Value of pneumococcal PCR in respiratory samples for exclusion of pneumococcal pneumonia.

Background: Streptococcus pneumoniae is the main aetiological agent in bacterial pneumonia. Therefore pneumococcal PCR is often included in respiratory multiplex PCR panels, both commercial and in-house. But respiratory PCR results for S. pneumoniae are difficult to interpret due to frequent non-pathogenic colonization on the mucosal surface of the upper airways with pneumococci or to cross-reaction of the PCR target in non-pneumococcal streptococci. In this study we investigated the value of lytA gene pneumococcal PCR in patients presenting with pneumonia. Objectives: To assess the utility of lytA gene detection for S. pneumoniae in a respiratory multiplex quantitative PCR (qPCR) panel for patients presenting with pneumonia. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted for lytA gene results as target for S. pneumoniae in hospitalized patients who were diagnosed with pneumonia and for which a respiratory multiplex PCR panel was performed. Patients were classified as 'probable', 'possible' or 'unlikely' of having a pneumococcal pneumonia. Results: A sensitivity of 71.4% and specificity of 89.6% were found, corresponding to a negative predictive value and positive predictive value of 97.6% and 34.2%, respectively, when considering 'probable' versus 'possible/unlikely'. In the PCR-positive cases we found a statistically significant difference in semi-quantitative Ct values between the 'probable' and the 'possible/unlikely' groups. Conclusions: We conclude that a negative qPCR for the lytA gene in a respiratory sample is highly predictive of a negative S. pneumoniae culture and is possibly sufficient to exclude S. pneumoniae as a causative agent. Respiratory pneumococcal PCR has a high negative predictive value for pneumococcal disease but the positive predictive value is low.

The routes of hysterectomy: A survey of current practices amongst members of the International Society for Gynaecologic Endoscopy (ISGE).

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to explore the current opinion on the routes of hysterectomy amongst the members of the International Society for Gynaecologic Endoscopy (ISGE), as well as the perceptions of potential barriers that inhibit gynaecologists from offering a minimally invasive hysterectomies (MIHs) to their patients. STUDY DESIGN: An anonymous, electronic survey was designed, including the questions about the surgeon location and length of gynaecological practice, preferred approach to hysterectomy, approximate number of surgical cases performed during the year preceding the survey (2021), and potential barriers and contraindications to performing MIHs. It was validated by 12 practicing gynaecologists. Subsequently, the survey was sent to all practicing gynaecologists who are the members of the ISGE. RESULTS: We received a response from 159 members of ISGE (29 % response rate), of which 92 % with ≥ 5 years in practice since the completion of their residency training in Gynaecology and Obstetrics. When asked about the preferred route of hysterectomy for themselves or their relatives, 59 % chose total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH), 19 % vaginal hysterectomy (VH), 8 % chose laparoscopically-assisted vaginal hysterectomy (LAVH) and 5 % chose total abdominal hysterectomy (TAH). However, TAH was the most performed hysterectomy procedure undertaken by the respondents in the year preceding the survey. When asked about the main obstacles to performing MIHs, more than half of the respondents highlighted insufficient training during residency and insufficient surgical experience. Only 25 % of the responders acknowledged reading the ISGE guidelines on performing vaginal hysterectomy. CONCLUSIONS: Contrary to a full understanding of the benefits of MIHs, lack of training, as well as insufficient surgical experience and unawareness of existing evidence-based guidelines were the main reasons for the high rate of TAH among the ISGE members who participated in the study. All efforts should be directed at teaching VH and TLH techniques during residency, continuous acquisition of practical experience, and use of validated patient selection guidelines for MIH in daily clinical practice.

Hysteroscopic myomectomy: The guidelines of the International Society for Gynecologic Endoscopy (ISGE).

