Cirugía bariátrica: resultados clínicos en términos de pérdida de peso y resolución de comorbilidades / Bariatric surgery: Clinical outcomes in terms of weight loss and resolution of comorbidities

Introducción. La cirugía bariátrica es una estrategia válida de tratamiento en obesidad severa. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la reducción de peso y la resolución de comorbilidades comparando dos técnicas quirúrgicas, baipás gástrico en Y de Roux y manga gástrica. Métodos. Estudio descriptivo de tipo analítico que incluyó pacientes con obesidad grados II y III. Se analizaron variables demográficas y perioperatorias, y las comorbilidades asociadas a la obesidad. La reducción del peso se evaluó con el porcentaje de pérdida del exceso de peso. Se realizó un análisis descriptivo univariado, usando medianas, rangos intercuartílicos, frecuencias y proporciones. Se usaron las pruebas de U de Mann-Whitney y Chi cuadrado para el análisis de grupos. Un valor de p<0,05 fue considerado estadísticamente significativo. Resultados. Fueron incluidos 201 pacientes. La mediana del porcentaje de pérdida del exceso de peso a 18 meses fue de 77,4 % para el grupo de baipás gástrico en Y de Roux vs 69,5 % para el grupo de manga gástrica (p=0,14). La mayoría de los pacientes presentaron resolución o mejoría de la hipertensión arterial (76 %), diabetes mellitus (80 %), dislipidemia (73 %), apnea del sueño (79 %) y artropatías (94 %), sin diferencia significativa según la técnica quirúrgica empleada. La tasa de complicaciones mayores fue del 1,9 %. No se presentó mortalidad. La mediana de seguimiento fue 28 meses. Conclusión. El baipás gástrico en Y de Roux y la manga gástrica son procedimientos muy seguros y efectivos para la reducción del exceso de peso y la resolución de las comorbilidades asociadas a la obesidad

Introduction. Bariatric surgery is a valid strategy of treatment for severe obesity. The aim of this study is to evaluate weight loss and resolution of comorbidities comparing two procedures, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy. Methods. Descriptive study of analytical type that included patients with obesity grades II and III. Demographic and perioperative variables were analyzed. The weight reduction was evaluated among others with the percentage of excess of body weight loss. Comorbidities associated with obesity were also analyzed. A univariate descriptive analysis was performed, using medians, interquartile ranges, frequencies, and proportions. The Mann-Whitney U and Chi squared tests were used for analysis of groups. A value of p <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Median follow-up was 28 months. Results. A total of 201 patients were included in the analysis. The median percentage of excess of body weight loss at 18 months was 77.4% for Roux-en-Y gastric bypass group vs 69.5% for sleeve gastrectomy group (p=0.14). The majority of patients presented resolution or improvement of hypertension (76%), diabetes mellitus (80%), dyslipidemia (73%), sleep apnea (79%), and arthropathy (94%), without significant differences according to the surgical technique used. Major complication rate was 1.9%. There was not mortality. The median follow-up was 28 months. Conclusion. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy are both very safe and effective procedures for excess weight reduction and resolution of comorbidities associated with obesity

Manejo conservador del hemopericardio por trauma: reporte de un caso / Conservative management of traumatic hemopericardium: Case report

Introducción. El trauma cardíaco penetrante es una patología con alta mortalidad, que alcanza hasta el 94 % en el ámbito prehospitalario y el 58 % en el intrahospitalario. El algoritmo internacional para los pacientes que ingresan con herida precordial, hemodinámicamente estables, es la realización de un FAST subxifoideo o una ventana pericárdica, según la disponibilidad del centro, y de ser positivo se procede con una toracotomía o esternotomía. Métodos. Se hizo una búsqueda bibliográfica en las bases de datos Medline, Pubmed, Science Direct y UpTodate, usando las palabras claves: "taponamiento cardíaco", "herida precordial" y "manejo no operatorio". Se tomaron los datos de la historia clínica y las imágenes, previa autorización del paciente. Caso clínico. Paciente masculino ingresó con herida en área precordial, estable hemodinámicamente, sin signos de sangrado activo, con FAST subxifoidea "dudosa". Se procedió a realizar ventana pericárdica, la cual fue positiva para hemopericardio de 150 ml; se evacuaron los coágulos del saco pericárdico, se introdujo sonda Nelaton 10 Fr para lavado con solución salina 500 ml, hasta obtener retorno de líquido claro. Frente al cese del sangrado y estabilidad del paciente se decidió optar por un manejo conservador, sin toracotomía. Conclusiones. No todos los casos de hemopericardio traumático por herida por arma cortopunzante requieren toracotomía. El manejo conservador con ventana pericárdica, drenaje de hemopericardio más lavado y dren es una opción en aquellos pacientes que se encuentran estables hemodinámicamente y no se evidencia sangrado activo posterior al drenaje del hemopericardio.

Introduction. Penetrating cardiac trauma is a pathology with high mortality, reaching up to 94% in the prehospital and 58% in the hospital settings. The international algorithm for patients who are admitted to the hospital with a precordial wound and who are hemodynamically stable is to perform a subxiphoid FAST echo or a pericardial window according to the availability of the center and, if positive, proceed to perform thoracotomy or sternotomy. Methods. A literature search was made in the Medline, Pubmed, ScienceDirect, and UpTodate biomedical databases, using the keywords "cardiac tamponade", "precordial wound" and "non-operative management". The data was taken from the clinical history, the images and the surgical procedure. Clinical case. Male patient who was admitted to the emergency room due to a wound in the precordial area, hemodynamically stable without signs of active bleeding, with subxiphoid FAST that is reported as "doubtful". We proceeded to perform a pericardial window which is positive for 150 ml hemopericardium, evacuation of clots from the pericardial sac, inserted a 10 Fr Nelaton catheter and washed with 500 ml saline solution until the return of clear fluid was obtained. In view of the cessation of bleeding and the stability of the patient, it was decided to opt for a conservative management and not to perform a thoracotomy. Conclusions. Not all cases of traumatic hemopericardium from a sharp injury require thoracotomy. Conservative management with pericardial window drainage of the hemopericardium plus lavage and drain is an option in those patients who are hemodynamically stable and there is no evidence of active bleeding after drainage of the hemopericardium.

