Effect Of Surgery Research Articles

Timing of Surgery and Outcomes in Chronic Rhinosinusitis: A Narrative Review and Meta-Analysis.

Surgery is often indicated in the treatment of medically recalcitrant chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). There is conflicting evidence on the impact of timeliness of sinus surgery on the degree of perceived symptom improvement in CRS. The goal of this study was to systematically evaluate the available literature on the relationship between patient wait times for endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) and postoperative changes in patient-reported outcome measures. Ovid, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library of Systematic Reviews between January 2000 and September 1, 2023, were searched. A total of 931 studies were independently screened by 2 reviewers. Two studies were included in the meta-analysis, while 4 others were included in a narrative review. Two studies consisting of 1606 patients were included in the meta-analysis. A mean difference in 22-Item Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) of -0.3 (95% CI = -3.9 to 3.3, I2 = 89%, P < .01 was observed between "long" and "short" groups, while a mean difference in SNOT-22 of -0.1 (95% CI = -2.5 to 2.3, I2 = 80%, P = .03) was observed between "long" and "mid" groups. Patients who receive surgery earlier on their disease process (ie, earlier from the time of diagnosis to eventual surgery) appear to require less access to healthcare resources including prescription medications, thus suggesting better disease control. There is conflicting evidence to conclude whether timing of ESS affects disease-specific measures in patients with CRS. Patients who receive surgery earlier appear to have lower demands on healthcare utilization including visits and prescription use. Our study suggests there is a need for increased access to surgical specialists who manage patients with CRS, and better understanding by primary care specialists in how to manage CRS when specialist access is not available.

The Outcome of Surgeries Performed for Retinal Detachment Associated with Chorioretinal Coloboma

OBJECTIVES To study the outcome of surgeries performed for retinal detachments associated with chorioretinal colobomas. METHODOLOGY This retrospective study enrolled 16 eyes of 16 patients with retinal detachments associated with chorioretinal colobomas. Standard 3-ports 23-gauge Pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with silicon oil tamponade and endo-laser was performed along the rim of colobomas in all cases. In 4 (25.0%) eyes, buckling was performed with 240 silicon bands and vitrectomy to support the vitreous base. In 12 eyes (75.0%), the natural lens was removed with phaco / lensectomy and intra-ocular lens implantation. RESULTSOut of 16 eyes, the retina was re-attached in 15 eyes (93.75%) after the first operation. One eye needed a second surgery, which was successful anatomically after the second surgery. Mean pre-operative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 3.36 (±0.52), while 2-weeks post-operative BCVA was 1.92 (±0.88), which was statistically significant (P&lt;.001) improvement. Increased intra-ocular pressure (IOP), silicone oil in the anterior chamber (AC), recurrent retinal detachment, and epiretinal membrane (ERM) formation were some of the complications observed post-operatively. CONCLUSION PPV with endo-laser photocoagulation along the rim of colobomas and silicon oil tamponade is an effective surgical procedure with a statistically significant retinal reattachment ratio and best corrected visual acuity improvement in cases of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) associated with chorioretinal colobomas.

Fusion Assessment of Oblique Lumbar Interbody Fusion Using Demineralized Bone Matrix: A 2-Year Prospective Study.

Although several studies have reported successful fusion rates after oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF) using allografts or dimerized bone matrix (DBM) instead of autografts, whether OLIF can achieve satisfactory solid fusion without the use of autografts remains unclear. This study investigated the real fusion rates after OLIF using allografts and DBM, which were evaluated using both dynamic radiographs and computed tomography scans. We enrolled 79 consecutive patients who underwent minimally invasive OLIF followed by percutaneous pedicle screw fixation. All patients were treated with OLIF between L2 and L5 and underwent radiographic and clinical follow-ups at 12, 18, and 24 months after surgery. Radiographic assessment of fusion was performed using the modified BrantigaSteffee-Fraser (mBSF) scale, which was categorized as follows: grades I (radiographic pseudoarthrosis), II (indeterminate fusion), and III (solid radiographic fusion). Other radiologic and clinical outcomes were evaluated using the following parameters: vertebral slippage distance, disc height, subsidence, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and visual analogue scale (VAS). Clinical outcomes demonstrated significant improvements in the VAS scores for back pain, leg pain, and ODI after surgery. Subsidence was present in 34 cases (35.4%) at 12 months postoperatively, which increased to 47.9% and reached 50.0% at 1.5 years and 2 years after surgery, respectively. The solid fusion rate after OLIF was 32.3% at 1 year, increased to 58.3% at 1.5 years, and reached 72.9% at 2 years. Radiographic pseudoarthrosis was 24.0% at 1 year, which decreased to 6.3% at 1.5 years and 3.1% at 2 years. OLIF is a safe and effective surgical procedure for the treatment of degenerative lumbar diseases. The mBSF scale, which simultaneously evaluates both dynamic angles and bone bridge formation, offers great reliability for the radiological assessment of fusion. Moreover, OLIF using allografts and DBM, which is performed on one or 2 levels at L2-5, can achieve satisfactory fusion rates within 2 years after surgery.

