A Tobacco-Free Medical Campus Policy is Associated With Decreased Secondhand Smoke Exposure and Increased Satisfaction Among Military Medical Employees: Results of a Mixed-Methods Evaluation.

INTRODUCTION: Tobacco control is an ongoing concern for the U.S. Army. Although tobacco use is currently prohibited within all military hospitals and clinics, known as military treatment facilities (MTFs), no such facility had implemented a tobacco-free medical campus (TFMC) policy before 2012. This evaluation examined the effects of one Army installation's TFMC policy implementation at its medical facilities. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Online questionnaires were distributed to medical campus employees, including Active Duty Soldiers, civilians, and contractors, before policy implementation (N = 1,210) and 12 months following policy implementation (N = 1,147). Chi-square analyses, independent t tests, and logistic regression models were utilized to examine pretest/post-test changes in employees' secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure; tobacco use, motivation to quit, and cessation; and health outcomes. Twenty-three focus groups, interviews, and informal discussions with 65 employees and patients were conducted 13 months after initial policy implementation to capture both the intended and unintended policy effects. RESULTS: After controlling for demographic characteristics, the study found that employees had more than twice the odds of exposure to SHS in the workplace at baseline than at 12-month follow-up (odds ratio: 2.06, 95% confidence interval: 1.73-2.46, p < 0.001). Employees also reported a lower prevalence of diagnosis with chronic bronchitis (p < 0.05) at follow up compared to baseline. Although the mean number of sick days taken for respiratory illness decreased over time, results were not significant after controlling for demographic factors. No significant differences existed in tobacco-use prevalence or quit rates among tobacco users over time. Employees reported significantly higher levels of satisfaction with a TFMC policy than the original policy (p < 0.001) though this finding was moderated by smoker status such that smokers reported lower levels of satisfaction with the policy over time. Qualitative findings revealed that the most common policy effect was that the policy caused smokers to change the location of where they used tobacco to off campus. Findings further revealed several unintended policy effects, including safety concerns and greater visibility of smokers in front of the MTF. CONCLUSION: The first Army MTF TFMC policy was associated with reported reductions in SHS exposure and improvements in some short-term health outcomes. The policy had no observed association with tobacco-use prevalence, motivation to quit, or cessation at 12-month follow-up. Focus group participants discussed several positive and negative policy effects. These policies should be expanded and studied in more depth across military installations, and policy makers should plan mitigation strategies to reduce unintended effects. This is an important step in military tobacco control, but additional efforts will be necessary to curb tobacco use within this population.

The strategic genius of Jonathan Letterman: the relevancy of the American Civil War to current health care policy makers.

With expanding health insurance coverage, innovative technologies, improved diagnostic acumen, and pharmaceutical additions combining to increase life expectancy, quality of life, and concomitant costs, the American health care system is under significant stress. However, it pales in comparison to the challenges faced by health care leaders during the American Civil War. As we approach the 150th anniversary of the conclusion of that war, it is appropriate to review key strategic health care decisions faced by military leaders during the Civil War and how their resultant outcomes may provide an appropriate perspective for today's leaders.

Returning to duty from temporary disability in the U.S. Army: observational data and commentary for commanders, providers, and soldiers.

Before 2011, Army commanders were unable to achieve complete visibility of soldiers possessing temporary medical limitations. The creation of time-limited definitions and technical categorization of this group, now known as the medically not ready (MNR) population, eventually allowed its quantification. With heightened visibility of the group, leaders in the Fort Stewart community facilitated its management through soldier medical readiness councils. In this commentary, we introduce a project that identified and tracked a cohort of 2,490 MNR soldiers for a 1-year period until they either recovered or entered the medical separation process. We identified that musculoskeletal injuries accounted for a heretofore unrecognized 87.4% majority of the MNR population. Prognosis of the MNR population was generally good. Fifty percent of the population returned to duty within 90 days of illness/injury. Seventy-seven percent returned to duty during the follow-up period. Although low back and knee/leg injuries were the largest contributors to the MNR population, low back issues were more likely to result in medical separation. Traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder did not contribute significantly to the MNR population. This article seeks to describe the natural history of the MNR category of temporary disability for commanders, providers, and soldiers alike.

The effectiveness of Soldier Medical Readiness Councils in reducing and shaping the population of soldiers not medically deployable.

