Clinical protocol using calcium and calcitriol after paediatric total thyroidectomy decreases postoperative hypocalcaemia and inpatient blood tests.

INTRODUCTION: Postoperative hypocalcaemia is common after thyroidectomy. This study aimed to evaluate whether a standardised post-thyroidectomy protocol using prophylactic calcium and calcitriol reduces hypocalcaemia incidence after total thyroidectomy in children and adolescents. METHODS: A cohort children and adolescents ≤18 years of age undergoing total thyroidectomy between January 2016 and October 2022 in one institution were retrospectively identified and divided into pre-protocol and post-protocol groups. The primary outcome measure was hypocalcaemia (total serum calcium of <2.0 mmol/L; ionised serum calcium of 0.9 mmol/L). Secondary outcome measures were the occurrence of hypercalcaemia (serum Calcium >2.7 mmol/L; ionised calcium >1.31 mmol/L), length of hospitalisation and number of postoperative blood tests. RESULTS: There were 22 patients in each group (mean age 11.8; SD 4.3 years, female 36 %). The rate of hypocalcaemia was significantly higher in the pre-protocol group than the post-protocol group (54 % vs 13.6 %, p = 0.010). Patients in the pre-protocol group had more inpatient blood tests (mean 5.4; SD 3.2) than the post-protocol group (mean 3.3; SD 1.8, p = 0.011), although the total postoperative blood test count was similar between the groups. Six (13.6 %) patients developed hypercalcaemia. The rate of hypercalcaemia was similar between groups (pre-protocol 2, 9.1 %; post-protocol 4, 18.1 %; p = 0.664). Length of hospitalisation was similar between groups. CONCLUSION: Our standardized protocol decreased hypocalcemia and inpatient blood tests after total thyroidectomy in children. Future research should explore if incorporating preoperative calcium and calcitriol treatment, along with intraoperative PTH levels for risk management, can further reduce hypocalcemia rates in paediatric patients.

The Effect of Bowel Anastomosis on Outcomes in Complex Abdominal Wall Reconstruction: A 10-Year Retrospective Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: In patients who require complex abdominal wall reconstruction (CAWR), the need for a bowel anastomosis could impact procedure choice and outcome. In this retrospective cohort study, we examine the effect of bowel anastomosis on complications and hernia recurrence. METHODS: All patients who underwent CAWR between 2011 and 2021 by the senior author were reviewed in a retrospective cohort analysis. Patients were included if they met the above criteria. Patients were excluded if they did not undergo the above procedure or if they underwent a different procedure simultaneously. Univariate analysis was performed for patients who underwent bowel anastomosis, and multiple variable logistic regression analysis was performed with respect to overall complications. RESULTS: A total of 264 patients underwent CAWR over a 10-year interval. A total of 41 patients underwent bowel anastomosis (16%), and 223 patients (84%) underwent CAWR without bowel anastomosis. Mean patient age was 55.50 ± 11.55 years. Mean patient body mass index was 32.36 ± 7.31 kg/m 2 . Mean follow-up time was 10.20 months. There was a significant difference in hernia repair etiology, with higher rates of recurrent hernia repair among patients receiving bowel anastomosis (odds ratio, 2.98; 95% confidence interval, 1.49-5.95; P = 0.0018). Acellular dermal matrix was used more frequently in patients who required a bowel anastomosis (odds ratio, 3.74; 95% confidence interval, 1.75-8.00; P = 0.0018). Major and minor complications were also significantly higher in this cohort. Regression analysis for overall complications revealed the presence of bowel anastomosis, fascial repair technique, and follow-up time as independent predictors of overall complications. CONCLUSION: Bowel anastomosis performed at the time of CAWR significantly increased the rate of overall and major complications but did not predict hernia recurrence. Plastic surgeons should utilize this information in counseling patients and in deciding the most appropriate hernia repair technique.

Safety Profile Comparison of 2 Smooth Tissue Expander Types: Artoura and CPX4.

INTRODUCTION: With the recent transition to smooth tissue expanders (TEs), functional differences between TE subtypes have not been fully elucidated. This study evaluated the differences in TE characteristics and complications between 2 commonly used Mentor smooth TE models, Artoura and CPX4. METHODS: A retrospective review of patients who received either smooth Mentor Artoura or CPX4 TE from 2012 to 2022 was conducted. Demographic data, perioperative information, pain scores, TE variables, cancer characteristics, and complications were collected. A multivariate analysis was used to evaluate the relationship between TE subtype and complications while controlling for demographic, TE characteristics, radiation, and chemotherapy exposure. RESULTS: During the study period, 62 smooth Artoura TEs and 79 smooth CPX4 TEs were used. Patients who received CPX4 smooth implants tended to be older (51.09 vs 46.18 years old, P = 0.02) and have a higher body mass index (28.66 vs 23.50 kg/m 2 , P < 0.001). There were no differences among patient comorbidities. CPX4 required on average a greater total fill volume (422.23 vs 348.07 mL, P = 0.01) and had a greater drain duration (16.91 vs 14.33 days, P = 0.05). There were no differences in TE plane placement between Artoura and CPX4. Additionally, there were no differences in complication rates, including infection, hematomas, seromas, wound breakdown, TE replacement, and capsular contracture. When controlling for body mass index, diabetes, TE plane placement, acellular dermal matrix use, radiation exposure, and chemotherapy, there was no association between TE subtype and any individual complication. DISCUSSION: Differences in total fill volume and drain duration were significantly different between Mentor Artoura and CPX4 implants, which may influence TE subtype selection. However, Artoura and CPX4 have excellent and equivalent safety profiles with similar complication rates, even when controlling for demographic and TE characteristics.