Cerrahi Yaklaşımın İdrar Yolu Fonksiyonuna Etkisi: Laparoskopik ve Vajinal Histerektomi Sonrası Ürodinamik Değişikliklerin Karşılaştırılması

Aim: The rapidly increasing prevalence of gynecological diseases worldwide emphasizes the need for a combination of effective surgical procedures and other treatments. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the urodynamic changes of laparoscopic and vaginal hysterectomy. Materials and Method: A total of 86 participants who underwent hysterectomy for benign reasons between 2017 and 2021 in a tertiary hospital were selected and divided into two groups. Group I included 43 participants treated with vaginal hysterectomy, while group II included 43 participants treated with laparoscopic hysterectomy. ICIQ-FLUTS questionnaire was used and statistical analysis was performed to determine flow rate, voiding time and other factors in both groups. Results: The results from this study showed that there was no change in the initial sensory context in both groups (p = 3.63). Bladder capacity also did not differ in both groups. However, postoperatively, excessive activity in the detrusor muscle was observed in 8 participants (18.6%) in group I, while it was observed in 2 participants (4.6%) in group II. Similarly, the flow rate and residual volume of urine were within the clinical range in both groups. Conclusion: This study has been effective in providing several implications for improving treatment procedures for patients with gynecological diseases.

TETHERED CORD SYNDROME RELEASE IN PEDIATRIC POPULATION: THE SURGICAL AUDIT AT ALI INSTITUTE OF NEUROSCIENCES, IRFAN GENERAL HOSPITAL, PESHAWAR

BACKGROUND: Tethered cord syndrome, is a disease characterized by neurological, gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, and urinary problems related to spinal cord traction. It may be present alone, although it is commonly a part of undetected spinal dysraphism. A tethered cord release open surgery is the current standard of care management for TCS. TCR is frequently used in pediatric patients, particularly because the earlier intervention is frequently advised for better results. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this retrospective study was to investigates the outcomes and perform audit of the tethered Cord Syndrome release in pediatric population. METHODOLOGY: The records of total of 37 patients who underwent surgical release for tethered cord syndrome from January 2015 to December 2022 were evaluated at Ali Institute of Neurosciences, Irfan General Hospital, Peshawar. Patient demographics, clinical presentations, and outcomes were analyzed. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics by using SPSS software version 26. RESULTS: Mean age of the participants was 10.5 years. Majority were females 22(59.46%) as compared to males 15 (40.54%). Clinical manifestations encompassed a spectrum of symptoms, including leg weakness (75.7%), foot deformity (48.6%), and trophic ulcers (40.5%). 40.5% of patients experienced a significant enhancement in motor function. CONCLUSION: The results of our study concluded that release of tethered cord syndrome is an effective and safe surgical procedure associated with improved clinical outcomes in terms of symptomatic relief and improvements in motor and sensory functions. However, the procedure is also associated with mild complications. KEY WORDS: Clinical Outcomes, Neurological Improvement, Pediatric Neurosurgery, Surgical Release, Tethered Cord Syndrome

Witrektomia 23 G z podaniem iniekcji inhibitora czynnika wzrostu śródbłonka naczyniowego u chorego na jaskrę neowaskularną, z całkowitym odwarstwieniem siatkówki, krwotokiem do komory przedniej i komory ciała szklistego oka prawego – opis przypadku

