Drop In Hemoglobin Level Research Articles

Total Knee Replacement Among Elderly: The Role of Tranexamic Acid.

Background Tranexamic acid (TXA) administration in total knee replacement (TKR) surgery has been shown to reduce blood loss and transfusion requirements. However, its efficacy and safety in elderly patients undergoing arthroplasty remain under investigation. This study aimed to assess the impact of TXA on blood loss and post-operative outcomes in TKR patients among a local elderly population. Methodology A prospective descriptive-analytical hospital-based randomized study was conducted, involving 79 TKR patients who received TXA. Demographic data, comorbidities, pre- and post-operative hemoglobin levels, length of hospital stay, transfusion requirements, and post-operative complications were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY), including descriptive analysis and comparative tests. Results The mean drop in hemoglobin levels post-operatively was -1.55 g/dL (SD = 0.94). The majority of patients (78, 98.7%) did not require packed red blood cell transfusions post-operatively, and complications were minimal (1, 1.3%). The length of hospital stay was relatively short (mean = 4.84 days). Comparison with existing literature revealed TXA's effectiveness in reducing blood loss compared to studies without TXA administration. Conclusion TXA administration in TKR surgery effectively reduced blood loss, transfusion requirements, and post-operative complications, supporting its use as a standard adjunctive therapy. These findings emphasize the importance of TXA in optimizing patient outcomes and minimizing surgical complications in TKR patients. Limitations of the study include the relatively small sample size and the exclusion of patients with certain comorbidities, which may limit the generalizability of the findings. Further research is warranted to validate these findings in larger patient cohorts and explore long-term effects.

Acute Splenic Sequestration: A Rare and Severe Complication of Sickle Cell Anemia in Adults: About a Case Report

Acute splenic sequestration is a well-known complication of sickle cell disorders, marked by a sudden drop in hemoglobin levels and significant, painless splenomegaly. This condition is typically observed in children with homozygous sickle cell disease. However, it is rarely reported in adults with heterozygous sickle cell conditions. We describe the case of a 28-year-old patient with a history of hemoglobin SC disease who suffered an acute splenic sequestration crisis. We review the CT characteristics of splenic sequestration, including splenic enlargement and an irregular peripheral rim of hypoenhancing or hypoechoic tissue, and discuss differential diagnoses. While acute splenic sequestration is predominantly a severe complication in children, timely diagnosis and treatment particularly red blood cell transfusions can lead to full recovery.

Retroperitoneal vs transperitoneal laparoscopic pyelolithotomy; a single surgeon's experience.

To compare the outcomes of transperitoneal and retroperitoneal laparoscopic pyelolithotomy procedures. A total of 104 consecutive laparoscopic pyelolithotomy surgeries performed by a single surgeon on patients with staghorn or renal pelvic calculi larger than 20mm were evaluated. Intraoperative and postoperative clinical parameters from two groups, transperitoneal (TLPL) (N = 55) and retroperitoneal (RLPL) (N = 49), were compared. The surgeon performed TLPL for the first five years and then switched to the RLPL approach for the next five years. There were no significant differences in general demographic variables and stone size (26.55 vs. 24.73mm, P = 0.8). Operation time and change in serum creatinine levels did not significantly differ between the two approaches. However, patients who underwent TLPL had longer hospital stays than RLPL (3.23 ± 1.21 vs. 2.36 ± 1.10 days, P = 0.0001). Additionally, TLPL was associated with a greater drop in hemoglobin levels (1.53 ± 1.04 vs. 1.17 ± 0.68, P = 0.04), higher rates of postoperative fever (12.7% vs. 0.0%, P = 0.01). The retroperitoneal approach in laparoscopic pyelolithotomy for large renal pelvic stones resulted in fewer postoperative fevers, reduced hemoglobin drops, and shorter hospital stays than the transperitoneal approach. However, the stone-free rates were similar for both groups.

Comparative Outcomes of Monopolar and Bipolar Transurethral Resection of the Prostate: An Institutional Perspective.