Technical Pearls and Pitfalls of Facial Feminization Surgery: A Review of Techniques From a Single Institutional Practice.

BACKGROUND: Facial feminization surgery (FFS) is an emerging practice that falls under the broader umbrella of gender-affirming surgery. Various approaches exist to feminize the face, yet few published articles describe in detail the techniques of each component procedure. Considering the diversity of interventions employed, the objective of this manuscript is to highlight FFS techniques utilized by the senior author and create a corresponding media gallery. METHODS: All patients with the diagnosis of gender dysphoria that were referred to the senior author for FFS consultation between June 2017 and August 2022 were reviewed. Data were retrospectively collected from electronic medical records according to the institutional review board (IRB)-approved study protocol. Data collected and analyzed included demographics, operative documentation, and postoperative follow-up. Multimedia material was collected intraoperatively and postoperatively. RESULTS: A total of 231 patients underwent 262 operations with a total of 1224 FFS procedures. The average follow-up time was 7.7 ± 11 months. Out of the 262 operations, 24 (9.2%) patients experienced minor complications, including 3 (1.1%) with wound dehiscence, 13 (5.0%) with hematomas, and 14 (5.3%) with postoperative infection requiring antibiotics. Of those, 3 (1.1%) required a return to the operating room for washout or removal of malar implants. CONCLUSION: Although there is a consensus on the fundamental surgical principles to achieve adequate feminization of the facial architecture, the specific techniques to do so differ according to individual practices. As techniques diverge, so do their risk profiles and outcomes; techniques must, thus, align with patients' interventional goals. The material presented here is one of many that can support trainees and junior surgeons as they build a gender-affirming practice.

Oncoplastic Surgery Outcomes in the Older Breast Cancer Population: A Matched-Cohort Comparison Study.

BACKGROUND: Oncoplastic breast surgery (OBS) is a form of breast conservation surgery (BCS) that involves a partial mastectomy followed by immediate volume displacement or volume replacement surgical techniques. To date, there are few studies evaluating OBS in older patients. Therefore, we sought to determine if outcomes differed between patients 65 years and older versus younger patients who underwent oncoplastic surgical procedures. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was performed for all oncoplastic breast operations within a single health system from 2015 to 2021. Patients were stratified by age, with patients 65 years and older (OBS65+) identified and then matched with younger patients (OBS <65) based on BMI. Primary outcomes were positive margin rates and overall complication rates; secondary outcomes were locoregional recurrence (LR), distant recurrence (DR), disease-free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), and long-term breast asymmetry. RESULTS: A total of 217 patients underwent OBS over the 6-year period, with 22% being OBS65+. Preoperatively, older patients experienced higher American Anesthesia (ASA) scores, Charlson Co-morbidity index (CCI) scores, and higher rates of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and grade 3 breast ptosis. Despite this, no significant differences were found between primary or secondary outcomes compared to younger patients undergoing the same procedures. CONCLUSIONS: Oncoplastic breast reconstruction is a safe option in patients 65 years and older, with overall similar recurrence rates, positive margin rates, and survival when compared to younger patients. Although the older cohort of patients had greater preoperative risk, there was no difference in overall surgical complication rates or outcomes. Supporting the argument that all oncoplastic breast reconstruction techniques should be offered to eligible patients, irrespective of age.

Retrospective evaluation of three types of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene grafts for upper limb vascular access.