IntroductionNeovascular glaucoma is a serious eye disease characterized by neovascularization of their is and anterior chamber angle. The most important risk factors for the development of neovascular glaucoma include retinal ischemia including that caused by proliferative diabetic retinopathy, central retinal vein occlusion, or retinal detachment.Material and MethodsA 61-year-old man with anterior chamber and vitreous chamber hemorrhage, recurrent total retinal detachment and advanced neovascular glaucoma in the right eye.ResultsVisual acuity recorded as hand motion, intraocular pressure measured by applanation tonometry 16 mmHg. The anterior segment showed massive anterior chamber hemorrhage and iris neovascularization. Ultrasound examination of the right eyeball in the B projection showed multiple diffuse extra echoes consistent with hemorrhage into the vitreous chamber and flat total retinal detachment. The patient was scheduled for anterior chamber washout, 23 G posterior vitrectomy with retinal endolaser, silicone oil endotamponade and injection of ranibizumab into the vitreous chamber of the right eye. During the first follow-up, an improvement in visual acuity to a level of 1/50 using Snellen arrays, stabilization of intraocular pressure to a level of 11 mmHg, and retinal adhesion was achieved.ConclusionsPars plana vitrectomy in patients with anterior chamber and vitreous chamber hemorrhage, retinal detachment and neovascular glaucoma is an effective surgical procedure for restoring useful visual acuity. In addition, ranibizumab injection has a direct effect on reducing the level of intraocular vascular endothelial growth factor and causes regression of neovascularization in the retina, angle and iris.

Treatment Goals of Adolescents and Young Adults for Gender Dysphoria.

With this study, we aim to describe transgender and nonbinary adolescents and young adults' stated gender treatment goals at the time of initial presentation to medical care. This is a retrospective chart review of transgender and nonbinary patients aged 10 to 24 seeking specific gender-affirming health care. Charts were reviewed for specifically stated goals of future hormonal or surgical care for gender and analyzed by the experienced or asserted gender (man, woman, nonbinary, eclectic) of participants. In total, 176 patient encounters were reviewed. Of these, 71% were assigned female at birth. Most participants experienced a masculine gender (46.6%), identified as white (65.3%), and had private health insurance (73.3%). Most patients had a goal of initiating hormone therapy (97.4%) and eventual surgery (87.1%). Of those who had a surgical goal, most (87.5%) desired surgery of the chest or breast, and a minority (29.3%) desired eventual genital surgery. The second-largest gender group was patients who either declined to state an asserted gender or felt unable to describe their gender experience (eclectic, 23.3%), and this group's treatment goals did not mirror any other group's goals. At the time of initial presentation to medical care for gender-specific needs, many adolescents are capable of asserting specific treatment goals. Most do not desire genital surgery. A large minority of patients decline to state an asserted gender or feel unable to assert a specific gender, and this population appears distinct from more traditional genders in terms of treatment goals.

Effectiveness of one-stage posterior eggshell osteotomy and long-segment pedicle screw fixation for ankylosing spondylitis kyphosis combined with acute thoracolumbar vertebral fracture

To explore the safety and effectiveness of one-stage posterior eggshell osteotomy and long-segment pedicle screw fixation in the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis kyphosis combined with acute thoracolumbar vertebral fracture. A clinical data of 20 patients with ankylosing spondylitis kyphosis combined with acute thoracolumbar spine fracture, who were treated with one-stage posterior eggshell osteotomy and long-segment pedicle screw fixation between April 2016 and January 2022, was retrospectively analyzed. Among them, 16 cases were male and 4 cases were female; their ages ranged from 32 to 68 years, with an average of 45.9 years. The causes of injury included 10 cases of sprain, 8 cases of fall, and 2 cases of falling from height. The time from injury to operation ranged from 1 to 12 days, with an average of 7.1 days. The injured segment was T 11 in 2 cases, T 12 in 2 cases, L 1 in 6 cases, and L 2 in 10 cases. X-ray film and CT showed that the patients had characteristic imaging manifestations of ankylosing spondylitis, and the fracture lines were involved in the anterior, middle, and posterior columns and accompanied by different degrees of kyphosis and vertebral compression; and MRI showed that 12 patients had different degrees of nerve injuries. The operation time, intraoperative bleeding, intra- and post-operative complications were recorded. The visual analogue scale (VAS) score and Oswestry disability index (ODI) were used to evaluate the low back pain and quality of life, and the American spinal cord injury association (ASIA) classification was used to evaluate the neurological function. X-ray films were taken, and local Cobb angle (LCA) and sagittal vertical axis (SVA) were measured to evaluate the correction of the kyphosis. All operations were successfully completed and the operation time ranged from 127 to 254 minutes (mean, 176.3 minutes). The amount of intraoperative bleeding ranged from 400 to 950 mL (mean, 722.5 mL). One case of dural sac tear occurred during operation, and no cerebrospinal fluid leakage occurred after repair, and the rest of the patients did not suffer from neurological and vascular injuries, cerebrospinal fluid leakage, and other related complications during operation. All incisions healed by first intention without infection or fat liquefaction. All patients were followed up 8-16 months (mean, 12.5 months). The VAS score, ODI, LCA, and SVA at 3 days after operation and last follow-up significantly improved when compared with those before operation ( P<0.05), and the difference between 3 days after operation and last follow-up was not significant ( P>0.05). The ASIA grading of neurological function at last follow-up also significantly improved when compared with that before operation ( P<0.05), including 17 cases of grade E and 3 cases of grade D. At last follow-up, all bone grafts achieved bone fusion, and no complications such as loosening, breaking of internal fixation, and pseudoarthrosis occurred. One-stage posterior eggshell osteotomy and long-segment pedicle screw fixation is an effective surgical procedure for ankylosing spondylitis kyphosis combined with acute thoracolumbar vertebral fracture. It can significantly relieve patients' clinical symptoms and to some extent, alleviate the local kyphotic deformity.