Objective This prospective comparative study aimed to highlight and compare two types of transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), namely M-TURP (monopolar) and B-TURP (bipolar), in the endoscopic management of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Methods and materials This research was conducted between 2022 and 2023 at a tertiary care health center. Included in the investigation were 100 consenting study participants undergoing M-TURP and B-TURP at our center. All referred patients presenting with clinical, ultrasound, or uroflowmetry features of BPH and those with failed attempts at medical management were included in the study. Patients with carcinoma of the prostate were excluded from the study. Post-operatively, the endpoints for comparison included maximal urinary flow rate (Qmax), prostate volume, duration of hospital stay, duration of catheterization, drop in serum sodium concentration, and drop in hemoglobin levels. Descriptive statistics were computed to delineate the study sample. After the completion of data collection, data analysis was performed using SPSS for Windows, Version 16.0 (Released 2007; SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA), and the correlations sought were achieved using the Chi-square test of significance. Results The peak incidence of BPH was seen in the sixth decade of life: the M-TURP group was 65.16 ± 7.07 years (mean ± standard deviation), while that in the B-TURP group was 62.32 ± 8.16 years (mean ± standard deviation). Nine percent of the study participants did not show any comorbidities. The most frequent symptom of BPH at presentation was a poor urinary stream (78%, n = 100), followed by nocturia (67%, n = 100). In our study, patients undergoing M-TURP had a mean serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level of 4.31 ± 1.03 ng/mL, while patients undergoing B-TURP had a mean serum PSA of 4.24 ± 0.99 ng/mL (p = 0.820; p > 0.05). The study found that patients undergoing M-TURP had a mean prostate size of 35.04 ± 3.57 cc, while those undergoing B-TURP had a mean prostate size of 35.72 ± 3.22 cc (p = 0.765). For the B-TURP group, the mean decrease in postoperative serum sodium concentration was 4.3 mEq/L, while for the M-TURP group, it was 6.4 mEq/L (p = 0.903). In the M-TURP group, there were three cases of transurethral resection (TUR) syndrome, while the B-TURP group had only one case. Conclusion BPH is a common problem affecting the quality of life of several male patients. Both M-TURP and B-TURP are comparable in their efficacy in treating BPH, with the exception of a higher incidence of hyponatremia and TUR syndrome in the M-TURP group.

Evaluation of the Efficacy of Mini Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy in Comparison with Standard Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy for the Management of Large Renal Stones, a Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Abstract Background Management of renal calculi targets complete clearance without any residual fragments, along with pain relief and eradication of the causative micro- organisms. Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) is currently the standard treatment option for patients with complex and large renal stones. However, innovations in instruments and techniques have resulted in “miniperc”, which was found to be safe and effective. Aim and Objectives to compare between mini PNL and the standard PNL in management of renal stones (20-40 mm) regarding operative time, fluoroscopy time, blood loss, stone free rate, and postoperative complications according to modified Clavein system. Subjects and Methods This prospective randomized comparative study was carried out at Urology department Ain Shams University hospitals, from 2019 to 2022 on 93 patients coming for renal stone management. Patients were divided into 2 groups: Group A included 44 patients who underwent standard PNL, whereas Group B included 49 patients who underwent mini PNL. Result The standard PNL yielded shorter operating time 70.1 ± 13.9 min vs 96.4 ±14.3 min,p <0.001) Patients in the standard PNL group also had longer hospitalization time, nephrostomy time and catheterization time(4 vs 3 days, 36 vs 24 hours and 5 vs 4 days respectively, p < 0.001). The mean drop in hemoglobin level that necessitated blood transfusion was significantly lower in the mini PNL group (0.7 vs 1.6 gm/dl, p < 0.0001). Although the stone-free rate was higher in the standard PNL group, but this was statistically insignificant (79.5 vs 61.2%, p = 0.054) According to modified Clavien–Dindo classification, no statistical difference was detected between the 2 groups in terms of complication rates The postoperative pain and the need for postoperative analgesia were significantly more in standard PNL patients. Visual Analogue Score (VAS) was 7.4 and 5.2 in standard PNL and mini PNL respectively. Conclusion We compared the standard PNL and mini PNL regarding the safety and efficacy in management of large renal stones. Standard PNL achieved higher stone free rate and shorter operative time while mini PNL has the advantage of shorter hospitalization time and low incidence of postoperative complications and pain.