OBJECTIVE: With this publication, the International Society for Gynecologic Endoscopy (ISGE) aims to provide the clinicians with the recommendations arising from the best evidence currently available on hysteroscopic myomectomy (HM). STUDY DESIGN: The ISGE Task Force for HM defined key clinical questions, which led the search of Medline/PubMed and the Cochrane Database. We selected and analyzed relevant English-language articles, published from January 2005 to June 2021, including original works, reviews and the guidelines previously published by the European Society for Gynecological Endoscopy (ESGE) and the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists (AAGL), in which bibliographies were also checked in order to identify additional references, using the medical subject heading (MeSH) term "Uterine Myomectomy" (MeSH Unique ID: D063186) in combination with ''Myoma" (MeSH Unique ID: D009214) and ''Hysteroscopy" (MeSH Unique ID: D015907). We developed the recommendations through multiple cycles of literature analysis and expert discussion. RESULTS: The ISGE Task Force did develop 10 grade 1A-C and 4 grade 2A-C recommendations. For planning HM, evaluation of the uterus with saline infusion sonohysterography (SIS) or combined assessment by transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) and diagnostic hysteroscopy is recommended (Grade 1A). The use of STEPW (Size, Topography, Extension of the base, Penetration and lateral Wall position) classification system of submucosal leiomyoma (LM) is recommended to predict the complex surgeries, incomplete removal of the LM, long operative time, fluid overload and other major complications (grade 1B). For type 0 LMs, in addition to resectoscopy (slicing technique), morcellation is recommended, being faster and having a shorter learning curve with respect to resectoscopy (grade 1C). For type 1-2 LMs, slicing technique is currently recommended (grade 1C). A fluid deficit of 1000 mL also in case of bipolar myomectomy with saline solution, in healthy women of reproductive age, contains low risk for major complications. Lower thresholds (750 mL) for fluid deficit should be considered in the elderly and in women with cardiovascular, renal or other co-morbidities (Grade 1B). CONCLUSION: HM is the most effective conservative minimally invasive gynecologic intervention for submucous LM. The set of 14 ISGE recommendations can significantly contribute to the success of HM and the safety of patients for whom the choice of appropriate surgical technique, as well as the surgeon's awareness and measures to prevent complications are of the utmost importance.

A randomized control trial comparing vaginal and laparoscopically-assisted vaginal hysterectomy in the absence of uterine prolapse in a South African tertiary institution.

OBJECTIVES: The primary objectives of this study were to estimate blood loss, operation time and cost differences in patients undergoing vaginal hysterectomy (VH) versus laparoscopically-assisted vaginal hysterectomy (LAVH). The secondary objectives were to determine differences in hospital stay, need for postoperative analgesia, intra- and immediate post-operative complications, and the rate of conversion to laparotomy. VH was hypothesized to be the preferred route for hysterectomy for benign uterine conditions. STUDY DESIGN: A randomized control study was undertaken at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of the Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital and included the women admitted between January 2017 and December 2019 for hysterectomy due to benign conditions, meeting the inclusion criteria (vaginally accessible uterus, estimated uterine size ≤ 12 weeks of gestation or ≤ 280 g on ultrasound examination and pathology confined to the uterus). Surgical procedures were performed by the residents in training under the supervision of specialists with large experience. The patient demographic characteristics, uterine weight, operative time, estimated blood loss(expressed as the difference between preoperative and postoperative day one serum haemoglobin),direct surgery-associated costs, intra- and immediate post-operative complications and the length of hospital stay were recorded and comparatively analysed among patients randomly placed in VH and LAVH group. RESULTS: A total of 227 women were included (151 patients underwent VH and 76 LAVH, upon 2:1 randomization, performed on this way to reflect the previous pattern of operating of the unit). The patients were matched with respect to age, parity and body mass index. No significant differences between two groups were found in mean uterine weight and also in mean serum haemoglobin shift, intra- and immediate post-operative complications, and convalescence period duration. There were statistically significant differences in operating time and in cost between the two procedures. On average, LAVH took longer than VH to be performed (62.8 ± 9.3 vs 29.9 ± 6.6 min, p < 0.0001) and it was more costly, mainly due to the longer operating time and required disposables. An amount of 15698.20 South African Rand (ZAR) or 1145.85 United States Dollar (USD) more were needed to perform LAVH in comparison to VH. All VHs and LAVHs were successfully accomplished without major complications or conversation to laparotomy. CONCLUSION: Our data indicate that VH is a feasible and safe alternative for a large group of women with benign pathology and non-prolapsed uteri, being a faster and less costly procedure than LAVH.

