Lateral incisional hernia. EVEREG registry analysis

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to analyze the data collected on lateral incisional hernias (LIH) in the National Incisional Hernia Registry (EVEREG) and assess current practices and outcomes in LIH repair.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using LIH data recorded over 10 years (2012-2022). Comorbidities, hernia characteristics, short-term complications, and recurrences were studied, along with their association with the type of approach used, either open or laparoscopic, in elective surgery.

RESULTS

1742 LIH cases were studied. According to the EHS classification, these included L1 409 (23.5%), L2 388 (22.3%), L3 565 (32.4%), L4 150 (8.6%) and combined 230 (13.2%). An open approach was performed in 1528 (87.7%) cases and laparoscopic in 214 (12.3%). The median age was 66 ± 12.45 years, with a majority of males, 934 (53.6%). The median body mass index was 29 ± 5.18 kg/m2. The most observed comorbidity was arterial hypertension (957 patients, 55%). A specialist was present in 638 interventions (56%). The 24-month follow-up was 17.9%, and recurrence in those cases was 27.2%, with a higher incidence when there was no specialist present during the intervention, onlay mesh position, and larger defect size.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgery for LIH is common, although laparoscopic approach remains infrequent. Furthermore, it is associated with a high percentage of recurrences that increases when there is no specialist in abdominal wall surgery present.

OC-069 EFECTIVENESS OF PROPHYLACTIC ONLAY MESH FOR PREVENTION OF TROCAR HERNIA: PRELIMINARY RESULTS OF A RANDOMIZED CLINICAL TRIAL

Aim

Trocar site hernia (TSH) incidence is a common complication of laparoscopic surgery. In the literature there is a lack of tools to prevent it. Our aim was to assess the effectiveness and safety of a prophylactic measure to decrease it.

Methods

A multicentric randomized clinical trial was performed in high-risk patients (diabetes mellitus and/or age ≥70 years and/or BMI ≥30 Kg/m2 and/or extended incision for specimen retrieval) who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy in an elective or emergency setting. Patients were allocated to prophylactic onlay polypropylene mesh fixation (intervention) or standard trocar closure (control). The main aim was to analyze the efficacy of the intervention, being TSH incidence the primary outcome. Clinical and radiological follow up was atleast 1 year after surgery. Secondary endpoints were technique-related complications.

Results

134 patients were included (70 and 62 to intervention and control arm, respectively). Groups were homogeneous. Mean [SD] age, 64.8 (17.3) years; 80 (60, 6%) women. The cumulative TSH incidence was lower in the intervention group although not reaching significant differences, either when were radiologically (16 [26.7%] vs 17 [37%], p = 0.294) or clinically assessed (9 [17.6%] vs 9 [24.3], p = 0.593). No differences in surgical site infection, hematoma or seroma were detected. Mean follow-up was 736 days (min. 365 – max. 1294).

Conclusions

Our preliminary results points out that the overall TSH incidence is extremely high when properly assessed. A polypropylene onlay mesh would not be an effective measure to decrease the TSH incidence. Radiological evaluation would show more accuracy.

OC-081 VALIDATION OF THE DATA QUALITY OF THE SPANISH INCISIONAL HERNIA SURGERY REGISTRY (EVEREG). PILOT STUDY

Aim

The Spanish Incisional Hernia Surgery Registry (EVEREG) is promoted by the Abdominal Wall section of the Spanish Association of Surgeons, starting data collection in July 2012 and currently has more than 13,500 cases.

The objective of this study is to validate the data collected through a pilot audit process

Material & Methods

A sample of hospitals participating in the EVEREG registry since 2012 is selected. Patients registered in these centers in the period 2012–2019 are included. A stratified random sampling is carried out, with the inclusion of 10% of registered cases per center with a minimum of 20.

In the 2020–2021 period, a selection of researchers, different from that of the center to be audited, checks the concordance between the registry data and the data collected in the patient's clinical history, either in person or online.

Results

330 patients have been analyzed, out of a total of 2673 registered, in 9 participating centers. The average accuracy has been 95.7% (99.1–79.35%). With 1.5% incorrect data and 2.28% missing data

Conclusions

This is the first validity study of an abdominal wall registry

The accuracy greater than 95% obtained allows us to determine an excellent quality in the data collection of the EVEREG registry. We believe that the confirmation of these data in all the centers participating in the registry would guarantee the quality of the studies carried out and their comparison with other international registries

Prevention of incisional hernia after midline laparotomy with prophylactic mesh reinforcement: a meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis

Background

Incisional hernia is a frequent complication after abdominal surgery. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of prophylactic mesh reinforcement (PMR) after midline laparotomy in reducing the incidence of incisional hernia.

Methods

A meta‐analysis was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. The primary outcome was the incidence of incisional hernia after follow‐up of at least 12 months. Secondary outcomes were postoperative complications. Only RCTs were included. A random‐effects model was used for the meta‐analysis, and trial sequential analysis was conducted.

Results

Twelve RCTs were included, comprising 1815 patients. The incidence of incisional hernia was significantly lower after PMR compared with sutured closure (risk ratio (RR) 0·35, 95 per cent c.i. 0·21 to 0·57; P < 0·001). Both onlay (RR 0·26, 0·11 to 0·67; P = 0·005) and retromuscular (RR 0·28, 0·10 to 0·82; P = 0·02) PMR led to a significant reduction in the rate of incisional hernia. The occurrence of seroma was higher in patients who had onlay PMR (RR 2·23, 1·10 to 4·52; P = 0·03). PMR did not result in an increased rate of surgical‐site infection.

Conclusion

PMR of a midline laparotomy using an onlay or retromuscular technique leads to a significant reduction in the rate of incisional hernia in high‐risk patients. Individual risk factors should be taken into account to select patients who will benefit most.

[Correction added on 19 February 2020, after first online publication: J. García Alamino has been amended to J. M. Garcia‐Alamino]

Incisional hernia recurrence after open elective repair: expertise in abdominal wall surgery matters

BACKGROUND

Recurrence after incisional hernia repair is one of the major problems related with this operation. Our objective is to analyze the influence of abdominal wall surgery expertise in the results of the open elective repair of incisional hernia.

METHODS

We have compiled the data of a cohort of patients who received surgery for an incisional hernia from July 2012 to December 2015 in a University Hospital. Data were collected prospectively and registered in the Spanish Register of Incisional Hernia (EVEREG). The short- and long-term complications between the groups of patients operated on by the Abdominal Wall Surgery (AWS) unit and groups operated on by surgeons outside of the specialized abdominal wall group (GS) were compared.

RESULTS

During the study period, a total of 237 patients were operated on by the open approach (114 AWS; 123 GS). One hundred seventy-five patients completed a median follow-up of 36.6 months [standard deviation (SD) = 6]. Groups were comparable in terms of age, sex, body mass index (BMI), comorbidities, and complexity of hernia. Complications were similar in both groups. Patients in the AWS group presented fewer recurrences (12.0% vs. 28.9%; P = 0.005). The cumulative incidence of recurrence was higher in the GS group [log rank 13.370; P < 0.001; odds ratio (OR) = 37.8; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 30.3-45.4]. In the multivariate analysis, surgery performed by the AWS unit was related to fewer recurrences (OR = 0.19; 95%CI = 0.07-0.58; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Incisional hernia surgery is associated with better results in terms of recurrence when it is performed in a specialized abdominal wall unit.

