomes in robotic-assisted cholecystectomies done with and without fluorescent imaging.

CONCLUSIONS

A comparison of propensity score-matched cohorts of emergent/urgent robotic-assisted and laparoscopic cholecystectomy indicates that robotic-assisted cholecystectomy is a safe alternative to laparoscopic cholecystectomy, and that both have superior outcomes to open cholecystectomies.

Transverse subtrochanteric shortening osteotomy with double tension-band fixation during THA for Crowe III-IV developmental dysplasia: 12-year outcomes

BACKGROUND

When performing total hip arthroplasty in patients with severe developmental dysplasia, shortening the femur facilitates reduction while also preventing sciatic or crural nerve injury and excessive length of the operated limb. No consensus exists about the optimal type of implant and best internal fixation procedure, two parameters that directly govern the risk of the most common intraoperative and postoperative complications (diaphyseal fractures, dislocation, non-union). To minimise these risks, we developed a technique combining a transverse subtrochanteric shortening osteotomy, a long ovoid-profiled, cementless stem anchored in the metaphysis, and double tension-band wiring for internal fixation. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of this technique with emphasis on (i) complications and femoral implant survival, (ii) clinical outcomes (functional scores and lower-limb length inequality [LLLI]), and time to healing.

HYPOTHESIS

Our technique is associated with low rates of intraoperative and postoperative complications.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This single-centre retrospective cohort study included patients who underwent THA with a transverse subtrochanteric shortening osteotomy and fixation using double tension-band wiring to treat severe (Crowe III or IV) developmental hip dysplasia. The femoral implant was a long, ovoid, cementless stem fully coated with hydroxyapatite. We collected the intraoperative and postoperative complications, survival, LLLI, functional scores (Harris Hip Score [HHS] and Forgotten Joint Score [FJS]), patient satisfaction, and radiographic outcomes.

RESULTS

The study included 31 hips in 25 patients. Two patients (2/31 hips, 6.5%) were lost to follow-up, leaving 29 hips for the analysis of postoperative outcomes. Mean follow-up was 13.7±4.2 years (range, 5.8-18.3 years). The four intraoperative complications (4/31, 12.9%) consisted fracture of the diaphysis (2/31, 6.5%), fracture of the greater trochanter (1/31, 3.2%), and sciatic nerve injury followed by a full recovery (1/29, 3.4%). The 8 (8/29, 27.5%) postoperative complications consisted of dislocation (2/29, 6.9%), stem subsidence (2/29, 6.9%), and non-union (4/29, 13.8%). Femoral implant survival at last follow-up was 87.1% (95% CI, 76.1-99.7). The mean HHS increased from 39.6±12.0 (range, 14-61) before surgery to 81.7±13.2 (range, 48-100) at last follow-up (p<0.01). The FJS at last follow-up indicated that the joint was forgotten in 14/29 (48.2%) cases and caused only acceptable symptoms in 9/29 (31.0%) of cases. Clinically significant (≥ 1cm) LLLI was present in 8/29 (27.6%) patients postoperatively compared to 19/29 (65.5%) preoperatively. The mean LLLI decreased from 20.8±19.7mm (range, 0-60mm) to 5.0±7.3mm (range, 0-30mm). Mean time to healing was 4.3±2.4 months (range, 2-11 months).

CONCLUSION

Regarding these complex procedures, this technique was associated with low rates of intraoperative fractures and early postoperative complications. However, femoral stem survival was shorter than in earlier studies and the non-union rate was high, despite satisfactory functional and clinical outcomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

Analysis of anaesthesia incidents during caesarean section reported to webAIRS between 2009 and 2022