The Association between S.T.O.N.E. Nephrolithometry Score and Hemoglobin Drop in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy

Nephrolithiasis is a very common condition with significant burden to patients. Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is safe procedure considered as gold standard for large renal stones. The most common complication of PCNL is bleeding which can require blood transfusion to angioembolization and may even need nephrectomy. The purpose of this study is to assess if STONE Nephrolithometry Score can predict hemoglobin drop in PCNL procedure. A total of 104 patients who underwent PCNL during one year period from October of 2022 to September of 2023 were taken using consecutive sampling method. All patients with renal stones underwent routine blood tests including complete blood counts, renal function and electrolytes. CT scans were then done and STONE nephrolithometry Score was evaluated. PCNL was performed and hemoglobin investigation was sent at 24 hours postoperatively. The two data were compared with the STONE nephrolithometry Score and other factors. More than three-fourths (78.8%) of the patients had comorbidities with hypertension being the commonest (76.9%). There was a significant association of drop of hemoglobin more than 1 g/dl with age <30 years (p <0.034), higher preoperative hemoglobin (p <0.046), larger stone size (p <0.001), shorter tract length (p=0.017) and STONE Score greater than 10 (p<0.001). On correlation study only STONE score (p = 0.015) and larger stone size (p = 0.002) were associated with hemoglobin drops of more than 1 g/dl. STONE Nephrolithometry score is a good predictor of bleeding complications during PCNL and higher score is associated with more drop in hemoglobin levels.

Evaluation of the Early Administration of Tranexamic Acid in Geriatric Hip Fractures in the Emergency Department: A Retrospective Study.

Introduction Tranexamic acid (TXA) administration perioperatively has demonstrated efficacy in reducing postoperative drops in hemoglobin levels and the need for transfusions among patients with peritrochanteric hip fractures. This study aims to perform a retrospective analysis to assess the impact on hemoglobin levels by comparing patients with fragility hip fractures who received TXA in the ED, in addition to the standard perioperative TXA dose, with those who did not receive TXA in the ED. Methods This studyretrospectively reviewed 64 patient records from May 2020 to May 2021 at a Level II trauma center that were classified into two groups: patients who received one gram (g) of TXA in the ED, within five hours of injury (new protocol), or patients who received no TXA in the ED (old protocol). The primary outcomes of the study were hemoglobin and adverse events. An independent t-test was performed on continuous variables. A chi-square test was used to analyze noncontinuous variables. Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS, version 25; IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Armonk, NY) was used for analysis.Statistical significance was set at a p value < 0.05. Results We measured the difference between hemoglobin on the day of surgery or day zero and on arrival in the ED, which was not statistically significant between the two protocols (p value = 0.322). The difference between hemoglobin levels on postoperative day one and on arrival in the ED was also not statistically significant (p = 0.339). Adverse events were lower in the new protocol but not statistically significant between the two protocols (p = 0.178). Conclusion Our study showed improved outcomes in postoperative hemoglobin with early administration of TXA in the ED. This is demonstrated by continuous higher postoperative hemoglobin in the new protocol group without an increase in adverse events. While the data did not achieve statistical significance, we believe there is clinical benefit in the early administration of TXA in the ED, a finding that continues to be explored and supported in the literature.

A case series of forearm compartment syndrome complicating transradial cardiac catheterization

BackgroundAcute compartment syndrome following a transradial coronary approach is rare. However, as the incidence of coronary arterial disease increases due to lifestyle factors and multiple comorbidities, transradial coronary angiography has become more common for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in cardiovascular centers. Despite its rarity, we encountered two cases of acute compartment syndrome within a 1-week interval in the cardiology unit of a tertiary hospital.Case presentationThe first case involved a 75-year-old woman diagnosed with non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). A coronary angiogram was performed via an uncomplicated right radial artery puncture. Following the procedure, the patient experienced significant swelling in the right forearm. An emergency fasciotomy release of the right forearm was conducted, revealing a gushing hematoma upon entering the flexor compartment. Fortunately, the wound healed well two months postoperatively with no functional deficits. In the second case, an 80-year-old man presented with severe angina pectoris upon exertion and was diagnosed with NSTEMI. The following day, he developed compartment syndrome in the left forearm, necessitating an emergency fasciotomy. Intraoperative examination revealed muscle bulging within the forearm compartments accompanied by extensive hematoma. Postoperatively, a deranged coagulation profile caused oozing from the wound. However, since there was no arterial bleeding, a compression dressing was applied. This led to a gradual drop in hemoglobin levels and worsened his heart condition. Despite resuscitative efforts and attempts to correct the coagulopathy, the patient experienced cardiorespiratory arrest and succumbed to ischemic heart disease in failure.ConclusionClinicians must remain vigilant in identifying this potentially limb-threatening condition. Patients with pre-existing anticoagulant therapy and underlying atherosclerotic disease are at a higher risk of bleeding complications. Implementing effective hemostasis techniques and promptly managing swelling can help prevent the occurrence of compartment syndrome. Timely assessment and maintaining a high level of clinical suspicion are paramount. If necessary, early consideration of decompressive fasciotomy is essential to avert catastrophic outcomes.