Phytochemical characterization of Borago officinalis L. and Centaurea cyanus L. during flower development

The present work details the nutritional and chemical compositions of borage and centaurea, at three flowering stages. Water was the main constituent, followed by total dietary fiber. Both flowers showed statistically different (p < 0.05) nutritional and chemical profiles, although in both, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) (mainly linoleic and α-linolenic acids), free sugars (3.9-28.9% dw as fructose, glucose, and sucrose), tocopherols (with the major contribution of α-tocopherol from 1.24 to 2.75 mg/100 g dw), carotenoids (0.2-181.4 mg/100 g dw, mainly as lutein), and organic acids (6.1-14.4 g/100 g dw, mainly malic, succinic, and citric acids) were quantified. Concerning flowering, significant differences (p < 0.05) were found for some components, particularly carotenoids; however, no specific trend was observed in either of the two flower species. Thus, the present study shows that each flower species, as well as their flowering stages, may have different phytochemical and nutritional compositions.

Olive cultivar and maturation process on the oviposition preference of Bactrocera oleae (Rossi) (Diptera: Tephritidae)

The olive fly, Bactrocera oleae (Rossi) (Diptera: Tephritidae), is a key-pest in the main olives producing areas worldwide, and displays distinct preference to different olive cultivars. The present work intended to study oviposition preference towards three Portuguese cultivars (Cobrançosa, Madural, and Verdeal Transmontana) at different maturation indexes. Multiple oviposition bioassays (multiple-choice and no-choice) were conducted to assess cultivar preference. No-choice bioassays were conducted to assess the influence of different maturation indexes (MI 2; MI 3, and MI 4) in single cultivars. The longevity of olive fly adults according to the cultivar in which its larvae developed was also evaluated through survival assays.Cultivar and maturation are crucial aspects in olive fly preference. Field and laboratory assays revealed a preference towards cv. Verdeal Transmontana olives and a lower susceptibility to cv. Cobrançosa olives. A higher preference was observed for olives at MI 2 and MI 3. The slower maturation process in cv. Verdeal Transmontana (still green while the other cultivars are reddish or at black stage) seems to have an attractive effect on olive fly females, thus increasing its infestation levels. Olive fly adults from both sexes live longer if emerged from pupae developed from cv. Verdeal Transmontana fruits and live less if emerged from cv. Cobrançosa. Therefore, olive cultivar and maturation process are crucial aspects in olive fly preference, also influencing the longevity of adults.

Commentary on "Prognostic effect of carcinoma in situ in muscle-invasive urothelial carcinoma patients receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy."

BACKGROUND

Carcinoma in situ (CIS) is a poor prognostic finding in urothelial carcinoma. However, its significance in muscle-invasive urothelial carcinoma (MIUC) treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) is uncertain. We assessed the effect of CIS found in pretreatment transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) biopsies on the pathologic and clinical outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Subjects with MIUC treated with NAC before cystectomy were identified. The pathologic complete response (pCR) rates stratified by TURBT CIS status were compared. The secondary analyses included tumor response, progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and an exploratory post hoc analysis of patients with pathologic CIS only (pTisN0) at cystectomy.

RESULTS

A total of 137 patients with MIUC were identified. TURBT CIS was noted in 30.7% of the patients. The absence of TURBT CIS was associated with a significantly increased pCR rate (23.2% vs. 9.5%; odds ratio = 4.08; 95% CI: 1.19-13.98; P = 0.025). Stage pTisN0 disease was observed in 19.0% of the TURBT CIS patients. TURBT CIS status did not significantly affect the PFS or OS outcomes. Post hoc analysis of the pTisN0 patients revealed prolonged median PFS (104.5 vs. 139.9 months; P = 0.055) and OS (104.5 vs. 152.3 months; P = 0.091) outcomes similar to those for the pCR patients.

CONCLUSION

The absence of CIS on pretreatment TURBT in patients with MIUC undergoing NAC was associated with increased pCR rates, with no observed differences in PFS or OS. Isolated CIS at cystectomy was frequently observed, with lengthy PFS and OS durations similar to those for pCR patients. Further studies aimed at understanding the biology and clinical effect of CIS in MIUC are warranted.

Feeding preferences and functional responses of Calathus granatensis and Pterostichus globosus (Coleoptera: Carabidae) on pupae of Bactrocera oleae (Diptera: Tephritidae)

Carabid beetles are important predators in agricultural landscapes feeding on a range of prey items. However, their role as predators of the olive fruit fly, Bactrocera oleae (Rossi) (Diptera: Tephritidae), one of the most serious pests of olives, is unknown. In this context, the feeding preferences and the functional responses of two carabid beetle species, Calathus granatensis (Vuillefroy) and Pterostichus globosus (Fabricius), were studied under laboratory conditions. Feeding preference assays involved exposing carabid beetles to different ratios of B. oleae pupae and an alternative prey, the Mediterranean fruit fly, Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann). Both species fed on B. oleae pupae however, C. granatensis always showed a significant preference for that prey whereas P. globosus switched to C. capitata pupae when the offered ratio was below 0.5. The total prey biomass consumed was significantly higher for P. globosus than for C. granatensis. Functional response curves were estimated based on different densities of B. oleae pupae and both carabid beetle species exhibited a type II functional response using Rogers' random-predator equation. P. globosus showed shorter handling time (1.223 ± 0.118 h) on B. oleae pupae than C. granatensis (3.230 ± 0.627 h). Our results suggest that both species can be important in reducing the densities of B. oleae in olive groves, although P. globosus was more efficient than C. granatensis.

Prognostic Effect of Carcinoma In Situ in Muscle-invasive Urothelial Carcinoma Patients Receiving Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy

BACKGROUND

Carcinoma in situ (CIS) is a poor prognostic finding in urothelial carcinoma. However, its significance in muscle-invasive urothelial carcinoma (MIUC) treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) is uncertain. We assessed the effect of CIS found in pretreatment transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) biopsies on the pathologic and clinical outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Subjects with MIUC treated with NAC before cystectomy were identified. The pathologic complete response (pCR) rates stratified by TURBT CIS status were compared. The secondary analyses included tumor response, progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and an exploratory post hoc analysis of patients with pathologic CIS only (pTisN0) at cystectomy.

RESULTS

A total of 137 patients with MIUC were identified. TURBT CIS was noted in 30.7% of the patients. The absence of TURBT CIS was associated with a significantly increased pCR rate (23.2% vs. 9.5%; odds ratio, 4.08; 95% confidence interval, 1.19-13.98; P = .025). Stage pTisN0 disease was observed in 19.0% of the TURBT CIS patients. TURBT CIS status did not significantly affect the PFS or OS outcomes. Post hoc analysis of the pTisN0 patients revealed prolonged median PFS (104.5 vs. 139.9 months; P = .055) and OS (104.5 vs. 152.3 months; P = .091) outcomes similar to those for the pCR patients.

CONCLUSION

The absence of CIS on pretreatment TURBT in patients with MIUC undergoing NAC was associated with increased pCR rates, with no observed differences in PFS or OS. Isolated CIS at cystectomy was frequently observed, with lengthy PFS and OS durations similar to those for pCR patients. Further studies aimed at understanding the biology and clinical effect of CIS in MIUC are warranted.

