Experienced Team Research Articles

Percutaneous Transcatheter Retrieval of Central Venous Port Fragments in Pediatric Patients; A Single-center Experience From the Pediatric Cardiology Department.

Split/fracture and embolization of central venous/shunt catheters are rare but serious complications in children. Percutaneous retrieval of intravascular foreign bodies is an important minimal invasive treatment. This study is aimed to represent our largest pediatric sample experience till now of 17 years from a single institution. Another aim is to compare the results regarding the removal or leaving in place of embolized or ruptured intravascular or cardiac venous catheter parts in children. A total of 26 cases were included in this study. Any pediatric patient with normal coagulation parameters and a fractured catheter fragment was included in this study. Other intravascular foreign bodies related to interventional devices and/or pacemaker/implantable cardiac defibrillator leads were excluded from this study. Twenty-six patients, of whom 25 had oncologic diseases and 1 had a ventriculoatrial shunt, were included. The median age was 83.5 months (between 20 mo and 18 y) at treatment.Superior vena cava (9 cases), followed by the right atrium (5 cases), were the most two common sites of embolization for cardiovascular foreign bodies. The success rate of percutaneous retrieval was 92.3% in all patients. There were neither complications nor deaths. The retrieval technique revealed a predisposition for extraction through the femoral vein (96.1%) and using snare techniques (100%). Additional catheters like pigtail, National Institutes of Health, or ablation catheters were used for stabilization in selective cases in which the permanent central venous fragments stuck to the vessels. A tractional maneuver and capturing the ruptured material in the middle were other trick points for successful retrieval. Patients were asymptomatic in 76.9% of cases (20/26). Percutaneous retrieval of cardiovascular foreign bodies is a reasonable, safe, and effective way in children when the catheter fragments are free and mobile. It should be considered the preferred treatment option instead of surgery. In patients where catheter fragments are stuck and are adherent to vessels, it could be left, and followed up by anticoagulation. Novel techniques accompanied by an experienced team could be helpful in difficult cases.

Comparison of the Sedative Effects of Dexmedetomidine and Remifentanil in Vitrectomy Surgery: A Retrospective Study.

Background Vitrectomy surgery is a painful and lengthy procedure. Therefore, administering sedation to reduce patient agitation provides both surgical comfort and hemodynamic stability. However, various complications can arise during the perioperative period depending on the sedation agent used. In our study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of dexmedetomidine and remifentanil sedation applications on patient hemodynamics and perioperative complications in vitrectomy surgery. Methods Our retrospective study included patients aged 18-70 who underwent vitrectomy surgery between 2021 and 2022 with complete file data and ASA scores of 1-3 after obtaining approval from our hospital's ethics committee. Patients were classified into two groups based on the sedation agent used: Group D for dexmedetomidine and Group R for remifentanil. Demographic data of patients, heart rate, mean arterial pressure, oxygen saturation, and bispectral index values during perioperative monitoring, operation duration, and complications such as perioperative nausea, vomiting, and low saturation were recorded. The data of both groups were statistically evaluated, with p<0.05 values considered statistically significant. Results Because of missing data in 18 out of 58 patient files, these cases were excluded from the study. A total of 40 patients were included in the study, with 20 in Group D and 20 in Group R. The mean age of the patients was 64. Among them, 18 (45%) were male, and 22 (55%) were female. The mean operation duration was 61.8 ± 24.1 minutes in Group D and 56.3 ± 17.2 minutes in Group R. The heart rate in Group D was statistically significantly lower than in Group R, starting from the 20th minute of the perioperative period. There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of mean arterial pressure, oxygen saturation, and bispectral index values. One case of bradycardia occurred in Group D, requiring intervention. Conclusion In vitrectomy surgery, both dexmedetomidine and remifentanil infusions can be used for sedation, but caution is advised regarding bradycardia in Group D. Anticipating potential complications with an experienced anesthesia team is crucial for both patient and surgical comfort.