A Comparative Analysis between Flexible Ureteroscopic Lithotripsy and Tubeless Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy in the Treatment of >15 mm Non-Obstructing Proximal Ureteral Stones.

The proper surgical modality for large non-obstructing proximal ureteral stones is disputed. We compare effectiveness and safety of flexible ureteroscopic lithotripsy (FURL) and tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy (TPNL) in treatment of upper ureteral stones larger than 1.5 cm. We reviewed the medical records of patients who performed FURL or TPNL for upper ureteral stones between June 2016 and November 2018. Comparative analysis was conducted regarding demographic parameters, stone free rate, postoperative pain and complications. This study included 58 patients treated with FURL and 60 patients treated with TPNL owing to upper ureteral stones larger than 1.5 cm. Stone size was similar in the FURL and TPNL groups (17.6 ± 2.6 vs. 18.0 ± 2.1 mm, p = 0.194). The overall 3-month stone clearance rate was 95.8% for FURL versus 96.0% for TPNL (p = 0.575). There was no difference between the FURL and TPNL groups for hospital stay (p = 0.280) and postoperative complications. On the other hand, patients treated with FURL had longer operative time (p = 0.012) and less postoperative pain (p = 0.008). Both surgical techniques were considered feasible and effective surgical procedures in the treatment of large upper ureteral stones.

Prevalence and factors associated with female sterilization in Rwanda: evidence from the demographic and health survey data (2019–2020)

BackgroundFemale sterilization is a safe and effective surgical procedure of achieving contraception. There is disparity in the prevalence of female sterilization globally, with high income countries having higher rates than low- and middle-income countries. However, current evidence of the uptake of female sterilization in Rwanda is not known. We therefore evaluated the prevalence and factors associated with female sterilization among women of reproductive age in Rwanda.MethodologyThis was a secondary data analysis of 14,634 women of reproductive age (15–49) in Rwanda. The data utilized was from the Rwanda Demographic Health and Survey (RDHS) 2019/2020. The predictors of female sterilization were determined using multivariable binary logistic regression analysis.ResultsWe found that the prevalence of female sterilization was 1.1% among women of reproductive age in Rwanda. Women older than 35 years had about 8 times higher chance of being sterilized as compared to younger women (aOR: 7.87, 95% CI: 4.77–12.99). Women living with their partners had higher odds of being sterilized as compared to never married women (aOR: 19.23, 95% CI: 4.57–80.82), while women from minority religion are more likely to be sterilized as compared to those of the catholic religion (aOR: 2.12, 95% CI: 1.03–4.37). Women from rich household had a higher chance to be sterilized as compared to their counterparts from poor households (aOR: 3.13, 95% CI: 1.94–5.03). Women from the Western region were more likely to accept sterilization compared to women from Kigali (aOR: 2.025, 95% CI: 1.17–3.49) and women who had more than 5 children had higher odds when compared to women who had 5 or less children (aOR: 1.49, 95% CI: 1.06–2.10).ConclusionThe overall prevalence of sterilization among Rwandan women of reproductive age was 1.1%, which was very low as compared to India (29%), China (14.1%) and United States of America (13.7%). The age, marital status, religion, household wealth quintile, region and children ever born were associated with the uptake of female sterilization among Rwandan women. Public awareness campaign on the advantages of female sterilization should be done to improve uptake.