A PCR-based diagnostic assay for detecting DNA of the olive fruit fly, Bactrocera oleae, in the gut of soil-living arthropods

Bactrocera oleae (Rossi) (Diptera: Tephritidae) is considered the most devastating pest of the olive tree worldwide. In an effort to develop management and biological control strategies against this pest, new molecular tools are urgently needed. In this study, we present the design of B. oleae-specific primers based on mitochondrial DNA sequences of cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) gene. Two pairs of B. oleae-specific primers were successfully designed and named as SBo1-F/SBo1-R and SBo2-F/SBo1-R, being able to amplify 108 and 214 bp COI fragments, respectively. The specificity of designed primers was tested by amplifying DNA from phylogenetically related (i.e. Diptera order) and other non-pest insects living in olive groves from the Mediterranean region. When using these primers on a PCR-based diagnostic assay, B. oleae DNA was detected in the gut content of a soil-living insect, Pterostichus globosus (Fabricius) (Coleoptera: Carabidae). The detection of B. oleae DNA in the guts of arthropods was further optimized by adding bovine serum albumin enhancer to the PCR reaction, in order to get a fast, reproducible and sensitive tool for detecting B. oleae remains in the guts of soil-living arthropods. This molecular tool could be useful for understanding pest-predator relationships and establishing future biological control strategies for this pest.

Neurological complications of acute multifocal placoid pigment epitheliopathy

Acute multifocal placoid pigment epitheliopathy (AMPPE) is an autoimmune chorioretinal disease that can be complicated by neurological involvement. There is limited information on this potentially treatable condition in the neurological literature. The objective of this patient series is to describe the neurological complications of AMPPE. We retrospectively identified patients with neurological complications of AMPPE seen at Auckland Hospital between 2008 and 2013 and summarised cases in the literature between 1976 and 2013. We identified five patients with neurological complications of AMPPE at Auckland Hospital and 47 reported patients. These patients demonstrated a spectrum of neurological involvement including isolated headache, stroke or transient ischaemic attack, seizures, venous sinus thrombosis, optic neuritis, sensorineural hearing loss and peripheral vestibular disorder. We propose criteria to define AMPPE with neurological complications. A cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) lymphocytosis in a patient with isolated headache may predict the development of cerebrovascular complications of AMPPE. Patients with cerebrovascular complications of AMPPE have a poor prognosis with high rates of death and neurological disability among survivors. Predictors of poor outcome in those who develop neurological complications of AMPPE are a relapsing course, generalised seizures and multifocal infarction on MRI. All patients with neurological complications of AMPPE, including headache alone, should be investigated with an MRI brain and CSF examination. Patients with focal neurological symptoms should receive intravenous (IV) methylprednisolone followed by a tapering course of oral steroids for at least 3months. Patients with AMPPE and an isolated headache with a CSF pleocytosis should be treated with oral steroids.

17-AAG mediated targeting of Hsp90 limits tert activity in peritoneal sarcoma related malignant ascites by downregulating cyclin D1 during cell cycle entry

AIM

Peritoneal or retro-peritoneal sarcomatosis related malignant ascites formation is a rare but serious consequence of the locoregional metastatic event. The present work aimed to study the effect of the Hsp90 inhibitor (17-AAG), an ansamycin analog, on cell cycle and DNA replication specific chaperone-clients interaction in the event of peritoneal sarcoma related malignant ascites formation in mouse model at the late stage of malignant growth.

METHODS

We administered 17-AAG, an Hsp90 inhibitor, divided doses (330 μg/kg b.w./day for first five days then next ten days with166 μg/kg b.w./day) through intra-peritoneal route of inbred Swiss albino mice bearing full grown peritoneal malignant ascites of sarcoma-180. Our study was evaluated by peripheral blood hemogram analysis, malignant ascitic cytology, cell viability test, survival time and mitotic indexing. Furthermore, flowcytometric HSP90, TERT, CyclinD1, PCNA and GM-CSF expression analysis has been considered for special objective of the study.

RESULTS

Our experimental efforts reduced the aggressive proliferation of malignant ascites by drastic downregulation of TERT and cyclin D1 on the verge of cell cycle entry along with DNA replication processivity factor PCNA by directly modulating their folding machinery - heat shock protein 90. Consequently, we observed that malignant ascitic cells became error prone during the event of karyokinesis and produced micronucleus containing malignant cells with low viability. Peripheral neutrophilia due to over-expression of GM-CSF by the peritoneal malignant ascites were also controlled by the treatment with 17-AAG and overall, the treatment modality improved the median survival time.

CONCLUSION

Finally we can conclude that 17AAG administration might serve as a prospective pharmacological agent for the management of peritoneal sarcoma related malignant ascites and throws light towards prolonged survival of the patients concerned.

Specific improvement measures to reduce complications and mortality after urgent surgery in complicated abdominal wall hernia

PURPOSE

Morbidity and mortality are increased after urgent surgery for complicated abdominal wall hernia. We analysed prospectively early morbidity and mortality after implementing specific management measures in patients undergoing urgent hernia repair.

METHODS

The study population included 244 patients with complicated abdominal wall hernia requiring surgical repair on an emergency basis over 1-year period. Patients were managed according to a protocol that included specific actions to be implemented in the pre-, intra- and postoperative periods. Outcomes of these patients were compared with those of 402 undergoing similar operations before development of the protocol.

RESULTS

Patients in whom acute complication was the first hernia symptom had higher mortality (7.2% vs 2.5%; P = 0.07) and were consulted later than 24 h (49.4% vs 36%; P = 0.044). Patients consulting later than 24 h had higher mortality (8.1% vs 1.4%, P = 0.017). Femoral hernias exhibited specific characteristics and were associated with higher mortality (13% vs 1.6%; P = 0.001). Overall, both groups had similar mortality (4.5% vs 4.1%; P = 0.8); complications (38.8% vs 37.7%; P = 0.2), and bowel resection rates (12.2% vs 11.5%; P = 0.8). Excluding the group of femoral hernias, the measures achieved a lower rate of severe complications (21.2% vs 10.3%; P = 0.04) and a decrease in mortality (2.9% vs 0.6%; P = 0.05) after bowel resection.

CONCLUSIONS

Specific measures for improvement of management and prevention of complications and mortality were effective in patients without femoral hernia. To reduce mortality, the best applicable measure is early detection and to prioritize the scheduled operation of femoral hernias and those affecting high risk patients. The implementation of preventive and educational programs in high risk patients is essential.

Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) expression and role of vincristine sulfate in mouse model of malignancy related peritoneal ascites: an experimental metastatic condition

AIM

To evaluate the efficacy of intraperitoneal vincristine administration into ascitic sarcoma-180 bearing mice as a model of human malignant ascites regarding various peritoneal/retroperitoneal sarcomatosis, and to evaluate the flowcytometric telomerase reverse transcriptase expression for the diagnostic and prognostic purposes.

METHODS

Present study included disease induction by intraperitoneal homologous ascitic sarcoma-180 transplantation followed by in vivo intraperitoneal drug administration to study mitotic index, flowcytometric cell cycle and telomerase reverse transcriptase expression pattern, erythrosin-B dye exclusion study for malignant cell viability assessment. Besides, in vitro malignant ascite culture in presence and absence of vincristine sulfate and survival study were also taken into consideration.