Resultados del manejo no operatorio en trauma hepático de los pacientes que se presentaron al servicio de urgencias del Hospital San Vicente Fundación, Medellín / Outcomes of non-operative management of liver trauma in patients who presented to the Emergency Department of Hospital San Vicente Fundación, Medellín

Introducción. El hígado continúa siendo uno de los órganos más afectados en los pacientes con trauma. Su evaluación y manejo han cambiado sustancialmente con los avances tecnológicos en cuanto a diagnóstico y las técnicas de manejo menos invasivas. El objetivo de este estudio fue realizar un análisis de los resultados del manejo no operatorio del trauma hepático en cuanto a incidencia, eficacia, morbimortalidad, necesidad de intervención quirúrgica, tasa y factores relacionados con el fallo del manejo no operatorio. Métodos. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo observacional retrospectivo, analizando pacientes con trauma hepático confirmado con tomografía o cirugía, durante un periodo de 72 meses, en el Hospital Universitario San Vicente Fundación, un centro de IV nivel de atención, en Medellín, Colombia. Resultados. Se incluyeron 341 pacientes con trauma hepático, 224 por trauma penetrante y 117 por trauma cerrado. En trauma penetrante, 208 pacientes fueron llevados a cirugía inmediatamente, el resto fueron manejados de manera no operatoria, con una falla en el manejo en 20 pacientes. En trauma cerrado, 22 fueron llevados a cirugía inmediata y 95 sometidos a manejo no operatorio, con una falla en 9 pacientes. La mortalidad global fue de 9,7 % y la mortalidad relacionada al trauma hepático fue de 4,4 %. El grado del trauma, el índice de severidad del trauma y las lesiones abdominales no hepáticas no se consideraron factores de riesgo para la falla del manejo no operatorio. Conclusiones. El manejo no operatorio continúa siendo una alternativa segura y efectiva para pacientes con trauma hepático, sobretodo en trauma cerrado. En trauma penetrante se debe realizar una adecuada selección de los pacientes.

Introduction. The liver continues to be one of the most affected organs in trauma patients. Its evaluation and management have changed substantially with technological advances in diagnosis and less invasive techniques. The objective of this study was to perform an analysis of the results of non-operative management of liver trauma in terms of incidence, efficacy, morbidity and mortality, need for surgical intervention, rate and factors related to the failure of non-operative management.Methods. A retrospective observational descriptive study was performed, analyzing patients with hepatic trauma confirmed by tomography or surgery, during a period of 72 months at the Hospital Universitario San Vicente Fundación level 4 medical center, in Medellín, Colombia.Results. 341 patients with liver trauma were analyzed, 224 with penetrating trauma and 117 with blunt trauma. In the penetrating trauma group, 208 patients were taken to surgery immediately, the rest were managed nonoperatively with a failure in 20 patients. In the blunt trauma group, 22 were taken to immediate surgery and 95 underwent nonoperative management, with failure in nine patients. Overall mortality was 9.7% and mortality related to liver trauma was 4.4%. Trauma grade, trauma severity index, and non-hepatic abdominal injuries were not considered risk factors for failure of nonoperative managementConclusions. Nonoperative management continues to be a safe and effective alternative for patients with liver trauma, especially in blunt trauma. In penetrating trauma, an adequate selection of patients must be made.

Resultados de la atención de los pacientes con trauma renal ingresados a un centro de trauma nivel 1 / Outcomes in the management of patients with renal trauma admitted to level 1 Trauma Center

Introducción. El debate acerca del manejo de los pacientes con trauma renal continúa, pero cada vez se avala más la estrategia conservadora. En este trabajo se presentan los resultados del manejo no operatorio en trauma renal, evaluando las variables que determinaron fallas en el tratamiento y sus conductas posteriores. Métodos. Estudio observacional descriptivo y retrospectivo. Se incluyeron pacientes mayores de 15 años con trauma renal confirmado con tomografía. Se excluyeron pacientes intervenidos en las primeras cuatro horas, trasplantados renales, y con nefrectomía previa. Se consignaron variables demográficas, signos vitales, características de la lesión, manejo y desenlaces. Resultados. Se incluyeron 97 pacientes, de los cuales el 82,5 % (n=80) tuvieron manejo conservador. El trauma cerrado ocurrió en el 56,7 % (n=55) y las lesiones denominadas de alto grado correspondieron al 67 % (n=65). Los principales hallazgos fueron dolor abdominal, hematuria macroscópica y heridas en el trayecto lumbar. El 73,2 % (n=71) tenían lesiones asociadas y el 31,9 % (n=31) necesitó transfusión. Los pacientes con fracaso en el manejo conservador tenían mayor edad, menor puntaje en la escala de coma de Glasgow y trauma asociado. La eficacia del manejo no operatorio fue del 83 % (n=67). La estancia hospitalaria de seis días y la mortalidad del 9,3 % (n=9); no estuvo relacionada exclusivamente con el trauma renal sino con la gravedad del trauma. Discusión. El trauma renal no es infrecuente y generalmente se asocia a otras lesiones. El manejo conservador ha demostrado reducción en las intervenciones innecesarias, complicaciones asociadas y nefrectomías

Introduction. The debate about the management of patients with renal trauma continues, but the conservative strategy is increasingly supported. In this study, the results of non-operative management in renal trauma are presented, evaluating the variables that determined treatment failures and their subsequent management. Methods. Retrospective observational study. Patients older than 15 years with renal trauma confirmed by CT were included. Patients operated on in the first four hours, kidney transplants, and previous nephrectomy were excluded. Demographic variables, vital signs, injury characteristics, management and outcomes were recorded. Results. Ninety-seven patients were included, of which 82.5% (n=80) had conservative management. Blunt trauma occurred in 56.7% (n=55) and the high-grade injuries corresponded to 67% (n=65). The main findings were abdominal pain, gross hematuria, and wounds in the lumbar tract. The 73.2% (n=71) had associated injuries and 31.9% (n=31) required transfusion. The patients with failure in the conservative management were older, had a lower score on the Glasgow Coma Scale, and associated trauma. The efficacy of non-operative management was 83% (n=67). The six-day hospital stay and the mortality of 9.3% (n=9), was not exclusively related to kidney trauma but to the severity of the trauma. Discussion. Kidney trauma is not uncommon and is generally associated with other injuries. Conservative mana-gement has shown a reduction in unnecessary interventions, associated complications, and nephrectomies

