Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma (UTUC): Prevalence, Impact and Management Challenge

Upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) is an aggressive and difficult malignancy to treat. Owing to its rarity and the lack of specific high-level data, management mirrors that of urothelial cancer of the bladder (UCB). Over the past decade, UTUC has shown minimal improvement in survival rates. Its location makes the diagnosis and staging of UTUC more complex. Moreover, surgery often leads to a decline in renal function, rendering a proportion of patients ineligible for cisplatin. There is debate as to how best manage locally advanced UTUC perioperatively. Although immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have changed the treatment landscape for UCB, the response to ICIs in UTUC has been variable. With new technologies, our understanding of the molecular biology of UTUC has grown, helping to identify key molecular differences from UCB. This review summarises the evidence available on UTUC as a disease entity, discusses treatment in perioperative and metastatic settings, and considers future directions for the management of patients diagnosed with UTUC.

The Future of Front-line Metastatic Bladder Cancer is Platinum-free

Management of metastatic bladder cancer has historically been challenging. However, enfortumab vedotin plus pembrolizumab (EV/P) has recently been accepted as a new standard of care, replacing platinum-based chemotherapy, because of improvements in survival and response rates. The benefits of the EV/P combination and some of the questions that arise in this new treatment landscape are discussed.

NLR Outperforms Low Hemoglobin and High Platelet Count as Predictive and Prognostic Biomarker in Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma Treated with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors

BACKGROUND

Reliable biomarkers in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) remain elusive. While several markers have been shown to be associated with prognosis, and may aid in risk assessment, predictive biomarkers of response to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have not been established. Previous studies have shown that a high pretreatment neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is a negative prognostic factor in RCC. However, a clinically useful cut-off for the predictive and prognostic value of NLR has not been well defined.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective analysis of 132 patients with previously untreated metastatic clear cell RCC (ccRCC) who received first line ICI-based therapy. ICI-based therapy included anti-PD-1/PD-L1 alone or in combination with anti-CTLA-4 or VEGF-TKI. Platelet, haemoglobin, neutrophil and lymphocyte counts were collected prior to treatment and at 12-weeks after treatment initiation. Radiologic response at 12-weeks and overall survival (OS) data was also collected.

RESULTS

Low haemoglobin, high platelet count, and NLR ≥3 were statistically significant negative predictive biomarkers when assessed at 12-weeks, but not at baseline. Median OS was shorter in patients with low haemoglobin (20.3 months vs. 51.6 months, P = .009), high platelet count (14.3 months vs. 43.8 months, P = .003), and NLR ≥ 3 (17.5 months vs. 40.3 months, P < .001) at 12-weeks. In an IMDC-risk adjusted analysis, only NLR ≥3 at 12-weeks remained statistically significant (OR of 2.11, P = .003) A dynamic change towards lower absolute NLR overtime was associated with longer OS. In patients who had baseline NLR ≥ 3, those who achieved NLR < 3 at 12-weeks demonstrated significant longer median OS compared to those whose NLR remained persistently ≥ 3 (40.3 months vs. 14.7 months, P = .004).

CONCLUSION

NLR ≥3, low haemoglobin and elevated platelet count after 12-weeks of ICI-based first line therapy were negatively prognostic and predictive in patients with metastatic RCC. Normalization of NLR in patients with baseline elevation was associated with longer median OS and response to therapy. These results suggest that monitoring of routine haematologic biomarkers during therapy may provide important predictive and prognostic information, beyond what is available with baseline risk assessment scoring systems.

Nunavimmi puvakkut kaggutimik aanniaqarniq: Qanuilirqitaa? Lung cancer in Nunavik: How are we doing? A retrospective matched cohort study

BACKGROUND

Whether Inuit in Canada experience disparities in lung cancer survival remains unknown. When requiring investigation and treatment for lung cancer, all residents of Nunavik, the Inuit homeland in Quebec, are sent to the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC), in Montréal. We sought to compare survival among patients with lung cancer at the MUHC, who were residents of Nunavik and Montréal, Quebec, respectively.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study. Using lung cancer registry data, we identified Nunavik residents with histologically confirmed lung cancer diagnosed between 2005 and 2017. We aimed to match 2 Montréal residents to each Nunavik resident on sex, age, calendar year of diagnosis, and histology (non-small cell lung cancer v. small cell lung cancer). We reviewed medical records for data on additional patient characteristics and treatment, and obtained vital status from a provincial registry. We compared survival using Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazards regression.

RESULTS

We included 95 residents of Nunavik and 185 residents of Montréal. For non-small cell lung cancer, median survival times were 321 (95% confidence interval [CI] 184-626) days for Nunavik (n = 71) and 720 (95% CI 536-1208) days for Montréal residents (n = 141). For small cell lung cancer, median survival times were 190 (95% CI 159-308) days for Nunavik (n = 24) and 270 (95% CI 194-766) days for Montréal residents (n = 44). Adjusting for matching variables, stage, performance status, and comorbidity, Nunavik residents had a higher hazard of death (hazard ratio 1.68, 95% CI 1.17-2.41).

INTERPRETATION

Nunavik residents experience disparities in survival after lung cancer diagnosis. Although studies in other Inuit Nunangat regions are needed, our findings point to an urgent need to ensure that interventions aimed at improving lung cancer survival, including lung cancer screening, are accessible to Inuit Nunangat residents.

New perspectives on how to formulate alcohol drinking guidelines

BACKGROUND

Low-Risk Alcohol Drinking Guidelines (LRDGs) aim to reduce the harms caused by alcohol. However, considerable discrepancies exist in the 'low-risk' thresholds employed by different countries.

ARGUMENT/ANALYSIS

Drawing upon Canada's LRDGs update process, the current paper offers the following propositions for debate regarding the establishment of 'low-risk' thresholds in national guidelines: (1) as an indicator of health loss, years of life lost (YLL) has several advantages that could make it more suitable for setting guidelines than deaths, premature deaths or disability adjusted years of life (DALYs) lost. (2) Presenting age-specific guidelines may not be the most appropriate way of providing LRDGs. (3) Given past overemphasis on the so-called protective effects of alcohol on health, presenting cause-specific guidelines may not be appropriate compared with a 'whole health' effect derived from a weighted composite risk function comprising conditions that are causally related to alcohol consumption. (4) To help people reduce their alcohol use, presenting different risk zones associated with alcohol consumption instead of a single low risk threshold may be advantageous.

CONCLUSIONS

National LRDGs should be based on years of life lost and should be neither age-specific nor cause-specific. We recommend using risk zones rather than a single drinking threshold to help people assess their own risk and encourage the adoption of behaviours with positive health impacts across the alcohol use spectrum.

Patient-Reported Outcomes Following Open Broström-Gould Procedure: Minimum 5-Year Follow-Up

Background

Ankle sprains are a common musculoskeletal injury among the general population and often involve the lateral ligament complex. Although the majority of ankle sprains are treated successfully with nonsurgical conservative measures, an estimated 5% to 20% of ankle injuries ultimately develop chronic lateral ankle instability (CAI). Multiple surgical treatment modalities for the lateral ankle complex exist, such as anatomical and nonanatomical reconstruction. The current gold standard for primary surgical repair is the Broström-Gould procedure. This is the first article to provide PROMIS scores following BG and the largest study with 5-year outcomes for an open BG.