RESULTS

Intraperitoneal vincristine administration (concentration 0.5 mg/kg body weight) significantly diminished the mitotic index in diseased subjects in comparison to untreated control subjects. Treated group of animals showed increased life span and median survival time. Cell viability assessment during the course of drug administration also revealed gradual depression on cell viability over time. Flowcytometric cell cycle analysis showed a good prognostic feature of chemotherapeutic administration schedule by representing high G2/M phase blocked cells along with reduced telomerase reverse transcriptase positive cells in treated animals.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that long term administration of vincristine sulfate in small doses could be a good pharmacological intervention in case of malignant peritoneal ascites due to sarcomatosis as it indirectly reduced the level of telomerase reverse transcriptase expression in malignant cells by directly regulating cell cycle and simultaneously increased the life expectancy of the diseased subjects.

Antioxidant potential of chestnut (Castanea sativa L.) and almond (Prunus dulcis L.) by-products

The antioxidant properties of almond green husks (Cvs. Duro Italiano, Ferraduel, Ferranhês, Ferrastar and Orelha de Mula), chestnut skins and chestnut leaves (Cvs. Aveleira, Boa Ventura, Judia and Longal) were evaluated through several chemical and biochemical assays in order to provide a novel strategy to stimulate the application of waste products as new suppliers of useful bioactive compounds, namely antioxidants. All the assayed by-products revealed good antioxidant properties, with very low EC(50) values (lower than 380 μg/mL), particularly for lipid peroxidation inhibition (lower than 140 μg/mL). The total phenols and flavonoids contents were also determined. The correlation between these bioactive compounds and DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging activity, reducing power, inhibition of β-carotene bleaching and inhibition of lipid peroxidation in pig brain tissue through formation of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, was also obtained. Although, all the assayed by-products proved to have a high potential of application in new antioxidants formulations, chestnut skins and leaves demonstrated better results.

Monitoring of ochratoxin A exposure of the Portuguese population through a nationwide urine survey--Winter 2007

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a mycotoxin produced by a variety of fungi, such as Penicillium verrucosum and Aspergillium spp., which has been found to have a wide number of potentially deadly toxic effects, and can enter the human organism through a variety of means. It then finds its way into the bloodstream and, after a lengthy process, is eventually excreted through the urine. It can thus be detected in its original form not only in blood samples but also in this biological medium. As such, and in an attempt to evaluate the exposure of the Portuguese population to this mycotoxin, morning urine samples were collected during the Winter of 2007, from each of five geographically distinct Portuguese locations--Bragança, Porto, Coimbra, Alentejo, and Algarve--and subjected to extraction by immunoaffinity columns and to OTA quantification through liquid chromatography coupled with fluorescence detection. Prevalent incidence was higher than 95% with Coimbra being the exception (incidence of 73.3%). In nearly all locations, the OTA content of most samples was found to be above the limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.008 ng/ml. Indeed, excluding Coimbra, with an OTA content level of 0.014 ng/ml, all regions featured content values over 0.021 ng/ml.

Risk factors for transient vocal cord palsy after thyroidectomy

Background

Transient recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy affects to 5–10 per cent of patients after extracapsular thyroidectomy. This prospective study assessed the impact of surgical injury and extralaryngeal branching of the inferior laryngeal nerve (ILN) on vocal cord dysfunction (VCD).

Methods

Total thyroidectomy or lobectomy was performed in 188 patients, with 302 ILNs at risk. The anatomy of the ILN and degree of injury to the nerve, based on the Laryngeal Nerve Injury Score (LNIS), were recorded. Fibreoptic laryngoscopy was performed a mean(s.d.) of 10·6(4·1) days after thyroidectomy.

Results

Some 37·4 per cent of ILNs showed extralaryngeal branching. In all, 10·9 per cent of patients developed VCD; 4·3 per cent had paresis and 6·6 per cent paralysis. All paretic and all but one paralytic cords recovered fully after 61(17) days. VCD was more frequently associated with branched than non-branched ILNs (15·8 versus 8·1 per cent; P = 0·022). Injuries were more common in branched nerves (mean(s.e.m.) total LNIS 0·94(0·08) versus 0·51(0·05); P &lt; 0·001). Branched nerves were more likely to be associated with VCD (odds ratio 2·2 (95 per cent confidence interval 1·1 to 4·5)).

Conclusion

Branched ILNs suffer more surgical injuries and are twice as likely to be associated with VCD.

Increased Mortality and Morbidity Associated With Thyroidectomy for Intrathoracic Goiters Reaching the Carina Tracheae

HYPOTHESIS

Complications associated with thyroidectomy for intrathoracic goiters have been underestimated because of the lack of a precise definition of high-risk patients.

DESIGN

Retrospective multicenter multinational review of medical records and radiographic images of patients who underwent thyroidectomy for intrathoracic goiters reaching the carina tracheae. Demographic, clinical, operative, anatomical, and pathological data were recorded.

RESULTS

There were 35 patients (mean +/- SE age, 63 +/- 11 years) included in the study. In 4 patients, the goiter was asymptomatic; 10 patients had dysphagia, 24 patients had dyspnea, and 3 patients had superior vena cava syndrome. A median sternotomy was required in 12 patients and a right-sided thoracotomy in 1 patient. The mean +/- SE operative time was 145 +/- 72 minutes (range, 50-360 minutes). Transient hypoparathyroidism developed in 13 patients. Four patients experienced transient hoarseness, and 1 patient had permanent vocal cord paralysis. There were no significant differences between the proportion of patients who underwent or did not undergo sternotomy or thoracotomy regarding vocal cord dysfunction (2 [15%] of 13 patients vs 3 [13%] of 22 patients) or hypoparathyroidism (5 [38%] of 13 vs 6 [28%] of 22 patients). The mean postoperative hospital stay was 10 days (range, 2-84 days). Four patients required reoperation. Two patients died. Nine of 14 patients with thyroid glands weighing at least 260 g required sternotomy vs 3 of 14 patients with thyroid glands weighing less than 260 g (P = .02). Overall, 18 [52%] of 35 patients were discharged without any complication.

CONCLUSION

Intrathoracic goiters reaching the carina tracheae carry a high unreported risk of sternotomy, postoperative complications, reoperation, and death.

Restored insulin inhibition on insulin secretion in nondiabetic severely obese patients after weight loss induced by bariatric surgery

OBJECTIVE

To examine the impact of important weight loss on insulin inhibition of its own secretion during experimentally induced hyperinsulinemia under euglycemic conditions.

DESIGN

Longitudinal, clinical intervention study--bariatric surgery (vertical banded gastroplasty--gastric bypass--Capella technique), re-evaluation after 4 and 14 months.

SUBJECTS

Nine obese patients class III (BMI=54.6+/-2.6 kg/m2) and nine lean subjects (BMI=22.7+/-0.7 kg/m2).

MEASUREMENTS

Euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp (insulin infusion: 40 mU/min m2), C-peptide plasma levels, electrical bioimpedance methodology, and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).