Structured report for dynamic ultrasonography in patients with suspected or known endometriosis: Recommendations of the International Society for Gynecologic Endoscopy (ISGE).

OBJECTIVE: The International Society for Gynecologic Endoscopy (ISGE) developed this project to establish the recommendations for structured reporting of dynamic ultrasound findings, promoting on this manner the practice of standardized, comprehensive and systematic evaluation and reporting of endometriosis in pelvic structures, in correlation with the #Enzian classification. STUDY DESIGN: A non-systematic review was done through a search on the following databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, Global Health, The Cochrane Library (Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Methodology Register), Health Technology Assessment Database and Web of Science, using the medical subject heading (MeSH) term "endometriosis" (MeSH Unique ID: D004715) in combination with "diagnostic imaging" (MeSH Unique ID Q000000981) and "consensus" (MeSH Unique ID D032921). The information extracted from the articles of interest, written in English and published from inception of the above-mentioned databases until May 2021, was graded by the level of evidence using the American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP) classification system. The recommendations for a structured reporting of ultrasound findings were developed through multiple cycles of literature analysis and expert discussion following the Delphi method. RESULTS: The ISGE recommends the adoption of the terms, definitions and methods proposed by the International Deep Endometriosis Analysis (IDEA) Group for ultrasound assessment of patients with suspected or known endometriosis (grade 1C), since this is the most comprehensive and systematic concept currently available. This paper provides the ISGE structured reporting template for presenting quantitative and qualitative information upon the IDEA consensus-based sonographic assessment of the uterus, adnexa, anterior and posterior compartment. The #Enzian classification is recommended to summarize the findings in a standard fashion (grade 1B). CONCLUSION: Mapping of pelvic endometriosis by ultrasound is accurate when trained sonographers perform the technique. Structured reporting of the lesions may improve patient counseling and treatment planning, including the organization of multidisciplinary teams and the selection of the most appropriate medical or surgical therapeutic strategy.

Formal institutional guidelines promotes the vaginal approach to hysterectomy in patients with benign disease and non-prolapsed uterus.

OBJECTIVES: This study was undertaken at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of the Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital to determine if the use of formal guidelines and a standardised surgical technique would increase the rate of vaginal hysterectomy (VH) and result in an overall decline in open abdominal hysterectomy (AH). STUDY DESIGN: All women admitted between July 2001 and December 2014 for hysterectomy due to benign conditions, meeting the guidelines criteria (vaginally accessible uterus, uterus ≤ 12 weeks size or ≤ 280 g on ultrasound examination and pathology confined to the uterus) were included. The surgical route was determined using the Unit surgical decision tree algorithm. In cases where the pathology was not confined to the uterus or success in VH was uncertain, laparoscopic assisted vaginal hysterectomy (LAVH) was performed. The VH procedures were performed by the residents in training, under the supervision of specialists with large experience in vaginal surgery. In addition to the patient characteristics and surgical approach to hysterectomy, length of hospital stay, intra-operative and immediate post-operative complications were also recorded and analysed. RESULTS: A year before the initiation of the study, the percentage of all VHs undertaken in the Department was 9.8 % (mainly performed for utero-vaginal prolapse). During the study period, 1143 vaginal procedures (1017 VHs and 126 LAVHs) were performed. The most common indications were cervical dysplasia, uterine fibroids, dysmenorrhoea or abnormal uterine bleeding, adenomyosis, endometrial hyperplasia and chronic pelvic pain. Introducing a formal clinical decision tree algorithm and a standardised surgical technique resulted in an increase in the rate of VH to 48.4 % and overall decline in open AH from 91.2%-51.6%. Thus, the VH/AH ratio increased from 1/9 at the beginning of the study (July 2001) to 1/1 by its end (December 2014). In all cases, VH was performed without the need to convert the vaginal to the abdominal route. CONCLUSION: The use of institutional guidelines for determining the hysterectomy route and a standardised VH technique resulted in an increased number of performed VHs. This provided an essential opportunity for residents to acquire, improve and maintain the skills required to safely perform VH.

Bronchiolitis in COVID-19 times: a nearly absent disease?