The population of Soldiers not medically fit for deployment has created readiness problems for the U.S. Army in recent years. To address this issue, the 3rd Infantry Division created councils of experts to address the size of its medically nondeployable population. Our results demonstrate success in effectively reducing the subpopulation of Soldiers who have been medically nondeployable for long periods of time by enforcing their return to duty or medical retirement. This study also demonstrates that council-based management affects the composition of the medically-not-ready population. Traditional approaches allow a minority subpopulation of Soldiers with poor prognoses to dwell within the nondeployable population for long periods of time (6-18+ months), whereas the healthier majority recovers within the first 6 months. This creates a dynamic in which remaining in the population for longer time periods increases the probability of being medically retired. Our study demonstrates that councils consistently and actively shape the character of the group such that those remaining in the medically-not-ready population for longer periods of time do not have an increased risk of medical retirement. Soldier Medical Readiness Councils have already been adopted by the Army. This article provides evidence to support their efficacy.

A comparison of open versus closed techniques using the Harmonic Scalpel in outpatient hemorrhoid surgery.

BACKGROUND: Surgical excision using the Harmonic Scalpel is a modern technique for symptomatic third- and fourth-degree hemorrhoids. The resulting mucosal defect is then left open or sutured closed depending on surgeon preference. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to compare the open vs. closed techniques of hemorrhoid excision using the Harmonic Scalpel in an outpatient setting. METHODS: From July 2000 through October 2001, 42 patients underwent surgical excision of complex grade III or grade IV hemorrhoids via the Harmonic Scalpel with closure of the overlying mucosa (closed), and without closure of the overlying mucosa (open). Quality of life was assessed using the Short Form-36 survey. RESULTS: Both groups were comparable in terms of patient demographics and type of anesthesia. There were no late complications. Mean follow-up was 16.9 (range, 12-27) months. CONCLUSION: Leaving the mucosal defect open following Harmonic Scalpel hemorrhoidectomy significantly reduces operative time, and thus operative costs, without diminishing quality of life. Although morbidity was equivalent, this requires further evaluation with a prospective study to ensure patient safety.

Caring for non-combatants, refugees, and detainees.

The recently reported abuses at Abu Ghraib prison have brought the issue of medical care for displaced persons (DPs) to greater prominence. Natural disasters in the United States (eg, Hurricane Katrina) and elsewhere also require significant medical resources in situations that lack basic infrastructure. Intimate knowledge of the basic tenets of international law is crucial to the care of DPsin any capacity. This article provides an introduction to the Geneva Conventions and the medical and administrative issues that form a framework on which to base DP care.

The effect of combat rations on bowel habits in a combat environment.

BACKGROUND: Combat rations have long been suspected to affect the bowel habits of deployed soldiers by causing significant constipation. This may create morbidity and result in decreased troop readiness. In a uniform population of deployed combat soldiers, we sought to determine the effect of combat rations on changes in bowel habits. METHODS: Over a 4-month period from December 2001 through March 2002, 118 soldiers were followed prospectively using a bowel habit diary. Soldiers were evaluated by age, race, gender, past medical history, ration intake, and medications including fiber use. Subjects were then screened for changes in diarrhea and constipation. We performed an analysis to determine predictors for changing habits. RESULTS: There were 108 males and 10 females. Mean follow-up was 42.6 +/- 23.1 days. Groups were comparable in demographics, time in the combat zone, and fluid/fiber intake (P = not significant [NS]). No change in habits were found in 58%, 19% had an increase in constipation, 13% had an increase in diarrhea, and 10% had increase in both diarrhea and constipation, while 8% had improvements. CONCLUSION: Combat rations and environment have variable effects on bowel habits, with no loss in workdays. Although 64% of subjects experienced either no change or improvement, and 36% had worsened symptoms, this appears unrelated to ration or fiber intake.

Supporting the Global War on Terror: a tale of two campaigns featuring the 250th Forward Surgical Team (Airborne).

BACKGROUND: Forward Surgical Teams (FSTs) are 20-person units designed to perform front-line, life-saving combat surgery. This study compares the employment, injuries encountered, and workload of an airborne FST in two widely varying campaigns. METHODS: The 250th FST provided far forward surgery for initial entry assaults and follow-on stability operations in Afghanistan (Operation Enduring Freedom [OEF]) and northern Iraq (Operation Iraqi Freedom [OIF]). Prospective data on all patients admitted to the 250th were analyzed. Data from civil affairs missions were evaluated retrospectively. RESULTS: In supporting combat operations, 127 surgical procedures (OEF: 68, OIF: 59) were performed on 98 patients (OEF: 50, OIF: 48) during 17 months deployed (OEF: 6, OIF: 11). After initial assaults, stability actions varied significantly in terms of civil affairs missions (OEF: 3, OIF: 161). CONCLUSIONS: Although the number and types of combat casualties were similar between the campaigns, employment of the FST changed dramatically in OIF because of increased medical reconstruction missions.

Outcome of HIV-infected patients with invasive squamous-cell carcinoma of the anal canal in the era of highly active antiretroviral therapy.