De la puerta de urgencias al quirófano: revelando los minutos de oro en trauma cardíaco penetrante / From the ER door to the operating room: Revealing the golden minutes in penetrating cardiac trauma

Introducción. El manejo de la herida cardiaca penetrante es un reto dado que requiere un rápido manejo quirúrgico para evitar que su desenlace sea fatal. Múltiples factores pronósticos han sido descritos, sin embargo, no ha sido documentada la relación entre el tiempo de llegada a quirófano y el uso de pledgets con la mortalidad. Métodos. Se realizó un estudio observacional retrospectivo de corte transversal, desde el año 2011 hasta el año 2018, en un hospital universitario de la ciudad de Medellín. Se evaluaron los registros de los pacientes con herida cardiaca penetrante confirmada y se realizó análisis univariado, bivariado y multivariado, así como curvas de supervivencia. Resultados. Los pacientes inestables o con taponamiento cardiaco que llegan al quirófano después del minuto 4 de haber ingresado a urgencias tienen cuatro veces más posibilidades de morir que los que llegan a quirófano antes (RR 4,1 IC95% 1,43­12,07). El uso de pledgets en el reparo de la herida cardiaca, corresponde a un factor protector para los pacientes, con un OR ajustado de 2,5 (IC95% 1,124-5,641). El tipo de traumatismo, la arritmia intraoperatoria y el índice de choque al ingreso también fueron factores pronósticos. Discusión. Se documenta el efecto del tiempo de llegada a quirófano sobre la mortalidad, lo cual permitirá en un futuro generar cambios en el manejo de estos pacientes en función de estos tiempos. La evidencia encontrada sugiere mejores desenlaces con el uso rutinario de pledgets

Introduction. The management of penetrating cardiac injury is challenging since it requires rapid surgical ma-nagement to avoid a fatal outcome. Multiple prognostic factors have been described, however, the relationship between the time of arrival to the operating room and the use of pledgets with mortality has not been documented.Methods. A cross-sectional retrospective observational study was conducted from 2011 to 2018 in a university hospital in the city of Medellín. Records of patients with confirmed penetrating cardiac injury were evaluated, and univariate, bivariate, and multivariate analyzes were performed, as well as survival curves.Results. Unstable patients or patients with cardiac tamponade who arrive to the operating room after 4 minutes after being admitted to the emergency room are four times more likely to die than those who arrive to the operating room earlier (RR 4.1 95% CI 1.43­12.07). The use of pledgets in the repair of the cardiac wound corresponds to a protective factor for patients, with an adjusted OR of 2.5 (95% CI 1.124-5.641). The type of trauma, intraoperative arrhythmia and the shock index on admission were also prognostic factors. Discussion. The effect of the time of arrival to the operating room on mortality is documented, which will allow in the future to generate changes in the management of these patients based on these times. The evidence found suggests better outcomes with the routine use of pledgets

Resultados tempranos en pacientes con cáncer gástrico sometidos a gastrectomía laparoscópica con intención curativa / Early results in gastric cancer patients undergoing laparoscopic gastrectomy with curative intent

Introducción. El manejo de pacientes con cáncer gástrico está determinado por el estadio preoperatorio y requiere de una estrategia multidisciplinaria. La cirugía radical, especialmente en pacientes con estadios tempranos, es potencialmente curativa. El abordaje por vía laparoscópica ofrece ventajas sobre la vía abierta, sin embargo, en nuestro medio no hay información en cuanto a resultados oncológicos y posoperatorios tempranos. Métodos. Estudio retrospectivo, descriptivo, de tipo transversal, en pacientes con cáncer gástrico llevados a gastrectomía laparoscópica con intención curativa, entre el 2014 y el 2019, en tres instituciones de la ciudad de Medellín. Se analizaron los datos demográficos, los resultados posoperatorios y oncológicos a corto plazo. Resultados. Se incluyeron 75 pacientes sometidos a gastrectomía laparoscópica. La mediana de edad fue de 64 años y el estadio más frecuente fue el III. La gastrectomía fue subtotal en 50 pacientes (66,7 %) y total en 25 pacientes (33,3 %). Se hizo disección linfática D2 en 73 pacientes (97,3 %) con una mediana en el recuento ganglionar de 27. La tasa de resección R0 fue de 97,3 %. La mediana de estancia hospitalaria fue de seis días. La tasa de complicaciones mayores fue del 20 % y la mortalidad a 90 días fue del 4 %. Discusión. La calidad oncológica de la gastrectomía laparoscópica fue adecuada y cumple con las recomendaciones de las guías internacionales. Si bien la morbilidad sigue siendo alta, tiene una tasa de sobrevida del 96 % a 90 días.

Introduction. The management of patients with gastric cancer is determined by the preoperative stage and requires a multidisciplinary strategy. Radical surgery, especially in patients with early stages, is potentially curative. The laparoscopic approach offers advantages over the open approach, however, in our setting there is no information regarding oncological and early postoperative results.Methods. Retrospective, descriptive, cross-sectional study in patients with gastric cancer who underwent laparoscopic gastrectomy with curative intent, between 2014 and 2019, in three institutions in the city of Medellín. Demographic data, postoperative and short-term oncological results were analyzed.Results. Seventy-five patients undergoing laparoscopic gastrectomy were included. The median age was 64 years and the most frequent stage was III. Gastrectomy was subtotal in 50 patients (66.7%) and total in 25 patients (33.3%). D2 lymphatic dissection was performed in 73 patients (97.3%) with a median lymph node count of 27. The R0 resection rate was 97.3%. The median hospital stay was six days. The major complication rate was 20% and the 90-day mortality was 4%.Discussion. The oncological quality of the laparoscopic gastrectomy was adequate and complies with the recommendations of international guidelines. Although morbidity remains high, it has a 96% survival rate at 90 days

Utilidad del examen físico para el diagnóstico de lesión intraabdominal en heridas por arma cortopunzante / Value of the physical examination in the diagnosis of intra-abdominal lesion in penetrating abdominal stab wounds