Methods

This was a descriptive study of a retrospective cohort of patients undergoing a BG with a minimum follow-up of 5 years. Patient-reported outcome instruments collected postoperatively were PROMIS Pain, Physical Function, Depression, and FAAM. Further preoperative clinic characteristics were analyzed to correlate with the final outcome. The electronic medical record was queried for Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) code 27698 (Broström-Gould) from January 2010 to June 2017. Surveys were conducted in the clinic and through phone interviews. Patient charts were reviewed to obtain basic patient demographic information including sex, age, race, and body mass index (BMI). The following preoperative variables were recorded: history of prior CAI procedures, history of major trauma, duration of symptoms, number of diagnosed ankle sprains, other collagen pathologies, generalized ligament laxity, participation in sports/activity level, peroneal subluxation, clinically diagnosed peroneus longus or brevis tendinopathy, deltoid ligament injury, anterior ankle impingement, and posterior ankle impingement. The PROMIS and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) scores were obtained with a combination of clinic and phone interviews. Data were aggregated in Microsoft Excel and entered in R (version 4.2.0) for statistical analysis.

Results

Our results show that the minimum 5-year patient-reported PROMIS scores for patients following a Broström-Gould procedure are as follows: PROMIS physical function, 50.5; PROMIS pain interference, 48.2; and PROMIS depression, 38.2. This indicates, at a minimum, that patients 5 years removed from the procedure are within 1 SD of the general population in regard to PROMIS physical function and pain. Our patient-reported FAAM, activities of daily living, and FAAM sports scores were 59.6 and 13.0 respectively. Preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings were recorded. Arthroscopic examination was performed before lateral ligaments reconstruction for patients with intra-articular pathologies confirmed on MRI.

Conclusion

The findings from our study offer evidence supporting the effectiveness of the Broström-Gould procedure to be associated with normal physical function, even 5 years after surgery. Furthermore, our research identified specific factors such as tobacco use, diabetes, and sports participation that independently correlated with reported outcome measures. These insights enable physicians to better manage patient expectations and tailor treatment strategies accordingly. Our study establishes a foundation for future prospective research endeavors that aim to leverage the PROMIS system for comprehensive outcome assessments.

Level of Evidence

Level III, retrospective cohort study.

Stability of BK polyomavirus DNA in urine over time and analytical evaluation of an automated BKV quantitative nucleic acid test

Introduction. BK polyomavirus (BKPyV) quantitative testing is an important screening tool post-transplantation, although interpretation can be challenging due to lack of standardization, assay heterogeneity and variability of BKPyV DNA over time (in urine).Methods. Remnant clinical EDTA plasma and urine samples were tested by the cobas BKV test and a validated laboratory-developed test (LDT). Accuracy [positive and negative percent agreement (PPA and NPA), Pearson's correlation, Bland-Altman analysis] and reproducibility were evaluated. To assess BKPyV DNA stability in urine, prospective urine samples were maintained at two different storage temperatures and tested in triplicate over 7 days.Results. Overall PPA was 95.6 % (43/45) and NPA was 94.4 % (170/180). For plasma, Pearson's correlation (0.950) and Bland-Altman analysis (0.113±0.22 log10 IU ml-1) showed high agreement. For neat urine, Pearson's correlation (0.842) and Bland-Altman analysis (0.326±0.80 log10 IU ml-1) showed somewhat higher variability. Reproducibility was high for the cobas BKV versus the LDT. BKPyV DNA levels in neat urine remained relatively stable over 7 days at both storage temperatures, although outlier results were intermittently detected.Conclusion. The cobas BKV test showed high agreement and reproducibility compared to the reference LDT. BKPyV viral load testing in urine has known limitations, but neat urine can be processed by the cobas BKV.

Top advances of the year: Genitourinary cancer

There have been significant advances in the treatment of urology cancers, with a number of practice-changing treatments. There is now greater clarity on the role of the use of immunotherapies in renal cell carcinoma. The use of triplet combinations with immune checkpoint inhibition with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor tyrosine kinase inhibitors in the front-line setting for metastatic disease (COSMIC313) has been explored. The use of adjuvant therapy has been complicated by a series of negative immune therapy trials. Promising results with the HIF-2α transcription factor inhibitor, belzutifan, alone or in combination with other agents, have been reported. Antibody drug conjugates, including enfortumab vedotin and sacituzumab govitecan, have continued to show activity in urothelial cancer with promising clinical outcomes. This has led to further exploration of the combination of these novel agents with immunotherapy and accelerated Food and Drug Administration approvals. Data are also discussed regarding intensification for front-line therapy of metastatic castrate sensitive prostate cancer. The combination of androgen-signaling inhibitors, docetaxel, and androgen deprivation therapy (PEACE-1, ARASENS), as well as the use of abiraterone acetate for adjuvant therapy in high-risk disease (STAMPEDE), is included. There is also growing evidence for the use of the radioligand therapy 177 Lu-PSMA-617 in metastatic castrate resistant disease, with an established overall survival benefit in this patient population (VISION, TheraP). PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: There have been many advancements in the treatment of cancers of the kidney, bladder, and prostate in the past year. Several studies using new therapies or new combinations of therapies have improved the chances of patients living longer with these cancers, especially those with advanced disease. Here, we discuss a selection of the most compelling recently published data that have changed the way these cancers are treated, as well as those that are expected to change treatment in the near future.

Long-Term Follow-up of Multinodular and Vacuolating Neuronal Tumors and Implications for Surveillance Imaging

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Most multinodular and vacuolating neuronal tumors (MVNTs) are diagnosed and followed radiologically without any change across time. There are no surveillance guidelines or quantitative volumetric assessments of these tumors. We evaluated MVNT volumes during long follow-up periods using segmentation tools with the aim of quantitative assessment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All patients with MVNTs in a brain MR imaging report in our system were reviewed. Patients with only 1 brain MR imaging or in whom MVNT was not clearly the most likely diagnosis were excluded. All MVNTs were manually segmented. For all follow-up examinations, absolute and percentage volume change from immediately prior and initial examinations were calculated.

RESULTS

Forty-eight patients (32 women; median age, 50.5 years at first scanning) underwent 158 brain MRIs. The median duration between the first and last scan was 15.6 months (interquartile range, 5.7-29.6 months; maximum, 6.4 years) and between consecutive scans, it was 6.7 months (interquartile range, 3.3-12.4 months; maximum, 4.9 years). Pearson correlation coefficients between days since immediately prior scan versus absolute and percentage volume change from immediately prior scan were r = 0.05 (P = .60) and r = 0.07 (P = .45), respectively. For the relationship between days since the first scan versus absolute and percentage volume change from the first scan, values were r = -0.06 (P = .53) and r = -0.04 (P = .67), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

MVNT segmentation across follow-up brain MR imaging examinations did not demonstrate significant volume differences, suggesting that these tumors do not enlarge with time. Hence, frequent surveillance imaging of newly diagnosed MVNTs may not be necessary.

The effect of long-term spaceflight on drug potency and the risk of medication failure

Pharmaceuticals selected for exploration space missions must remain stable and effective throughout mission timeframes. Although there have been six spaceflight drug stability studies, there has not been a comprehensive analytical analysis of these data. We sought to use these studies to quantify the rate of spaceflight drug degradation and the time-dependent probability of drug failure resulting from the loss of active pharmaceutical ingredient (API). Additionally, existing spaceflight drug stability studies were reviewed to identify research gaps to be addressed prior to exploration missions. Data were extracted from the six spaceflight studies to quantify API loss for 36 drug products with long-duration exposure to spaceflight. Medications stored for up to 2.4 years in low Earth orbit (LEO) exhibit a small increase in the rate of API loss with a corresponding increase in risk of product failure. Overall, the potency for all spaceflight-exposed medications remains within 10% of terrestrial lot-matched control with a ~1.5 increase in degradation rate. All existing studies of spaceflight drug stability have focused primarily on repackaged solid oral medications, which is important because non-protective repackaging is a well-established factor contributing to loss of drug potency. The factor most detrimental to drug stability appears to be nonprotective drug repackaging, based on premature failure of drug products in the terrestrial control group. The result of this study supports a critical need to evaluate the effects of current repackaging processes on drug shelf life, and to develop and validate suitable protective repackaging strategies that help assure the stability of medications throughout the full duration of exploration space missions.