Stay-at-home orders, physical distancing, face masks and other non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) do not only impact COVID-19, but also the dynamics of various other infectious diseases. Bronchiolitis is a clinically diagnosed viral infection of the lower respiratory tract, and causes a yearly seasonal wave of admissions in paediatric wards worldwide. We counted 92,5% less bronchiolitis hospitalisations in Antwerp before the expected end of the peak this year (of which only 1 RSV positive), as compared to the last 3 years. Furthermore, there was a >99% reduction in the number of registered RSV cases in Belgium.Conslusion: The 2020 winter bronchiolitis peak is hitherto nonexistent, but we fear a 'delayed' spring/summer bronchiolitis peak when most NPIs will be relaxed and pre-pandemic life restarts. What is known? • Bronchiolitis causes a yearly seasonal wave of admissions in paediatric departments worldwide. • Non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) do not only impact COVID-19, but also the dynamics of various other infectious diseases. What is new? • The 2020 winter bronchiolitis peak is hitherto nonexistent. • A 'delayed' spring or summer bronchiolitis peak could happen when most NPIs will be relaxed and pre-pandemic life restarts.

International Society for Gynecologic Endoscopy (ISGE) guidelines and recommendations on gynecological endoscopy during the evolutionary phases of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has raised some important interrogations on minimally invasive gynaecological surgery. The International Society for Gynecologic Endoscopy (ISGE) has taken upon itself the task of providing guidance and best practice policies for all practicing gynaecological endoscopists. Factors affecting decision making processes in minimal invasive surgery (MIS) vary depending on factors such as the phase of the pandemic, policies on control and prevention, expertise and existing infrastructure. Our responsibility remains ensuring the safety of all health care providers, ancillary staff and patients during this unusual period. We reviewed the current literature related to gynecological and endoscopic surgery during the Coronavirus Disease 19 (COVID-19) crisis. Regarding elective surgery, universal testing for SARS-CoV-2 infection should be carried out wherever possible 40 h prior to surgery. In case of confirmed positive case of SARS-CoV-2, surgery should be delayed. Priority should be given to relatively urgent cases such as malignancies. ISGE supports medical optimization and delaying surgery for benign non-life-threatening surgeries. When possible, we recommend to perform cases by laparoscopy and to allow early discharges. Any procedure with risk of bowel involvement should be performed by open surgery as studies have found a high amount of viral RNA (ribonucleic acid) in stool. Regarding urgent surgery, each unit should create a risk assessment flow chart based on capacity. Patients should be screened for symptoms and symptomatic patients must be tested. In the event that a confirmed case of SARS-CoV-2 is found, every attempt should be made to optimize medical management and defer surgery until the patient has recovered and only emergency or life-threatening surgery should be performed in these cases. We recommend to avoid intubation and ventilation in SARS-CoV-2 positive patients and if at all possible local or regional anesthesia should be utilized. Patients who screen or test negative may have general anesthesia and laparoscopic surgery while strict protocols of infection control are upheld. Surgery in screen-positive as well as SARS-CoV-2 positive patients that cannot be safely postponed should be undertaken with full PPE with ensuring that only essential personnel are exposed. If available, negative pressure theatres should be used for patients who are positive or screen high risk. During open and vaginal procedures, suction can be used to minimize droplet and bioaerosol spread. In a patient who screens low risk or tests negative, although carrier and false negatives cannot be excluded, laparoscopy should be strongly considered. We recommend, during minimal access surgeries, to use strategies to reduce production of bioaerosols (such as minimal use of energy, experienced surgeon), to reduce leakage of smoke aerosols (for example, minimizing the number of ports used and size of incisions, as well as reducing the operating pressures) and to promote safe elimination of smoke during surgery and during the ports' closure (such as using gas filters and smoke evacuation systems). During the post-peak period of pandemic, debriefing and mental health screening for staff is recommended. Psychological support should be provided as needed. In conclusion, based on the existent evidence, ISGE largely supports the current international trends favoring laparoscopy over laparotomy on a case by case risk evaluation basis, recognizing the different levels of skill and access to minimally invasive procedures across various countries.

Impaired inflammatory state of the endometrium: a multifaceted approach to endometrial inflammation. Current insights and future directions.