Introducción. El propósito de este estudio fue evaluar el desempeño del examen físico, apoyado en ayudas imaginológicas, en los pacientes con herida penetrante abdominal, para diagnosticar la presencia de lesión intraabdominal y seleccionar los candidatos a manejo no operatorio. Materiales y métodos. Se analizó la base de datos de 559 pacientes mayores de 15 años con herida abdominal por arma cortopunzante que ingresaron a un centro hospitalario de cuarto nivel. Resultados. Se practicó laparotomía exploratoria de urgencia en 290/559 (51,4 %) pacientes, 38/290 (13,1 %) de las cuales fueron laparotomías no terapéuticas. La sensibilidad del examen físico para la decisión quirúrgica emergente fue de 99,6 % y, su especificidad, de 80,99 %. Al resto de los pacientes (47,7 %) se les realizó observación clínica estrecha con examen físico repetido. Durante el manejo no operatorio, 72/269 (26,8 %) pacientes fueron sometidos a cirugía por los hallazgos del examen físico. De este grupo, solo 8/72 (11 %) de las laparotomías fueron no terapéuticas. Se dieron de alta 197/269 (73,2 %) pacientes con un periodo de observación no inferior a 24 horas. En este grupo, la sensibilidad del examen físico fue de 98,46 % y, su especificidad, de 96,08 %. Conclusiones. La experiencia del manejo de pacientes con heridas abdominales penetrantes por arma cortopunzante apoya al examen físico como una prueba diagnóstica muy sensible y específica para el diagnóstico de lesión intraabdominal, lográndose que el tratamiento no operatorio sea una alternativa terapéutica, evitando laparotomías innecesarias y el aumento de la morbimortalidad

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to determine the value of the physical examination supported by imaging in patients with penetrating abdominal wounds in diagnosing intra-abdominal injury and to select candidates for nonoperative management.Materials and methods: Analysis of a database of 559 patients over 15 years of age presenting with penetrating abdominal trauma at a fourth level of care hospital. Results: Emergency exploratory laparotomy was performed in 290 patients (51.4%), of whom 38 (13.1%) were nontherapeutic laparotomies. The sensitivity and specificity of the physical examination for the emergent surgical decision was 99.6% and 80.99%, respectively. The remaining patients (47.7%) underwent clinical observation with repeated physical examination. During the nonoperative management, 72 patients (26.8%) were taken to surgery based on findings in the physical examination. Of this group, only 11% of laparotomies were non-therapeutic. One hundred and ninety-seven (73.2%) patients were discharged with an observation period of no less than 24 hours. In this group of patients, the sensitivity of the physical examination was 98.46% and specificity was 96.08%. Conclusions: Our experience in the management of patients with abdominal stab wounds supports physical examination as a highly sensitive and specific diagnostic method for the diagnosis of intra-abdominal injury. Nonoperative management is a therapeutic alternative, avoiding unnecessary laparotomies and increased morbidity and mortality

Aclaramiento de lactato en trauma penetrante grave / Lactate clearance in severe penetrating trauma

Introduction: Trauma is one of the main causes of death worldwide. The metabolic response culminates with inadequate oxygen delivery and anaerobic metabolism, the final product being lactate. High lactate levels at admission and slow or incomplete return to normal values are associated with higher mortality. Materials and methods: Prospective cohort study in patients older than 18 years with severe penetrating trauma taken to emergent surgery and post-surgery in intensive or especial care unit in the period June 2016 to November 2017. Some severity scores and lactate values were determined at admission, and at 6, 12, 18 and 24 hours. The outcome variables were mortality, length of hospital stay and surgical site infection. To estimate the associations we used a bivariate analysis and a multiple linear regression model. Results: 130 patients were included, registering 8 deaths (6.2%). There was no association between lactate clearance and incidence of surgical site infection. Absolute lactate values at admission were significantly higher in the deceased; a tendency to a lower percentage of clearance was recorded in the deceased at 24 hours; at 12 hours after admission, the survivors had a clearance of more than 50% of the lactate and the deceased 25.7%. More than half of the patients did not clear 50% of the initial value of lactate at 6, 12 and 24 hours. Conclusion: The usefulness of lactate monitoring during the first 24 hours as a prognostic factor in patients with severe penetrating trauma is demonstrated

[Associated factors to non-operative management failure of hepatic and splenic lesions secondary to blunt abdominal trauma in children]. / Factores asociados a falla en el manejo no operatorio de lesiones hepáticas o esplénicas secundarias a trauma abdominal cerrado en niños.

INTRODUCTION: The non operative management (NOM) is the standard management of splenic and liver blunt trauma in pediatric patients.Hemodynamic instability and massive transfusions have been identified as management failures. Few studies evaluate whether there exist factors allowing anticipation of these events. The objective was to identify factors associated with the failure of NOM in splenic and liver injuries for blunt abdominal trauma. PATIENTS AND METHOD: Retrospective analysis between 2007-2015 of patients admitted to the pediatric surgery at University Hospital Saint Vincent Foundation with liver trauma and/or closed Spleen. RESULTS: 70 patients were admitted with blunt abdominal trauma, 3 were excluded for immediate surgery (2 hemodynamic instability, 1 peritoneal irritation). Of 67 patients who received NOM, 58 were successful and 9 showed failure (8 hemodynamic instability, 1 hollow viscera injury). We found 3 factors associated with failure NOM: blood pressure (BP) < 90 mmHg at admission (p = 0.0126; RR = 5.19), drop in hemoglobin (Hb) > 2 g/dl in the first 24 hours (p = 0.0009; RR = 15.3), and transfusion of 3 or more units of red blood cells (RBC) (0.00001; RR = 17.1). Mechanism and severity of trauma and Pediatric Trauma Index were not associated with failure NOM. CONCLUSIONS: Children with blunted hepatic or splenic trauma respond to NOM. Factors such as BP < 90 mmHg at admission, an Hb fall > 2 g/dl in the first 24 hours and transfusion of 3 or more units of RBC were associated with the failure in NOM.