RESULTS

BMI was reduced in the follow-up: 44.5+/-2.2 and 33.9+/-1.5 kg/m2 at 4 and 14 months. Insulin-induced glucose uptake was markedly reduced in obese patients (19.5+/-1.9 micromol/min kg FFM) and improved with weight loss, but in the third study, it was still lower than that observed in controls (35.9+/-4.0 vs 52.9+/-2.2 micromol/min kg FFM). Insulin-induced inhibition of its own secretion was blunted in obese patients (19.9+/-5.7%, relative to fasting values), and completely reversed to values similar to that of lean ones in the second and third studies (-60.8+/-4.2 and -54.0+/-6.1%, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Weight loss in severe obesity improved insulin-induced glucose uptake, and completely normalized the insulin inhibition on its own secretion.

Influence of olive storage period on oil quality of three Portuguese cultivars of Olea europea, Cobrançosa, Madural, and Verdeal Transmontana

Olives (Olea europaea cv. Cobrançosa, Madural, and Verdeal Transmontana) used for oil production were stored, in plastic containers, at 5 +/- 2 degrees C (70% relative humidity) for three different periods before oil extraction: 0, 7, and 14 days (T(0), T(7), and T(14), respectively). In the crop year 1997/1998 this procedure was done only for cv. Cobrançosa and in 1998/1999 for the three cultivars. After storage, the oils were extracted from the fruits, and the acidity, peroxide value, coefficients of specific extinction at 232 and 270 nm, stability, color, p-anisidine value, fatty acids, and tocopherols compositions were determined. The results confirm that storage of fruits produces losses in the olive oil quality. Acidity and stability to oxidation indicate a progressive deterioration of oil quality as fruit is stored. The storage time affects the total tocopherols contents, namely, alpha-tocopherol, which clearly decreased during fruit storage. The oil quality of the Verdeal Transmontana cultivar deteriorated more rapidly than that of Cobrançosa and Madural cultivars. This study also shows that cv. Cobrançosa, the main cultivar in the region, is a good choice in terms of final olive oil quality.

Visual estimation of finger angles: do we need goniometers?

Seventy-one plastic surgeons and therapists, of varying levels of seniority and experience, were asked to examine a resin cast of an adult male hand and use estimation to measure the angles of the metacarpophalangeal and interphalangeal joints of each digit. Visual estimation by all subjects was inaccurate by a mean of approximately 25% (median percentage error 22, range 1-100). Consultants were the most accurate, whilst physiotherapists were the least. Regular goniometer users were no more accurate. However, hand surgery experience correlated with accuracy, as did a stated interest in hand surgery. Although visual accuracy improves with experience, it is still an inaccurate technique. We, therefore, recommend that goniometers should be used for measuring angles in hand surgery patients.

Redefinition of the helical rim in cauliflower-ear surgery

Cauliflower ear is a serious deformity of the auricle induced by single or repeated injury to the external ear. Few papers deal with surgical techniques for correcting this deformity. We describe the use of ipsilateral excess cartilage to restore the helical rim.

Brain single-photon emission computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging in Machado-Joseph disease

BACKGROUND

Machado-Joseph disease (MJD) is one of the most frequently encountered spinocerebellar ataxias. However, few reports on brain single-photon emission computed tomographic (SPECT) imaging (BSI) with hexylmethylpropylene amineoxine labled with technetium Tc 99m and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have been performed for the evaluation of patients with MJD.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate possible abnormalities with BSI and MRI in patients with MJD and to correlate these findings with the duration of symptoms; cerebellar, extrapyramidal, and pyramidal syndromes; and the molecular characteristics of the MJD mutation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twelve patients (8 males and 4 females [mean age, 39 years]) with genetically proven MJD were studied. The patients underwent BSI and MRI on the same day. Brain SPECT imaging was performed after an intravenous injection of 99mTc-hexylmethylpropylene amineoxine. The transaxial, coronal, and sagittal BSIs obtained were submitted to visual and semiquantitative analyses. Magnetic resonance imaging was obtained in a 2-T system with coronal, sagittal, transaxial, and 3-dimensional (volumetric) acquisitions. The volumes of the cerebellar hemispheres and vermis were calculated. Control groups for BSI (22 female and 20 male subjects [mean age, 33 years]) and MRI (13 female and 4 male subjects [mean age, 32.2 years]) were included for comparison.

RESULTS

Correlation was observed between the perfusion abnormalities identified by visual analysis in the BSI with the structural abnormalities observed on MRI in the parietal lobes and vermis. Brain SPECT imaging identified (by visual analysis) more perfusion abnormalities in the inferior portion of the frontal lobes, mesial and lateral portions of the temporal lobes, basal ganglia, and cerebellar hemispheres. Magnetic resonance imaging identified more abnormalities in the pons and superior portions of the frontal lobes. Olivary atrophy was identified by MRI. Semiquantitative analysis showed a statistically significant difference of perfusion in the inferior and superior portions of the frontal lobes, lateral portion of the temporal lobes, parietal lobes, left basal ganglia, cerebellar hemispheres, and vermis when compared with the control group. A significant difference was noted between the vermis and cerebellar volumes on MRI when compared with the control group. A significant relationship was observed between the perfusion of the left parietal lobe (P =.05) and extrapyramidal syndrome. There was a tendency toward an inverse relationship between the duration of symptoms and the perfusion of the cerebellar hemispheres (rho = -0.37; P =.24) and volume of the vermis (rho = -0.30; P =.34); between the length of the expanded (CAG)n repeat and the perfusion of the left parietal lobe (rho = -0.32; P =.36), vermis (rho = -0.28; P =.43), and pons (rho = -0.28; P =.42). A direct association was observed between the length of the expanded (CAG)n repeat and the perfusion of the lateral portion of the right temporal lobe (rho = 0.67; P =.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Brain SPECT imaging and MRI were capable of identifying subclinical abnormalities in individuals with MJD. These findings may be helpful for a better understanding of the pathophysiology of this disease.

Lack of insulin inhibition on insulin secretion in non-diabetic morbidly obese patients

OBJECTIVE

Insulin inhibition of insulin secretion has been described in normal lean subjects. In this study, we examined whether this phenomenon also occurs in the morbidly obese who often have severe peripheral insulin resistance.

SUBJECTS

Twelve obese patients, normotolerant to glucose (8 F/4 M, body mass index (BMI)=54.8+/-2.5 kg/m(2), 39 y) and 16 lean control subjects (10 F/6 M, BMI=22.0+/-0.5 kg/m(2), 31 y).

DESIGN AND MEASUREMENTS

An experimental study using various parameters, including an euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp (280 pmol/min/m(2) of body surface), an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), electrical bioimpedance and indirect calorimetry.

RESULTS

The obese subjects were insulin resistant (M=19.8+/-1.6 vs 48.7+/-2.6 micromol/min kg FFM, P<0.0001) and hyperinsulinemic in the fasted state and after glucose ingestion. Fasting plasma C-peptide levels (obese 1425+/-131 pmol/l vs lean 550+/-63 pmol/l; P<0.0001) decreased less during the clamp in the obese groups (-16.9+/-6.9% vs -43.0+/-5.6% relative to fasting values; P=0.007). In the lean group, the C-peptide decrease during the clamp (percentage variation) was related to insulin sensitivity, M/FFM (r=0.56, P=0.03), even after adjustment for the clamp glucose variation.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that, in lean subjects, insulin inhibits its own secretion, and this may be related to insulin sensibility. This response is blunted in morbidly obese patients and may have a role in the pathogenesis of fasting hyperinsulinemia in these patients.