New insights into the complex and fine-regulated inflammatory mechanisms involved in the endometrium reveal multiple facets to the problem of endometrial inflammation. However, the entity termed chronic endometritis is to date restricted to infectious etiology and managed with antibiotics. Conversely, the concept of impaired inflammatory state of the endometrium (IISE) provides a more global approach to defective endometrial inflammation, considering both infectious and non-infectious etiology. A non-systematic review was done through a search on MEDLINE, EMBASE, Global Health, The Cochrane Library, Health Technology Assessment Database and Web of Science, research registers. Pertinent original and review articles, published in English or French until December 31, 2019, were selected. A compelling body of evidence demonstrates transient, repeated and persistent IISE to be a major factor of most problematic disorders in obstetrics/gynecology, such as endometrial polyps, unexplained infertility, miscarriage, placenta-related pathology and endometrial cancer. When scheduled accordingly, hysteroscopy can play a key role in the IISE assessment. Robust data suggests the pertinence of minimal-effective anti-inflammatory regimens for therapeutic IISE targeting. This review provides a comprehensive update on the multiple facets of inflammation in the endometrial physiology and pathology. Further research is needed to improve classification, diagnosis and treatment of IISE.

Evidence-based practical guidelines of the International Society for Gynecologic Endoscopy (ISGE) for vaginal hysterectomy.

OBJECTIVE: The study was established by the International Society for Gynecologic Endoscopy (ISGE) to provide evidence-based recommendations in the steps that should be undertaken in successfully performing a vaginal hysterectomy for a non-prolapsed uterus. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The ISGE Task Force for vaginal hysterectomy for the non-prolapsed uterus defined key clinical questions regarding the surgical technique, which led the Medline/PubMed and the Cochrane Database literature search. Identified pertinent articles, published in English from 1997 to 2019, were analysed. The available information was graded by the level of evidence using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) Working Group approach. The recommendations were developed through multiple cycles of literature analysis and expert discussion. RESULTS: Six recommendations were established: 1. A circular incision at the level of cervico-vaginal junction is recommended (grade IC). 2. The posterior peritoneum should be opened first (grade IC). 3. Clamping and cutting the uterosacral and cardinal ligaments before or after getting access into anterior peritoneum is recommended (grade IC). 4. Routine closure of the peritoneum during vaginal hysterectomy is not recommended (grade IB). 5. Vertical or horizontal closure of the vaginal vault following vaginal hysterectomy is recommended (grade IC). 6. To insert a vaginal plug following vaginal hysterectomy is not recommended (grade IB). CONCLUSION: Vaginal hysterectomy for a non-prolapsed uterus should be the preferential route for removing the uterus when hysterectomy is indicated. The ISGE provides evidence-based practical guidelines on how vaginal hysterectomy for non-prolapsed uterus should be undertaken. All efforts should be directed in teaching the surgical technique of vaginal hysterectomy during residency.

Temporary Ligation of the Uterine Artery at Its Origin Using a Removable "Shoelace" Knot.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate a technique of temporary ligation of the uterine artery at its origin. DESIGN: A step-by-step demonstration of the surgery in an instructional video. SETTING: A private hospital in Mumbai, India. INTERVENTION: The peritoneum over the pelvic side wall was dissected bilaterally to expose the uterine arteries at their origins. Using a polyglactin absorbable suture, a double thread loop was used to create a removable "shoelace" knot (Video 1). Both uterine arteries were ligated in this manner. The myomectomy was completed uneventfully, and the myoma bed was sutured in 2 layers using polyglactin sutures. Once suturing was completed, the shoelace knot was untied by simply pulling one end of the thread to restore blood supply to the uterus. Intraoperative blood loss was 30 mL, and the total operation time was 120 minutes. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic ligation of the uterine arteries at their origin is known to reduce intraoperative blood loss [1,2]. However, in patients desiring future fertility, the effect of permanent ligation of these vessels bilaterally remains under study [3-5]. The removable "shoelace" knot is a low-cost, readily available alternative to metallic titanium clips that requires no special surgical expertise to implement.