Factores asociados a falla en el manejo no operatorio de lesiones hepáticas o esplénicas secundarias a trauma abdominal cerrado en niños / Associated factors to non-operative management failure of hepatic and splenic lesions secondary to blunt abdominal trauma in children

Introducción: El manejo no operatorio (MNO) es el manejo estándar del trauma cerrado esplénico y hepático en el paciente pediátrico. Se han identificado como fallas a este manejo inestabilidad hemodinámica y transfusiones masivas. Pocos trabajos evalúan si existen factores que permitan una anticipación a estos eventos. El objetivo fue determinar la existencia de factores asociados a la falla en MNO de las lesiones esplénicas y/o hepáticas secundarias al trauma abdominal cerrado. Pacientes y Método: Análisis retrospectivo 2007 a 2015 de los pacientes que ingresaron al servicio de Cirugía infantil del Hospital Universitario San Vicente Fundación con trauma hepático y/o esplénico cerrado. Resultados: Ingresaron 70 pacientes con trauma cerrado de abdomen, 3 fueron excluidos por cirugía inmediata (2 inestabilidad hemodinámica y 1 irritación peritoneal). De 67 pacientes que recibieron MNO, 58 tuvieron éxito y 9 presentaron falla (8 inestabilidad hemodinámica y 1 lesión de víscera hueca). Encontramos 3 factores asociados a la falla MNO: presión arterial (PAS) < 90 mmHg al ingreso (p=0,0126; RR =5,19), caída de la Hemoglobina (Hb) > 2 g/dl en las primeras 24 h (p=0,0009; RR= 15,3), y transfusión de 3 o más unidades de glóbulos rojos (UGR) (0,00001; RR= 17,1). Mecanismo del trauma, severidad e Índice de Trauma Pediátrico no se asociaron con fallo MNO. Conclusiones: Los niños con trauma cerrado hepático o esplénico responden al MNO. Los factores como PA menor de 90 al ingreso, caída de la Hb >2 g/dl en las primeras 24 h y la transfusión de 3 o más UGR pueden asociarse con la falla en el MNO.

Introduction: The non operative management (NOM) is the standard management of splenic and liver blunt trauma in pediatric patients.Hemodynamic instability and massive transfusions have been identified as management failures. Few studies evaluate whether there exist factors allowing anticipation of these events. The objective was to identify factors associated with the failure of NOM in splenic and liver injuries for blunt abdominal trauma. Patients and Method: Retrospective analysis between 2007-2015 of patients admitted to the pediatric surgery at University Hospital Saint Vincent Foundation with liver trauma and/or closed Spleen. Results: 70 patients were admitted with blunt abdominal trauma, 3 were excluded for immediate surgery (2 hemodynamic instability, 1 peritoneal irritation). Of 67 patients who received NOM, 58 were successful and 9 showed failure (8 hemodynamic instability, 1 hollow viscera injury). We found 3 factors associated with failure NOM: blood pressure (BP) < 90 mmHg at admission (p = 0.0126; RR = 5.19), drop in hemoglobin (Hb) > 2 g/dl in the first 24 hours (p = 0.0009; RR = 15.3), and transfusion of 3 or more units of red blood cells (RBC) (0.00001; RR = 17.1). Mechanism and severity of trauma and Pediatric Trauma Index were not associated with failure NOM. Conclusions: Children with blunted hepatic or splenic trauma respond to NOM. Factors such as BP < 90 mmHg at admission, an Hb fall > 2 g/dl in the first 24 hours and transfusion of 3 or more units of RBC were associated with the failure in NOM.

Diagnostic performance of CT angiography in neck vessel trauma: systematic review and meta-analysis.

This study was conducted in order to define the diagnostic performance of CT angiography for vascular injuries compared with angiography in patients with neck trauma. CT angiography is the cornerstone of diagnosis for hemodynamically stable patients with wounds suspicious of vascular trauma in the limbs, chest, or abdomen. Available evidence for the use of CT angiography in neck vascular trauma comes from small case series and few randomized controlled trials, and high-quality information does not exist regarding its performance. A protocol using the recommendations of the Cochrane Collaboration was designed. A systematic search of diagnostic studies without limits on language or time was carried out to December 2014. Studies including patients with neck trauma with retrospective or prospective data collection that assessed CT angiography compared with other methods were selected. Methodological quality was assessed using the QUADAS-2 tool. A hierarchical model ROC curve and a bivariate random effects model were used for the pooled analysis. Sixteen studies were selected and reviewed, and nine studies with 693 patients were included in this review. The overall sensitivity was 97 % (95 % CI 0.77-1.00; I (2) = 65.7 % (41.4-90.0)), while the overall specificity was 99 % (95 % CI 0.93-1.00; I (2) = 0). The hierarchic ROC curve showed an area under the curve of 0.99. Publication bias was not identified in this study. CT angiography can be stated as the gold standard for diagnosing vascular injuries in hemodynamically stable patients with neck trauma.

Non-operative management versus operative management in high-grade blunt hepatic injury.

BACKGROUND: Surgery used to be the treatment of choice in cases of blunt hepatic injury, but this approach gradually changed over the last two decades as increasing non-operative management (NOM) of splenic injury led to its use for hepatic injury. The improvement in critical care monitoring and computed tomographic scanning, as well as the more frequent use of interventional radiology techniques, has helped to bring about this change to non-operative management. Liver trauma ranges from a small capsular tear, without parenchymal laceration, to massive parenchymal injury with major hepatic vein/retrohepatic vena cava lesions. In 1994, the Organ Injury Scaling Committee of the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma (AAST) revised the Hepatic Injury Scale to have a range from grade I to VI. Minor injuries (grade I or II) are the most frequent liver injuries (80% to 90% of all cases); severe injuries are grade III-V lesions; grade VI lesions are frequently incompatible with survival. In the medical literature, the majority of patients who have undergone NOM have low-grade liver injuries. The safety of NOM in high-grade liver lesions, AAST grade IV and V, remains a subject of debate as a high incidence of liver and collateral extra-abdominal complications are still described. OBJECTIVES: To assess the effects of non-operative management compared to operative management in high-grade (grade III-V) blunt hepatic injury. SEARCH METHODS: The search for studies was run on 14 April 2014. We searched the Cochrane Injuries Group's Specialised Register, The Cochrane Library, Ovid MEDLINE(R), Ovid MEDLINE(R) In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations, Ovid MEDLINE(R) Daily and Ovid OLDMEDLINE(R), Embase Classic+Embase (Ovid), PubMed, ISI WOS (SCI-EXPANDED, SSCI, CPCI-S & CPSI-SSH), clinical trials registries, conference proceedings, and we screened reference lists. SELECTION CRITERIA: All randomised trials that compare non-operative management versus operative management in high-grade blunt hepatic injury. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two authors independently applied the selection criteria to relevant study reports. We used standard methodological procedures as defined by the Cochrane Collaboration. MAIN RESULTS: We were unable to find any randomised controlled trials of non-operative management versus operative management in high-grade blunt hepatic injury. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: In order to further explore the preliminary findings provided by animal models and observational clinical studies that suggests there may be a beneficial effect of non-operative management versus operative management in high-grade blunt hepatic injury, large, high quality randomised trials are needed.