Rise of Antibody-Drug Conjugates: The Present and Future

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) embody a simple, but elegant, vision for cancer therapy-the delivery of a potent cytotoxic agent to tumor cells with minimal damage to normal cells-so-called smart chemo. Although there were significant challenges in achieving this milestone culminating in the first Food and Drug Administration approval in 2000, subsequent advancements in technology have led to rapid drug development with regulatory approvals for ADCs targeting a variety of tumor types. The most successful application for solid tumors has been in breast cancer, with ADCs becoming the standard of care across traditional human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)+, hormone receptor+ (HR+) and triple-negative disease subtypes. Moreover, the improved features and gains in potency with the development of ADCs have expanded the treatment-eligible population to those with low/heterogeneous expression of the target antigen on the tumor with trastuzumab deruxtecan or in the case of sacituzumab govitecan, agnostic to target expression. Despite their antibody-directed homing, these novel agents come with their share of toxicities obligating appropriate patient selection and vigilant monitoring while on treatment. As more ADCs are included in the treatment armamentarium, mechanisms of resistance need to be studied and understood for optimal sequencing. Modifying the payload to use immune-stimulating agents or combination therapies with immunotherapy and other effective targeted therapies may further extend the utility of these agents in the treatment of solid tumors.

Mental health burden for NHS healthcare staff during the COVID-19 pandemic: First results of a longitudinal survey

Background

The current investigation aimed to assess the mental health burden on healthcare workers during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

A link to an online survey was sent to an estimate of 18,100 employees of Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (STH) who had access to email. The survey was completed between 2nd and June 12, 2020.1390 healthcare workers (medical, nursing, administrative and other professions) participated in the first survey. Data from a general population sample (n = 2025) was used for comparison. Severity of somatic symptoms was measured by the PHQ-15. Severity and probable diagnosis of depression, anxiety, and PTSD were measured by the PHQ-9, GAD-7, and ITQ. Linear and logistic regressions were performed to determine if population group predicted the severity of mental health outcomes, and probable diagnosis of depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Additionally, ANCOVAs were performed to compare mental health outcomes between occupational roles in HCWs. Analysis was performed using SPSS.

Findings

Healthcare workers are more likely to experience greater severity of somatic symptoms, as well as severity and probable diagnosis of depression and anxiety, compared to the general population, but not increased traumatic stress symptoms. Scientific and technical, nursing and admin staff were more likely to experience worse mental health outcomes, compared to medical staff.

Interpretation

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to increased mental health burden in some, but not all healthcare workers during the first acute phase of the pandemic. The findings from the current investigation provide valuable insights into which healthcare workers are particularly vulnerable to developing adverse mental health outcomes during and after a pandemic.

Factors Affecting Patient Reported Outcomes after Surgical Fixation of Lisfranc Injury

Category:

Midfoot/Forefoot; Trauma

Introduction/Purpose:

The Lisfranc joint accounts for a small percentage of all fractures and is typically caused by trauma, high falls, or from athletic injuries. The treatment can be divided into operative and non-operative management based on the extent of the injury. Currently, as to the best of our knowledge, there is no literature that assesses patient reported outcomes after surgical intervention for Lisfranc injuries. This study provides an overview of the relationship between PROMIS scores and overall outcomes of patients who underwent surgical management for Lisfranc injury.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis was conducted for patients that underwent Lisfranc surgical repair at our facility from 2010- 2020. Using the electronic medical record (EMR), basic patient demographics, mechanism of injury, presence of rheumatoid arthritis, osteopenia/osteoporosis, time from injury to surgery, type of intervention utilized (ORIF, pinning, arthrodesis), use of bone grafting, and surgical complications were recorded. To evaluate outcomes, we used the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) survey and Foot Function Index (FFI) scores.

Results:

A total of 248 patients met the criteria for our study with 80 participants completing both the PROMIS and FFI surveys. The average PROMIS physical function, pain interference, and depression scores were reported as 43.2, 55.4, and 45.4, respectively. The average FFI scores in this population are as follows: FFI pain- 37.1, FFI disability- 34.2, FFI activity limitation- 12.35, and the average FFI total score was 30.95. There was a significant decrease in postoperative pain scores when compared to preoperative pain from 5.23 to 1.85 (p=0.046). Complications were fairly low in this population with 4 patients experiencing surgical site infection, 36 patients described problematic hardware, and 45 patients underwent revisional surgery.

Conclusion:

Preliminary results suggest surgical intervention for Lisfranc injuries may be viewed as satisfactory amongst patients. Further analysis to compare patient reported outcomes based on the type of surgical intervention, hardware used for fixation, and whether any patient demographic factors have any influence on these outcomes are being conducted. Our fairly large patient population has a time from surgery date ranging from 1.5 years to 11.2 years. We believe further analysis will also provide quality information on the long-term outcomes regarding Lisfranc injuries

Medial Structures at Risk During Sinus Tarsi Approach for Fixation of Sustentaculum Tali Fractures: A Cadaveric Study

Category:

Hindfoot; Trauma; Other

Introduction/Purpose:

Calcaneal fractures are a common injury with potential for concomitant involvement of the sustentaculum tali. Common surgical repair involves a sinus tarsi approach with placement of a lag screw from lateral to medial. There is no current study that focuses on the potential damage to the medial structures after screw placement. The goal of this paper was to describe the incidence in which medial structures were damaged using a sinus tarsi approach for lateral to medial screw fixation of the sustentaculum tali.

Methods:

Seven fresh-frozen below-the-knee cadaver specimens were used for the present anatomic dissection study. Prior to investigations, specimens were inspected with fluoroscopic radiographs for any pathology or prior operational intervention Each specimen underwent screw placement using the sinus tarsi approach. Medial dissection of the calcaneus was performed after screw placement to determine the proximity of the anatomical structures of interest to the inserted hardware. The four anatomical structures of interest were the tibialis posterior tendon, flexor hallucis longus, flexor digitorum longus, and posterior neurovascular bundle. Distance from the 4.0 mm screw to the previously mentioned anatomic structures was measured with a scientific ruler and recorded to the nearest millimeter. The mean, standard deviation, and range for distances were calculated for all structures. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to determine statistical significance.

Results:

The average patient age, height, and weight were 79.3 years, 5 feet 4 inches, and 127 lbs respectively. The primary outcome of interest was the longitudinal distance between the medial aspect of the screw to the anatomical structures of interest. On average, the posterior neurovascular bundle had the closest proximity to the medial aspect of the screw for all seven specimens with a mean distance of 6.4 mm. The second closest structure was the FHL with a mean distance of 7 mm, followed by the FDL and tibialis posterior tendon, with mean distances of 9.9 mm and 13.9 mm respectively. The posterior neurovascular bundle was hit by the screw on one occasion, whereas the hardware contacted the FDL on two separate occasions. The screw was placed through the FDL in one of the two occasions; however, the FDL was not transected or ruptured.

Conclusion:

This study sheds more light on the potential risks to medial structures when placing the sustentacular screw during open reduction and internal fixation of displaced intraarticular calcaneal fractures. We urge the orthopedic surgeon to exercise extreme caution when performing this critical step of the procedure to minimize avoidable injury to structures of importance that may increase the morbidity of the patient.

Long-Term Clinical and Patient-Reported Outcomes Following the Brostrom-Gould Procedure

Category:

Ankle; Sports; Trauma

Introduction/Purpose:

Chronic ankle instability (CAI) is a commonly encountered condition amongst foot and ankle surgeons and is characterized by loss of function and stability of the ankle following multiple or poorly healed ankle sprains. The Brostrom- Gould procedure is a widely accepted method of addressing CAI and has been seen to produce favorable outcomes in terms of regaining ankle function and stability. While long-term clinical results of the Brostrom-Gould procedure exist in the literature, there is little published on long-term patient-reported outcomes.