Hysteroscopic Diagnosis of Omentum Incarceration Subsequent to an Iatrogenic Uterine Perforation.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To present and discuss the hysteroscopic aspects of incarcerated omentum through uterine perforation caused by previous dilation and curettage (D&C) for an incomplete first-trimester abortion. DESIGN: A case report. SETTING: Constantine University Hospital, Constantine, Algeria. PATIENT: A 40-year-old, gravida 3, para 2 patient, with a history of an incomplete first-trimester spontaneous abortion treated 6 months before by D&C requiring medical assistance because of moderate, chronic pelvic pain. No other clinical or biological alteration was found. The ultrasound showed intracavitary hyperechogenic formation infiltrating the myometrium posteriorly. INTERVENTIONS: Hysteroscopy revealed a fatlike lesion arousing suspicion of a residual trophoblast; the differential diagnosis included intramyometrial fat metaplasia as well [1]. A mechanical cold loop resection was initiated. Instrumental manipulation of the mass released yellow drops, probably of lipid nature, subsequently leading to the discovery of a uterine perforation giving passage to the omentum. Histologic examination confirmed fat tissue. There was immediate resolution of symptoms. Laparoscopic repair was subsequently performed and consisted of suturing the defect. There were no further complications. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Few cases of omentum incarceration in a perforated uterus diagnosed during laparotomy or by magnetic resonance imaging have previously been reported [2-4]. To our knowledge, this is the first case revealed through hysteroscopy. CONCLUSION: In women with a history of intracavitary interventions such as D&C, omentum incarceration should be considered when hysteroscopy demonstrates a fatlike formation and yellow droplets released by pressing or mobilizing the formation. Surgeons should be cautious, never using electrosurgery on formations whose origin arouses suspicion.

Evidence-based guidelines for vaginal hysterectomy of the International Society for Gynecologic Endoscopy (ISGE).

OBJECTIVE: This project was established by the International Society for Gynecologic Endoscopy (ISGE) to provide evidence-based recommendations on the selection of women in whom vaginal hysterectomy can be safely performed. STUDY DESIGN: The ISGE Task Force for vaginal hysterectomy for non-prolapsed uterus defined key clinical questions that led the literature search and formulation of recommendations. The search included Medline/PubMed and Cochrane Database. English language articles were reviewed from January 2003 to January 2018, in conjunction with reviews published by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists (AAGL). The bibliographies of selected works were also checked to acquire additional data where relevant. The available information was graded by the level of evidence using the approach developed by the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) Working Group. For each clinical question, the ISGE recommendations were defined in accordance with the evidence quality. RESULTS: Six recommendations on patient selection for vaginal hysterectomy, including two grade 1B and four grade 2B recommendations were established. CONCLUSION: Vaginal hysterectomy for non-prolapsed uterus is the treatment of choice for many gynaecological patients in whom hysterectomy is indicated. It may be safely executed, and thus, should be offered to a large group of appropriately selected women, who today are operated in the main by the abdominal or laparoscopic approach. All efforts should be directed towards teaching the technique of vaginal hysterectomy during residency.

Assessing the risk of laparoscopic morcellation of occult uterine sarcomas during hysterectomy and myomectomy: Literature review and the ISGE recommendations.

OBJECTIVE: This project of the International Society for Gynecologic Endoscopy (ISGE) had the objective to review the literature and provide recommendations on the occult sarcoma risk assessment in patients who are candidates for minimally invasive gynecological surgery involving intra-abdominal electromechanical tissue morcellation. STUDY DESIGN: The ISGE Task Force for Estimation of the Risk in Endoscopic Morcellation initially defined key topics and clinical questions which may guide a comprehensive preoperative patient assessment. A literature search within the Medline/PubMed and Cochrane Database was carried out using keywords "morcellation", "uterine fibroids", "uterine sarcoma", "myomectomy" and "hysterectomy". Relevant publications (original studies, meta-analyses and previous reviews), written in English and published until May 30th, 2017, were selected and analyzed. Previously emitted statements of 12 recognized professional societies or government institutions and their supporting literature were also studied. For each topic/clinical question, the available information was graded by the level of evidence. The ISGE recommendations were established in accordance with the evidence quality. RESULTS: In the light of available information, 9 recommendations on preoperative clinical, laboratorial and imaging evaluation of the candidates for intracorporeal uterus/leiomyoma morcellation were formulated, mainly based on consensus and expert opinions. There is a lack of high-quality evidence, which does not allow the establishment of strong recommendations. CONCLUSION: Electromechanical tissue morcellation may be used in gynecological patients who are considered "low risk" upon appropriate preoperative evaluation; however, further studies and prospective data collection are greatly needed to improve sarcoma risk assessment in women with presumed uterine leiomyomas.