Laparoscopic management of gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors.

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most frequent gastrointestinal tumors of mesodermal origin. Gastric GISTs represent approximately 70% of all gastrointestinal GISTs. The only curative option is surgical resection. Many surgical groups have shown good results with the laparoscopic approach. There have not been any randomized controlled trials comparing the open vs laparoscopic approach, and all recommendations have been based on observational studies. The experience obtained from gastric laparoscopic surgery during recent decades and the development of specific devices have allowed the treatment of most gastric GISTs through the laparoscopic approach.

Diagnostic performance of CT esophagography in patients with suspected esophageal rupture.

Esophageal rupture is a surgical catastrophe. The gold standard for diagnosing is iodine, water-soluble contrast medium esophagography. CT esophagography has shown promising results. This study aimed to assess the diagnostic performance of CT esophagography in patients with a suspicion of esophageal rupture. This prospective study assessed the performance of a diagnostic test and was approved by local IRB committee. Patients who presented with a clinical suspicion of esophageal rupture were included. CT esophagography findings were described by the emergency radiologist. Clinical outcomes (presence or absence of esophageal rupture) were reported by surgeons. The operative characteristics were calculated. A final predictive scale for rupture was built. A total of 64 patients were recruited (age 26.5 years, 90 % male, 82 % trauma). Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative likelihood ratios (LRs) were 77.7 % (95 % confidence interval (CI) 45-100), 94.3 % (87.2-100), 14 (9.81-19.9), and 0.24 (0.05-1.22), respectively. The final model for predicting rupture included five variables: age (odds ratio (OR) 1.03; 95 % CI, 0.95-1.11; p=0.04), leakage of contrast media into the mediastinum or pleural space (OR 10.0; 95 % CI, 0.64-156.9; p=0.10), extraluminal air or fluid collections (OR 43.1; 95 % CI, 1.52-1217.3; p=0.027), esophageal wall thickening (OR 10.1; 95 % CI, 0.50-202.8; p=0.12), and left pneumothorax or pleural effusion (OR 6.5; 95 % CI, 0.31-132.7; p=0.2). The overall agreement was 0.40 (95 % CI, 0.09-0.72) for the predictive model. The model sensitivity was 50.0 %, and the specificity was 98.4 %. CT esophagography shows a good diagnostic performance in patients with a suspected esophageal rupture.

Tratamiento del traumatismo cerrado de hígado, indicaciones de cirugía y desenlaces / Surgical treatment of blunt liver trauma, indications for surgery and results

INTRODUCCIÓN: El objetivo final del tratamiento quirúrgico en la obesidad mórbida es el descenso de la morbimortalidad asociada al exceso de peso. En este sentido debemos centrarnos en la enfermedad cardiovascular y el síndrome metabólico, que son las causas principales de mortalidad. El objetivo del estudio es valorar el efecto del bypass gástrico sobre el riesgo cardiovascular estimado en los pacientes sometidos a cirugía bariátrica. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Estudio clínico retrospectivo y observacional desarrollado en 402 pacientes sometidos a bypass gástrico por laparoscopia. La variable principal a estudio es el riesgo cardiovascular estimado, que se mide en el preoperatorio y a los 12 meses. Para el cálculo del riesgo estimado se utiliza la ecuación REGICOR, que se expresa en forma de porcentaje y calcula el riesgo a 10 años de presentar enfermedad cardiovascular. RESULTADOS: En situación basal observamos como media un índice REGICOR de 4,1 ± 3,0. A los 12 meses de la intervención la estimación del riesgo cardiovascular disminuyó significativamente a 2,2 ± 1,6 (p < 0,001). En los sujetos con el diagnóstico de síndrome metabólico según definición del ATP-III, el REGICOR basal fue de 4,8 ± 3,1, mientras que en aquellos sin síndrome fue de 2,2 ± 1,8. A los 12 meses observamos una reducción significativa en ambos grupos (síndrome metabólico y no síndrome) con un REGICOR medio de 2,3 ± 1,6 y 1,6 ± 1,0 respectivamente. CONCLUSIÓN: Los resultados observados en nuestro estudio demuestran los efectos favorables del bypass gástrico sobre los factores de riesgo cardiovascular incluidos en la ecuación REGICOR

INTRODUCTION: The major goal of surgical treatment in morbid obesity is to decrease morbidity and mortality associated with excess weight. In this sense, the main factors of death are cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of gastric bypass on cardiovascular risk estimation in patients after bariatric surgery. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated pre and postoperative cardiovascular risk estimation of 402 morbidly obese patients who underwent laparoscopic gastric bypass. The major variable studied is the cardiovascular risk estimation that is calculated preoperatively and after 12 months. Cardiovascular risk estimation analysis has been performed with the REGICOR Equation. REGICOR formulation allows calculating a 10-year risk of cardiovascular events adapted to the Spanish population and is expressed in percentages. RESULTS: We reported an overall 4.1 ± 3.0 mean basal REGICOR score. One year after the operation, cardiovascular risk estimation significantly decreased to 2,2 ± 1,6 (P < .001). In patients with metabolic syndrome according to ATP-III criteria, basal REGICOR score was 4.8 ± 3.1 whereas in no metabolic syndrome patients 2.2 ± 1.8. Evaluation 12 months after surgery, determined a significant reduction in both groups (metabolic syndrome and non metabolic syndrome) with a mean REGICOR score of 2.3 ± 1.6 and 1.6 ± 1.0 respectively. CONCLUSION: The results of our study demonstrate favorable effects of gastric bypass on the cardiovascular risk factors included in the REGICOR equation

[Surgical treatment of blunt liver trauma, indications for surgery and results]. / Tratamiento del traumatismo cerrado de hígado, indicaciones de cirugía y desenlaces.