LEGAL STABILITY OF THE STATE STATUS IN THE CONDITIONS OF THE GLOBALIZATION CRISIS: REVIEW OF THE BOOK «CRIMINAL LEGAL GUARANTEES OF SOVEREIGNTY STATES (COMPARATIVE LEGAL STUDY)»

Law, as a civilized form of regulation of social and international relations, among other things, must provide stable guarantees to subjects of legal relations to protect their status and that in the event of an illegal invasion of these rights, laws and international treaties will provide victims with an appropriate mechanism of legal protection, and vi- the new ones will be guaranteed fair and inevitable punishment. The objectives of scientific developments in the field of legal guarantees to states, as subjects of legal relations, are to summarize existing knowledge in this area and develop reasonable proposals for improving international legal mechanisms for the protection of rights. In 2023, at the Institute of Legislation and Comparative Law under the Government of the Russian Federation, an experienced scientific team, based on the application of the method of systemic and comparative legal research, generalized knowledge in the field of criminal legal guarantees of state sovereignty. Based on the research carried out, «the Prospekt» publishing house published a scientific and practical manual «Criminal legal guarantees of state sovereignty (comparative legal research)» under the responsible editorship of experienced legal scholars I.I. Kucherova, S.L. Nudel and O.I. Semykina. The team of authors united both experienced scientists recognized by the scientific community and representatives of the new generation of researchers of state legal and international legal sciences. This article reviews the named scientific and practical manual, highlights the starting points of the generalizations made, notes the positive aspects of the publication and issues that remained debatable after reading it. It is noted that the published scientific and practical manual is a convenient and useful tool for carrying out research, educational and educational activities.

First successful neonatal primary repair of esophageal atresia with distal tracheoesophageal fistula in Belize

Esophageal atresia repair represents the epitome of Pediatric Surgery and it is considered as an indicator of the level of quality of any Surgical Neonatal Service. This article describes the first case completely and successfully treated in Belize, and it is focused on its management strategies. In the midst of COVID-19 pandemic, a full-term male neonate, adequate for gestational age and withnormal birth weight was referred to Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and diagnosed with esophageal atresia with distal tracheoesophageal fistula. Primary repair was performed through open thoracotomy, closing the tracheoesophageal fistula and completing end to end esophageal anastomosis with minimal tension. A minor anastomotic leak was identified on postoperative day 9, which was initially managed conservatively but required surgical repair 5 days after, using a pedicled intercostal muscle flap over the re-sutured esophagus. The patient recovered completely with no midterm complications. It is feasible to perform complex neonatal surgical repair such as the AE/TEF in small countries like Belize, when both an experienced surgical team and adequate neonatal intensive care are available. Proper management of major surgical complications is essentialto achieve good results.

The Specific features of pediatric cholelityhiasis. A Literature review.

Cholelithiasis is the occurrence of one or several gallstones in the gallbladder. It can be complicated by choledocholithiasis, acute or chronic cholecystitis, cholangitis, biliary pancreatitis, biliary ileus, etc. The causes of this disorder in the pediatric population can be hemolytic (hereditary spherocytosis, thalassemia, or sickle cell anemia) or non-hemolytic - other hereditary disorders such as cystic fibrosis, Wilson’s disease or ileum disorders, total parenteral nutrition, use of certain medication, choledochal cysts, organ transplantation and, in adolescence, those similar to adult patients (obesity). Most gallstones found in children are cholesterol or pigmented gallstones. There are many diagnostic imaging methods for objectifying gallstones and their complications (such as choledocholithi- asis that requires ERCP). There are also some differential diagnoses that should be taken into consideration before treatment (biliary dyskinesia, Odii sphincter dysfunction, neonatal jaundice, cholestasis, pediatric cholecystitis, pediatric pancreatitis and pancreatic pseudocysts, as well as pediatric pyelonephritis). The first line of treatment of cholelithiasis is diet, saline infusions and medication, and if cholelithiasis is symptomatic and/or complicated, then cholecystectomy is recommended. The surgical approach may be an open procedure or laparoscopy. Some studies show that injuries of the bile ducts are more common in laparoscopic treatment of pediatric cholelithiasis, but nevertheless it has been shown that with an experienced team and good preparation it is the gold standard in the treatment of pediatric cholelithiasis. We present a comprehensive review of the literature on the clinical presentation, pathophysiology, diagnostic evaluation, and management of cholelithiasis in the pediatric population. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is safe and effective in children, and shows the same advantages reported in adults.