DESTRUCTION OF VITAMIN B12 DURING INTERACTION WITH ACTIVE OXYGEN SPECIES

One of the most attractive molecular systems in the world of chemistry and medicine is vitamin B12, which was originally discovered as a factor against deficiency (pernicious) anemia. Deficiency of this essential vitamin leads to a decrease in the number of red blood cells in the blood and a drop in hemoglobin levels. The article provides a brief overview of the processes leading to the destruction of vitamin B12 caused by hypoxia, the action hypochlorous acid, superoxide anion radical, hydrogen peroxide, hydroxyl radical, peroxynitrite. Under conditions of hypoxia, oxygen transport in the electron transport chain may be disrupted, resulting in the reduction of oxygen on ubiquinone to a superoxide radical under the action of electrons that have not reached cytochrome oxidase. Oxidative stress develops, during which oxygen-containing radicals are formed, which can cause irreversible changes in the vitamin and lead to loss of biological activity. Hydrogen peroxide formed as a result of step-by-step protonation of the formed superoxide-anion radicals can act as such oxidants. Hydrogen peroxide, in turn, is capable of reacting with metals of variable oxidation state to form a reactive hydroxyl radical, producing the Fenton reaction. In addition, hypochlorous acid formed by the enzyme myeloperoxidase in the presence of hydrogen peroxide and chloride anion, as well as peroxynitrite, an active oxidant obtained by reacting the superoxide–anion radical with nitrogen (II) oxide, can act as oxidants. The latter is produced in large quantities under hypoxia conditions due to an increase in the activity of endothelial nitric oxide synthetase. The publications devoted to the influence of various oxidants on the stability of vitamin B12 are considered. For citation: Erina A.A., Borodulin V.B., Dereven’kov I.A., Makarov S.V., Ischenko A.A. Destruction of vitamin B12 during interaction with active oxygen species. ChemChemTech [Izv. Vyssh. Uchebn. Zaved. Khim. Khim. Tekhnol.]. 2024. V. 67. N 7. P. 6-18. DOI: 10.6060/ivkkt.20246707.7043.

Systemic Tranexamic Acid for Reduced Postoperative Blood Loss and Less Bleeding Complications in Fleur-de-lis Abdominoplasty and Apronectomy.

Strategies minimizing surgical bleeding, including the antifibrinolytic agent tranexamic acid, play a crucial role in clinical practice to optimize overall surgical outcomes. Despite its proven efficacy in various clinical fields, there is a limited understanding regarding the use of tranexamic acid in plastic and aesthetic procedures. This study is the first investigating the effects of systemically administered tranexamic acid on postoperative blood loss and bleeding complications in fleur-de-lis abdominoplasties and apronectomies. Patients who received 1g tranexamic acid (n = 44) during fleur-de-lis abdominoplasty or apronectomy were retrospectively compared with those who did not (n = 44). In this context, the outcome parameters 24-h and total drain fluid production, drain time, hospital stay, absolute and relative drop in hemoglobin and hematocrit level as well as bleeding complications such as blood transfusion, hematoma puncture and evacuation were evaluated. Tranexamic acid significantly decreased both drainage volume in 24h (40.5%, p = 0.0046) and total drain fluid production (42.5%, p = 0.0017). Moreover, a shorter drainage time (19.4%, p = 0.0028) and hospital stay (21.4%, p = 0.0009) were observed. The administration of tranexamic acid was also associated with a reduced postoperative decline in hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. Notably, no bleeding complications were observed in patients who received tranexamic acid, while 6 events occurred in patients without (p = 0.0262). Systemic administration of tranexamic acid effectively reduced postoperative blood loss and bleeding complications in fleur-de-lis abdominoplasties and apronectomies. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Risk factors for acute chest syndrome among children with sickle cell anemia hospitalized for vaso-occlusive crises

Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is a globally prevalent inherited condition, with acute chest syndrome (ACS) being one of its most severe complications. ACS frequently leads to hospitalization, requires intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and can even result in death. This study aimed to discern the early indicators of impending ACS in children with SCA who were initially hospitalized due to painful vaso-occlusive crises (VOC). This was a retrospective, case‒control investigation of 120 patients aged 1–14 years seen at the King Saud Medical City in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from January 2021 to December 2022. Patients were classified into cases and controls: those who developed and did not develop ACS during hospital stay, respectively. Demographic factors, laboratory results, vital and clinical signs, and treatment protocols were compared between these groups. The following were significant predictors of impending ACS: previous diagnosis of asthma, history of ACS, recent upper respiratory tract symptoms prior to admission, and need for a blood transfusion within the first 24 h of admission due to a drop in hemoglobin levels. Further regression analysis indicated that elevated steady-state mean corpuscular volume, leukocyte count, total bilirubin, and an increased absolute neutrophil count level 24 h after admission also foreshadowed impending ACS among patients admitted for VOC. The location of pain was also significant; the incidence of ACS was higher in patients with back pain, but lower in those with pain confined to the limbs. The ACS group had a longer average duration of hospital stay compared to those with VOC alone, (7.6 vs. 5.8 days). Among patients initially admitted for VOC, 15.7% were diagnosed with ACS. Most ACS cases were managed with transfusions and antibiotics, and nearly one-third of patients needed admission to an ICU or a high-dependency area.

Comparison of Thulium Fiber Laser versus Holmium laser in ureteroscopic lithotripsy: a Meta-analysis and systematic review

ObjectivesTo compare the efficacy and safety of thulium fiber laser (TFL) to holmium: YAG (Ho: YAG) laser in ureteroscopic lithotripsy for urolithiasis.MethodsPubMed, Web of Science, Embase, CENTRAL, SinoMed, CNKI database, VIP and Wanfang Database were systematically searched for all relevant clinical trials until September 2023. References were explored to identify the relevant articles. Meta-analysis was carried out for the retrieved studies using RevMan5.4.1 software, and the risk ratio, mean difference and 95% confidence interval were expressed. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. The main outcomes of this meta-analysis were stone-free rate (SFR), perioperative outcomes and intraoperative or postoperative complications.ResultsThirteen studies, including 1394 patients, were included. According to the results of pooled analysis, TFL was associated with significantly higher stone-free rate (SFR) [0.52, 95% CI (0.32, 0.85), P = 0.009], shorter operation time [-5.47, 95% CI (-8.86, -2.08), P = 0.002], and less stone migration [0.17, 95% CI (0.06, 0.50), P = 0.001]. However, there was no significant difference in terms of the laser time, duration of hospital stay, drop of hemoglobin level, total energy, postoperative ureteral stenting, the incidence of intraoperative complications or postoperative complications between TFL and Ho: YAGs.ConclusionThe findings of this study demonstrated several advantages of TFL in terms of higher SFR, shorter operative time and less stone migration.Trial registrationThe protocol of this systematic review was listed in PROSPERO (www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO) (Protocol number: CRD42022362550).

Impact of Patient Blood Management on Red Blood Cell Utilization in an Urban Community Teaching Hospital: A Seven-Year Retrospective Study.

This study aimed to showcase how implementing a patient blood management (PBM) program effectively cuts unnecessary red blood cell (RBC) transfusions in a New York City urban community teaching hospital. Analyzing seven years from 2013 to 2019, a retrospective review of RBC transfusions was conducted. Following the introduction of PBM, considerable improvements were observed annually. These included a drop in mean pretransfusion hemoglobin levels from 7.26 g/dL (2013) to 6.58 g/dL (2019), a 34% reduction in yearly RBC unit transfusions, and fewer units given to patients with pre-Hgb levels ≥ 7 g/dL (from 1210 units in 2013 to 310 units in 2019). Furthermore, this study noted a decline in two-unit RBC orders when Hgb levels were ≥ 7 g/dL from 65 orders in 2013 to merely 3 in 2019. The estimated total cost savings attributed to the six-year PBM program duration after full implementation in 2014 amounted to USD 2.1 million. Overall, PBM implementation significantly decreased RBC transfusions and enhanced transfusion practices. The findings emphasize that successful PBM strategies do not always necessitate extensive resources or increased budgets but instead rely on the application of intuitive methods, as evidenced by this study.

Assessment of Pre-operative Factors Associated With Blood Loss in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy: A Prospective Study.