INTRODUCTION: The liver is the most frequently injured organ in blunt abdominal trauma. Patients that are hemodynamically unstable must undergo inmmediate surgical treatment. There are 2 surgical approaches for these patients; Anatomical Liver resection or non-anatomic liver resection. Around 80-90% of patients are candidates for non-operative management. -Several risk factors have been studied to select the patients most suited for a non operative management. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed a retrospective study based on a prospective database. We searched for risk factors related to immediate surgical management and failed non-operative management. We also described the surgical procedures that were undertaken in this cohort of patients and their outcomes and complications. RESULTS: During the study period 117 patients presented with blunt liver trauma. 19 patients (16.2%) required a laparotomy during the initial 24h after their admission. There were 11 deaths (58%) amongst these patients. Peri-hepatic packing and suturing were the most common procedures performed. A RTS Score<7.8 (RR: 7.3; IC 95%: 1.8-30.1), and ISS Score >20 (RR 2,5 IC 95%: 1.0-6.7), and associated intra-abdominal injuries (RR: 2.95; IC 95%: 1.25-6.92) were risk factors for immediate surgery. In 98 (83.7%) patients a non-operative management was performed. 7 patients had a failed non-operative management. CONCLUSION: The need for immediate surgical management is related to the presence of associated intra-abdominal injuries, and the ISS and RTS scores. In this series the most frequently performed procedure for blunt liver trauma was peri-hepatic packing.

Thromboprophylaxis for trauma patients.

BACKGROUND: Trauma is a leading causes of death and disability in young people. Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a principal cause of death. Trauma patients are at high risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The incidence varies according to the method used to measure the DVT and the location of the thrombosis. Due to prolonged rest and coagulation abnormalities, trauma patients are at increased risk of thrombus formation. Thromboprohylaxis, either mechanical or pharmacological, may decrease mortality and morbidity in trauma patients who survive beyond the first day in hospital, by decreasing the risk of VTE in this population.A previous systematic review did not find evidence of effectiveness for either pharmacological or mechanical interventions. However, this systematic review was conducted 10 years ago and most of the included studies were of poor quality. Since then new trials have been conducted. Although current guidelines recommend the use of thromboprophylaxis in trauma patients, there has not been a comprehensive and updated systematic review since the one published. OBJECTIVES: To assess the effects of thromboprophylaxis in trauma patients on mortality and incidence of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. To compare the effects of different thromboprophylaxis interventions and their effects according to the type of trauma. SEARCH METHODS: We searched The Cochrane Injuries Group Specialised Register (searched April 30 2009), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials 2009, issue 2 (The Cochrane Library), MEDLINE (Ovid) 1950 to April (week 3) 2009, EMBASE (Ovid) 1980 to (week 17) April 2009, PubMed (searched 29 April 2009), ISI Web of Science: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED) (1970 to April 2009), ISI Web of Science: Conference Proceedings Citation Index-Science (CPCI-S) (1990 to April 2009). SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomized controlled clinical trials involving people of any age with major trauma defined by one or more of the following criteria: physiological: penetrating or blunt trauma with more than two organs and unstable vital signs, anatomical: people with an Injury Severity Score (ISS) higher than 9, mechanism: people who are involved in a 'high energy' event with a risk for severe injury despite stable or normal vital signs. We excluded trials that only recruited outpatients, trials that recruited people with hip fractures only, or people with acute spinal injuries. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Four authors, in pairs (LB and CM, EF and RC), independently examined the titles and the abstracts, extracted data, assessed the risk of bias of the trials and analysed the data. PP resolved any disagreement between the authors. MAIN RESULTS: Sixteen studies were included (n=3005). Four trials compared the effect of any type (mechanical and/or pharmacological) of prophylaxis versus no prophylaxis. Prophylaxis reduced the risk of DVT in people with trauma (RR 0.52; 95% CI 0.32 to 0.84). Mechanical prophylaxis reduced the risk of DVT (RR = 0.43; 95% CI 0.25 to 0.73). Pharmacological prophylaxis was more effective than mechanical methods at reducing the risk of DVT (RR 0.48; 95% CI 0.25 to 0.95). LMWH appeared to reduce the risk of DVT compared to UH (RR 0.68; 95% CI 0.50 to 0.94). People who received both mechanical and pharmacological prophylaxis had a lower risk of DVT (RR 0.34; 95% CI 0.19 to 0.60) AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: We did not find evidence that thromboprophylaxis reduces mortality or PE in any of the comparisons assessed. However, we found some evidence that thromboprophylaxis prevents DVT. Although the strength of the evidence was not high, taking into account existing information from other related conditions such as surgery, we recommend the use of any DVT prophylactic method for people with severe trauma.

Eficacia de la angiotomografía con multidetectores en el diagnóstico del trauma arterial de extremidades / Efficacy of multidetector computed angiotomography in the diagnosis of limb arterial injuries

Objetivo: Determinar la eficacia diagnóstica de la angiotomografía multidetectores en el diagnóstico del trauma arterial de las extremidades en pacientes con sospecha de lesión arterial sin indicación de cirugía inmediata. Métodos Durante 44 meses, entre agosto del 2004 y abril del 2008, se realizó angiotomografía multidetectores de 64 canales a 99 extremidades con sospecha de lesión vascular traumática. Los estudios fueron interpretados por el radiólogo de turno y sus hallazgos se compararon con los de cirugía o los del seguimiento clínico. Se evaluó la variabilidad interobservador comparando la lectura de la angiotomografía realizada por el radiólogo de turno con la lectura retrospectiva de un radiólogo experto en trauma. Resultados La angiotomografía multidetectores como método diagnóstico del trauma vascular de las extremidades interpretada por el radiólogo general demostró una sensibilidad del 98% (IC 95%: 93-100), una especificidad del 88% (IC 95%: 77-99), un valor predictivo positivo del 91% (IC 95%: 82-99), un valor predictivo negativo del 97% (IC 95%: 90-100), una razón de verosimilitud positiva de 8,24 (3,6-18,7) y una razón de verosimilitud negativa de 0,02 (0-0,15). La variabilidad interobservador comparando la interpretación de la angiotomografía del radiólogo de turno con la del radiólogo experto en trauma tuvo una kappa de 0,869.ConclusiónLa angiotomografía con multidetectores es un método de imagen con una alta precisión diagnóstica en el trauma arterial de las extremidades permitiendo un adecuado y oportuno enfoque terapéutico. Podría considerarse como nuevo patrón de oro para el diagnóstico del trauma arterial de extremidades (AU)