Methods:

Patients that underwent the Brostrom-Gould procedure from 2011 to 2015 were identified. The electronic medical record was utilized to collect patient demographics, preoperative and postoperative diagnosis, and clinical outcomes. Patients were then surveyed to obtain PROMIS domain scores (physical function, pain interference, and depression), resiliency scores, foot and ankle ability measure (FAAM) scores, pain level, and ability to return to work postoperatively. Criteria for inclusion in our study was the successful collection of survey data.

Results:

50 patients were successfully surveyed for long-term postoperative patient-reported outcomes. Patients were surveyed at least 5 years after their original date of surgery with a median time of 6.7 (IQR 1.89) years. Four patients experienced complications including wound complications, sural nerve injury, and reflex sympathetic dystrophy. Four individuals had recurrence of instability with a median of 11.3 months (IQR 8.8) and six patients underwent reoperations. There was significant association of prior ankle instability surgery with PROMIS physical function scores (p=0.013) and being an athlete with PROMIS pain interference scores (p=0.042). Increased age was correlated with lower PROMIS functional scores (p=0.047) and lower FAAM ADL scores (p=0.044). Longer time to survey was significantly associated with an increased FAAM sports score (p=0.048). Longer time to survey was non-significantly associated with increased PROMIS functional scores (p=0.17), decreased PROMIS pain interference scores (p=0.52), and increased FAAM ADL scores (p=0.45).

Conclusion:

Patient-reported outcomes are important to measure to gain insight into the patient experience following the procedure and may be helpful in preoperative counseling. Our preliminary results suggest that longer time to follow up is associated with more favorable PROMIS domain and FAAM scores. We intend to conduct more surveys to add more power to our study.

Anterior Structures at Risk During Antegrade Subtalar Fusion: A Cadaver Study

Category:

Hindfoot

Introduction/Purpose:

Talocalcaneal arthrodesis is the gold standard treatment for severe arthritis and has a wide range of techniques that have been described to achieve fusion. However, there is a lack of the complications associated with guide wire placement for the screw construct described in the literature. The aim of this study was to assess the proximity and structural damage to the various structures of the anterior foot resulting from guide wire placement in a top down subtalar arthrodesis procedure.

Methods:

Seven fresh-frozen below-the-knee cadaver specimens were randomly assigned to receive either a percutaneous or mini open approach for an antegrade subtalar screw placement. Blunt dissection was performed after each screw placement to determine the proximity of the anatomical structures of interest [superficial peroneal nerve (SPN), deep peroneal nerve (DPN), dorsalis pedis artery (DPA), dorsalis pedis vein (DPV), extensor hallucis longus (EHL), and the tibialis anterior (TA)] to the inserted hardware. The mean, standard deviation, and range for distances were calculated for all structures. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to determine statistical significance.

Results:

Antegrade subtalar screw placement was performed percutaneously in four specimens and via a mini-open approach in three specimens. The guidewire was touching an anatomic structure of interest in the three specimens in the percutaneous groups and one specimen in the mini-open group. For the mini-open approach, the DPN, DPA, DPV, and EHL were uninjured but touching the guidewire on one cadaver. For the percutaneous approach, the DPN was uninjured but touching the guidewire on two cadavers, the DPA was uninjured but touching the guidewire on one cadaver and penetrated on a different cadaver, the DPV was uninjured but touching the guidewire on two cadavers and penetrated on a different cadaver, and the EHL was uninjured but touching the guidewire on one cadaver and penetrated on a different cadaver. Distance from each structure of interest to the screw head can be found in Table 1.

Conclusion:

This study shows the potential risks to anterior structures when placing an antegrade subtalar screw during fusion. We suggest that orthopedic surgeons exercise caution when performing critical steps of the procedure to minimize avoidable injury to structures of importance that may increase the morbidity of the patient.

Patient Reported Outcomes Following Hindfoot Fusion Utilizing the Triple Arthrodesis Procedure

Category:

Hindfoot; Ankle Arthritis

Introduction/Purpose:

Fusions are used as a salvage procedure to improve stability and return patient to regular functions of daily activities. Triple Arthrodesis is a fusion of three joints, talonavicular, subtalar, calcaneocuboid. There is limited literature on the patient-reported long-term outcomes for this procedure. The aim of this study is to quantify the patient-reported outcomes for the Triple Arthrodesis procedure.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis was conducted for patients that underwent Triple Arthrodesis at our facility from 2014-2021. Using the electronic medical record (EMR), basic patient demographics, time since surgery, presence of osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, development of infection, nonunion, hardware failure, and history of previous foot and ankle procedures were all noted. Additionally, we recorded the hardware used during the operation and whether concomitant procedures were performed during the time of surgery. To evaluate outcomes, we used the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) survey and Foot Function Index (FFI) scores.

Results:

A total of 132 patients were included in this study with 50 participants completing the PROMIS and FFI surveys. The average time point at which the outcomes were collected was 5.50 years postoperatively. Postoperative PROMIS scores for physical function, pain interference, and depression were all within one standard deviation of the reference population. The average PROMIS physical function was 38.35, pain interference was 61.52, and depression was 49.82 for this population. The mean FFI scores were 58.56 for pain, 60.06 for disability, 48.06 for activity limitation. There was a significant decrease in postoperative pain scores when compared to preoperative pain of 5.4 to 2.55 (p=0.023). Four patients experienced wound infection, four patients experienced nonunion, six patients required revisional surgery, and three patients experienced hardware failure.

Conclusion:

Preliminary results Triple Arthrodesis may be beneficial in decreasing pain and lead variable long-term patient satisfaction. We plan to include further statistical analysis comparing the various types of fixation techniques used and the resultant PROMIS and FFI scores. Additionally, we are currently continuing patient calls to collect more completed PROMIS and FFI reports.

Five-Year Minimum Patient-Reported Outcomes Following Isolated Gastrocnemius Recession for Plantar Fasciitis and Achilles Tendinopathy

Category:

Hindfoot; Other

Introduction/Purpose:

Plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinopathy are common foot and ankle overuse conditions encountered in clinical practice. Treatment modalities for these diagnoses vary however, isolated gastrocnemius recession may be a viable treatment option for these conditions when conservative management has failed. There is little published on the long-term outcomes of this procedure with very few studies able to report on the five-year reported outcomes in these patients. Here, we assess patient-reported outcome in those with a minimum of five-year follow up that underwent isolated gastrocnemius resection for the above indications.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis of patients that underwent gastrocnemius recession at our facility from 2011 to 2018 was conducted. Patients were selected if they underwent an isolated gastrocnemius recession specifically due to Achilles tendinopathy or plantar fasciitis. Patients were excluded if they had a history of musculoskeletal disorders of a history of previous recession. Basic patient demographics, chronic use of fluoroquinolones and NSAIDs, duration of symptoms, presence of rheumatoid arthritis, history of previous foot and ankle operations, and surgical complications were all recorded. To evaluate outcomes, we utilized Foot Function Index (FFI) scores as well as the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) survey.

Results:

A total of 141 patients met inclusion criteria with all individuals completing both the PROMIS survey and 115 completing the FFI survey. The average time point at which outcomes were collected was 6.6 years postoperatively. Postoperative PROMIS scores for physical function, pain interference, and depression were all within one standard deviation of the reference population. The average PROMIS physical function, pain interference, and depression scores for this population was 45.67, 50.87, and 41.20, respectively. The mean FFI scores were 28.58 for pain, 36.11 for disability, 21.11 for activity limitation with an average total FFI of 31.40. Six patients developed surgical site infection, 36 patients reported postoperative symptoms of sural neuropathy with 12 reporting complete resolution of the neuropathy, and four patients required revisional surgery.