Total arterial revascularization using robot assisted minimally invasive coronary artery bypass: an Indian experience.

The aim of this study is to analyze the early outcomes of Total Arterial Revascularization using Robot Assisted Minimally Invasive Coronary Artery Bypass at our center between June 2019 and January 2023. This is a retrospective analysis of 195 patients who underwent Total Arterial Coronary Revascularization through Robot Assisted Minimally Invasive Coronary Artery Bypass procedure (RA-CABG) during the period of June 2019 and January 2023 in a quaternary care center in India. Primary outcome variables were in-hospital and 30-day mortality. Secondary outcome variables included duration of surgery, length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay, in-hospital stay and perioperative morbidity. The entire patient population was divided into two groups for a subgroup analysis based on when the surgery was conducted i.e. the years since the robotic program was begun at our institution with 81 patients in group I (2019-2021), and 114 patients in group II (2022-2023). 195 patients [88.7% male, mean age of 61.34 ± 9.58years] underwent RA-CABG during the 5-year period (2019-2023) by a single experienced surgeon and his team. Conversion to larger thoracic incisions was required in 5 cases (2.59%). In-hospital and 30-day mortality was 1.02% each. The average length of ICU stay and hospital stay were 2.82 ± 1.17days and 5.84 ± 1.71days respectively. The duration of ICU stay correlated with the number of internal mammary artery grafts procured (p = 0.0022). Median duration of follow-up was 11months. Overall mortality was 3.62% and cardiac related mortality was 2.07%, and 5 patients (2.59%) underwent percutaneous coronary intervention. Results of the sub-group analysis revealed a statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of number of internal mammary artery grafts procured (p = 0.010), need for transfusions (p = 0.00031), ICU stay (p = 0.0005) and in-hospital stay (p = 0.0006). Total Arterial Coronary Revascularization through RA-CABG is a viable procedure in select patients. An experienced surgeon and team are required. Further studies in the form of randomized trials with long term follow-up are required to establish the overall utility, effectiveness and benefits to the patients.

Biocellulose patch technique for fetoscopic repair of open spina bifida in twin pregnancy.

Twin pregnancy is currently an exclusion criterion for prenatal repair of open spina bifida (OSB). The main objective of this study was to report on our experience of treating twin pregnancies with OSB using the skin-over-biocellulose for antenatal fetoscopic repair (SAFER) technique. We also discuss reconsideration of the current exclusion criteria for fetal OSB repair. Eight fetuses with OSB from seven twin pregnancies underwent successful prenatal repair. Six pregnancies were dichorionic diamniotic with only one twin affected, and one was monochorionic diamniotic with both twins affected. Percutaneous fetoscopy was performed under CO2 insufflation of the sac of the affected twin. Neurosurgical repair was performed using a biocellulose patch to protect the placode, with the skin sutured to hold the patch in place, with or without a myofascial flap. Neurodevelopment was assessed using the pediatric evaluation of disability inventory scale in babies older than 6 months of adjusted age, whereas the Alberta scale was used for babies younger than 6 months of adjusted age. All 14 fetuses were liveborn and none required additional repair. Gestational age at surgery ranged from 27.3 to 31.1 weeks, and gestational age at birth ranged from 31.6 to 36.0 weeks. Four out of eight affected twins developed sepsis, but had a good recovery. No sequela of prematurity was found in any of the unaffected twins. Short-term neurodevelopment was normal in all evaluated unaffected twins (5/5) and in all but one affected twins (7/8). In the affected group, only one baby required ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement. Prematurity is frequent after fetal surgery, and the risk is increased in twin pregnancy. Nevertheless, prenatal surgery using the SAFER technique is feasible, with low risk to both twins and their mother when performed by a highly experienced team. Long-term cognitive assessment of the unaffected twin is needed. © 2023 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Characteristics and management of hypersensitivity reactions with rabbit anti-thymocyte globulin in pediatric patients.

