ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) represent 85% of all mesenchymal neoplasms that affect the gastrointestinal track. Aim of this study is to report a case series of 18 GISTs treated surgically in a single centre and to discuss the diagnostic and therapeutic issues regarding these tumors. CASE SERIES: A retrospective search of the unit's medical records from 2002 to 2014 was carried out, to collect all cases diagnosed and treated for GISTs. Demographics and clinical features was obtained for all relevant cases. RESULTS: Eighteen cases (18) of GIST were identified. Eleven tumors were located in the stomach, 3 tumors in the duodenum and 4 tumors in the jejunum. The mean age at diagnosis was 62.5 (range 42-81) years, while the male to female ratio was 1.57/1 (11 males/7 females). Patients presented with a variety of symptoms and all underwent surgery. The 5-year-survival rate of these patients was 50%. CONCLUSION: Due to non-specific presentation of GISTs, initial diagnosis of these tumors may be delayed. High clinical suspicion and knowledge of their characteristics are essentials in order to achieve an early diagnosis and lead patients to surgery as soon as possible. Hippokratia 2015, 19 (1): 73-75.
ABSTRACT
AIM: The aim of this series is to study the need of drainage use after total thyreoidectomy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective study of a series of patients who underwent total thyroidectomy from 2005 up to 2013. The presence or not of hematomas, seromas and hemorrhage were recorded. RESULTS: Out of the 66 patients included in this series, only one case of post-operative hematoma was recorded. Neither a hemorrhage nor a seroma were identified despite the volume, the underlying pathology and the co-morbidity of the patients involved. CONCLUSION: In our experience a thyroidectomy with adequate hemostasis does not require the use of drains.