Conclusion:

With the limited data regarding the long-term outcomes of gastrocnemius recession, we sought to explore patient- reported outcomes in terms of pain, disability, physical function, depression, and pain interference. Our results prove that gastrocnemius recessions for Achilles tendinopathy and plantar fasciitis can lead to long term satisfaction for patients and can expect relatively low complication rates during the process. Additionally, the high retention rate of patients answering all required patient surveys further strengthens the findings reported here.

Factors Affecting Patient Reported Outcomes after Surgical Fixation for a Lisfranc Injury

Category:

Bunion; Other

Introduction/Purpose:

Hallux valgus is a common deformity the foot and ankle surgeon will encounter that tends to have a progressive nature with a predilection for females. There are many operative techniques to appropriately treat HV however, there is limited literature focused on patient-reported outcomes for these procedures. In particular, we intend to compare patient- reported outcomes for those who had early (2 weeks postoperatively) vs standard weight-bearing (SWB) (6 weeks postoperatively) postoperative protocols after hallux valgus correction via the Lapidus procedure.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis of patients that underwent hallux valgus correction at our facility from 2010-2021 was conducted. Patients were selected if they underwent this correction via the Lapidus procedure. Basic patient demographics, preoperative and post-operative hallux valgus angles and intermetatarsal angles were recorded, type of hardware used for fixation, postoperative weight bearing protocol, complication rate, deformity recurrence, duration of symptoms, and any adjunctive procedures were all recorded utilizing the electronic medical record. Early weight-bearing (EWB) was defined as beginning a protected weight-bearing protocol at the two week visit. To evaluate outcomes, we utilized the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) survey as well as the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) survey.

Results:

A total of 77 patients met criteria for this study with 20 patients having completed both the FAAM and PROMIS score surveys. The average time point at which the outcomes were collected was 5.65 years postoperatively ranging from 2.43 to 11.5 years. There were 35 patients in the EWB cohort and 42 in the SWB protocol. The average PROMIS physical function, pain interference, and depression scores for the EWB population was 45.96, 54.66, and 47.48 respectively vs 47.10, 48.34, and 50.21 in the SWB group. Patients in the EWB group reported their average activities of daily living (ADLs) via the FAAM subscale to be at 57% vs 62% in the SWB group. For the FAAM Sports Subscale, both groups reported fairly low numbers at 44% and 36% respectively. In this study, 1 patient experienced wound infection, 3 patients experienced nonunion (2 EWB, 1 SWB), and 1 patient experienced deformity recurrence.

Conclusion:

Preliminary results suggest equivalent results for EWB and SWB postoperative protocol for patients undering the Lapidus procedure. We plan to increase the power of our study for a more thorough investigation as well as conduct a more intensive statistical analysis to gain more insight on patient related factors and their effect on outcomes. We expect a higher number of patients to complete the PROMIS and FAAM surveys as we continue to reach out to these patients.

Noncanonical Role of Telomerase in Regulation of Microvascular Redox Environment With Implications for Coronary Artery Disease

Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) (catalytic subunit of telomerase) is linked to the development of coronary artery disease (CAD); however, whether the role of nuclear vs. mitchondrial actions of TERT is involved is not determined. Dominant-negative TERT splice variants contribute to decreased mitochondrial integrity and promote elevated reactive oxygen species production. We hypothesize that a decrease in mitochondrial TERT would increase _mtDNA damage, promoting a pro-oxidative redox environment. The goal of this study is to define whether mitochondrial TERT is sufficient to maintain nitric oxide as the underlying mechanism of flow-mediated dilation by preserving _mtDNA integrity.Immunoblots and quantitative polymerase chain reaction were used to show elevated levels of splice variants α- and β-deletion TERT tissue from subjects with and without CAD. Genetic, pharmacological, and molecular tools were used to manipulate TERT localization. Isolated vessel preparations and fluorescence-based quantification of _mtH₂O₂ and NO showed that reduction of TERT in the nucleus increased flow induced NO and decreased _mtH₂O₂ levels, while prevention of mitochondrial import of TERT augmented pathological effects. Further elevated _mtDNA damage was observed in tissue from subjects with CAD and initiation of _mtDNA repair mechanisms was sufficient to restore NO-mediated dilation in vessels from patients with CAD. The work presented is the first evidence that catalytically active mitochondrial TERT, independent of its nuclear functions, plays a critical physiological role in preserving NO-mediated vasodilation and the balance of mitochondrial to nuclear TERT is fundamentally altered in states of human disease that are driven by increased expression of dominant negative splice variants.

The influence of anastomotic techniques on postoperative anastomotic complications: Results of the Oesophago-Gastric Anastomosis Audit

BACKGROUND

The optimal anastomotic techniques in esophagectomy to minimize rates of anastomotic leakage and conduit necrosis are not known. The aim of this study was to assess whether the anastomotic technique was associated with anastomotic failure after esophagectomy in the international Oesophago-Gastric Anastomosis Audit cohort.

METHODS

This prospective observational multicenter cohort study included patients undergoing esophagectomy for esophageal cancer over 9 months during 2018. The primary exposure was the anastomotic technique, classified as handsewn, linear stapled, or circular stapled. The primary outcome was anastomotic failure, namely a composite of anastomotic leakage and conduit necrosis, as defined by the Esophageal Complications Consensus Group. Multivariable logistic regression modeling was used to identify the association between anastomotic techniques and anastomotic failure, after adjustment for confounders.

RESULTS

Of the 2238 esophagectomies, the anastomosis was handsewn in 27.1%, linear stapled in 21.0%, and circular stapled in 51.9%. Anastomotic techniques differed significantly by the anastomosis sites (P < .001), with the majority of neck anastomoses being handsewn (69.9%), whereas most chest anastomoses were stapled (66.3% circular stapled and 19.3% linear stapled). Rates of anastomotic failure differed significantly among the anastomotic techniques (P < .001), from 19.3% in handsewn anastomoses, to 14.0% in linear stapled anastomoses, and 12.1% in circular stapled anastomoses. This effect remained significant after adjustment for confounding factors on multivariable analysis, with an odds ratio of 0.63 (95% CI, 0.46-0.86; P = .004) for circular stapled versus handsewn anastomosis. However, subgroup analysis by anastomosis site suggested that this effect was predominantly present in neck anastomoses, with anastomotic failure rates of 23.2% versus 14.6% versus 5.9% for handsewn versus linear stapled anastomoses versus circular stapled neck anastomoses, compared with 13.7% versus 13.8% versus 12.2% for chest anastomoses.

CONCLUSIONS

Handsewn anastomoses appear to be independently associated with higher rates of anastomotic failure compared with stapled anastomoses. However, this effect seems to be largely confined to neck anastomoses, with minimal differences between techniques observed for chest anastomoses. Further research into standardization of anastomotic approach and techniques may further improve outcomes.

Automated Library Construction and Analysis for High-Throughput Nanopore Sequencing of SARS-CoV-2

Background

To support the implementation of high-throughput pipelines suitable for SARS-CoV-2 sequencing and analysis in a clinical laboratory, we developed an automated sample preparation and analysis workflow.

Methods

We used the established ARTIC protocol with approximately 400 bp amplicons sequenced on Oxford Nanopore’s MinION. Sequences were analyzed using Nextclade, assigning both a clade and quality score to each sample.

Results

A total of 2179 samples on twenty-five 96-well plates were sequenced. Plates of purified RNA were processed within 12 h, sequencing required up to 24 h, and analysis of each pooled plate required 1 h. The use of samples with known threshold cycle (Ct) values enabled normalization, acted as a quality control check, and revealed a strong correlation between sample Ct values and successful analysis, with 85% of samples with Ct < 30 achieving a “good” Nextclade score. Less abundant samples responded to enrichment with the fraction of Ct > 30 samples achieving a “good” classification rising by 60% after addition of a post-ARTIC PCR normalization. Serial dilutions of 3 variant of concern samples, diluted from approximately Ct = 16 to approximately Ct = 50, demonstrated successful sequencing to Ct = 37. The sample set contained a median of 24 mutations per sample and a total of 1281 unique mutations with reduced sequence read coverage noted in some regions of some samples. A total of 10 separate strains were observed in the sample set, including 3 variants of concern prevalent in British Columbia in the spring of 2021.