Anaesthesia for caesarean section occurs commonly and places specific demands on anaesthetists. We analysed 469 narratives concerning anaesthesia for caesarean section, entered by Australian and New Zealand anaesthetists into the webAIRS incident reporting system between 2009 and 2022. As expected, compared with the remaining 8978 database entries, the 469 incidents were more likely to be emergency cases (relative risk (RR) 1.95), more likely to occur between 18:00 and 22:00 hours (RR 1.81) and between 22:00 and 07:59 hours (RR 4.40) and more likely to be undertaken using neuraxial anaesthesia (RR 9.18). Most incidents involved more than one event. The most commonly reported incidents included intraoperative neuraxial anaesthesia complications (180, 38%), medication errors or issues (136, 29%), equipment issues (49, 10%), obstetric haemorrhage (38, 8%), maternal cardiac arrests (28, 6%), endotracheal tube issues (28, 6%) and neonatal resuscitation (24, 5%). Inadequate neuraxial block, reported in 95 incidents, was the most common intraoperative neuraxial complication. Allergic reactions, reported in 30 incidents, were the most common medication issue, followed by 17 associated with oxytocin and 16 syringe swaps. Thirty-eight reports included significant maternal haemorrhage, with eight of those incidents including maternal cardiac arrest. There was one maternal death and eight incidents with neonatal deaths reported, affecting nine neonates. Problems with intraoperative neuraxial anaesthesia were the most commonly reported events. Implementation of specific strategies are encouraged to enhance preparation for conversion to general anaesthesia and to mitigate medication errors, particularly those relating to oxytocic use and neuraxial anaesthesia medications.

Simulation Software to Plan the Treatment of Acetabular Fractures: The Patient-Specific Biomechanical Model

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to assess the impact of using simulation software for preoperative planning: a patient-specific biomechanical model (PSBM) in acetabular surgery. The secondary objectives were to assess operating time, intraoperative bleeding, and peroperative complications.

DESIGN

This is a prospective control study.

SETTING

Level 1 trauma center.

PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS

Between January 2019 and December 2022, patients with operative acetabular fracture treated by the first author were prospectively enrolled.

INTERVENTION

Patients were divided into 2 groups according to the use or not of PSBM for preoperative planning. When PSBM was used, data were extracted from the preoperative high-resolution computed tomography scans to build a biomechanical model implemented in a custom software [simulation (SIM group)]. When computed tomography scans were not performed in our hospital, PSBM was not feasible (non-SIM group).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Radiological results, surgery duration, blood loss, and peroperative complications were recorded.

RESULTS

Sixty-six patients were included; 26 in the PSBM group and 40 in the standard group. The 2 groups were comparable regarding fracture patterns and epidemiological data. After simulation, in the SIM group, a poor reduction (>3 mm) was found in 2 of 26 patients (7.7%) versus 11 of 40 patients (27.5%) in the non-SIM group, P = 0.048. The mean operative time was shorter after simulation (110 minutes vs. 155 minutes, P = 0.01), and the mean blood loss was reduced (420 vs. 670 mL, P = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

By reducing the peroperative trials for reduction, PSBM allows better reduction in a shorter operative time and with less blood loss.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II: prospective study.

Suprapubic Lipectomy and Placement of a Three-piece Inflatable Penile Prosthesis

BACKGROUND

Penile length loss is often observed in patients with erectile dysfunction and obesity. In patients with a prominent infrapubic fat pad, the excess fat can further reduce perceived penile length.1 As others have reported, concurrent suprapubic lipectomy and placement of a penile implant has been shown to be an effective way of exposing phallic length in this challenging patient population.2,3 OBJECTIVE: In this video, we present surgical technique and initial outcomes of concurrent suprapubic lipectomy and 3-piece inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) placement in patients that have erectile dysfunction and lipodystrophy of the mons pubis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed an institutional review board-approved prosthetic database of male patients that underwent placement of a 3-piece IPP and concurrent suprapubic lipectomy from 2020 to 2023. Intraoperative complications and postoperative outcomes were collated and analyzed. To perform this operation, an elliptical incision is made around the suprapubic fat pad that extends to the base of the penis inferiorly. Laterally the incision is carried just medial to the inferior margin of the iliac crest. Sharp dissection and electrocautery are used to dissect the fat pad free. A layer of areolar tissue is preserved above the layer of the fascia to prevent seroma formation. For larger blood vessels, vascular clips are used to ensure adequate hemostasis. After removal of the fat pad, placement of the penile prosthesis can proceed as one would through an infrapubic approach. After the device is placed, the tissue flaps based on the external pudendal vessels are inspected for adequate vascularity. Penetrating towel clamps are used to approximate the skin edges from lateral to medial so that the midline closure can be approximated accurately. 0-PDS is used to anchor the flap superiorly into the lower edge of the abdominal fold. The incision is then closed in multiple layers of absorbable suture from lateral to medial. A skin stapler or suture is then used to approximate the skin and the penis is wrapped with a compressive dressing.