MID-TERM OUTCOMES OF TROCHLEOPLASTY IN THE TREATMENT OF SEVERE TROCHLEAR DYSPLASIA

IntroductionTrochleoplasty is an effective surgical procedure for patients with severe trochlear dysplasia and recurrent patella instability. Previous work has suggested patients demonstrate early improvements in knee function and quality of life. However, concerns regarding longer term outcomes due to the development of stiffness and patellofemoral osteoarthritis remain a concern for these patients. Our aim was to assess mid-term patient-reported outcome and quality of life measures for trochleoplasty performed at a single centre for severe trochlear dysplasia.MethodsRetrospective review of 28 knees (23 patients) having undergone trochleoplasty for severe trochlear dysplasia were reviewed. Due to the non-parametric nature of the data, median and interquartile range (IQR) were determined for pre-operative and mid-term follow-up scores. Statistically significant differences between groups were assessed using paired Wilcoxon-signed rank test with statistical significance set at p&lt;0.05. Data were analysed using a statistical software package (IBM® SPSS® Statistics 26.0).ResultsMedian time from surgery to follow-up for all patients in the series was 5.3 years (IQR 3.9 – 7.0 years). Median pre-operative Kujala score improved from 57.0 (IQR 45 – 66) to 96.3 (IQR 83 -100). Median pre-operative IKDC score improved from 42.6 (IQR 35.9 – 51.3) to 92.6 (IQR 71.6 – 98.7). Median EQ-5D score also improved from 0.691 (IQR 0.414 – 0.727) to 1.000 (IQR 0.8178 – 1.000). Improvement in Kujala scores, IKDC scores and EQ-5D were all statistically significant with p&lt;0.001 in all domains.DiscussionOur data suggests patients experience significant improvements in knee function and quality of life following trochleoplasty surgery for severe dysplasia. We demonstrate an absolute improvement in scores at a mean of 5.3 years follow-up of 39.3 points for Kujala, 50 for IKDC and 0.309 for EQ-5D. Minimal clinically important differences (MCID) have been reported to be in the region of 10 for the Kujala score, 8.8–15.6 for IKDC and 0.085 for EQ-5D. Our data shows improvements which far exceed the published MCID, suggesting trochleoplasty confers a large treatment effect and patients benefiting from sustained improvements in knee function and overall quality of life at mid-term follow-up.ConclusionFollowing trochleoplasty for severe trochlear dysplasia, patient reported outcomes demonstrate continued improvements in knee function and quality of life at mid-term (5-year) follow-up. There is a large absolute treatment effect which likely impacts on both physical and psychological wellbeing for these patients. Continued surveillance of patient reported outcomes in this clinically complex cohort is indicated.

OGC P28 Gastrointestinal symptoms and disorders after oesophago-gastric cancer surgery: The RESTORE modified Delphi survey

Abstract Background Oesophago-gastric (OG) cancer surgery is life-changing with a significant impact on quality of life (QOL). OG cancer surgery reconfigures the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract altering its physiological function. Certain disorders such as anastomotic stricture are well recognised whereas others, such as small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, are increasingly being diagnosed. As multimodality treatment improves survival, more poly-symptomatic patients are living with these disorders as a consequence of surgery. We aimed to establish consensus on the definitions of relevant symptoms and disorders, as well as appropriate investigation and treatment. Standardisation will form a foundation for optimising QOL in this growing patient group. Methods This on-line modified Delphi study focused on patients after oesophagectomy, gastrectomy or subtotal gastrectomy for cancer (OG cancer surgery). The survey covered symptoms, common conditions, and symptoms triggering investigation for recurrence. The survey was designed using non-systematic reviews and expert opinion. Items were rated from 1 (completely disagree) to 9 (absolutely agree). Multi-disciplinary experts were identified through word of mouth and expressions of interest at previous conferences. Two rounds were completed, with some revisions after first round review. Median ratings were determined. Consensus agreement was judged as 70% or more respondents in agreement (7-9) and less than 15% disagreement (1-3). Results 86 and 77 complete surveys were received in rounds 1 and 2. Respondents were multidisciplinary, including OG surgeons, oncologists, gastroenterologists, radiologists, dietitians and nurse specialists. 7 upper GI, 13 non-specific and 6 lower GI symptom definitions were agreed. Clinical definitions, diagnostic criteria, first line investigations and treatments were agreed for 10 conditions: anastomotic stricture, acid reflux, non-acid reflux oesophagitis, biliary gastritis, delayed gastric emptying, dumping syndrome, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, bile acid diarrhoea, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth and carbohydrate malabsorption. Agreement was also reached across many second-line investigations and treatments, and 12 of 14 (86%) symptom triggers to investigate for recurrence. Conclusions The RESTORE multidisciplinary consensus study has established a foundation for assessing and treating 10 conditions negatively affecting QOL after OG cancer surgery. Standardised symptom definitions will guide diagnostic assessments. Agreed condition definitions and diagnostic criteria will allow robust measurement of their incidence, and evaluation of treatment effects. Future work will aim to develop algorithms for managing these conditions. This work will raise standards of diagnosis and treatment of conditions that affect patients after OG cancer surgery, allowing collection of robust data to evaluate improvements in symptoms and QOL.