Conclusions

We demonstrated a robust automated sequencing pipeline that takes advantage of input Ct values to improve reliability.

658 The Use of AlliumTM Stents in the Management of Ureteric Strictures

Aim

Stents are widely used in the management of ureteric strictures but require changes every 6–12 months and stent related symptoms are commonly reported. AlliumTM ureteric stents are large calibre, metallic stents that aim to reduce the incidence of stent-related complications, with an indwelling time up to three years. These were introduced within our local hospital trust for patients requiring frequent stent changes and this study aims to review the early use of AlliumTM stents and associated complications.

Method

An electronic database of patients was searched for records including the words “Allium stent” between 01/01/17–01/01/21. The resulting patient electronic records were then interrogated to extract data.

Results

13 patients were included in data analysis. Mean age was 62.7 years and male:female ratio was 6:7. 5 underwent antegrade insertion and 8 retrograde. 3 were inserted under local anaesthetic and 10 under general. Median follow-up time was 459 days.

No cases of renal deterioration were noted, and no patients sought medical attention with pain or irritative symptoms. The majority remained in situ, however one patient reported spontaneous passage of the stent; and one patient later required a nephrectomy, necessitating stent removal. Three patients developed post-operative urinary tract infections (two requiring hospital admission); two patients required further intervention for urolithiasis causing stent blockage; and two patients died from other disease processes prior to analysis.

Conclusions

There are clear advantages in reducing repeated admission and anaesthesia for patients. Initial results demonstrate good patency and tolerability of AlliumTM stents though further investigation is required to analyse the long-term benefits.

Leveraging metabolic modeling to identify functional metabolic alterations associated with COVID-19 disease severity

OBJECTIVE

Since the COVID-19 pandemic began in early 2020, SARS-CoV2 has claimed more than six million lives world-wide, with over 510 million cases to date. To reduce healthcare burden, we must investigate how to prevent non-acute disease from progressing to severe infection requiring hospitalization.

METHODS

To achieve this goal, we investigated metabolic signatures of both non-acute (out-patient) and severe (requiring hospitalization) COVID-19 samples by profiling the associated plasma metabolomes of 84 COVID-19 positive University of Virginia hospital patients. We utilized supervised and unsupervised machine learning and metabolic modeling approaches to identify key metabolic drivers that are predictive of COVID-19 disease severity. Using metabolic pathway enrichment analysis, we explored potential metabolic mechanisms that link these markers to disease progression.

RESULTS

Enriched metabolites associated with tryptophan in non-acute COVID-19 samples suggest mitigated innate immune system inflammatory response and immunopathology related lung damage prevention. Increased prevalence of histidine- and ketone-related metabolism in severe COVID-19 samples offers potential mechanistic insight to musculoskeletal degeneration-induced muscular weakness and host metabolism that has been hijacked by SARS-CoV2 infection to increase viral replication and invasion.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings highlight the metabolic transition from an innate immune response coupled with inflammatory pathway inhibition in non-acute infection to rampant inflammation and associated metabolic systemic dysfunction in severe COVID-19.

Cerebral venous anatomy: implications for the neurointerventionalist

Meaningful contributions to neurointerventional practice may be possible by considering the dynamic aspects of angiography in addition to fixed morphologic information. The functional approach to venous anatomy requires integration of the traditional static anatomic features of the system-deep, superficial, posterior fossa, medullary veins, venous sinuses, and outflow routes into an overall appreciation of how a classic model of drainage is altered, embryologically, or pathologically, depending on patterns of flow-visualization made possible by angiography. In this review, emphasis is placed on balance between alternative venous networks and their redundancy, and the problems which arise when these systems are lacking. The role of veins in major neurovascular diseases, such as dural arteriovenous fistulae, arteriovenous malformations, pulsatile tinnitus, and intracranial hypertension, is highlighted, and deficiencies in knowledge emphasized.

Simulated Leaching of Foliar Applied Copper Bactericides on the Soil Microbiome Utilizing Various Beta Diversity Resemblance Measurements

Copper bactericides are routinely used to control Xanthomonas perforans (XP), causal agent of bacterial spot of tomato. Given the widespread tolerance to copper in XP strains in FL, USA, nanotechnology-based elemental composites have gained interest for their potential applications in agriculture in part due to their enhanced antimicrobial properties and toxicity to copper-tolerant strains. However, little is known about the potential impact of conventional copper bactericides as well as nano-based elemental composites on soil microbial communities, as determined by high-throughput sequencing of the 16S rDNA. We compared the effects of 2 and 200 μg/mL of core-shell (CS), a metallic copper composite, and a conventional copper bactericide + mancozeb (Cu+Man) on the soil microbiome. These treatments were compared to three controls, the microbial profile of the soil prior to application of copper products, a water application, and spiking the soil with a soilborne phytobacterium, Ralstonia solanacearum (RS). The RS treatment was included to determine if downstream analysis could detect the artificial inoculation. Utilizing multiple β diversity measurements, each emphasizing various tenets of ecology, provided a greater perspective of the effects the treatments had on the microbiome. Analysis of HTS data revealed that the two treatments containing field applied rates of metallic copper, CS 200 and Cu+Man, had the largest impact on the soil microbiome at seven-days posttreatment compared to water. However, we simulated field applied rates of CS 200 entering the soil by treating soil with CS 2 and determined this concentration had a negligible effect on the soil microbiome. IMPORTANCE Nanotechnology-based elemental composites have gained popularity for their potential applications in plant disease management due to their enhanced antimicrobial properties. However, little is known about their potential impact on the environment. Foliar applications of nano metallic composites upon leaching into the soil have the potential to impact soil microbial populations that in turn influence soil health. Utilizing multiple β diversity measurements, high-throughput sequencing analysis revealed that field applied rates of metallic copper (200 μg/mL) from an advanced copper composite (core-shell [CS]) and a conventional copper bactericide in combination with mancozeb had the largest impact on the soil microbiome compared to water and nontreated control. To simulate leaching from the leaf surface, a lower concentration (2 μg/mL) of CS was also applied to the soil and had a negligible effect on the soil microbiome. Thus, field applied rates of CS may have a minimal effect on soil microbial communities.

Relevance of necroptosis in the hearts subjected to acute versus chronic ischemia/reperfusion injury

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): Slovak Research and Development Agency

Medical Research Council Grant

Necroptosis, a necrosis-like programmed cell death modality dependent on the activity of receptor-interacting protein kinase 3 (RIP3) and mixed lineage domain kinase domain-like pseudokinase (MLKL), plays a prominent role in mediating myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury. However, the extent to which necroptosis contributes to such damage under short and long reperfusion has not been evaluated in detail. In Wistar rat hearts, subjected to global 30-min ischemia followed by an acute 10-min reperfusion period, with compromised cardiac function, no changes in the protein expression of the main necroptotic markers (pThr231/Ser232-RIP3, MLKL) were found. Likewise, the non-canonical pathways of necroptosis involving Ca2+/calmodulin dependent protein kinase II–mitochondrial permeability transition pore (CaMKII–mPTP) or phosphoglycerate mutase 5–dynamin-related protein 1 (PGAM5–Drp1) axes were unlikely affected by such short reperfusion. In contrast, hearts subjected to global 30-min ischemia followed by a prolonged 40-min reperfusion period exhibited worsened hemodynamic parameters what was accompanied by the increased levels of RIP3, pSer229-RIP3 and MLKL. Moreover, this reperfusion period induced MLKL translocation to the plasma membrane, indicating necroptosis execution with resultant very likely cell disruption. Similarly, activated necroptosis, evidenced by the higher levels of proteins of the canonical pathway, has been suggested to contribute to the pathogenesis of post-infarction heart failure (30-min ischemia, 42-day reperfusion). Collectively, these findings suggest that short reperfusion seems to be insufficient to induce necroptosis in the heart and the molecular mechanisms being activated during the longer reperfusion phase are needed to promote necroptotic cell dying. Therefore, inhibition of necroptosis might represent a cardioprotective strategy in the settings of chronic, but not acute myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury.