Objective: To determine the diagnostic usefulness of multidetector computed angiotomography in the diagnosis limb arterial injuries in patients with suspicion of arterial injury with no indication of immediate surgery. Methods: Non-invasive 64-channel multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) was performed on99 limbs suspected of having a traumatic vascular injury over a 44-monthperiodbetween August 2004 and April 2008. The results were interpreted by the duty radiologist and his findings were compared with those from surgery or clinical follow-up. Interobserver variability was evaluated by comparing the reading of the MDCT by the duty radiologists with the retrospective reading by radiology specialist in trauma. Results: MDCT as a diagnostic method of vascular injury of the limbs, interpreted by a general radiologist showed a sensitivity of 98% (95% CI: 93-100), a specificity of 88% (5% CI:77-99), a positive predictive value of 91% (95% CI: 82-99), a negative predictive value of 97%(95% CI: 90-100), a positive likelihood radio of 8.24 (3.6-18.7), and a negative likelihood radio of 0.02 (0-0.15). The inter-observer variability by comparing the interpretation of the MDCT by the duty radiologist with that of the radiology specialist in trauma had a kappa of 0.869.Conclusion: Multidetector computed angiotomography is a high precision diagnostic imaging method in arterial injury of the limbs, offering a suitable and appropriate (..) (AU)

Laparoscopic repair for perforated peptic ulcer disease.

BACKGROUND: Perforated peptic ulcer is a common abdominal disease that is treated by surgery. The development of laparoscopic surgery has changed the way to treat such abdominal surgical emergencies. The results of some clinical trials suggest that laparoscopic surgery could be a better strategy than open surgery in the correction of perforated peptic ulcer but the evidence is not strongly in favour for or against this intervention. OBJECTIVES: To measure the effect of laparoscopic surgical treatment versus open surgical treatment in patients with a diagnosis of perforated peptic ulcer in relation to abdominal septic complications, surgical wound infection, extra-abdominal complications, hospital length of stay and direct costs. SEARCH METHODS: We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) on The Cochrane Library (2004, Issue 2), PubMed/MEDLINE (1966 to July 2004), EMBASE (1985 to November 2004) and LILACS (1988 to November 2004) as well as the reference lists of relevant articles. Searches in all databases were updated in December 2009 and January 2012. We did not confine our search to English language publications. SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomized clinical trials comparing laparoscopic surgery versus open surgery for the repair of perforated peptic ulcer using any mechanical method of closure (suture, omental patch or fibrin sealant). DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Primary outcome measures included proportion of septic and other abdominal complications (surgical site infection, suture leakage, intra-abdominal abscess, postoperative ileus) and extra-abdominal complications (pulmonary). Secondary outcomes included mortality, time to return to normal diet, time of nasogastric aspiration, hospital length-of-stay and costs. Outcomes were summarized by reporting odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), using the fixed-effect model. MAIN RESULTS: We included three randomized clinical trials of acceptable quality. We found no statistically significant differences between laparoscopic and open surgery in the proportion of abdominal septic complications (OR 0.66; 95% CI 0.30 to 1.47), pulmonary complications (OR 0.43; 95% CI 0.17 to 1.12) or number of septic abdominal complications (OR 0.60; 95% CI 0.32 to 1.15). Heterogeneity was significant for pulmonary complications and operating time. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: This review suggests that a decrease in septic abdominal complications may exist when laparoscopic surgery is used to correct perforated peptic ulcer. However, it is necessary to perform more randomized controlled trials with a greater number of patients to confirm such an assumption, guaranteeing a long learning curve for participating surgeons. With the information provided it could be said that laparoscopic surgery results are not clinically different from those of open surgery.

Tranexamic acid for reducing mortality in emergency and urgent surgery.

BACKGROUND: Emergency or urgent surgery, which can be defined as surgery which must be done promptly to save life, limb, or functional capacity, is associated with a high risk of bleeding and death. Antifibrinolytic agents, such as tranexamic acid, inhibit blood clot breakdown (fibrinolysis) and can reduce perioperative bleeding. Tranexamic acid has been shown to reduce the need for a blood transfusion in adult patients undergoing elective surgery but its effects in patients undergoing emergency or urgent surgery is unclear.   OBJECTIVES: To assess the effects of tranexamic acid on mortality, blood transfusion and thromboembolic events in adults undergoing emergency or urgent surgery. SEARCH METHODS: We searched the following electronic databases: the Cochrane Injuries Group's Specialised Register (22 August 2012); Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (2012, issue 8 of 12); MEDLINE (Ovid SP) 1950 to August Week 2, 2012; PubMed 1 June 2012 to 22 August 2012; EMBASE (Ovid SP) 1980 to 2012 Week 33; ISI Web of Science: Conference Proceedings Citation Index-Science (CPCI-S) 1990 to 22 August 2012; ISI Web of Science: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED) 1970 to 22 August 2012. We also searched online trial registers on 22 August 2012 to identify unpublished studies. SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomised controlled trials comparing tranexamic acid with no tranexamic acid or placebo in adults undergoing emergency or urgent surgery. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two authors examined titles, abstracts and keywords of citations from the electronic databases for eligibility and extracted data for analysis and risk of bias assessment. Outcome measures of interest were mortality, receipt of a blood transfusion, units of blood transfused, reoperation, seizures and thromboembolic events (myocardial infarction, stroke, deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism). MAIN RESULTS: We identified five trials involving 372 people that met the inclusion criteria. Three trials (260 patients) contributed data to the analyses. The effect of tranexamic acid on mortality (RR 1.01; 95% CI 0.14 to 7.3) is uncertain. However, tranexamic acid reduces the probability of receiving a blood transfusion by 30% although the estimate is imprecise (RR 0.70; 95% CI 0.52 to 0.94). The effect on deep venous thrombosis (RR 2.29; 95% CI 0.68 to 7.66), and stroke (RR 2.79; 95% CI 0.12 to 67.10) is uncertain. There were no events of pulmonary embolism or myocardial infarction. None of the trials reported units of blood transfused, reoperation, or seizure outcomes. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: There is evidence that tranexamic acid reduces blood transfusion in patients undergoing emergency or urgent surgery. There is a need for a large pragmatic clinical trial to assess the effects of routine use of tranexamic acid on mortality in a heterogeneous group of urgent and emergency surgical patients.