Emergence of antimicrobial resistance to Pseudomonas aeruginosa in the intensive care unit: association with the duration of antibiotic exposure and mode of administration.

BACKGROUND: Antibiotics are frequently used in intensive care units (ICUs), and their use is associated with the emergence of bacterial resistance to antibiotics. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the emergence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa resistance and the duration of antibiotic exposure or mode of administration in an ICU unit. METHODS: A 4-year cohort study of intensive care unit was performed in patients with P. aeruginosa isolates from clinical specimens, initially susceptible to the investigated antibiotics (piperacillin/tazobactam, ceftazidime, ciprofloxacin, meropenem and amikacin). Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence interval (95% CI) of emergence of resistance were calculated using logistic regression analysis for various exposure periods to antibiotics (1-3, 4-7, 8-15 and >15 days) relative to no exposure with adjustment for age, sex, Simplified Acute Physiology Score 3 (SAPS 3) and length of stay. ORs on the emergence of P. aeruginosa resistance were also calculated for the various modes of administration. RESULTS: Included were 187 patients [mean age 61 years, 69% male, mean SAPS 3 score (SD): 59 (12.3)]. None of the antibiotics investigated showed the emergence of resistance within 1-3 days. Significant meropenem resistance emerged within 8-15 days [OR 79.1 (14.9-421.0)] after antibiotic exposure unlike other antibiotics (>15 days). No difference was observed between intermittent and extended administration of meropenem and between beta-lactam mono- or combined therapy. CONCLUSIONS: Use of meropenem was associated with the emergence of resistance as soon as 8 days after exposure to the antibiotic.

Pisat's Visual Vasopressor Injection Needle: An Innovative Tool for Increasing Patient Safety in Laparoscopic Myomectomy.

INTRODUCTION: The use of vasopressin and other vasoconstrictive agents to reduce blood loss during laparoscopic myomectomy significantly reduces blood loss and operative time. However, serious cardiovascular complications following the use of intramyometrial injection of vasopressin solution have also been reported. Most of these side effects are believed to be due to inadvertent intravascular injection of vasopressin solution. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To describe a new design of an injection needle. Pisat's visual vasopressor injection needle (VVIN) can be used during laparoscopic myomectomy to minimise the incidence of an inadvertent intravascular injection of a vasoconstrictor solution. RESULTS: A total of 53 patients who underwent laparoscopic myomectomy at various hospitals in Mumbai, India were studied over a period of two years. Out of these, 23 patients were operated upon using a standard 5 mm laparoscopic injection needle, and 30 patients were operated on by using a VVIN. Out of the 23 patients in whom a regular needle was used, four patients (17.39%) demonstrated a significant (over 20% of pre-injection value), but transient, elevation in pulse and blood pressure readings at one minute post injection. This gradually returned to baseline at 10 minutes after the injection. None of the 30 patients in whom VVIN was used after confirming a negative aspiration demonstrated any significant change in post-injection pulse or blood pressure recordings. CONCLUSIONS: Using a VVIN during a laparoscopic myomectomy enables the surgeon to detect an inadvertent vascular puncture very early, even in a small calibre blood vessel, and with much more sensitivity than a regular needle. This increases patient safety during the intramyometrial injection of a vasoconstrictive agent during myomectomy and reduces the incidence of catastrophic complications.

Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia (PJP) in non-HIV immunocompromised individuals.