RESULTS

Nine patients underwent the combined surgery. There were no intraoperative complications. In follow-up, 1 patient developed an infection-related complication that required device removal and immediate replacement. The remaining 8 did well postoperatively with improved dorsal phallic length with no infection or device-related complications.

CONCLUSION

Concurrent suprapubic lipectomy and placement of a 3-piece IPP is a safe and reproducible technique for the treatment of suprapubic lipodystrophy, buried penis, and refractory ED.

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.

Establishment of a successful robotic pediatric general surgery practice

Robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) has a variety of theoretical advantages, including tremor filtration, optimal visualization, and improvement of surgeon ergonomics. Though it has achieved wide application in pediatric urology, the majority of pediatric general surgeons do not employ RAS. This study reports our institution's experience with RAS on a pediatric general surgery team. Following IRB approval, a retrospective review of all pediatric patients at our academic children's hospital who underwent RAS between 2017 and 2022 for pediatric general surgical conditions was performed. Patient demographics, operation performed, operating time, complications, and recovery were evaluated. A total of 159 children underwent RAS, increasing from 10 patients in 2017 to 59 patients in 2022. The median age and weight were 15.3 years and 76.4 kg, and 121 (76.1%) were female. The application of RAS was successful in all cases. There were no intraoperative complications and no conversions to an open approach. Eleven patients (6.9%) had unplanned presentations to the emergency department within 30 days. Five of these patients (3.1%) required admission to the hospital. This study demonstrates that the application of RAS in an academic pediatric general surgery practice is feasible and safe. The application of RAS to pediatric general surgery should continue to increase as operative teams increase their experience and comfort.Level of evidence Level IV.

Transcanal Excision of Exostoses: Large Series Comparing Bone Removal Methods

OBJECTIVE

External auditory exostosis (EAE) is a condition of progressive temporal bone growth into the external auditory canal most commonly from repeat cold water and wind exposure. Several tools have been utilized for EAE excision with varying implications for intra- and postoperative complications. However, comparisons of osteotome and microdrill are made difficult due to the few published cases and intervariability between surgeons. Furthermore, evidence is needed to analyze the safety of novel supplemental tools such as the piezoelectric bone-cutting device.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective chart review.

SETTING

Medical clinic and surgery center.

METHODS

A total of 413 subjects representing 472 ears met the inclusion criteria. Of which 159 ears were operated on using osteotome alone (OA), 271 using osteotome with a drill (OD), and 42 with osteotome with piezoelectric (OP). Charts were analyzed for the most reported intraoperative complications and postoperative symptoms and complications.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in the rate of tympanic membrane perforations nor in total intraoperative complications between OA, OD, or OP. The OD group contained the only nonperforation intraoperative event. OA had the lowest or near lowest incidence of all symptoms analyzed. OA showed a significantly lower incidence of tinnitus when compared to OD and OP.

CONCLUSION

We found that OA performed the best, though not statistically significant in most measures, with regard to mitigating rates of complications postsurgery. Our findings suggest OA provides lower risk intraoperatively and postoperatively for patients undergoing transcanal exostosis excision.

Awake surgery for glioma resection during pregnancy: a systematic review

Brain tumors are rarely present during pregnancy. However, they can severely impact the fetus and mother's well-being due to a complex interaction of disease and physiological factors. Moreover, awake surgery for gliomas has been scarcely reported during this life stage, and the nuances and techniques merit further investigation. Herein, we performed a systematic review of the literature about awake surgery for glioma resection during pregnancy. A total of six patients with a median age of 30.5 years (interquartile range: 40-27) were analyzed. Awake surgery was performed in the third trimester in 50% of patients (median time: 24.5 weeks) without reported intraoperative complications. Conscious sedation was achieved by remifentanil and propofol infusion in 67% of cases, and intraoperative fetal heart monitoring was utilized in 83% of cases. Most studies revealed good clinical maternal-fetal outcomes at follow-up; however, long-term safety effects remain undetermined and warrant further research. In conclusion, awake surgery for glioma resection under a multidisciplinary approach can be a reasonable treatment option for select patients during pregnancy.