Background: Anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG) has been successfully used for decades to prevent graft versus host disease before hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) as a part of conditioning regimen. However, sometimes hypersensitivity reactions may limit its use. Objective: To evaluate hypersensitivity reactions experienced during rabbit-ATG infusion among children and present successful desensitization protocol. Methods: The medical records of pediatric patients who were given rabbit-ATG treatment at our tertiary center hospital HSCT unit between 2019 and 2022 were reviewed retrospectively. Diagnosis of the patients, age at the time of HSCT, gender, presence of hypersensitivity reaction to rabbit-ATG, and management were evaluated. Characteristics of the reaction and presence of hypersensitivity reaction to other drugs were also noted. If performed, desensitization protocols were evaluated retrospectively. Results: We evaluated 81 patients; 66.6% of them (n = 54) were boys. The mean age of the patients was 8.78 ± 5.48 years. Hypersensitivity to rabbit-ATG was seen in six patients (7.4%). Four of them (4.9%) had anaphylaxis; two (2.4%) had urticaria. Intradermal test performed to every patient before the first dose of ATG infusion was detected a positive result in 1 patient (1.2%) . None of these seven patients had allergic reactions to other drugs before. Successful ATG desensitization was performed in five patients by using a 12-16 step protocol due to patients' reaction severity. Conclusion: This study aimed to evaluate hypersensitivity reactions with rabbit-ATG in children. A successful desensitization protocol with rabbit-ATG is presented. Desensitization must be performed with an experienced team very carefully in the absence of alternative drug.

96 Looped Prospective Audit of Compliance to the British Orthopaedics Association Standards for Trauma and Orthopaedics (BOAST): Safe Use of Intraoperative Tourniquets in Upper Limb Surgery

Abstract Background New BOAST standards were published in October 2021, advocating the need for all tourniquet pressure to be inflated 50-100mmHg above the adult patient’s systolic blood pressure when undergoing upper limb surgeries. The aim was to assess whether conformity was present towards this standard. Method A closed-loop prospective audit was implemented in a specialist hand unit from October to December 2021. Readings, including blood pressure before tourniquet inflation, final inflation pressure, tourniquet time, and level of performing surgeon, were collected from documentation and analysed. Results A total of 100 patients were assessed. The initial audit and re-audit demonstrated low compliance levels of 36% (18/50) and 38% (19/42), respectively, despite specific educational interventions regarding the newly published standard. When comparing junior and specialist hand consultants, non-compliance was more significant at the more senior level (63.4%). All non-compliance was a result of the overinflation of the tourniquet. The average overinflation was 20.6mmHg, and the average tourniquet time was 40.9 minutes. No tourniquet complications were documented in any case. Conclusions The primary rationale resulting in the non-compliance from the experienced hand surgical team was that the increased risk of obscuring the operative field from bleeding, thus leading to structural damages, outweighs the complications of overinflating the tourniquet. Furthermore, systolic blood pressure cannot always be maintained within a restricted window from the anaesthetic perspective. Therefore, we propose that the guideline be opened for further discussion and more up-to-date research implemented in this field.

Optimizing Delivery Strategies in Eclampsia: A Comprehensive Review on Seizure Management and Birth Methods.

Eclampsia seizure is an always serious and potentially fatal obstetric condition. Safe delivery in women with pregnancies complicated by eclampsia seizures is still one of the greatest challenges in perinatal medicine. Pregnancy should be terminated (childbirth) in the safest and least traumatic way possible. Attempting vaginal delivery can take place only exceptionally, in the event of possibly quick completion of childbirth with a stable state of the mother and the fetus. However, immediate labor via cesarean section is most often recommended. It is essential to maintain left lateral patient positioning during cesarean section. Regional anesthesia can be used only in conscious patients who are free from coagulopathy and from HELLP (hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count) syndrome to decrease the risk of aspiration and failed intubation attempts in preeclamptic or eclamptic women. For sudden, unexpected interventions, when a patient arrives at the hospital with an eclampsia seizure without lab results, general anesthesia can be the best option and should be performed by an experienced medical team of anesthesiologists, ready to perform difficult intubation. Magnesium sulfate is the drug that should be used first to stop eclamptic convulsions and prevent their recurrence. Intravenous antihypertensive drugs can stabilize elevated blood pressure (BP), preventing multiorgan failure and recurrent eclampsia seizure, and thus the prevention of maternal death. This article aims to review the management of seizures during pregnancy in women with eclampsia to ensure safe delivery.