Endonasal endoscopic nasopharyngectomy for nasopharyngeal malignancies: a survival analysis

IntroductionNasopharyngeal cancer has a global incidence of less than 1.0 per 100,000 person-years. It originates from nasopharyngeal mucosa with the Fossa of Rosenmuller being the most common site. Radiation therapy with or without chemotherapy is an established first-line treatment modality given the sensitivity of the tumor.ObjectivesThe aim of our study was to report survival outcomes amongst patients undergoing endonasal endoscopic nasopharyngectomy at a tertiary care referral center.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective longitudinal cohort study. We collected data on age, gender, prior treatment, histology, extent of surgery, post-operative adjuvant therapy, and recurrence and reported the survival along mean survival time using Kaplan–Meier curves and log-rank test.ResultsA total of six patients, three males and three females with a mean age of 43.7 years were included in our study. Of the six, three patients underwent a salvage procedure whereas three patients received upfront definitive surgical resection. Three patients developed recurrence with a mean survival time of 19.3 months. The disease-free survival at 1 and 2 years of surgery was 88.3% and 66% respectively.ConclusionEndonasal endoscopic nasopharyngectomy is an effective surgical procedure that can be undertaken for both salvage and primary cases. Our survival results are comparable to the literature.

Analgesic Efficacy of Pre-operative Pregabalin in Dacryocystorhinostomy Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trials.

Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is an effective surgical procedure for addressing lacrimal drainage problems. However, it can be a painful operation that involves incisions both inside and outside the eye, often leading to a high incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting. Preemptive analgesics can be employed to alleviate this unrelieved pain. Nonetheless, many of the drugs used can induce a wide range of adverse effects. Therefore, the aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to assess the current evidence regarding the efficacy of pregabalin in managing postoperative pain following DCR surgery. We conducted a thorough search of five electronic databases, namely, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane, and Google Scholar, to identify relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published before September 2023. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool for RCTs. The outcomes we evaluated included postoperative pain, surgery duration, time to first analgesia, total pethidine consumption, and postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). Continues data reported as mean difference (MD), and dichotomous data reported as risk ratio (RR), with 95% confidence interval (CI). A pooled meta-analysis of three RCTs, including 240 patients in both the pregabalin and placebo groups, was conducted. The results revealed that the pooled MD in pain scores was significantly lower in patients treated with pregabalin compared to those receiving a placebo ((MD = -1.35 (95% CI: -1.83 to -0.87, p < 0.00001)). Additionally, the pooled MD of pethidine consumption was significantly lower in patients treated with pregabalin compared to those receiving a placebo (MD = -54.13 (95% CI: -103.77 to -4.50, p = 0.03)). However, there was no statistical significance between both groups in terms of time to first analgesia and duration of surgery (p > 0.05). On the other hand, the pooled RR of PONV was significantly lower in patients treated with pregabalin compared to those receiving a placebo (RR = 0.37 (95% CI: 0.24-0.57, p < 0.001)). This meta-analysis demonstrates that pregabalin is an effective and well-tolerated intervention for reducing postoperative pain and PONV following DCR surgery, without significantly affecting surgery duration or time to first analgesia. These findings support the use of pregabalin in improving patient comfort and outcomes in this surgical context.

Children's Oncology Group's 2023 blueprint for research: Surgery.

Surgery plays a crucial role in the treatment of children with solid malignancies. A well-conducted operation is often essential for cure. Collaboration with the primary care team is important for determining if and when surgery should be performed, and if performed, an operation must be done in accordance with well-established standards. The long-term consequences of surgery also need to be considered. Indications and objectives for a procedure vary. Providing education and developing and analyzing new research protocols that include aims relevant to surgery are key objectives of the Surgery Discipline of the Children's Oncology Group. The critical evaluation of emerging technologies to ensure safe, effective procedures is another key objective. Through research, education, and advancing technologies, the role of the pediatric surgeon in the multidisciplinary care of children with solid malignancies will continue to evolve.