Evaluation of the usefulness of the Clavien-Dindo classification of surgical complications

The Clavien-Dindo (CD) classification is widely used in the reporting of surgical complications in scientific literature. It groups complications based on the level of intervention required to resolve them, and benefits from simplicity and ease of use, both of which contribute its to high inter-rater reliability. It has been validated for use in many specialties due to strong correlation with key outcome measures including length of stay, postsurgical quality of life and case-related renumeration. Limitations of the classification include concerns over differentiating grade III and IV complications and not classifying intraoperative complications. The Comprehensive Complication Index is an adaptation of the CD classification which generates a morbidity score from 0 to 100. It has been proposed as a more effective method of assessing the morbidity burden of surgical procedures. However, it remains less popular as calculations of morbidity are complicated and time-consuming. In recent years there have been suggestions of adaptations to the CD classification such as the Clavien-Dindo-Sink classification, while in some specialties, completely new classifications have been proposed due to evidence the CD classification is not reliable. Similarly, the Surgical Expertise and Validity Evaluation project aims to determine benchmarks against which surgeons may compare their own practice.

Predictors of early catheter replacement after HoLEP. Results from a high-volume laser center

INTRODUCTION

The aim of the study was to investigate clinical and surgical factors associated with early catheter replacement in patients treated with Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data of patients treated with HoLEP at our Institution by a single surgeon from March 2017 to January 2021 were collected. Preoperative variables, including non-invasive uroflowmetry and abdominal ultrasonography (US), were recorded. Bladder wall modifications (BWM) at preoperative US were defined as the presence of single or multiple bladder diverticula or bladder wall thickening 5 mm. Clinical symptoms were assessed using validated questionnaires. Only events occurred within the first week after catheter removal were considered.

RESULTS

Overall, 305 patients were included, of which 46 (15.1%) experienced early catheter replacement. Maintenance of anticoagulants/antiplatelets (AC/AP) therapy at surgery (p=0.001), indwelling urinary catheter (p=0.02) and the presence of BWM (p=0.001) were more frequently reported in patients needing postoperative re-catheterization. Intraoperative complications (p=0.02) and median lasing time (p=0.02) were significantly higher in this group. At univariate analysis, indwelling urinary catheter (p=0.02), BWM (p=0.01), ongoing AC/AP therapy (p=0.01) and intraoperative complications (p=0.01) were significantly associated with early catheter replacement. At multivariate analysis, indwelling urinary catheter (OR: 1.28; p=0.02), BWM (OR: 2.87; p=0.001), and AC/AP therapy (OR: 2.21; p=0.01) were confirmed as independent predictors of catheter replacement.

CONCLUSIONS

In our experience the presence of indwelling urinary catheter before surgery, BWM and the maintenance of AC/AP therapy were shown to be independent predictors of early catheter replacement after HoLEP.

[Influencing factors on operating times for metal bar removal after Nuss repair]

BACKGROUND

Metal bar removal after the Nuss repair procedure is prone to be cancelled in cases of operating time shortages due it being suitable to be postponed without harming patients. Consequently, planning operation times as exactly as possible could be one solution.

OBJECTIVE

Statistical modelling of operation times of metal bar removal after Nuss repair using the prespecified independent predictors of age, sex, intraoperative complications, and number of implanted metal bars.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We included all patients whose operation notes included an operation time, which was modelled via linear regression and subject to internal validation via bootstrap. Exploratory analyses also consisted of the surgeon's experience, the number of stabilizers, the body mass index, and preceding re-do surgery for bar dislocation.

RESULTS

We included 265 patients (14% ♀) with a median age of 19 years (interquartile range 17-20 years), of whom 81% had 1 and 17% had 2 metal bars removed. The prespecified regression model was statistically significant (likelihood ratio 56; df = 5; P < 0.001) and had a bias corrected R2 of 0.148. Patient age influenced operation times by 2.1min per year of life (95% confidence interval 1.3-2.9min; P < 0.001) and 16min per explanted metal bar (95% confidence interval: 10-22min; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The patient-specific factors of age and the number of explanted metal bars influenced the operation times and can be included into scheduling operation times.