Polysubstance use poisoning deaths in Canada: an analysis of trends from 2014 to 2017 using mortality data

Background

Over the past decade, rates of drug poisoning deaths have increased dramatically in Canada. Current evidence suggests that the non-medical use of synthetic opioids, stimulants and patterns of polysubstance use are major factors contributing to this increase.

Methods

Counts of substance poisoning deaths involving alcohol, opioids, other central nervous system (CNS) depressants, cocaine, and CNS stimulants excluding cocaine, were acquired from the Canadian Vital Statistics Death Database (CVSD) for the years 2014 to 2017. We used joinpoint regression analysis and the Cochrane-Armitage trend test for proportions to examine changes over time in crude mortality rates and proportions of poisoning deaths involving more than one substance.

Results

Between 2014 and 2017, the rate of substance poisoning deaths in Canada almost doubled from 6.4 to 11.5 deaths per 100,000 population (Average Annual Percent Change, AAPC: 23%, p < 0.05). Our analysis shows this was due to increased unintentional poisoning deaths (AAPC: 26.6%, p < 0.05) and polysubstance deaths (AAPC: 23.0%, p < 0.05). The proportion of unintentional poisoning deaths involving polysubstance use increased significantly from 38% to 58% among males (p < 0.0001) and 40% to 55% among females (p < 0.0001). Polysubstance use poisonings involving opioids and CNS stimulants (excluding cocaine) increased substantially during the study period (males AAPC: 133.1%, p < 0.01; females AAPC: 118.1%, p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Increases in substance-related poisoning deaths between 2014 and 2017 were associated with polysubstance use. Increased co-use of stimulants with opioids is a key factor contributing to the epidemic of opioid deaths in Canada.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-022-12678-z.

Postoperative outcomes in oesophagectomy with trainee involvement

BACKGROUND

The complexity of oesophageal surgery and the significant risk of morbidity necessitates that oesophagectomy is predominantly performed by a consultant surgeon, or a senior trainee under their supervision. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of trainee involvement in oesophagectomy on postoperative outcomes in an international multicentre setting.

METHODS

Data from the multicentre Oesophago-Gastric Anastomosis Study Group (OGAA) cohort study were analysed, which comprised prospectively collected data from patients undergoing oesophagectomy for oesophageal cancer between April 2018 and December 2018. Procedures were grouped by the level of trainee involvement, and univariable and multivariable analyses were performed to compare patient outcomes across groups.

RESULTS

Of 2232 oesophagectomies from 137 centres in 41 countries, trainees were involved in 29.1 per cent of them (n = 650), performing only the abdominal phase in 230, only the chest and/or neck phases in 130, and all phases in 315 procedures. For procedures with a chest anastomosis, those with trainee involvement had similar 90-day mortality, complication and reoperation rates to consultant-performed oesophagectomies (P = 0.451, P = 0.318, and P = 0.382, respectively), while anastomotic leak rates were significantly lower in the trainee groups (P = 0.030). Procedures with a neck anastomosis had equivalent complication, anastomotic leak, and reoperation rates (P = 0.150, P = 0.430, and P = 0.632, respectively) in trainee-involved versus consultant-performed oesophagectomies, with significantly lower 90-day mortality in the trainee groups (P = 0.005).

CONCLUSION

Trainee involvement was not found to be associated with significantly inferior postoperative outcomes for selected patients undergoing oesophagectomy. The results support continued supervised trainee involvement in oesophageal cancer surgery.

A meta-analysis of problem gambling risk factors in the general adult population

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Few meta-analyses have been conducted to pool the most constant risk factors for problem gambling. The present meta-analysis summarizes effect sizes of the most frequently assessed problem gambling risk factors, ranks them according to effect size strength and identifies any differences in effects across genders.

METHOD

A random-effects meta-analysis was conducted on jurisdiction-wide gambling prevalence surveys on the general adult population published until March 2019. One hundred and four studies were eligible for meta-analysis. The number of participants varied depending on the risk factor analyzed, and ranged from 5327 to 273 946 (52% female). Weighted mean odds ratios were calculated for 57 risk factors (socio-demographic, psychosocial, gambling activity and substance use correlates), allowing them to be ranked from largest to smallest with regard to their association with problem gambling.

RESULTS

The highest odds ratio (OR) was for internet gambling [OR = 7.59, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 5.24, 10.99, P < 0.000] and the lowest was for employment status (OR = 1.03, 95% CI = 0.87, 1.22, P = 0.718). The largest effect sizes were generally in the gambling activity category and the smallest were in the socio-demographic category. No differences were found across genders for age-associated risk.

CONCLUSIONS

A meta-analysis of 104 studies of gambling prevalence indicated that the most frequently assessed problem gambling risk factors with the highest effect sizes are associated with continuous-play format gambling products.

Plotting for change: an analytical framework to aid decisions on which lineages are candidate species in phylogenomic species discovery

A recent study argued that coalescent-based models of species delimitation mostly delineate population structure, not species, and called for the validation of candidate species using biological information additional to the genetic information, such as phenotypic or ecological data. Here, we introduce a framework to interrogate genomic datasets and coalescent-based species trees for the presence of candidate species in situations where additional biological data are unavailable, unobtainable or uninformative. For de novo genomic studies of species boundaries, we propose six steps: (1) visualize genetic affinities among individuals to identify both discrete and admixed genetic groups from first principles and to hold aside individuals involved in contemporary admixture for independent consideration; (2) apply phylogenetic techniques to identify lineages; (3) assess diagnosability of those lineages as potential candidate species; (4) interpret the diagnosable lineages in a geographical context (sympatry, parapatry, allopatry); (5) assess significance of difference or trends in the context of sampling intensity; and (6) adopt a holistic approach to available evidence to inform decisions on species status in the difficult cases of allopatry. We adopt this approach to distinguish candidate species from within-species lineages for a widespread species complex of Australian freshwater fishes (Retropinna spp.). Our framework addresses two cornerstone issues in systematics that are often not discussed explicitly in genomic species discovery: diagnosability and how to determine it, and what criteria should be used to decide whether diagnosable lineages are conspecific or represent different species.

Tumor volume improves preoperative differentiation of prolactinomas and nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas

PURPOSE

Both prolactinomas and nonfunctioning adenomas (NFAs) can present with hyperprolactinemia. Distinguishing them is critical because prolactinomas are effectively managed with dopamine agonists, whereas compressive NFAs are treated surgically. Current guidelines rely only on serum prolactin (PRL) levels, which are neither sensitive nor specific enough. Recent studies suggest that accounting for tumor volume may improve diagnosis. The objective of this study is to investigate the diagnostic utility of PRL, tumor volume, and imaging features in differentiating prolactinoma and NFA.

METHODS

Adult patients with pathologically confirmed prolactinoma (n = 21) or NFA with hyperprolactinemia (n = 58) between 2013 and 2020 were retrospectively identified. Diagnostic performance of clinical and imaging variables was analyzed using receiver-operating characteristic curves to calculate area under the curve (AUC).