PURPOSE: Before the development of highly active antiretroviral therapy for the treatment of HIV infection, HIV patients diagnosed with invasive squamous-cell carcinoma of the anal canal carried a very poor prognosis. This study was designed to determine the outcome in a similar group of patients in the era of highly active antiretroviral therapy. METHODS: HIV-positive patients treated for invasive squamous-cell carcinoma of the anal canal at the University of Texas Medical Center affiliated hospitals from 1980 to 2001 were identified from operative data and cancer registries. We reviewed these records and collected data regarding age, CD4 count, highly active antiretroviral therapy, cancer treatment, complications, and survival. The patients were divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of highly active antiretroviral therapy and compared using a Kaplan-Meier approach. RESULTS: Fourteen patients with HIV and invasive squamous-cell carcinoma of the anal canal were identified. Six were in the prehighly active antiretroviral therapy group and eight in the highly active antiretroviral therapy group. All were considered for treatment with chemotherapy and radiation. In the prehighly active antiretroviral therapy group, one patient refused therapy and three were unable to complete the squamous-cell carcinoma therapy as planned because of complications. Four of eight highly active antiretroviral therapy patients were unable to complete the squamous-cell carcinoma therapy as planned. The prehighly active antiretroviral therapy patients had a mean age of 40 years and a mean CD4 count of 190 at the time of diagnosis. The highly active antiretroviral therapy patients had a mean age of 44 years and a mean CD4 count of 255 at the time of diagnosis. The 24-month survival was 17 percent in the prehighly active antiretroviral therapy group and 67 percent in the highly active antiretroviral therapy group (P = 0.0524). All six patients in the prehighly active antiretroviral therapy group died with active squamous-cell carcinoma vs. two in the highly active antiretroviral therapy group. Four of the remaining six patients had no evidence of active squamous-cell carcinoma at the last follow-up visit. CONCLUSIONS: A review of patients with HIV and invasive squamous-cell carcinoma of the anal canal suggests a trend toward a higher CD4 count at the time of diagnosis and improved survival in patients receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy. In this new era, HIV-positive patients should be on highly active antiretroviral therapy. If not, highly active antiretroviral therapy should be initiated, and standard multimodality therapies for invasive squamous-cell carcinoma of the anal canal are recommended.

Heterotopic gastric mucosa of the anus: a case report and review of the literature.

Ectopic gastric mucosa has been described at various locations of the body, including all levels of the gastrointestinal tract. However, this finding is rare in the rectum and anus, with 38 reported cases. In only six cases, including the present one, has the heterotopic tissue been located within 2 cm of the dentate line. We report a case of gastric heterotopia discovered in a 21-year-old male who presented with anal pain and pruritus. Flexible sigmoidoscopy demonstrated an anal polyp, and biopsy confirmed fundic-type gastric tissue. A (99m)technetium-pertechnetate scan confirmed increased uptake in the anus. After minimal clinical improvement with proton-pump inhibitors, the patient underwent local surgical excision and remains symptom-free at a follow-up of 9 months. We review the potential etiologies, clinical manifestations, treatment options, and patient outcomes.

In-flight transfusion of packed red blood cells on a combat search and rescue mission: a case report from operation enduring freedom.

Injuries on the battlefield can occur far from the nearest medical treatment facility. This is especially likely for downed pilots and special operations personnel. Some of these injuries lead to significant blood loss requiring transfusion. We present two cases of injured coalition force members during Operation Enduring Freedom that illustrate the potential need for a transfusion capability at the site of injury to prevent death. Consideration should be given to augmenting transfusion capabilities in military environments with predictably long evacuation times.

An active duty woman with anal incontinence after vaginal delivery: an elusive diagnosis.

Anal sphincter injury as a result of birth trauma is the leading cause of fecal incontinence in women presenting to surgical clinics. A 36-year-old active duty woman was referred to the Urogynecology Clinic at Madigan Army Medical Center for evaluation of a deficient perineal body. She reluctantly reported a 12-year history of anal incontinence since the birth of her first child, predating her entry into the naval service. Examination revealed defects of the perineum and anal sphincter resembling a cloacal deformity. Uncomplicated overlapping anal sphincteroplasty and perineorrhaphy were performed, restoring perineal anatomy and continence. Anal incontinence and other anatomic defects attributable to lacerations sustained at childbirth may go undetected during routine screening examinations. Interview and examination techniques should be emphasized in primary care settings.

Superior mesenteric vein thrombosis following laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication.

This report describes the second case of a superior mesenteric and portal vein thrombosis following an uneventful laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication. The patient presented on postoperative day 10 with acute onset of abdominal pain and inability to tolerate oral food. A computed tomography (CT) scan revealed superior mesenteric and portal venous thrombosis with questionable viability of the proximal small bowel. He was heparinized and taken for emergent exploratory laparotomy. At surgery and at a planned re-exploration the following day, the bowel was viable and no resection was needed. Despite continuation on anticoagulation therapy, he developed a pulmonary embolism. A hypercoagulable workup was normal. After continued anticoagulation therapy and supportive care, a duplex ultrasound 2 months after the event showed normal flow in both the superior mesenteric and portal veins. Possible mechanisms are discussed along with a review of the pertinent literature.