Background One of the main risks associated with percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is bleeding. In the present study, efforts are made to evaluate the pre-operative predictive factors contributing to bleeding due to the procedure of PCNL. Materials and methods From December 2019 to November 2021, data were collected prospectively from 193 patients undergoing PCNL procedures at Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, India. Following PCNL, to check for hematuria and the extent of blood loss, the urethral catheter's and nephrostomy tube's outputs were evaluated. Multivariate regression analysis was used to evaluate the relationship between blood loss and a variety of patient-related demographic and clinical characteristics. Results Included in the study were 193 patientswho underwent PCNL. Male patients made up the majority. The average age of study participants was 33.5 years. No statistically significant difference was reported in the mean hemoglobin level drop in the age groups of up to 25 years (2.211 ± 1.540 g/dL), 26-50 years (2.023 ± 1.882 g/dL), and > 50 years (1.855 ± 0.986 g/dL) with P = 0.64. The mean hemoglobin level drop in patients with stone burden > 30 mm2 was reported to be higher, 2.359 ± 1.822 g/dL, compared to 1.859 ± 1.540 g/dL in patients with lower stone burden, reaching a statistically significant difference (P =0.0408).By univariate regression analysis, the presence of a horseshoe-shaped kidney (odds ratio = -0.158, 95% confidence interval (CI): -0.911, -0.059; P = 0.026) was associated with a higher risk for a drop in mean hemoglobin level. By multivariate regression analysis, the presence of a horseshoe-shaped kidney (odds ratio = 0.071, 95% CI: 0.006, 0.839; P = 0.036) remained significantly and independently associated with a higher risk of a drop in mean hemoglobin level. Conclusion In conclusion, the patients' burden of stones and the presence of a horseshoe-shaped kidney may be associated with a higher risk of bleeding following PCNL.

Renal function and periprocedural complications in patients undergoing left atrial catheter ablation: A comparison between uninterrupted direct oral anticoagulants and phenprocoumon administration.

Data regarding uninterrupted oral anticoagulation in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) during catheter ablation for left atrial arrhythmias is limited. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of periprocedural uninterrupted direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) compared with uninterrupted phenprocoumon in patients with CKD undergoing left atrial catheter ablation. We conducted a retrospective single-center study of patients who underwent left atrial catheter ablation between 2016 and 2019 with underlying chronic kidney disease (glomerular filtration rate (GFR) between 15 and 45ml/min). The primary objective of this study was to investigate whether direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) therapy or warfarin presents a superior safety profile in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) undergoing left atrial catheter ablation. We compared periprocedural complications (arteriovenous fistula, aneurysm, significant hematoma (> 5cm)) and/or bleeding (drop in hemoglobin of >2g/dl, pericardial effusion, retroperitoneal bleeding, other bleeding, stroke) between patients receiving either uninterrupted DOAC or warfarin therapy. Secondary analysis included patient baseline characteristics as well as procedural data. A total of 188 patients (female n = 108 (57%), mean age 75.3 ± 8.1years, mean GFR 36.8 ± 6ml/min) were included in this study. Underlying arrhythmias were atrial fibrillation (n = 104, 55.3%) and atypical atrial flutter (n = 84, 44.7%). Of these, n = 132 patients (70%) were under a DOAC medication, and n = 56 (30%) were under phenprocoumon. Major groin complications including pseudoaneurysm and/or AV fistula occurred in 8.9% of patients in the phenprocoumon group vs. 11.3% of patients in the DOAC group, which was not statistically significant (p = 0.62). Incidence of cardiac tamponade (2.3% vs. 0%; p = 0.55) and stroke (0% vs. 0%) were low in both DOAC and phenprocoumon groups with similar post-procedural drops in hemoglobin levels (1.1±1g/dl vs 1.1±0.9g/dl; p= 0.71). The type of anticoagulation had no significant influence on bleeding or thromboembolic events as well as groin complications in this retrospective study. Despite observing an increased rate of groin complications, the uninterrupted use of DOAC or phenprocoumon during left atrial catheter ablation in patients with CKD appears to be feasible and effective.

Risk factors and outcomes of upper gastrointestinal bleeding in hospitalized patients in a tertiary care hospital.