Single-center experience of transitioning from video-assisted laparoscopic to robotic Heller myotomy with Dor fundoplication for esophageal motility disorders

BackgroundVideo-assisted laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM) has become the standard treatment option for achalasia. While robotic surgery offering some specific advantages such as better three-dimensional (3D) stereoscopic vision, hand-eye consistency, and flexibility and stability with the endowrist is expected to be shorter in learning curve than that of LHM for surgeons who are proficient in LHM. The aim of this study was to describe a single surgeon’s experience related to the transition from video-assisted laparoscopic to robotic Heller myotomy with Dor fundoplication.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective observational study based on the recorded data of the first 66 Heller myotomy performed with laparoscopic Heller myotomy with Dor fundoplication (LHMD, 26 cases) and with the robotic Heller myotomy with Dor fundoplication (RHMD, 40 cases) by the same surgeon in Department of Thoracic Surgery of The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University in China. The operation time and intraoperative blood loss were analyzed using the cumulative sum (CUSUM) method. Corresponding statistical tests were used to compare outcomes of both serials of cases.ResultsThe median operation time was shorter in the RHMD group compared to the LHMD group (130 [IQR 123–141] minutes vs. 163 [IQR 153–169]) minutes, p < 0.001). In the RHMD group, one patient (2.5%) experienced mucosal perforation, whereas, in the LHMD group, the incidence of this complication was significantly higher at 19.2% (5 patients) (p = 0.031). Based on cumulative sum analyses, operation time decreased starting with case 20 in the LHMD group and with case 18 in the RHMD group. Intraoperative blood loss tended to decline starting with case 19 in the LHMD group and with case 16 in the RHMD group.ConclusionsBoth RHMD and LHMD are effective surgical procedures for symptom relief of achalasia patients. RHMD demonstrates superior outcomes in terms of operation time and mucosal perforation during surgery compared to LHMD. Proficiency with RHMD can be achieved after approximately 16–18 cases, while that of LHMD can be obtained after around 19–20 cases.

Ten-step minimally invasive slalom unilateral laminotomy for bilateral decompression (sULBD) with navigation

BackgroundUnilateral laminotomy for bilateral decompression (ULBD) is a MIS surgical technique that offers safe and effective decompression of lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) with a long-term resolution of symptoms. Advantages over conventional open laminectomy include reduced expected blood loss, muscle damage, mechanical instability, and less postoperative pain. The slalom technique combined with navigation is used in multi-segmental LSS to improve the workflow and effectiveness of the procedure.MethodsWe outline ten technical steps to achieve a slalom unilateral laminotomy for bilateral decompression (sULBD) with navigation. In a retrospective case series, we included patients with multi-segmental LSS operated in our institution using the sULBD between 2020 and 2022. The primary outcome was a reduction in pain measured by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for back pain and leg pain and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI).ResultsIn our case series (N = 7), all patients reported resolution of initial symptoms on an average follow-up of 20.71 ± 9 months. The average operative time and length of hospital stay were 196.14 min and 1.67 days, respectively. On average, VAS (back pain) was 4.71 pre-operatively and 1.50 on long-term follow-up of an average of 19.05 months. VAS (leg pain) decreased from 4.33 to 1.21. ODI was reported as 33% pre-operatively and 12% on long-term follow-up.ConclusionThe sULBD with navigation is a safe and effective MIS surgical procedure and achieves the resolution of symptoms in patients presenting with multi-segmental LSS. Herein, we demonstrate the ten key steps required to perform the sULBD technique. Compared to the standard sULBD technique, the incorporation of navigation provides anatomic localization without exposure to radiation to staff for a higher safety profile along with a fast and efficient workflow.

Morphometric analysis and outcomes following posterior cranial vault distraction in syndromic and multisuture craniosynostosis