A comparison of metacarpophalangeal joint silastic arthroplasty with or without crossed intrinsic transfer

Forty-three hands in 36 adults undergoing Silastic interposition arthroplasty of the index, middle, ring and little finger metacarpophalangeal joints for rheumatoid arthritis were randomly allocated to undergo replacement with or without crossed intrinsic transfer. The patients were reviewed at a median of 17 (range, 7-50) months after surgery. The demographic characteristics and pre-operative clinical measurements of the two groups were indistinguishable. Both groups showed improvement in ulnar drift and an altered arc, but no change in total range of motion at the metacarpophalangeal joints. Grip strength and pulp to pulp pinch were significantly and comparably improved in both groups. There was no difference in pain scores or perceived function between the treatment groups. It is concluded that crossed intrinsic transfer does not significantly affect the outcome of Silastic interposition arthroplasty of the metacarpophalangeal joints in rheumatoid patients.

Lipoma extraction via small remote incisions

We describe a technique for extraction of lipomata using gynaecological polyp forceps, via incisions placed in aesthetically better sites than directly over the lesion. Although this can also be achieved by liposuction, we have found that this alternative technique is valuable in those cases where liposuction has failed due to the fibrous nature of the lesion, or where equipment is not available.

Activation of the growth plates on three-phase bone scintigraphy: the explanation for the overgrowth of fractured femurs

Children with an uncomplicated femoral fracture, treated with superimposition of fragments and intentional shortening, usually develop overgrowth of the fractured femur and the ipsilateral tibia which may compensate for the initial shortening and enable the limb in question to reach a length similar to that on the normal side. The overgrowth is evaluated clinically and by scanography. The increased metabolic activity of the growth plates that support this overgrowth has not been documented by any laboratory method. In order to evaluate the metabolic activity of the growth plates, 18 patients (11 males, seven females; mean age 6.1 years) with fractures of the femur were studied at three different time intervals (2-5 months, 6-12 months and 18-24 months). Three-phase bone scintigraphy was performed in all patients. Ten children (five males, five females; mean age 7.5 years) who had had bone imaging for other reasons were used as the control group. Visual analysis of the flow and equilibrium phases was performed for the distal femoral and proximal tibial growth plates. Visual and semi-quantitative analyses of the delayed images were performed for the distal femoral and proximal and distal tibial growth plates. Semi-quantitative analyses yielded the following activity ratios: (a) the distal femoral growth plate of the fractured femur to the contralateral one (FR); (b) the proximal growth plate of the tibia on the side of the fractured femur to the contralateral one (TpR); (c) the distal growth plate of the tibia on the side of the fractured femur to the contralateral one (TdR); and (d) in the control group, the distal growth plates of both femora (FCG) and the proximal (TCGp) and distal (TCGd) growth plates of the tibiae. Visual analysis of the blood flow, equilibrium and delayed images showed increased activity in the distal femoral growth plates during the first and second time intervals, but not during the third. No significant activity changes were found in the proximal and distal tibial growth plates during any of the phases analysed. The mean and standard deviation for FR in the three time intervals were: FRI=1.22+/-0.27, FRII=1.17+/-0.16 and FRIII=1.09+/-0.20. FR values were significantly higher than in the control group (FCG=0.99+/-0.03) (P=0.033). The mean and standard deviation for TpR in the three time intervals were: TpRI=1.08+/-0.18, TpRII=0.94+/-0.09 and TpRIII=0.96+/-0.20. TpR values were not significantly different from those in the control group (TCGp=1.00+/-0.05). However, TpRI was significantly higher than TpRII (P=0.043). The mean and standard deviation for TdR in the three time intervals were: TdRI=1.10+/-0.41, TdRII=1.05+/-0.15 and TdRIII=1.13+/-0.36. TdR values were not significantly higher than in the control group (TCGd=1.00+/-0.04) (P=0.777). These results support the concept that three-phase bone imaging is able to quantify and determine that activation occurs in the distal femoral and proximal tibial growth plates of fractured femora. This phenomenon may explain the overgrowth observed in this injured bone structure.

Cluster and velocity effects on yields and kinetic energy distributions of Li+ desorbed from LiF

MeV N+ and N2+ ions were used to induce Li+ desorption from LiF. The contributions due to elastic atomic collisions and electronic excitation processes to the sputtering yield could be unambiguously separated. In the case of N2+ ions, a Li+ yield enhancement, i.e., Y(N2+)>2Y(N+), was found only for the electronic process. The maximum sputtering yield was observed in a projectile velocity range where the projectile electronic energy loss still increases. These results are simultaneously explained using the radial distribution of the deposited energy rather than the electronic energy loss.

Evidences of gentamicin resistance amplification in Klebsiella pneumoniae isolated from faeces of hospitalized newborns

The intestinal microbiota, a barrier to the establishment of pathogenic bacteria, is also an important reservoir of opportunistic pathogens. It plays a key role in the process of resistance-genes dissemination, commonly carried by specialized genetic elements, like plasmids, phages, and conjugative transposons. We obtained from strains of enterobacteria, isolated from faeces of newborns in a university hospital nursery, indication of phenotypical gentamicin resistance amplification (frequencies of 10(-3) to 10(-5), compatible with transposition frequencies). Southern blotting assays showed strong hybridization signals for both plasmidial and chromosomal regions in DNA extracted from variants selected at high gentamicin concentrations, using as a probe a labeled cloned insert containing aminoglycoside modifying enzyme (AME) gene sequence originated from a plasmid of a Klebsiella pneumoniae strain previously isolated in the same hospital. Further, we found indications of inactivation to other resistance genes in variants selected under similar conditions, as well as, indications of co-amplification of other AME markers (amikacin). Since the intestinal environment is a scenario of selective processes due to the therapeutic and prophylactic use of antimicrobial agents, the processes of amplification of low level antimicrobial resistance (not usually detected or sought by common methods used for antibiotic resistance surveillance) might compromise the effectiveness of antibiotic chemotherapy.

A simple technique for applying local splintage to the fingers

We report a simple method of splinting the interphalangeal joints that we have employed as our standard technique without complication.

RNA content differs in slow and fast muscle fibers: implications for interpretation of changes in muscle gene expression

Quantification of a specific muscle mRNA per total RNA (e.g., by Northern blot analysis) plays a crucial role in assessment of developmental, experimental, or pathological changes in gene expression. However, total RNA content per gram of a particular fiber type may differ as well. We have tested this possibility in the distinct fiber types of adult rat skeletal muscle. Sections of single fibers were hybridized against 28S rRNA as a marker for RNA content. Quantification of the hybridization showed that the 28S rRNA content decreases in the order I>IIA>IIX>IIB, where Type I fibers show a five- to sixfold higher expression level compared to Type IIB fibers. Results were verified with an independent biochemical determination of total RNA content performed on pools of histochemically defined freeze-dried single fibers. In addition, the proportion of myosin heavy chain (MHC) mRNA per microgram of total RNA was similar in slow and fast fibers, as demonstrated by Northern blot analysis. Consequently, Type I fibers contain five- to sixfold more MHC mRNA per microgram of tissue than IIB fibers. These differences are not reflected in the total fiber protein content. This study implies that proper assessment of mRNA levels in skeletal muscle requires evaluation of total RNA levels according to fiber type composition.