Forward surgical team (FST) workload in a special operations environment: the 250th FST in Operation ENDURING FREEDOM.

PURPOSE: Forward Surgical Teams (FST) deploy to support conventional combat units of at least regimental size. This report examines the injuries and treatments of an FST in an environment of unconventional tactics, limited personal protection, and extended areas of responsibility during Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. METHODS: A prospective evaluation of the personal protective measures, mechanisms of injury, types of injuries, and times to treatment in Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. Additionally, per-surgeon caseloads, operative interventions, and outcomes are examined. The first phase of this deployment involved co-locating with an Air Force Expeditionary Medical Squadron at Seeb Air Base, Oman (SABO). The second phase involved stand-alone operations at Kandahar International Airport (KIA). Participants include U.S. Special Forces, conventional U.S forces, coalition country special forces, and anti-Taliban Afghan soldiers. RESULTS: During the deployment, the FST performed 68 surgical procedures on 50 patients (19 SAB, 31 KIA). There were 35 orthopedic cases (2 to 28 per surgeon), 30 general surgery cases (2 to 10 per surgeon), and 3 head/neck cases. Mechanism of injury included non-battle injury (13), bomb blast (13), gunshot wounds (8), mine (8), and grenades (5). Primary injuries were to the extremities in 27, torso in 9, and head/neck in 11. Three patients had appendicitis. Five patients were wearing body armor, whereas 4 wore helmets. The mean Relative Trauma Score was 7.4. Thirty-one patients were treated at KIA with a mean time to operative treatment of 2.7 +/- 2.7 hours, whereas 19 were treated in SABO with a mean time to operative treatment of 12.4 +/- 15.1 hours. Nine patients received transfusions. Three nonoperative patients died of wounds. CONCLUSION: Despite the lack of personal protective gear, most patients had extremity wounds as their primary injuries. In this special operations environment, time to operative treatment was significantly longer than expected.

Flexible endorectal ultrasound for predicting pathologic stage of rectal cancers.

BACKGROUND: Endorectal ultrasound (ERUS) is an accurate method for preoperative staging of rectal cancers. Most often, a rigid 360-degree rotating probe is used. We studied whether flexible probes could attain equivalent accuracy for bowel wall penetration. METHODS: Forty-five patients were prospectively evaluated with flexible devices. Results were compared with 20 rigid and 10 flexible probe studies. To assess learning curves, we used logistic regression analysis and coefficients of correlation on accuracy data to compare ERUS accuracy with the number of examinations. RESULTS: Level of invasion was correct in 49%. Nodal examinations were correct in 78%. Learning curves leveled out at 100 examinations with 87% accuracy for the rigid probe (R = 0.46) and 77% for the flexible devices (R = 0.31). CONCLUSIONS: The coefficient of correlation for each method portends a more reliable learning curve for the rigid devices. Flexible devices were less accurate for level of invasion than the literature reported for rigid devices.

Diverticular disease.

Diverticular disease is a common finding in Western countries with an increasing prevalence with age. Many patients with the disorder remain asymptomatic. However, up to 30% of those affected may show clinical signs including pain, bleeding, obstruction, abscess, fistulae and perforation. The purpose of this chapter is to review the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnostic regimens and treatment options for this disorder.

Gynecomastia: complications of the subcutaneous mastectomy.

Gynecomastia is a benign enlargement of the male breast secondary to gland proliferation. Subcutaneous mastectomy is performed for symptomatic patients and in those desiring cosmetic changes. The aim of this study was to assess the risk factors and complications associated with the operation. We retrospectively examined the records of all patients undergoing a subcutaneous mastectomy for gynecomastia. Ninety-one patients were identified. We conducted telephone interviews with 52 patients and performed 65 subcutaneous mastectomies on those 52 patients. Thirty of the 65 procedures (46%) developed complications. These included sensory changes, pain, seromas, scarring, breast asymmetry, hematomas, and wound infection. No preoperative risk factors were significant for postoperative complications. Eighteen of 22 cases with drains placed intraoperatively developed complications as compared with 12 of 43 cases without drains (P = 2.6 x 10(-7)). Specimens removed from the patients who had drains placed were significantly larger than those from patients who did not have drains placed (P = 1.5 x 10(-5)). However, specimen size was not an independent risk factor for development of a complication (P = 0.14). We found a relatively high complication rate in subcutaneous mastectomy for gynecomastia. Most complications are minor with no long-term effect. Drain placement was the only risk factor associated with postoperative complications.