ABSTRACT
The low attendance rate for cancer screening tests in Poland is a major healthcare concern that requires specific analysis and the development of implementation recommendations for prevention, and both actions are likely to benefit culturally similar countries. Four female cancers account for approximately 20% of all cancer cases-breast cancer, cervical cancer, endometrial cancer, and ovarian cancer-suggesting that gynecologists have a significant preventative role. Of the four, breast cancer and cervical cancer are among the 10 most common malignant neoplasms globally, regardless of gender, occur only in women and are known to have effective screening measures. Our research aims to create a screening model that combines cervical cancer and breast cancer to maximize health outcomes for women at risk of both cancers. In the study protocol, we have created a model that maximizes benefits for patients with minimal additional costs to the health care system. To achieve the set goal, instead of regular clinical breast exams as recommended by the gynecological societies, we proposed an ultrasound examination, during which palpation may also be performed (in the absence of elastography). We present a scheme for such a protocol that takes into consideration all types of prevention in both cancers, and that emphasizes breast ultrasound as the most frequently missing element. Our study includes a discussion of the strengths and weaknesses of our strategy, and the crucial need for infrastructure and education for the successful implementation of the program. We conclude that our model merits consideration and discussion among health-care decision makers, as the screening changes we propose have significant potential benefits for the female population.
ABSTRACT
Surgery is the treatment of choice for squamous cell esophageal cancer. Complete resection of the esophagus with reconstruction of the digestive tract is performed for tumors located in the chest or cardia. The aim of the report is to present the case of a complete esophageal and gastric resection complicated by colon graft necrosis. The patient was a 45-year-old woman diagnosed with cancer of the cardia infiltrating the distal section of the esophagus and the body and fundus of the stomach. The initial surgical procedure included the opening of three body cavities followed by resection of the thoracic esophagus, stomach, and a portion of the left hepatic lobe. Right colon interposition was performed to restore digestive tract continuity. On the 8th day, a leak was observed in the esophagointestinal anastomosis. Management consisted in two surgical procedures, one of which ended in the removal of the colon patch. The fourth and final procedure was conducted after 10 months.
ABSTRACT
The co-existence of a chondrosarcoma of the chest wall and a desmoid tumor in the gastrointestinal tract is rare. In both Polish and global literature, cases of chest wall chondrosarcomas are presented in the form of case reports. Desmoids of the gastrointestinal tract are more common; notwithstanding, their incidence in Europe is estimated at approximately 2 cases per 1 million inhabitants per year. We present the case of a 62-year-old female patient who suffered from both a chest wall chondrosarcoma and a desmoid tumor of the intestine; both neoplasms were operated on simultaneously. The former tumor was located in the region of the right costal margin, whereas the latter was located in the mesojejunum. The surgery was performed with two independent surgical incisions. The postoperative period was uneventful. The case is noteworthy in view of the extremely rare synchronous occurrence of the described tumors and due to the fact that any such operation requires an individualized surgical approach.