Turribrachycephaly is a common feature in many syndromic and multisuture craniosynostoses and is traditionally treated with total cranial vault reshaping and fronto-orbital advancement. A staged approach with posterior cranial vault distraction as a primary procedure followed by anterior cranial vault reshaping has the advantage of reducing the vertical dimension of the skull in a controlled and gradual manner while expanding the cranial volume. The purpose of this study was to evaluate outcomes following posterior cranial vault expansion using distraction osteogenesis at a single tertiary pediatric center. This retrospective review included all cases of posterior cranial vault distraction at a single institution from 2008 to 2022 performed by one surgeon. Morphometric outcomes such as Turricephaly Index (TI) and posterior cranial volume (PCV) were assessed from pre- and postoperative computerized tomography scans for patients who underwent posterior cranial vault distraction as a primary first-stage operation. Clinical outcomes and complications were collated. A total of 41 patients (25 females, 16 males; mean age 11 months) with syndromic craniosynostosis (n=32) and nonsyndromic craniosynostosis (n=9) were included. The main indication for posterior cranial vault distraction in this cohort was turricephaly (63%). The mean distraction distance was 25.9mm and the mean decrease in TI was 18%. The estimated increase in PCV from distraction in this cohort was 19.7%. In this cohort of patients, 13 patients (32%) experienced complications but there were no mortalities. Posterior cranial vault distraction osteogenesis is an effective surgical procedure to increase intracranial volume and correct turricephaly in children with syndromic and nonsyndromic craniosynostosis. This procedure is considered a safe and effective first-stage cranial operation in children with syndromic craniosynostosis with increased intracranial pressure and or turricephaly.

Predictive potential of optical coherence tomography parameters for the prognosis of decreased visual acuity after trabeculectomy in open-angle glaucoma patients with good vision

BackgroundTrabeculectomy (trab) is the most effective surgical procedure for lowering IOP and preventing glaucoma progression. However, decline in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) is one of the most serious postoperative complications of trab. Here, we investigated methods to predict decreased BCVA after trab in glaucoma patients with good preoperative BCVA.MethodsThis study included 35 eyes of 35 open-angle glaucoma (OAG) patients (male / female: 21 / 14, age: 64.0 ± 9.7 years old, preoperative intraocular pressure: 15.9 ± 5.4 mmHg, mean deviation: -18.1 ± 5.6 dB) with preoperative BCVA of 0.7 or better who underwent trab and were observed for more than 12 months. As a preoperative analysis, we measured temporal quadrant circumpapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (cpRNFLT) and ganglion cell complex thickness in a central strip between the disc and fovea (csGCCT), an area that corresponds to the location of the papillomacular bundle (PMB) in swept-source optical coherence tomography (OCT). We defined BCVA decline as a loss of more than 3 lines of BCVA after 12 months. Measurement parameters were compared between the BCVA-decline group and the non-BCVA-decline group.ResultsBCVA decline was detected in 11 cases (31.4%) 12 months after trab. There was a statistically significant difference in axial length (P = 0.049). A single logistic analysis showed that the BCVA-decline group had significantly lower cpRNFLT than the non-BCVA-decline group (27.7 ± 8.0 μm vs. 45.1 ± 5.3 μm, P < 0.001, cut-off value: 33.4 μm), as well as lower csGCCT (72.4 ± 7.7 μm vs. 87.5 ± 5.1 μm, P = 0.002, cut-off value: 82.3 μm). Multivariable logistic analysis showed that the BCVA-decline group had significantly lower temporal quadrant cpRNFLT (P < 0.001) and lower middle csGCCT (P < 0.001) compared to the non-BCVA-decline group.ConclusionsLower temporal quadrant cpRNFLT and middle csGCCT, OCT scan areas that correspond to the location of the PMB, might be biomarkers that predict BCVA decline after trab in OAG patients with good vision.

The Results of Hook Plate Fixation for Palmar Fracture Dislocation of the Proximal Interphalangeal Joint

This study aimed to present the clinical outcomes of the dorsal plating technique for palmar fracture dislocations of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint. This plating technique minimizes dissection and interference with the finger extensor mechanism. We treated seven patients (with a mean age of 39.1 years) with dorsal hook plates for palmar fracture dislocations of the PIP joint between April 2018 and August 2022. The little finger was affected in five patients, and ring finger was affected in two. The mean time to surgery was 5.6 days, and the postoperative follow-up period was seven months. On the second postoperative day, all patients were allowed active motion of both the PIP and the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joints. Simultaneously, DIP blocking exercises were started to prevent adhesion of the extensor mechanism. The mean active flexion and extension of the PIP joint was 105° and-4°, respectively, whereas those of the DIP joint were 65° and 4°. No patient experienced extension lag in the DIP joint. The mean total active motion (TAM) was 273°, and the %TAM was 96%. The grip strength of the affected hand averaged 90% of that of the unaffected hand. The mean numerical rating scale for pain was 0.3 points, and the mean Hand20 score was 5.1 points. No complications were observed; two patients underwent implant removal at their request. The present study suggests that this hook plate technique, which minimizes interference with the finger extension mechanism, is an effective surgical procedure that allows patients to tolerate early range of motion exercises and obtain satisfactory clinical outcomes in both the PIP and DIP joints. Therapeutic V.