Use of a vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap in bilateral groin dissection for recurrent carcinoma of the penis

We present a 42-year-old man requiring bilateral groin dissection for recurrent squamous cell carcinoma of the penis. Tissue cover was obtained using a pedicled vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap. This case is made interesting by the use of a unilateral flap to cover a large bilateral lower abdominal tissue defect, enabling minimal weakening of the abdominal wall, primary skin closure, and allowing early mobilization and hospital discharge.

[Newborn intestinal colonization by multidrug resistant enterobacteria in a neonatal unit]

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the occurrence of intestinal colonization in newborns by multidrug-resistant enterobacteria strains (MDRES) during hospital stay after birth. We used selective media in an attempt to determine the relationship between isolation of these strains and some of the presumed colonization risk factors. METHOD: A sequencial inclusion study of 30 newborns was carried out in the neonatal unit of the HUPE, State University Hospital, a general 600-bed tertiary care hospital. We obtained clinical and epidemiological information from medical records and collected a fecal sample from each newborn, which was plated in gentamicin (8mg/ml) medium and potassium tellurite (25mg/ml) medium. The isolated strains were biochemically identified and also submitted to tests of antimicrobial susceptibility. Nine MDRES were submitted to an assay for plasmid conjugational transfer. RESULTS: We isolated 56 distinct MDRES from 14 among 30 newborns (46.7%). Klebsiella pneumoniae was the most common bacterial species (38/56 (68%). We found statistical association between individual MDRES isolation and presence of 3 or 4 of the following colonization risk factors considered: antimicrobial use, low weight (<2.500g), more than 6 days of hospitalization and artificial milk feeding (p< 0.02). We could detect plasmid resistance transfer by bacterial conjugation for 8 among 9 MDRES. CONCLUSION: The seletive cultura media were useful to detect the high frequence of newborns colonized by MDRES in association with well established infection risk factors. We emphasize the importance of reinforcing control rules aiming at preventing intestinal colonization viewed as a risk of nosocomial infection.

Leech-borne Serratia marcescens infection following complex hand injury

Leeches are commonly used in the postoperative course of plastic surgical operations where there is venous congestion in a pedicled or free flap. They provide a temporary relief to venous engorgement whilst venous drainage is re-established. It is known that leeches can carry Aeromonas hydrophila infection, and a second or third generation cephalosporin antibiotic has traditionally been given as prophylaxis against infection. We report a new observation that leeches can carry Serratia marcescens and give rise to clinically significant infection. The implication for prophylaxis and treatment of leech-associated cellulitis is discussed.

Circulating bile is the main factor responsible for atrial natriuretic peptide release in experimental obstructive jaundice

BACKGROUND

Biliary obstruction in the rabbit causes increased release of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP). Circulating bile, raised biliary pressure or absence of bile in the duodenum may be implicated in this hepatocardiac syndrome.

METHODS

An experimental model was developed to elucidate the mechanism linking obstructive jaundice and increased plasma ANP. Hepatic and renal function, biliary tree pressure and ANP plasma concentrations were investigated in conscious rabbits 4 and 24 h after common bile duct ligation, biliovenous shunting or external drainage via a biliary fistula.

RESULTS

Bilirubin concentration increased after bile duct ligation and creation of a biliovenous shunt. Plasma creatinine increased abruptly in rabbits with a biliovenous shunt. At 4 h, the ANP increase in animals with a biliovenous shunt was ninefold that observed after bile duct obstruction while no change was noted after external biliary diversion (mean 350 versus 45 versus 9 fmol/l; P < 0.01). Relief of biliary tree obstruction was associated with a return of ANP levels towards basal normal values.

CONCLUSION

Raised plasma ANP in obstructive jaundice is not the result of an increased biliary pressure per se or absence of bile in the proximal duodenum but of the passage of bile components to the circulation.

[Mental health and general practice in Macao]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of mental health disturbances and similar complaints within the general practice of Macao. From 1993 to 1995, 0.5% or 2-3 in each 1000 inhabitants per year, consulted their general practitioner (GP), with at least one of these complaints or symptoms. This also means that 1% of all the enrolled people in all the health centres (P.H.C.) were observed at least once a year, with health problems of this order. At the same time, 1% of all the general practitioner's consultations had been codified (ICHPPC-2 defined) with at least one of the selected 20 codes, defining mental problems (V and VI chapter). In spite of this we consider these values lower than the reality, concerning the peoples' cultural and social environment. One of the most important reasons may be the deficient training of PHC doctors on this subject. To improve the quality of the mental health care in general practice we suggest complementary training and a continuous supervision of a consulting psychiatrist. Each health centre or each small group of health centres should have one nominated psychiatrist to answer promptly to all the mental problems and help requested by GPs.

Complications following the use of the Marchetti flexible intramedullary nail

Twenty-seven patients, with eight femoral and 20 tibial fractures, were treated with the Marchetti/Vincenzi flexible intramedullary nail between March 1993 and May 1994 in a District General Hospital. Clinical and radiological reviews were performed on all patients except for one who died. There was a high complication rate in both groups (63.5 per cent femoral and 43 per cent tibial). Particularly common was coronal mal-alignment. Other complications included non-union, external rotation, and fracture shortening with proximal migration of the nail. These data suggest that flexible intramedullary nails do not give adequate stability to either femoral or tibial fractures. We believe they should not be used in the lower limb without external support or delayed weight bearing.

Through-flow revascularization of the tongue using a radial forearm free flap

Surgery for invasive squamous cell carcinoma involving the tongue base usually necessitates a total glossectomy because complete tumour resection requires sacrifice of both lingual arteries leaving a non-viable anterior tongue. A case is presented in which both lingual arteries were sacrificed to achieve complete tumour excision and the remaining anterior two-thirds of the tongue were successfully revascularized by through-flow from a radial forearm free flap which was used for pharyngeal reconstruction. This technique offers hope of preservation of the tongue when radical surgery would otherwise lead to its removal.

Increased cardiac endocrine activity after common bile duct ligation in the rabbit. Atrial endocrine cells in obstructive jaundice

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the pathogenesis of water and sodium metabolism derangements in obstructive jaundice.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Obstructive jaundice is associated with hypodipsia, depletion of extracellular water, alterations of the water and sodium regulating hormones, and an increased incidence of renal failure. Plasma atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) increases after common bile duct ligation in the rabbit. The present study was designed to investigate ANF-secreting cardiac atrial cells in this animal model.

METHODS

Plasma ANF and the percentage of atrial cells staining for ANF were determined in jaundiced and sham-operated rabbits at 24 (group OJ-24, n = 11; group SO-24, n = 5) and 72 hours (group OJ-72, n = 11; group SO-72, n = 5) after surgery. The atrial ANF content was also determined.

RESULTS

Plasma ANF was higher in jaundiced animals than in controls both at 24 (63 +/- 44 fmol/mL vs. 17 +/- 10 fmol/mL, p < 0.02) and at 72 hours (73 +/- 49 fmol/mL vs. 12 +/- 11 fmol/mL). In the two OJ groups, the percentage of positive ANF cells per 200-power field in the right atrial appendage was higher than in the SO groups both at 24 (62 +/- 11% vs. 31 +/- 12%, p < 0.003) and at 72 hours (56 +/- 18% vs. 31 +/- 12%, p < 0.01). Similar results were obtained in the right auricular wall. The percentage of positive ANF cells was significantly higher in the left atrium in which significant differences between the OJ and SO groups were also noted. The right atrial ANF content was higher in the OJ than in SO groups (437 +/- 323 pmol/mg of protein vs. 83 +/- 44 pmol/mg of protein).