Currently, three expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) prosthetic graft types are most commonly used for patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) who require long-term vascular access for hemodialysis. However, studies comparing the three ePTFE grafts are limited. This study compared the clinical efficacy and postoperative complications of three ePTFE prosthetic graft types used for upper limb arteriovenous graft (AVG) surgery among patients with ESKD. Patients with ESKD requiring upper limb AVG surgery admitted to our center between January 2016 and September 2019 were enrolled. Overall, 282 patients who completed the 2-year follow-up were included and classified into the following three groups according to the ePTFE graft type: the GPVG group with the PROPATEN® graft, the GAVG group with the straight-type GORE® ACUSEAL, and the BVVG group with the VENAFLO® II. The patency rate and incidence of access-related complications were analyzed and compared between groups. The patients were followed up postoperatively, and data were collected at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months postoperatively. Respective to these follow-up time points, in the GPVG group, the primary patency rates were 74.29%, 65.71%, 51.43%, and 42.86%; the assisted primary patency rates were 85.71%, 74.29%, 60.00%, and 48.57%; and the secondary patency rates were 85.71%, 80.00%, 71.43%, and 60.00%. In the GAVG group, the primary patency rates were 73.03%, 53.93%, 59.42%, and 38.20%; the assisted primary patency rates were 83.15%, 68.54%, 59.55%, and 53.93%; and the secondary patency rates were 85.39%, 77.53%, 68.54%, and 62.92%, respectively. In the BVVG group, the primary patency rates were 67.24%, 53.45%, 41.38%, and 29.31%; the assisted primary patency rates were 84.48%, 67.24%, 55.17%, and 44.83%; and the secondary patency rates were 86.21%, 81.03%, 68.97%, and 60.34%, respectively. The differences in patency rates across the three grafts were not statistically significant. Overall, 18, 4, and 12 patients in the GPVG, GAVG, and BVVG groups, respectively, experienced seroma. Among the three grafts, GORE® ACUSEAL had the shortest anastomosis hemostatic time. The first cannulation times for the three grafts were GPVG at 16 (±8.2), GAVG at 4 (±4.9), and BVVG at 18 (±12.7) days. No significant difference was found in the postoperative swelling rate between the GPVG group and the other two groups. Furthermore, no statistically significant differences were found across the three graft types regarding postoperative vascular access stenosis and thrombosis, ischemic steal syndrome, pseudoaneurysm, or infection. In conclusion, no statistically significant differences in the postoperative primary, assisted primary, or secondary graft patency rates were observed among the three groups. A shorter anastomosis hemostatic time, first cannulation time, and seroma occurrence were observed with the ACUSEAL® graft than with its counterparts. The incidence of upper extremity swelling postoperatively was greater with the PROPATEN® graft than with the other grafts. No statistically significant differences were observed among the three grafts regarding the remaining complications.

[Effectiveness comparison of endoscopic removal of injectable Amazingel with/without immediate prepectoral implant-based breast augmentation].

Objective: To explore the surgical technique and preliminary safety and aesthetic results of endoscopic removal of injectable Amazingel with/without immediate prepectoral implant-based breast augmentation for patients. Methods: The clinical data of 25 patients who underwent endoscopic removal of injectable Amazingel with/without immediate prepectoral implant-based breast augmentation between April 2020 and January 2024 and met the selection criteria was retrospective analysed. The patients' age ranged from 33 to 73 years, with a mean of 50.4 years, and the body mass index ranged from 16.8 to 26.6 kg/m 2, with a mean of 21.5 kg/m 2. They were all bilaterally injected with Amazingel, and the time between initial injections and surgery ranged from 17 to 26 years, with a mean of 21.4 years. Early safety was evaluated by the incidence of early postoperative complications, and early aesthetic results were evaluated using Harris scores (including breast shape satisfaction, sensation satisfaction, and elasticity satisfaction) at 3 months after operation. Results: There were 9 cases underwent Amazingel removal (group A) and 16 cases underwent Amazingel removal with immediate prepectoral implant-based breast augmentation (group B). Intraoperative removal of Amazingel ranged from 808 to 1 285 mL, with a mean of 1 050.7 mL; the mass of the capsule removed ranged from 36 to 169 g, with a mean of 103.6 g; and a gross anatomical prosthesis was used with a median size of 345 mL (range, 315-355 mL). The operation time ranged from 95 to 395 minutes, with a mean of 194.2 minutes; and the cost of the procedure ranged from 8000to 91 000 yuan, with a mean of 33 000 yuan. Patients had a median follow-up time of 22.7 months (range, 3.0-48.1 months). There was 1 case of intraoperative skin burn due to the operation of the electric scalpel, which healed naturally after operation without flap necrosis. There was no adverse conditions such as prosthesis outline showing, ripple sign, and capsular contracture during follow-up; a small amount of Amazingel residue was found in 2 patients at 1 year after operation. The Harris score at 3 months after operation was used to evaluate the early aesthetic results, and the breast shape, elasticity, and sensation satisfaction of group A were lower than group B, but the differences between the two groups were not significant ( P>0.05). Conclusion: Endoscopic removal of injectable Amazingel with/without immediate prepectoral implant-based breast augmentation is safe in the early stage with good aesthetic results, and it is also recommended that patients who had the indications for combined immediate breast augmentation after removal to rebuild the breast appearance.

[Study of heat steam induced skin damage prevention in robotic nipple-sparing mastectomy and immediate breast reconstruction using Da Vinci Robot].