The Evolving Role of Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in the Era of Transcatheter Valvular Procedures.

Surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) has long been the standard treatment for severe symptomatic aortic stenosis (AS). However, transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has emerged as a minimally invasive alternative; it was initially intended for high-risk patients and has now expanded its use to patients of all risk groups. While TAVR has demonstrated promising outcomes in diverse patient populations, uncertainties persist regarding its long-term durability and potential complications, raising the issue of the ideal lifetime management strategy for patients with AS. Therefore, SAVR continues to play an important role in clinical practice, particularly in younger patients with longer life expectancies, those with complex aortic anatomy who are unsuitable for TAVR, and those requiring concomitant surgical procedures. The choice between TAVR and SAVR warrants personalized decision-making, considering patient characteristics, comorbidities, anatomical considerations, and overall life expectancy. A multidisciplinary approach involving an experienced heart team is crucial in the preoperative evaluation process. In this review, we aimed to explore the current role of surgical management in addressing aortic valve stenosis amidst the expanding utilization of less invasive transcatheter procedures.

Hypothermic rescue by veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: A case report.

Severe hypothermia is a life-threatening condition that often causes hemodynamic instability or cardiac arrest and carries a high risk of mortality. The use of VA-ECMO in this indication has greatly improved the prognosis of patients. We describe an incredible case involving the complete recovery of a 47-year-old man placed on VA-ECMO for cardiogenic shock and protracted ventricular fibrillation caused by hypothermia. The patient was discharged home in 20 days with no neurologic sequelae. Extracorporeal life support (ECLS) with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has been recommended as the gold standard for the treatment of severe hypothermia due to its rapid availability and the possibility of prolonged support. Our case demonstrates the effectiveness of ECMO in treating patients with hypothermic cardiogenic shock. At the same time, nutritional support and rehabilitation therapy play an integral role in the whole treatment process. Therefore, it is recommended that such patients be managed by an experienced cardiac team that can evaluate the patient's condition in multiple aspects. ECMO may be an effective treatment for hypothermia-induced cardiogenic shock, but further research is needed on the effectiveness of this method of treatment.

Surgeon's Experience May Circumvent Operative Volume in Improving Early Outcomes After Pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Introduction Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) is a complex procedure with a significant proportion of postoperative complications and improving but notable mortality. PD was the prototype procedure that initiated the lingering debate about the relationship of better operative outcomes when performed at higher-volume centers. This has not translated into practice. Impediments include the absence of a universally accepted definition of a high-volume center among others. Contrary evidence suggests equivalent outcomes for PD at low-volume centers when performed by experienced hepatobiliary surgeons. We reviewed our perioperative outcomes for PD from an earlier period as a low-volume center with an experienced team. Methods A longitudinalstudy of all PDs completed in our department between 2012 and 2017 was performed. Results A total of 28 PD were performed during this period. Pylorus-preserving PD was performed in 23 patients and classical PD in the remaining. A separate Roux-en-Y loop was used for high-risk pancreatic anastomosis in six cases. The mean patient age was 49.3±12.4 years. The male-to-female ratio was 1.3:1. Preoperative drainage procedures were carried out in 19 patients. The mean serum total bilirubin level was 3.98(±4.5) mg/dL. There was no 90-day mortality. Postoperative complications included wound infection in 10 (36.7%)and respiratory complications in 10 (36.7%) patients. Postoperative bleeding requiring intervention occurred in one patient, and two patients had an anastomotic leak (one pancreatojejunostomy (PJ) and one gastrojejunostomy (GJ)). Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) was noted in three (10.7%) patients. The mean length of hospital stay was 14±7 days. The median overall survival (OS) was 84 months. Conclusion Comparable early outcomes can be achieved at low-volume centers for patients undergoing PDwith an experienced team, optimal patient selection, and the ability to rescue for complications.