Deep Neuromuscular Block for Endolaryngeal Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVES

To determine the safety and efficacy of deep neuromuscular block (NMB) for endolaryngeal surgery.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Ovid Medline, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang, VIP databases, and trial registry database.

METHODS

Inclusion criteria followed the PICOS principles: Participants, adults undergoing endolaryngeal surgery; Intervention, deep NMB performed during the surgery; Control, no-deep NMB performed; Outcomes, primary outcome: the incidence of clinically acceptable surgical conditions.

SECONDARY OUTCOME

the incidence of intraoperative complications (including vocal fold movement and coughing) and total incidence of postoperative complications [including postoperative residual curarization (PORC), postoperative sore throat (POST), and postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV)]. Study design, randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Duplicate publications, editorials, letters, abstracts, and reviews were excluded.

RESULTS

Four articles with 242 patients were identified for analysis. The results indicated that compared with no-deep NMB, deep NMB provides a higher incidence of clinically acceptable surgical conditions (98.36% vs. 76.67%; relative ratio [RR] = 1.29, 95% CI: 1.07-1.56), a lower incidence of intraoperative complications (10.83% versus 37.16%; RR = 0.32; 95% CI: 0.21-0.49) (lower incidence of vocal fold movement [1.85% vs. 34%; RR = 0.08, 95% CI: 0.02-0.41] and coughing [15.53% vs. 38.78%; RR = 0.42, 95% CI: 0.27-0.66]). There were no differences in the overall incidence of postoperative complications (RR = 2.10, 95% CI: 0.12-36.40).

CONCLUSIONS

Based on current published evidence, deep NMB provides better surgical conditions with a higher incidence of clinically acceptable surgical conditions and a lower incidence of intraoperative complications (lower incidence of vocal fold movement and coughing) without increasing the overall incidence of postoperative complications.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

1 Laryngoscope, 133:2055-2065, 2023.

Phacofragmentation as an Effective Tool for Removal of Silicone Oil Adherent to Posterior Chamber Intraocular Lenses

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

To assess usefulness of phacofragmentation probe in the removal of silicone oil (SO) adherent to intraocular lenses (IOLs) during a SO removal procedure.

METHODS

A 20-gauge (G) phacofragmentation probe was used to emulsify and remove SO adherent to IOLs during 23-G vitrectomy for SO removal. The superotemporal 23-G cannula was removed, and 20-G sclerotomy was made by using a 20-G MVR blade.

RESULTS

In all cases used, SO adherent to the posterior surface of posterior capsule IOLs and anterior chamber IOLs was easily removed using a phacofragmentation probe. No intraoperative complications or IOL damage were noted.

CONCLUSION

We describe a simple, quick and reliable method of SO removal from all types of IOLs by using a phacofragmentation probe during SO removal surgery. This simple method can prevent IOL removal and replacement due to adherent SO bubbles in pseudophakic eyes that were previously filled with SO.

Preoperative stricture length measurement does not predict postoperative outcomes in robotic ureteral reconstructive surgery

PURPOSE

We sought to determine whether preoperative stricture length measurement affected the choice of procedure performed, its correlation to intraoperative stricture length, and postoperative outcomes.

METHODS

The Collaborative of Reconstructive Robotic Ureteral Surgery (CORRUS) database was queried for patients undergoing robotic ureteral reconstructive surgery from 2013 to 2021 who had surgical stricture length measurement. From this cohort, we identified patients with and without preoperative stricture length measurement via retrograde pyelogram or antegrade nephrostogram. Outcomes evaluated included intraoperative complications, 30-day complications greater than Clavien-Dindo grade II, hardware-free status, and need for additional procedures.