Objective: To explore the method of preventing heat steam induced skin damage in robotic nipple-sparing mastectomy and immediate breast reconstruction (R-NSM-IBR) using Da Vinci Robots. Methods: A clinical data of 128 female patients with breast cancer, who were treated with R-NSM-IBR between September 2022 and December 2023 and met the selection criteria, was retrospectively analyzed. During robotic nipple-sparing mastectomy, the breasts were covered with gauze cooled by ice water to reduce skin temperature in 99 cases (group A) and were not treated in 29 cases (group B). There was no significant difference in the age, affected side, body mass index, pathological type of breast cancer, and constituent ratios of adjuvant chemotherapy and neoadjuvant chemotherapy between the two groups ( P>0.05). Intraoperative breast skin temperature, unilateral robotic nipple-sparing mastectomy time, and the incidence of complications of breast heat steam induced skin damage were recorded. Results: The time for unilateral robotic nipple-sparing mastectomy was (77.18±9.23) minutes in group A and (76.38±12.88) minutes in group B, with significant difference between the two groups ( P<0.05). The intraoperative breast skin temperature was significantly lower in group A than in group B [(25.61±0.91)℃ vs (33.38±1.14)℃; P<0.05]. Seven cases of heat steam skin damage occurred during operation, including 2 cases (2.0%) in group A and 5 cases (17.2%) in group B, with a significant difference in incidence between the two groups ( P<0.05). Among them, 1 patient in group B had a vesication rupture and infection, which eventually led to the removal of the implant; the rest of the patients were treated with postoperative interventions for skin recovery. Conclusion: The use of breast covered with gauze cooled by ice water during R-NSM-IBR can effectively reduce the risk of heat steam induced skin damage.

[Prospective comparative study of breast reconstruction with dual plane prosthesis implantation and anterior pectoralis prosthesis implantation under endoscopy].

Objective: To discuss the effectiveness of breast reconstruction with dual plane prosthesis implantation or anterior pectoralis prosthesis implantation under endoscopy by using prospective comparative study, in order to provide a reference for clinical surgical selection. Methods: A total of 54 female patients with breast cancer admitted between January 2023 and December 2023 and met the selection criteria were selected as research subjects. According to the random number table, 54 patients were divided into trial group and control group with 27 cases in each. The patients in the trial group and control group were treated with dual plane prosthesis implantation and anterior pectoralis prosthesis implantation for breast reconstruction after glandular resection under endoscopy, respectively. There was no significant difference between the two groups ( P>0.05) in the terms of age, body mass index, affected side, breast clinical stages, molecular typing, disease duration, breast volume of healthy side, breast ptosis of affected side, and preoperative Breast-Q score (social mental health, sexual health, breast satisfaction, chest somatic health). The operation-related indicators (operation time, total volume of drainage within 7 days after operation, extubation time, and hospital stay), occurrence of complications, breast reconstruction efficacy related indicators (transverse and longitudinal distance difference), and the pre- and post-operative differences (change values) of Breast-Q scores for each item were compared between the two groups. Results: There was no significant difference in operation time, total volume of drainage within 7 days after operation, extubation time, and hospital stay between the two groups ( P>0.05). All patients of the two groups were followed up 3-12 months (mean, 6.3 months). Three patients (11.11%) in trial group and 5 patients (18.52%) in control group experienced complications, and there was no significant difference in the occurrence of complications ( P>0.05). At 7 days after operation, the transverse and longitudinal distance differences were significantly less in trial group than in control group ( P<0.05). The Breast-Q scores of the two groups at 7 days after operation were significantly higher in all items than those before operation ( P<0.05), but there was no significant difference in all change values between the two groups ( P>0.05). Conclusion: For patients with breast cancer, comparison of breast reconstruction with anterior pectoralis prosthesis implantation, breast reconstruction with dual plane prosthesis implantation has better breast reconstruction effectiveness and higher safety.

[Effectiveness of sequential method pure single-port lumpectomy-breast conserving surgery for early-stage breast cancer in different quadrants].

Objective: To compare the effectiveness of sequential method pure single-port lumpectomy-breast conserving surgery (SMPSL-BCS) in treating early-stage breast cancer patients with tumors in different quadrants. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 200 early-stage breast cancer female patients admitted between January 2023 and December 2023. According to the quadrant where the tumor was located, the patients were allocated into the upper outer quadrant group (UO group), lower outer quadrant group (LO group), upper inner quadrant group (UI group), and lower inner quadrant group (LI group), with 50 cases in each group. There was no significant difference ( P>0.05) in the baseline data, including age, body mass index, smoking history, marital status, comorbidities, affected breast side, maximum tumor diameter on ultrasound, maximum pathological tumor diameter, clinical tumor stage, molecular subtype, and disease duration. The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative drainage volume, and extubation time were recorded and compared between groups. Additionally, the occurrence of early-stage complications (1-3 months after operation; including subcutaneous fluid accumulation, incision infection, superficial skin burns) and late-stage complications (>3 months after operation; including pectoralis major muscle adhesion, changes in breast appearance and shape, sensory discomfort) were assessed. At 6 months after operation, the cosmetic outcome of breast-conserving surgery was rated for all groups. Results: The UO group had the shortest operation time, followed by the UI group, LO group, and LI group, showing significant differences between groups ( P<0.05). The UO group had the least intraoperative blood loss, followed by the LO group, UI group, and LI group; except for the difference between UO group and LO group, which was not significant ( P>0.05), the differences between the other groups were significant ( P<0.05). The UO group had the least postoperative drainage volume, followed by the LO group, UI group, and LI group; except for the difference between LO group and UI group, which was not significant ( P>0.05), the differences between the other groups were significant ( P<0.05). The extubation time of the LI group was significantly longer than that of the other groups ( P<0.05). All patients were followed up 4-12 months, with an average of 8 months. And 193 patients were followed up more than 6 months, including 48 patients in UO group, 47 in LO group, 49 in UI group, and 49 in LI group. In the early-stage period, the LI group had a higher incidence of subcutaneous fluid accumulation after tube removal compared to the UO group and LO group ( P<0.05), while there was no significant difference in the incidences of other early complications between groups ( P>0.05). In the late-stage period, the LI group had significantly higher incidences of pectoralis major muscle adhesion and changes in breast appearance and shape than UO group and LO group ( P<0.05), and a significantly higher incidence of sensory discomfort than UO group ( P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the incidences of other late-stage complications between groups ( P>0.05). At 6 months after operation, the cosmetic outcomes of breast-conserving surgery were significantly better in UO group, LO group, and UI group than in LI group ( P<0.05); there was no significant difference between the other groups ( P>0.05). Conclusion: In the treatment of early-stage breast cancer using SMPSL-BCS, patients with tumors located in the upper outer quadrant show the best effectiveness. The effectivenesses are similar for patients with tumors in the lower outer and upper inner quadrants. However, patients with tumors in the lower inner quadrant do not experience significant advantages. Therefore, it is recommended that SMPSL-BCS should not be the first-choice surgical method for patients with tumors in the lower inner quadrant.