OBJECTIVES: PJP is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised individuals. Diagnosing PJP is often difficult because respiratory signs might be minimal or absent and the sensitivity of a chest X-ray (CXR) is low. We studied the clinical risk factors in order to increase awareness and facilitate the diagnosis. METHODS: We studied a prospective case series over a one year period (from 1 January 2015 to 1 January 2016) and did a retrospective analysis (from 2013 to 2016) of all PJP positive bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) analysis. RESULTS: Seven patients with metastatic solid tumors were diagnosed with symptomatic PJP (based on positive polymerase chain reaction) over a one year period. The median age was 61 years. Three patients had brain metastasis. Four of them were on steroids, the median dose was 16 mg methylprednisolone with three of them at a tapered dose. Respiratory failure developed in four cases and prompted intensive care monitoring. Two patients needed non-invasive ventilation and the third patient was intubated and mechanically ventilated. No patient died of PJP. A retrospective analysis on microbiological results obtained from BAL in our hospital from 2013 to 2016 shows a striking high percentage PJP positivity in cancer patients (including hematologic cancers) of nearly 22% (15/69) as opposed to the overall number of PJP-positives 7.3% (59/803). DISCUSSION: The incidence of clinical PJP in patients treated for metastatic cancer is substantial. A high index of suspicion, especially in cases with unexplained respiratory symptoms, concurrent or recent use of steroids, a normal CXR and otherwise unexplained increased lactate dehydrogenase levels, is critical. The threshold for performing a CT-scan must be low and the diagnosis needs to be confirmed microbiologically.

A Multidisciplinary Infection Control Bundle to Reduce the Number of Spinal Cord Stimulator Infections.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of a quality improvement project that resulted in an infection control bundle to reduce the number of spinal cord stimulator (SCS) infections. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was performed in a single center for neuromodulation from January 1, 2014, through May 31, 2016. In response to a high number of surgical site infections (SSIs) after SCS surgery, a multidisciplinary team analyzed the surgical process and developed an infection prevention bundle consisting of five items: 1) showering and decolonization for five days prior to surgery and showering in the hospital on the morning of surgery; 2) performing the SCS implantation as the first in the daily operating room (OR) program; 3) maintaining a minimal number of people in the OR; 4) providing home care nurses with a folder with SCS wound care instructions including pictures; 5) giving oral specific wound care instructions to patients. The number of infections was calculated for the baseline, implementation, and sustainability phases. RESULTS: A total of 410 SCS surgeries were performed during the study period. In the preintervention phase, 26/249 (10.4%) SCS surgeries were infected. During the implementation and sustainability phase, 2/59 (3.4%) and 1/102 (1.0%) SCS surgeries were infected, respectively. The reduction in the number of infections in pre and postintervention phase was statistically significant (p = 0.003). CONCLUSION: Multidisciplinary measures to reduce SSIs reduced the number of SCS associated infections in our study setting.

Performance of urinalysis tests and their ability in predicting results of urine cultures: a comparison between automated test strip analyser and flow cytometry in various subpopulations and types of samples.

AIMS: Results of urinalysis are available earlier than urine culture results. If urinalysis can predict results of culture, early decision can be made on treatment and whether urine samples should be cultured. This study sought to compare the performance of urinalysis tests by automated test strip analyser (nitrite and leucocyte esterase) with flow cytometry (bacteria and white cell count) in different subpopulations and types of samples. METHODS: Consecutive urine samples (n=2351) from a population with a median age of 45 years, 37.2% men, were tested. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value (NPV) of the tests were calculated using contingency tables. The gold standard was positive urine culture with cut-off >105 CFU/mL. RESULTS: 14% of the cultures were positive (95.6% monomicrobial, 74.7% Enterobacteriaceae). Overall, nitrite test was the most specific (98.7%) but the least sensitive (43.2%). Bacteria count was the most sensitive (91.7%) and highly specific (87.5%). In infants <24 months, the sensitivity of bacteria count was reduced (86.1%), but specificity was high (95.9%). The specificity of nitrite was reduced in urine from the in-and-out procedure (81.9%). The sensitivity of bacteria count was reduced in bag specimens urine (83.3%) and in urine from indwelling catheter (84.7%). All tests showed a high NPV. The NPV of the combined flow cytometry tests was higher than those of automated test strip analyser (99.1% vs 97.4%). CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the performance of urinalysis is excellent. Flow cytometry tests performed better than automated test strip analyser in ruling out urine to be cultured.