RESULTS

Of 153 patients with surgical stricture length measurements, 102 (66.7%) had preoperative radiographic measurement. No repair type was more likely to have preoperative measurement. The Pearson correlation coefficient between surgical and radiographic stricture length measurements was + 0.79. The average surgical measurement was 0.71 cm (± 1.52) longer than radiographic assessment. Those with preoperative imaging waited on average 5.0 months longer for surgery, but this finding was not statistically significant (p = 0.18). There was no statistically significant difference in intraoperative complications, 30-day complication rates, hardware-free status at last follow-up, or need for additional procedures between patients with and without preoperative measurement. The only significant predictive factor was preoperative stricture length on 30-day postoperative complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite relatively high prevalence of preoperative radiographic stricture length measurement, there are few measures where it offers clinically meaningful diagnostic information towards the definitive surgical management of ureteral stricture disease.

Comparative analysis of two navigation techniques based on augmented reality technology for the orthodontic mini-implants placement

To analyze and compare the accuracy and root contact prevalence, comparing a conventional freehand technique and two navigation techniques based on augmented reality technology for the orthodontic self-drilling mini-implants placement. Methods Two hundred and seven orthodontic self-drilling mini-implants were placed using either a conventional freehand technique (FHT) and two navigation techniques based on augmented reality technology (AR TOOTH and AR SCREWS). Accuracy across different dental sectors was also analyzed. CBCT and intraoral scans were taken both prior to and following orthodontic self-drilling mini-implants placement. The deviation angle and horizontal were then analyzed; these measurements were taken at the coronal entry point and apical endpoint between the planned and performed orthodontic self-drilling mini-implants. In addition, any complications resulting from mini-implant placement, such as spot perforations, were also analyzed across all dental sectors.Results The statistical analysis showed significant differences between study groups with regard to the coronal entry-point (p < 0.001), apical end-point(p < 0.001) and angular deviations (p < 0.001). Furthermore, statistically significant differences were shown between the orthodontic self-drilling mini-implants placement site at the coronal entry-point (p < 0.0001) and apical end-point (p < 0.001). Additionally, eight root perforations were observed in the FHT group, while there were no root perforations in the two navigation techniques based on augmented reality technology.Conclusions The navigation techniques based on augmented reality technology has an effect on the accuracy of orthodontic self-drilling mini-implants placement and results in fewer intraoperative complications, comparing to the conventional free-hand technique. The AR TOOTH augmented reality technique showed more accurate results between planned and placed orthodontic self-drilling mini-implants, comparing to the AR SCREWS and conventional free-hand techniques. The navigation techniques based on augmented reality technology showed fewer intraoperative complications, comparing to the conventional free-hand technique.

The impact of case complexity in resident-performed cataract surgery

PURPOSE

To evaluate the association of capsular dye and/or a pupil expansion device (PED) usage on the rate of major complication in resident-performed cataract extraction.

METHODS

Resident cataract surgeries between 2016 and 2019 were included. The primary outcomes were anterior or posterior vitrectomy (AVx and PPVx). Cases were grouped by the use of a PED and/or capsular staining along with additional preoperative risk factors.

RESULTS

Of the 1,348 cases, 371 (27.5%) documented capsular staining ("Dye-only"), 91 (6.8%) required pupil expansion ("PED-only"), and 100 (7.4%) used both capsular stain and a PED ("Both"). The remainder of cases (n=786, 58.3%) were classified as "Routine." Compared to the "Routine" group, "PED-only" and "Both" had significantly higher odds of an AVx (OR=2.90, 95% CI 1.27-6.19, P=0.01) and/or a PPVx (OR=2.33, 95% CI 1.07-5.12, P=0.04). Among the PPVx cases, the "PED-only" group has significantly higher odds than "Routine" and "Dye-only" (OR=4.64, 95% CI 1.68-12.79, P=0.01; and OR=6.48, 95% CI 1.7-25.0, P=0.005, respectively). In case-control analysis, vision, intraocular pressure, anterior chamber depth, axial length, cataract type, or severity had no significant overall association with complication. When compared to nuclear sclerotic cataract, posterior subcapsular (OR=7.86, 95% CI 1.46-42.47, P=0.017) and white/mature cataracts (OR=3.05, 95% CI 1.1-8.43, P=0.032) had increased odds of complication.

CONCLUSION

Resident-performed cataract surgery frequently required capsular staining and/or a PED, and intuitively, these cases had a higher overall complication rate compared to routine cases. However, the use of a PED independently was associated with significantly higher odds of a major complication requiring an unplanned vitrectomy independent of predisposing factors.