Comparison between high transverse and low transverse Pfannenstiel skin incisions during cesarean delivery for morbidly obese patients.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate if placement of transverse cesarean skin incision above or below the overhanging pannus is associated with wound morbidity in morbidly obese patients. STUDY DESIGN: We identified a cohort of patients with body mass index (BMI) ≥40 kg/m2 undergoing cesarean delivery at a single center from 2017-2020 with complete postpartum records. Data was abstracted after institutional review board exemption, and patients were grouped by low transverse or high transverse skin incision. The primary outcome was a composite of wound infection, fascial dehiscence, incisional hernia, therapeutic wound vacuum, and reoperation. Secondary outcomes included the individual components of the composite, blood transfusion, operative time, and immediate neonatal outcome. T test and χ2 were used for continuous and categorical comparisons. Logistic regression was used to compute adjusted odds ratios for categorical outcomes and linear regression to compare operative times adjusting for factors associated with wound complications and surgical duration respectively. RESULTS: 328 patients met inclusion criteria: 65 with high transverse (infraumbilical and supraumbilical) and 263 with low transverse (Pfannenstiel) incision. 11% of patients had wound morbidity; high transverse incision was associated with 3.64-fold increased odds of composite wound morbidity (23.1% vs 8%, aOR 3.64, 95% CI 1.52-8.70) and 5.73-fold increased odds of wound infection (13.8% vs. 4.9%, aOR 5.73, 95% CI 1.83-17.96). Time from skin incision to delivery was 1.87 min longer (11.09 vs 14.98 min, ß = 1.87, 95% CI 0.17-4.61). There was no significant difference in neonatal outcomes, non-low transverse hysterotomy, or total operative time. CONCLUSION: High transverse skin incision for cesarean delivery was strongly associated with increased wound morbidity in morbidly obese patients.

Outcomes after cesarean delivery were assessed for 328 patients with morbid obesity.High transverse skin incision for cesarean delivery was associated with increased wound morbidity and wound infection.Prospective studies will be needed to determine if skin incision placement causes wound morbidity.

[Post liver transplantation complications in pediatric patients in a third level hospital, Lima-Peru, 2016-2020]. / Complicaciones post trasplante hepático en pacientes pediátricos en un hospital de tercer nivel, Lima-Perú, 2016-2020.

OBJECTIVE: determine the complications during the first year after liver transplantation in pediatric patients of the INSN-SB during the period 2016-2020. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Descriptive, cross-sectional study. The medical records of liver transplant patients seen during post-transplant follow-up at the INSN-SB were reviewed, collecting epidemiological characteristics, transplant indication; PELD score, CHILD score and complications prior to the transplant, as well as the frequency of the main complications presented during the first year after the transplant. RESULTS: Of the 16 patients evaluated, 62.5% were under 1 year of age, with a median weight of 7.4kg, 50% presented a CHILD C score, with a median PELD of 23, the main reason for transplantation was atresia of bile ducts (62.5%), the main complications prior to transplantation were portal hypertension (75%) and malnutrition (68.8%). All post-transplant patients presented at least one infectious complication: bacterial (53%), CMV infection (75%) and EBV infection (31%); Regarding vascular complications, 25% presented portal vein thrombosis and one patient (6%) presented hepatic artery stenosis; Regarding biliary complications, 12.5% presented biliary fistula, also 12.5% presented bile duct dilation, while 6.25% presented bilioma. CONCLUSIONS: Among the main complications of the post-liver transplant patient, we can highlight that all patients presented at least one infectious complication (100%), vascular complications in 31% and biliary complications in 31.25% of patients.

ERCP-Related adverse events in pediatric patients: a 10-years single-site review.