To determine different aetiologies and outcomes of upper gastrointestinal bleeding in hospitalised patients. The retrospective cohort study was conducted at the Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, and comprised data from December 2019 to April 2021 related to adult patients of either gender with nongastrointestinal illnesses who developed bleeding at least 24 hours after admission. Data was reviewed for clinical characteristics, cause of bleeding and clinical outcome. Data was analysed using SPSS 23. Among 47,337 hospitalised patients, upper gastrointestinal bleeding was identified in 147(0.3%); 98 (66.7%) males and 49 (33.3%) females. The overall mean age was 62.73±14.81 years (range 20-95 years). Of the total, 125(85%) presented with overt bleeding and 22(15%) with a drop in haemoglobin level. There were 34(23%) patients on aspirin, 36(24%) on dual anti-platelets, 41(28%) on therapeutic anticoagulation, and 81(55%) on prophylactic anticoagulation. There were 7(5%) patients having a history of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and 12(8%) were on steroids. In terms of associated medical conditions, pneumonia, stroke, and acute coronary syndrome were commonly seen with frequency of 29.9%, 8.1% and 7.4% respectively. Overall, 36(24.4%) patients underwent endoscopy, 8(5.4%) had therapeutic measures to control bleeding, 14(9.5%) had bleeding for >48 hours, 89(60.5%) were stepped up to special care. Mortality was seen in 36(24.5%) cases. Hospital acquired gastrointestinal bleeding was found to be uncommon, and there were several risk factors for such bleeding events.

Ruptura pankreasne pseudoaneurizme kao posledice hroničnog pankreatitisa - prikaz slučaja

Abstract: Introduction: Pseudoaneurysms of the pancreaticoduodenal arcade are rare, accounting for approximately 2% of all visceral artery aneurysms. They typically arise as complications of chronic pancreatitis, peptic ulcer disease, trauma, pancreatic and biliary surgery, or pancreas transplantation. Diagnosis often occurs only after rupture, leading to life-threatening internal bleeding. Bleeding may occur within a pseudocyst, with blood passing through the Vater's papilla into the digestive tract, or may result in the formation of a retroperitoneal hematoma that can rupture into the abdominal cavity, causing hemoperitoneum. The cell-saver is a tool that can be utilized for intraoperative blood cell salvage and autologous transfusions. Case Report: Our patient, a 54-year-old male, an untreated alcoholic with no prior medical history or documented treatment, presented to the Clinic for Emergency Surgery at the University Clinical Center of Serbia with a sudden onset of upper abdominal pain. A quick ultrasound of the abdomen was performed, followed by an urgent CT scan of the chest and abdomen, revealing a hematoma extending from the right retroperitoneum and mesentery of the intestine, measuring 150x109x180mm in diameter, with signs of active bleeding in the region beneath the pancreas, indicative of hemoperitoneum. Due to hemodynamic instability, accompanied by a drop in arterial blood pressure and hemoglobin levels, an urgent laparotomy was performed. Active bleeding was identified from a ruptured pseudoaneurysm originating from the pancreaticoduodenal arcade. Hemostasis was achieved followed by tamponade, and the tampons were removed 30 hours post-surgery. The patient remained hemodynamically stable thereafter, recovered well from the surgery, and was discharged home in good general condition. Intraoperatively, we utilized the Cell-saver to collect the patient's blood and subsequently administered autologous transfusion. Conclusion: In patients with chronic pancreatitis presenting with sudden abdominal pain and hemodynamic instability accompanied by a drop in arterial pressure, hemoglobin, and hematocrit levels, the possibility of a ruptured pseudoaneurysm in the pancreatic or peripancreatic region should be considered. Timely diagnosis and prompt surgical intervention are crucial for a successful outcome. Effective collaboration among radiologists, anesthesiologists, and surgeons is essential. The utilization of the Cell-saver system significantly aids in maintaining cardiac output and hemodynamic stability in these patients.

Effects of an Emergency-Based FASE Strategy on Treating Geriatric Patients with Femoral Neck Fracture: A Retrospective Propensity Score-Matched Study.