Analisis Kelayakan Usaha Cairan Sabun Cuci Piring Studi Kasus PT Nirmala Resik Indonesia

This research aims to analyze the feasibility of producing dishwashing liquid, with a focus on the case study of PT Nirmala Resik Indonesia. The feasibility of this business is assessed from various aspects, including financial, market, technical, management, and environmental aspects. In the financial aspect analysis, calculations are made for the initial investment, which includes the purchase of machinery, raw materials, and operational costs. The results indicate that the required initial investment is relatively high but can provide profitable returns in the long term. Profit and loss calculations also show that this business has the potential to generate stable profits. The market aspect becomes the next focus, involving an analysis of the market demand for dishwashing liquid. Market research reveals that the demand for dishwashing liquid continues to rise, especially with the increasing awareness of cleanliness. PT Nirmala Resik Indonesia has significant opportunities to effectively market its products and participate in this positive market growth. Technical analysis includes an evaluation of PT Nirmala Resik Indonesia's ability to produce dishwashing liquid that meets quality standards and customer needs. The results show that the company has adequate technology and production capabilities to produce high-quality products. The management aspect involves an assessment of the management team and the company's business strategy. PT Nirmala Resik Indonesia has an experienced team and a commitment to business development. They also have a comprehensive business plan for long-term growth. Finally, the environmental analysis covers the impact of dishwashing liquid production on the environment. The company is expected to comply with environmental regulations and have appropriate waste management plans. Based on the analysis conducted, it can be concluded that PT Nirmala Resik Indonesia's dishwashing liquid production business has a fairly good potential for success. Despite requiring significant initial investment, positive market opportunities, adequate production capabilities, and competent management can support the success of this business. By following good business practices and adhering to environmental regulations, the company can grow and thrive sustainably in this competitive market.&#x0D; &#x0D; Keywords: business feasibility analysis, financial aspect, market growth, environmental regulations.

The Rapid interaction: a qualitative study of provider approaches to implementing Rapid ART

BackgroundOffering antiretroviral therapy (ART) to patients directly following an HIV diagnosis (“Rapid ART”) improves clinical outcomes and is feasible and acceptable for patients and providers. Despite this, implementation of Rapid ART is not yet standard practice in the USA. Structural-level implementation guidance is available, but research at the individual provider level that explores the patient-provider interaction itself remains scarce. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) provides a nuanced guide to investigating the less visible, more social elements of implementation like the knowledge and feelings of people, and the influences of culture and resources on individual approaches.MethodsWe conducted a multi-site qualitative study, exploring intervention commonalities across three HIV clinic environments: an HIV primary care clinic; an HIV/STI testing, treatment, and prevention clinic; and a large federally qualified health center (FQHC). Qualitative data were gathered from 27 provider informants—Rapid ART program staff and clinicians—using an interview guide developed using the CFIR. An experienced qualitative team conducted a comprehensive thematic analysis and identified cross-cutting themes in how providers approach and engage in the Rapid interaction, as well as longer-form narratives from providers that describe more fully what this interaction looks like for them.ResultsThree main themes represent the range and content of individual provider approaches to the Rapid interaction: (1) patient-centeredness; (2) emotional support and partnership; and (3) correcting misperceptions about HIV. Each theme encompassed both conceptual approaches to offering Rapid ART and concrete examples of messaging to the patient that providers used in the Rapid interaction. We describe and show examples of these themes, offer key take-aways for implementation, and provide expanded narratives of providers’ personal approaches to the Rapid interaction.ConclusionsExploration of provider-level approaches to Rapid ART implementation, as carried out in the patient-provider Rapid interaction, contributes a critical layer of evidence for wider implementation. It is our hope that, together with existing research showing positive outcomes and core components of systems-level implementation, these findings add to an instructive body of findings that facilitates the implementation of Rapid ART as an enhanced model of HIV care.