CONCLUSIONS

Cardiac endocrine activity is increased in experimental obstructive jaundice. ANF may be involved in the pathogenesis of the renal and water and sodium metabolic disturbances present in this disease.

[Imaging of aortic aneurysms and dissections. Part 2. Aortic dissections]

The authors review the main imaging findings of aneurysms and dissections of the aorta. Based on the experience and imaging techniques available in their institution (Conventional Radiology, Sonography and Computed Tomography), they try to make a decision tree of radiologic procedures in ambulatory and emergency patients. Nowadays, in the majority of situations, these techniques allow the Radiologist to make the correct diagnosis, detect the complications and evaluate the patients in the pre and post-surgical phases. Other imaging techniques not available in their institution, such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Aortography, will be mentioned in view of their usefulness in some specific situations.

[Imaging of aneurysms and dissections of the aorta. Part 1--Aneurysms of the abdominal aorta]

The authors review the main imaging findings of aneurysms and dissections of the aorta. Based on the experience and imaging techniques available in their institution (Conventional Radiology, Sonography and Computed Tomography), they try to make a decision tree of radiologic procedures in ambulatory and emergency patients. Nowadays, in the majority of situations, these techniques allow the Radiologist to make the correct diagnosis, detect the complications and evaluate the patients in the pre and post-surgical phases. Other imaging techniques not available in their institution, such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Aortography, will be mentioned in view of their usefulness in some specific situations.

Use of a selective medium with potassium tellurite to follow intestinal colonization of hospitalized patients by drug-resistant Enterobacteriaceae

Nosocomial infections are a relevant factor in complicating the recovery of patients interned for even minor causes. In a attempt to determine their origin it is crucial to consider that their origin is of an endogenous nature. Looking for an accessible expression of intestinal colonization we analyzed fecal samples from 3 separate groups of hospital patients collected after different lengths of time. For practical reasons one group was studied prospectively and two other groups (patients hospitalized for up to 7 days and patients hospitalized for more than 7 days) were compared to one another. We looked for the emergence of tellurite resistance among Enterobacteriaceae using a selective medium, MacConkey potassium tellurite (MCPT). The frequency of prospectively studied patients with tellurite resistant strains was significantly greater after 7 days of hospitalization. For the two other groups, patients with more than 7 days of hospitalization showed a significant increase of bacterial species and of strains with new antimicrobial resistance markers. High molecular weight plasmids were detected in some of these strains. These data show that the MCPT medium is a useful tool for the investigation of bowel colonization in hospitalized patients by drug-resistant Enterobacteriaceae.

Treatment of gastrointestinal fistulas with Sandostatin

Pharmacological treatment of patients with enterocutaneous fistulas aims at reducing output, increasing the chance of spontaneous closure and reducing the time of fistula closure. Our initial experience with octreotide suggests that this drug effectively reduces output of established enterocutaneous fistulas when compared with a placebo in patients on parenteral nutrition. Output reduction was independent of the basal output. Likewise, this somatostatin analogue was shown to accelerate fistula closure in a series of 27 patients treated with the drug after having received parenteral nutrition for a mean of 25 days. When compared with a historical series, the rate of spontaneous fistula closure was not modified by octreotide.

[Human hydatidosis in Rio Grande do Sul (brazil): an estimate of its significance for the public health of the country]

By means of data collected through personal visits to hospitals and clinics in the 24 counties of Rio Grande do Sul held to be endemic for Echinococcus granulosus an assessment of the importance of this disease is attempted. (Barring new developments, these data reflect the situation in the country as a whole). The surgical incidence for 1990 was found to be 5.5 cases per 100 thousand inhabitants, far less than the rates for the neighboring countries. As concerns prevalence, in the absence of adequate population surveys the authors were forced to rely upon radiologic and echographic evidence available at various clinics throughout the area. The provisional prevalence rate thus adopted is 0.8 per thousand for lung cysts and 5.5 per thousand for abdominal cysts. According to the testimony of a group of local senior surgeons it appears that human hydatidosis is declining in Brazil. Such a conclusion gains further credibility on examination of the age distribution in the recent case series, as well as current investigations in veterinary medicine.

Rapid increase in plasma levels of atrial natriuretic peptide after common bile duct ligation in the rabbit

Previous studies have shown that common bile duct ligation in the rabbit is followed by a reduction of the extracellular water compartment. To further elucidate the mechanisms leading to volume depletion in this model, water and sodium balances and changes in plasma concentrations of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), vasopressin (ADH), plasma renin activity (PRA) and aldosterone (Ald) were investigated during the first 4 days after common bile duct ligation (group OJ,) or sham operation (group SO). Water and chow intakes were lower in group OJ (148 +/- 30 versus 226 +/- 40 mL/4 days; p = 0.004 and 12 +/- 9 versus 171 +/- 40 g/4 days; p = 0.0001). There were no differences in urine output. Sodium urinary losses were marginally higher in group OJ (12.4 +/- 7 versus 6.7 +/- 5 mEq/4 days; p = 0.06). Water balance was lower in group OJ (-50 +/- 56 versus 101 +/- 71 mL/4 days; p = 0.0001). At 24 hours, plasma ANP (41 +/- 7 versus 10.7 +/- 1 fmol/mL, p = 0.0001), ADH (21.8 +/- 7 versus 12.3 +/- 6 pg/mL, p = 0.008) and Ald (14.5 +/- 5 versus 3.7 +/- 3 ng/dL, p = 0.001) were higher in group OJ. These alterations persisted 72 hours after bile duct ligation, when a concomitant increase in PRA (10.7 +/- 5 versus 3 +/- 1.6 ng/dL, p = 0.006) was also observed. A group of pair-fed pair-watered sham-operated controls (group SO2, n = 13) showed a metabolic profile similar to group OJ but a low ANP concentration. Multiple venous sampling in five rabbits 24 hours after bile duct ligation showed the highest plasma levels of ANP in the aorta and infrarenal vena cava. These results suggest that common bile duct ligation in the rabbit is followed by marked hypodipsia and hypophagia, possibly mediated by ANP, leading to isotonic volume depletion and secondary activation of the water and sodium retaining hormones.

Technetium-99m distribution into Klebsiella pneumoniae

Bacteria labelled with radionuclide has been the subject of much investigation and has been applied in microbiological research. Technetium-99m (99mTc) may be an alternative radionuclide for the labelling of bacteria employed in various microbiological procedures. This radionuclide is easily available, is not expensive and presents important physical and biological characteristics. 99mTc-labelled bacteria are stable and their cell viability and biological properties are not modified. Study of the distribution of radioactivity in 99mTc-labelled Klebsiella pneumoniae cultures, after homogenization and differential centrifugation of the cells fractions, showed that this radionuclide was present inside the cell, mainly in a ribosomal fraction. Treatment of these fractions with enzymes and detergent revealed a high sensitivity to pronase and Triton X-100. After phenol extraction, a large percentage of radioactivity was detected in the phenol phase. Treatment of the soluble fraction with trichloroacetic acid at different temperatures showed that the concentration of 99mTc in the precipitate was lower at 100 degrees than at 4 degrees C. These results suggest that 99mTc binds mainly to the proteins in Klebsiella pneumoniae.