PURPOSE: This retrospective analysis aimed to assess the feasibility and safety of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in pediatric patients by examining ERCP-related adverse events (AEs) occurring over a decade at a single center. METHODS: Pediatric patients under 18 years old who underwent ERCP at the Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University from 1/2013 to 11/2023 were included. ERCP-related AEs were defined according to ERCP-related adverse events: European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) Guideline. Clinical data of patients experiencing ERCP-related AEs were obtained from electronic medical records for analysis. RESULTS: Over the past decade, a total of 76 pediatric patients underwent 113 ERCP procedures, including 26 patients who underwent repeat ERCP, totaling 63 procedures. There were 32 males and 44 females, with a median age of 13 years (range 3 years and 5 months-17 years and 9 months). Among all ERCP procedures, 14 (12.4%) were diagnostic and 99 (87.6%) were therapeutic, with a 100% success rate. 16 cases (14.2%) of ERCP-related AEs, all post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP), were observed, while no other AEs defined by ESGE such as bleeding, perforation, cholangitis, cholecystitis, or sedation-related events were noted. Additionally, 23 cases (20.4%) of ERCP-related AEs not included in the ESGE definition were observed, including post-ERCP abdominal pain in 20 cases (17.7%), post-ERCP nausea and vomiting in 2 cases (1.8%), and unplanned reoperation in 1 case (0.9%). In the 26 cases of pediatric patients who underwent repeat ERCP, we observed that AEs occurred in 15 cases (57.7%) during their initial ERCP, which was much higher than the overall average level. CONCLUSIONS: Post-ERCP abdominal pain and PEP are the most common ERCP-related AEs in pediatric patients, while severe AEs such as bleeding and perforation are rare. The incidence of AEs after initial ERCP in pediatric patients who received repeat ERCP is higher than the overall average level. Based on our center's experience, we believe that ERCP can be safely performed in children over 3 years old with biliary and pancreatic diseases and obtain reliable clinical benefits. However, active monitoring and management of ERCP-related AEs are essential to improve the clinical outcomes of pediatric ERCP.

Surgeon Skill and Perioperative Outcomes in Robot-Assisted Partial Nephrectomy.

Importance: Technical skill in complex surgical procedures may affect clinical outcomes, and there is growing interest in understanding the clinical implications of surgeon proficiency levels. Objectives: To determine whether surgeon scores representing technical skills of robot-assisted kidney surgery are associated with patient outcomes. Design, Setting, and Participants: This quality improvement study included 10 urological surgeons participating in a surgical collaborative in Michigan from July 2021 to September 2022. Each surgeon submitted up to 7 videos of themselves performing robot-assisted partial nephrectomy. Videos were segmented into 6 key steps, yielding 127 video clips for analysis. Each video clip was deidentified and distributed to at least 3 of the 24 blinded peer surgeons from the collaborative who also perform robot-assisted partial nephrectomy. Reviewers rated technical skill and provided written feedback. Statistical analysis was performed from May 2023 to January 2024. Main Outcomes and Measures: Reviewers scored each video clip using a validated instrument to assess technical skill for partial nephrectomy on a scale of 1 to 5 (higher scores indicating greater skill). For all submitting surgeons, outcomes from a clinical registry were assessed for length of stay (LOS) greater than 3 days, estimated blood loss (EBL) greater than 500 mL, warm ischemia time (WIT) greater than 30 minutes, positive surgical margin (PSM), 30-day emergency department (ED) visits, and 30-day readmission. Results: Among the 27 unique surgeons who participated in this study as reviewers and/or individuals performing the procedures, 3 (11%) were female, and the median age was 47 (IQR, 39-52) years. Risk-adjusted outcomes were associated with scores representing surgeon skills. The overall performance score ranged from 3.5 to 4.7 points with a mean (SD) of 4.1 (0.4) points. Greater skill was correlated with significantly lower rates of LOS greater than 3 days (-6.8% [95% CI, -8.3% to -5.2%]), EBL greater than 500 mL (-2.6% [95% CI, -3.0% to -2.1%]), PSM (-8.2% [95% CI, -9.2% to -7.2%]), ED visits (-3.9% [95% CI, -5.0% to -2.8%]), and readmissions (-5.7% [95% CI, -6.9% to -4.6%]) (P < .001 for all). Higher overall score was also associated with higher partial nephrectomy volume (ß coefficient, 11.4 [95% CI, 10.0-12.7]; P < .001). Conclusions and Relevance: In this quality improvement study on video-based evaluation of robot-assisted partial nephrectomy, higher technical skill was associated with lower rates of adverse clinical outcomes. These findings suggest that video-based evaluation plays a role in assessing surgical skill and can be used in quality improvement initiatives to improve patient care.

Nationwide incidence of and risk factors for undergoing incisional glaucoma surgery following infantile cataract surgery.