This study aims to assess the impacts of the Fast Access to Surgery in Emergency (FASE) strategy on (1) the workflow of multidisciplinary team (MDT) during hospitalization; (2) the clinical outcomes of geriatric femoral neck fracture (FNF) patients. A retrospective study was conducted in a single trauma center to evaluate the clinical data of geriatric FNF patients admitted through emergency from July 2017 to June 2022. The FASE strategy was implemented since Jan 1st 2020, and patients were categorized into the FASE group or the control group according to the time of admission (before/after the initiation timepoint of FASE strategy). Propensity score matching (PSM) was utilized to limit confounding bias between the two groups. Finally, 344 patients were included after a one-to-one matching. The FASE strategy resulted in a slightly prolonged duration in emergency (6.02±5.99h vs 2.72±4.22h, p<0.001) but was meanwhile associated with significant decreases in time to surgery (61.16±38.74h vs 92.02±82.80h, p<0.001), actual surgery delay (67.18±39.04h vs. 94.25±84.41h, p<0.001) and total length of hospital stay (10.57±4.93h vs 12.50±4.73h, p <0.001). Besides, despite the consistency of transfusion rate between the two groups, improved blood management was achieved in the FASE group, as evidenced by a smaller drop in hemoglobin levels (-20.49±17.02 g/L vs -25.28±16.33 g/L, p = 0.013) in patients without preoperative or intraoperative transfusion. However, no significant differences were observed regarding the overall clinical outcomes such as mortality or postoperative complications. The Fast Access to Surgery in Emergency (FASE) for geriatric FNF patients effectively optimized the preoperative evaluation workflow, which significantly shortened time to surgery and length of hospital stay, and reduced perioperative blood loss. FASE strategy improved the surgical workflows and turnover efficiency of geriatric FNF patients, therefore could play an important role in the optimal MDT co-management for geriatric FNF patients.

Comparison of RLP and PCNL for large pelvis calculi with CKD

Objectives To compare the effect and safety of retroperitoneal laparoscopic pyelolithotomy (RLP) and percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) for large pelvis calculi with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Material and methods Between June 2017 and July 2021, 62 patients with CKD and large renal pelvis calculi (>4 cm2) were treated with RLP. Another 62 patients receiving PCNL served as controls. The perioperative parameters were compared. All patients were followed up for at least 6 months with the stone-free rate and the recovery of renal function evaluated. Results Significantly longer operation time (101.47 ± 9.25 vs 62.55 ± 7.54 min), less drop in hemoglobin level (0.90 ± 0.38 vs 2.13 ± 0.80 g/dl), staged operations (0% vs 12.9%), postoperative fever (3.23% vs 16.13%) and delayed bowel movement (3.23% vs 14.52), and shorter hospitalization time (3.90 ± 1.66 vs 4.72 ± 1.80 days) were observed in the RLP group (p < 0.05). The stone-free rates were 100% in the RLP group and 88.7% in the PCNL group at the 3-months follow-up (p < 0.05). The serum creatinine level was significantly lower in the RLP group at 24 h (2.81 ± 1.18 vs 3.00 ± 1.15 mg/dl) and 1 week (2.08 ± 1.13 vs 2.34 ± 1.01 mg/dl) postoperatively (p < 0.05). Conclusions Although associated with a longer operation time, RLP is a safer and more efficient surgical option for CKD patients with large pelvic stones than PCNL.

Delayed appearance of hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm and an arterio-biliary fistula secondary to biliary leakage and bilioma formation in a liver trauma patient and its management through transarterial embolization

BackgroundPseudoaneurysm and arterio-biliary fistulas are infrequent complications of surgery or iatrogenic trauma, accidental trauma, tumors, vascular malformations, infection, and inflammation of the biliary tract. In a liver trauma patient, they evolve immediately secondary to direct vascular injury and usually present with either drop in hemoglobin level or hemobilia due to bleeding into the peritoneal space or biliary system. In the present case, there were no clinical features of hemobilia or upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Moreover, the hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm and arterio-biliary fistula evolved after a latent period of a few weeks, secondary to the toxic effects of the bile on the vessel walls due to biloma formation or biliary leakage, which is exceptionally uncommon.Case presentationThis 19-year-old male presented with a severe liver injury complicated by forming a biloma, followed by the development of a pseudoaneurysm and an arterio-biliary fistula. The appropriate hepatic artery branch was successfully embolized using an endovascular approach.ConclusionsIn a liver trauma patient, the latency period for developing a pseudoaneurysm and an arterio-biliary fistula can be from a few days to a few months due to direct vascular injury or toxic effects of the bile on the adjacent vessel walls secondary to bile leakage. Development of hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm and an arterio-biliary fistula after a latent period of a few weeks, secondary to the toxic effects of the bile on the vessel walls due to biloma formation or biliary leakage, is exceptionally uncommon. So, these liver trauma patients require close monitoring and follow-up for early detection and treatment of pseudoaneurysm and arterio-biliary fistula, especially when there are clinical or imaging features of bile leakage or biloma formation. Endovascular treatment of hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm and arterio-biliary fistulas is a safe and effective method.