RESULTS

Tumor volume and PRL positively correlated for prolactinoma (r = 0.4839, p = 0.0263) but not for NFA (r = 0.0421, p = 0.7536). PRL distinguished prolactinomas from NFAs with an AUC of 0.8892 (p < 0.0001) and optimal cut-off value of 62.45 ng/ml, yielding a sensitivity of 85.71% and specificity of 94.83%. The ratio of PRL to tumor volume had an AUC of 0.9647 (p < 0.0001) and optimal cut-off value of 21.62 (ng/ml)/cm³ with sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 82.76%. Binary logistic regression found that PRL was a significant positive predictor of prolactinoma diagnosis, whereas tumor volume, presence of cavernous sinus invasion, and T2 hyperintensity were significant negative predictors. The regression model had an AUC of 0.9915 (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Consideration of tumor volume improves differentiation between prolactinomas and NFAs, which in turn leads to effective management.

Advanced rehabilitation technology in orthopaedics-a narrative review

INTRODUCTION

As the demand for rehabilitation in orthopaedics increases, so too has the development in advanced rehabilitation technology. However, to date, there are no review papers outlining the broad scope of advanced rehabilitation technology used within the orthopaedic population. The aim of this study is to identify, describe and summarise the evidence for efficacy for all advanced rehabilitation technologies applicable to orthopaedic practice.

METHODS

The relevant literature describing the use of advanced rehabilitation technology in orthopaedics was identified from appropriate electronic databases (PubMed and EMBASE) and a narrative review undertaken.

RESULTS

Advanced rehabilitation technologies were classified into two groups: hospital-based and home-based rehabilitation. In the hospital-based technology group, we describe the use of continuous passive motion and robotic devices (after spinal cord injury) and their effect on improving clinical outcomes. We also report on the use of electromagnetic sensor technology for measuring kinematics of upper and lower limbs during rehabilitation. In the home-based technology group, we describe the use of inertial sensors, smartphones, software applications and commercial game hardware that are relatively inexpensive, user-friendly and widely available. We outline the evidence for videoconferencing for promoting knowledge and motivation for rehabilitation as well as the emerging role of virtual reality.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of advanced rehabilitation technology in orthopaedics is promising and evidence for its efficacy is generally supportive.

Predictors of death and new disability after critical illness: a multicentre prospective cohort study

PURPOSE

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and predictors of death or new disability following critical illness.

METHODS

Prospective, multicentre cohort study conducted in six metropolitan intensive care units (ICU). Participants were adults admitted to the ICU who received more than 24 h of mechanical ventilation. The primary outcome was death or new disability at 6 months, with new disability defined by a 10% increase in the WHODAS 2.0.

RESULTS

Of 628 patients with the primary outcome available (median age of 62 [49-71] years, 379 [61.0%] had a medical admission and 370 (58.9%) died or developed new disability by 6 months. Independent predictors of death or new disability included age [OR 1.02 (1.01-1.03), P = 0.001], higher severity of illness (APACHE III) [OR 1.02 (1.01-1.03), P < 0.001] and admission diagnosis. Compared to patients with a surgical admission diagnosis, patients with a cardiac arrest [OR (95% CI) 4.06 (1.89-8.68), P < 0.001], sepsis [OR (95% CI) 2.43 (1.32-4.47), P = 0.004], or trauma [OR (95% CI) 6.24 (3.07-12.71), P < 0.001] diagnosis had higher odds of death or new disability, while patients with a lung transplant [OR (95% CI) 0.21 (0.07-0.58), P = 0.003] diagnosis had lower odds. A model including these three variables had good calibration (Brier score 0.20) and acceptable discriminative power with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.76 (95% CI 0.72-0.80).

CONCLUSION

Less than half of all patients mechanically ventilated for more than 24 h were alive and free of new disability at 6 months after admission to ICU. A model including age, illness severity and admission diagnosis has acceptable discriminative ability to predict death or new disability at 6 months.

Rapid Detection of SARS-CoV-2 Variants of Concern, Including B.1.1.28/P.1, British Columbia, Canada

To screen all severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2-positive samples in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, and determine whether they represented variants of concern, we implemented a real-time reverse transcription PCR-based algorithm. We rapidly identified 77 samples with variants: 57 with B.1.1.7, 7 with B.1.351, and an epidemiologic cluster of 13 with B.1.1.28/P.1.

Mortality from esophagectomy for esophageal cancer across low, middle, and high-income countries: An international cohort study

BACKGROUND

No evidence currently exists characterising global outcomes following major cancer surgery, including esophageal cancer. Therefore, this study aimed to characterise impact of high income countries (HIC) versus low and middle income countries (LMIC) on the outcomes following esophagectomy for esophageal cancer.

METHOD

This international multi-center prospective study across 137 hospitals in 41 countries included patients who underwent an esophagectomy for esophageal cancer, with 90-day follow-up. The main explanatory variable was country income, defined according to the World Bank Data classification. The primary outcome was 90-day postoperative mortality, and secondary outcomes were composite leaks (anastomotic leak or conduit necrosis) and major complications (Clavien-Dindo Grade III - V). Multivariable generalized estimating equation models were used to produce adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI95%).

RESULTS

Between April 2018 to December 2018, 2247 patients were included. Patients from HIC were more significantly older, with higher ASA grade, and more advanced tumors. Patients from LMIC had almost three-fold increase in 90-day mortality, compared to HIC (9.4% vs 3.7%, p < 0.001). On adjusted analysis, LMIC were independently associated with higher 90-day mortality (OR: 2.31, CI95%: 1.17-4.55, p = 0.015). However, LMIC were not independently associated with higher rates of anastomotic leaks (OR: 1.06, CI95%: 0.57-1.99, p = 0.9) or major complications (OR: 0.85, CI95%: 0.54-1.32, p = 0.5), compared to HIC.

CONCLUSION

Resections in LMIC were independently associated with higher 90-day postoperative mortality, likely reflecting a failure to rescue of these patients following esophagectomy, despite similar composite anastomotic leaks and major complication rates to HIC. These findings warrant further research, to identify potential issues and solutions to improve global outcomes following esophagectomy for cancer.

Comparison of short-term outcomes from the International Oesophago-Gastric Anastomosis Audit (OGAA), the Esophagectomy Complications Consensus Group (ECCG), and the Dutch Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer Audit (DUCA)

BACKGROUND

The Esophagectomy Complications Consensus Group (ECCG) and the Dutch Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer Audit (DUCA) have set standards in reporting outcomes after oesophagectomy. Reporting outcomes from selected high-volume centres or centralized national cancer programmes may not, however, be reflective of the true global prevalence of complications. This study aimed to compare complication rates after oesophagectomy from these existing sources with those of an unselected international cohort from the Oesophago-Gastric Anastomosis Audit (OGAA).

METHODS

The OGAA was a prospective multicentre cohort study coordinated by the West Midlands Research Collaborative, and included patients undergoing oesophagectomy for oesophageal cancer between April and December 2018, with 90 days of follow-up.

RESULTS

The OGAA study included 2247 oesophagectomies across 137 hospitals in 41 countries. Comparisons with the ECCG and DUCA found differences in baseline demographics between the three cohorts, including age, ASA grade, and rates of chronic pulmonary disease. The OGAA had the lowest rates of neoadjuvant treatment (OGAA 75.1 per cent, ECCG 78.9 per cent, DUCA 93.5 per cent; P < 0.001). DUCA exhibited the highest rates of minimally invasive surgery (OGAA 57.2 per cent, ECCG 47.9 per cent, DUCA 85.8 per cent; P < 0.001). Overall complication rates were similar in the three cohorts (OGAA 63.6 per cent, ECCG 59.0 per cent, DUCA 62.2 per cent), with no statistically significant difference in Clavien-Dindo grades (P = 0.752). However, a significant difference in 30-day mortality was observed, with DUCA reporting the lowest rate (OGAA 3.2 per cent, ECCG 2.4 per cent, DUCA 1.7 per cent; P = 0.013).

CONCLUSION

Despite differences in rates of co-morbidities, oncological treatment strategies, and access to minimal-access surgery, overall complication rates were similar in the three cohorts.