Nationwide incidence and risk factors for incisional glaucoma surgery post-infantile cataract (IC) surgery in children remain poorly understood. We conducted a population-based cohort study using the Korean national health claims database to identify IC patients diagnosed before age 1 who had IC surgery among all Korean born between 2008 and 2018 (n = 9,593,003). We estimated the annual occurrence of undergoing incisional glaucoma surgery following IC surgery in the general population aged 0-10. The risk factors for incisional surgery including systemic comorbidities and ophthalmic anomalies were analyzed by multivariable logistic regression. Of 650 patients who had undergone IC surgery with a mean (standard deviation [SD]) follow-up period of 6.2 (3.2) years, 92 (14.2%) were diagnosed with glaucoma following infantile cataract surgery (GFICS). Among them, 21 patients (22.8%) underwent incisional glaucoma surgery after a mean (SD) follow-up duration of 5.4 (2.8) years from the diagnosis of GFICS. Median (InterQuartile Range) age at incisional surgery was 4 (2,6) years old. Twenty of 21 patients (95.2%) underwent incisional glaucoma surgery within 3 years of diagnosis of GFICS. No factors, except younger age at glaucoma diagnosis (P = 0.03), were associated with undergoing incisional surgery. These findings can better understand the epidemiologic features and clinical courses of GFICS.

Importance of Transplant Era on Post-Heart Transplant Predictive Models: A UNOS Cohort Analysis.

BACKGROUND: The application of posttransplant predictive models is limited by their poor statistical performance. Neglecting the dynamic evolution of demographics and medical practice over time may be a key issue. OBJECTIVES: Our objective was to develop and validate era-specific predictive models to assess whether these models could improve risk stratification compared to non-era-specific models. METHODS: We analyzed the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) database including first noncombined heart transplantations (2001-2018, divided into four transplant eras: 2001-2005, 2006-2010, 2011-2015, 2016-2018). The endpoint was death or retransplantation during the 1st-year posttransplant. We analyzed the dynamic evolution of major predictive variables over time and developed era-specific models using logistic regression. We then performed a multiparametric evaluation of the statistical performance of era-specific models and compared them to non-era-specific models in 1000 bootstrap samples (derivation set, 2/3; test set, 1/3). RESULTS: A total of 34 738 patients were included, 3670 patients (10.5%) met the composite endpoint. We found a significant impact of transplant era on baseline characteristics of donors and recipients, medical practice, and posttransplant predictive models, including significant interaction between transplant year and major predictive variables (total serum bilirubin, recipient age, recipient diabetes, previous cardiac surgery). Although the discrimination of all models remained low, era-specific models significantly outperformed the statistical performance of non-era-specific models in most samples, particularly concerning discrimination and calibration. CONCLUSIONS: Era-specific models achieved better statistical performance than non-era-specific models. A regular update of predictive models may be considered if they were to be applied for clinical decision-making and allograft allocation.

Clinical characteristics and outcomes after trigeminal schwannoma resection: a multi-institutional experience.

Given their rarity, the clinical course of patients undergoing trigeminal schwannoma (TS) resection remains understudied. The objective of this study is to describe clinical characteristics and outcomes in patients undergoing surgical resection for TS in a multi-institutional cohort. This is a retrospective study of patients undergoing TS resection at two institutions between 2004 and 2022. Patient, radiographic, and clinical characteristics were reviewed and analyzed with standard statistical methods. Thirty patients were included. The median patient age was 43 (IQR: 35-52) years, and 14 (47%) patients were female. Median clinical and radiographic follow-ups were 43 (IQR: 20-81) and 47 (IQR: 27-97) months respectively. The most common presenting symptoms were trigeminal hypesthesia (57%) and headaches (30%), diplopia (30%), and ataxia/cerebellar signs (30%). The median maximum tumor diameter was 3.3 (IQR: 2.5-5.4) cm. Most tumors were Samii type C (50%) and mixed cystic-solid (63%). Surgical approaches included endoscopic endonasal (33%), supratentorial (30%), combined/staged (20%), infratentorial (10%), and anterior petrosal (7%) approaches. Gross-total resection was achieved in 16 (53%) patients. Radiographic tumor recurrence was noted in four patients at a median of 79 (range 5-152) months. Twenty-six (87%) patients reported improvements in at least one symptom by last follow-up. The most common perioperative complication was new cranial nerve deficit, with 17% of patients having a transient deficit and 10% having a permanent cranial nerve deficit. Surgical resection of TS showed good progression-free survival and symptom improvement, but was associated with cranial nerve deficits.

Is Night Surgery a Nightmare for Lung Transplantation?

Night work is frequently associated with sleep deprivation and is associated with greater surgical and medical complications. Lung transplantation (LT) is carried out both at night and during the day and involves many medical healthcare workers. The goal of the study was to compare morbidity and mortality between LT recipients according to LT operative time. We performed a retrospective, observational, single-center study. When the procedure started between 6 AM and 6 PM, the patient was allocated to the Daytime group. If the procedure started between 6 PM and 6 AM, the patient was allocated to the Nighttime group. Between January 2015 and December 2020, 253 patients were included. A total of 168 (66%) patients were classified into the Day group, and 85 (34%) patients were classified into the Night group. Lung Donors' general characteristics were similar between the groups. The 90-day and one-year mortality rates were similar between the groups (90-days: n = 13 (15%) vs. n = 26 (15%), p = 0.970; 1 year: n = 18 (21%) vs. n = 42 (25%), p = 0.499). Daytime LT was associated with more one-year airway dehiscence (n = 36 (21%) vs. n = 6 (7.1%), p = 0.004). In conclusion, among patients who underwent LT, there was no significant association between operative time and survival.

Mastectomy Incision Choice in Ptotic Patients Undergoing Immediate Implant-Based Reconstruction: A Comparison of Wise-Pattern and Oblique-Elliptical Incisions.

ABSTRACT: Breast ptosis presents challenges for implant-based reconstruction due to the large skin envelope. Skin-reducing mastectomy reduces the envelope but must consider many other factors including complications. Limited data exist on incision impact on outcomes. We compare oblique-elliptical and Wise-pattern incisions on complications and patient-reported quality of life in immediate implant-based reconstruction.A retrospective review of patients who underwent immediate implant-based skin-reducing mastectomy at a single institution from 2015 to 2021 was done and was divided into two cohorts: wise and oblique incisions. Demographics, complications, and patient-reported outcomes (BREAST-Q) were compared. Descriptive, t test, and chi-square test analyses, followed by adjusted linear and logistic regression models, were performed to compare complication rates and BREAST-Q scores.Eighty-nine patient breasts were analyzed, 39 (43.8%) in the oblique (OI) and 50 (56.2%) in the wise (WI) cohort. No differences in demographics or preoperative comorbidities between groups were found. The oblique incision patients had significantly more mean total complications (OI 1.46 vs WI 0.88; P = 0.048), as well as increased incidence of explantation (OI 15 vs WI 3; P = 0.003) and cellulitis (OI 14 vs WI 3; P = 0.020) compared to wise group. Linear regression analysis revealed that incision choice was a significant predictor of complication rate (ß = -1.06, 95% CI [-1.63--0.50], P = <0.001). Logistic regression analysis showed that incision was a significant predictor of specific complications such as explantation (odds ratio = 0.10, 95% CI [0.02-0.52], P = 0.006) and cellulitis (odds ratio = 0.16, 95% CI [0.03-0.73], P = 0.018), with decreased risk of choosing wise incision. There was no difference in BREAST-Q results.Ptotic patients with oblique incision are associated with higher rates of postoperative complications compared to wise incisions.These findings suggest that incision choice is an important factor in postoperative complication development and emphasizes the need for further investigation and discussion with patients during preoperative planning.

Influence of acupuncture and moxibustion on gastrointestinal function and adverse events in gastric cancer patients after surgery and chemotherapy: a meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: The impact of acupuncture and moxibustion on postoperative complications and adverse events (AEs) of chemotherapy in patients with gastric cancer (GC) has been investigated. Through a meta-analysis of existing randomized controlled trials (RCTs), this study sought to strengthen the evidentiary basis to help investigators further understand the effects of moxibustion and acupuncture on postoperative complications and AEs of chemotherapy among GC patients. METHODS: Embase, Web of Science, PubMed, The Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang Database, and VIP Database for Chinese Technical Periodicals were searched to collect RCTs on effects of acupuncture and moxibustion on gastrointestinal function and AEs among GC patients undergoing surgery and chemotherapy. Outcome measures included postoperative gastrointestinal recovery (bowel sound recovery time, time to first flatus/defecation/feeding), the incidence of AEs (nausea and vomiting, abdominal distension, and diarrhea), myelosuppression (white blood cells, hemoglobin, and platelet), and immune function indicators (CD3+ and CD4+). To assess quality, the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool was utilized. Review Manager 5.4 was implemented to do the meta-analysis. RESULTS: Fifteen eligible RCTs involved 1259 patients. Meta-analysis results showed that the experimental group had a significantly shorter bowel sound recovery time (MD = - 14.57, 95% CI = [- 18.97, - 10.18], P < 0.00001), time to first flatus (MD = - 17.56, 95% CI = [- 22.23, - 12.88], P < 0.00001), time to first defecation (MD = - 17.05, 95% CI = [- 21.02, - 13.09], P < 0.00001), and time to first feeding (MD = - 23.49, 95% CI = [- 28.81, - 18.17], P < 0.00001) than the control group. There were significant decreases in the incidence of nausea and vomiting (RR = 0.46, 95% CI = [0.21, 1.02], P = 0.05) and abdominal distension (RR = 0.45, 95% CI = [0.27, 0.75], P = 0.002) observed in the experimental group in comparison with the control group. The experimental group demonstrated a significant increase in white blood cell counts in comparison with to the control group (MD = 0.89, 95% CI = [0.23, 1.55], P = 0.008). The experimental group showed significantly higher levels of CD3+ (MD = 7.30, 95% CI = [1.86, 12.74], P = 0.009) and CD4+ (MD = 2.75, 95% CI = [1.61, 3.90], P < 0.00001) than the control group. CONCLUSION: Among GC patients, acupuncture and moxibustion can aid in gastrointestinal function recovery, reduce the incidence of AEs of surgery and chemotherapy, and improve immune function.