Phage Therapy for Diabetic Foot Infection: A Case Series

PurposeInfected diabetic foot ulcers can be difficult to treat and, despite appropriate antibiotic therapy, some diabetic foot infections (DFIs) require amputation. Bacteriophages (phages) are viruses that infect and kill bacteria. Phage therapy has been repeatedly used to successfully treat DFIs and other chronic wounds. MethodsThis article reports the provision of topical adjunctive anti-staphylococcal phage therapy to 10 patients with DFI at high risk of amputation at two UK hospitals as part of clinical care; tolerability and efficacy were clinically assessed. FindingsThe opinion of the experienced clinical teams caring for these patients was that 9 of the 10 patients appeared to benefit from adjunctive phage therapy. No adverse effects were reported by clinicians or patients. In 6 of 10 patients the clinical impression was that phage therapy facilitated clinical resolution of infection and limb salvage. Resolution of soft tissue infection was observed in a 7th patient but unresolved osteomyelitis required amputation. An 8th patient demonstrated eradication of Staphylococcus aureus from a polymicrobial infection and a 9th showed signs of clinical improvement before early cessation of phage therapy due to an unrelated event. One patient, with a weakly susceptible S aureus isolate, had no significant response. ImplicationsThis report describes the largest application of phage therapy in the United Kingdom to date and the first application of phage therapy for DFI in the United Kingdom and offers subjective hints toward impressive tolerability and efficacy. Phage therapy has the potential to transform the prevention and treatment of DFIs.

Evaluation of community-based vector surveillance system for routine entomological monitoring under low malaria vector densities and high bed net coverage in western Kenya

BackgroundEntomological surveillance is traditionally conducted by supervised teams of trained technicians. However, it is expensive and limiting in the number of sites visited. Surveillance through community-based collectors (CBC) may be more cost-effective and sustainable for longitudinal entomological monitoring. This study evaluated the efficiency of CBCs in monitoring mosquito densities compared to quality-assured sampling conducted by experienced entomology technicians.MethodsEntomological surveillance employing CBCs was conducted in eighteen clusters of villages in western Kenya using indoor and outdoor CDC light traps and indoor Prokopack aspiration. Sixty houses in each cluster were enrolled and sampled once every month. Collected mosquitoes were initially identified to the genus level by CBCs, preserved in 70% ethanol and transferred to the laboratory every 2 weeks. Parallel, collections by experienced entomology field technicians were conducted monthly by indoor and outdoor CDC light traps and indoor Prokopack aspiration and served as a quality assurance of the CBCs.ResultsPer collection, the CBCs collected 80% fewer Anopheles gambiae sensu lato (s.l.) [RR = 0.2; (95% CI 0.14–0.27)] and Anopheles coustani [RR = 0.2; (95% CI 0.06–0.53)] and 90% fewer Anopheles funestus [RR = 0.1; (95% CI 0.08–0.19)] by CDC light traps compared to the quality assured (QA) entomology teams. Significant positive correlations were however observed between the monthly collections by CBCs and QA teams for both An. gambiae and An. funestus. In paired identifications of pooled mosquitoes, the CBCs identified 4.3 times more Anopheles compared to experienced technicians. The cost per person-night was lower in the community-based sampling at $9.1 compared to $89.3 by QA per collection effort.ConclusionUnsupervised community-based mosquito surveillance collected substantially fewer mosquitoes per trap-night compared to quality-assured collection by experienced field teams, while consistently overestimating the number of Anopheles mosquitoes during identification. However, the numbers collected were significantly correlated between the CBCs and the QA teams suggesting that trends observed by CBCs and QA teams were similar. Further studies are needed to evaluate whether adopting low-cost, devolved supervision with spot checks, coupled with remedial training of the CBCs, can improve community-based collections to be considered a cost-effective alternative to surveillance conducted by experienced entomological technicians.

Hindfoot fusion with various auxiliary techniques in Charcot’s management

Abstract Introduction: Management of Charcot’s arthropathy of the hindfoot (Sanders/Frykberg Type IV) is a challenging situation to address. Complex deformities linked with ankle/hindfoot Charcot’s disease are frequently multiplanar. Due to the collapse of the distal tibia and the two bones of the hindfoot, the talus, and calcaneus, the limb frequently shortens when the skeletal architecture is damaged. A varus ankle or heel results in increased lateral column plantar pressure of the foot due to changed foot pressure loading, predisposing the patient to develop lateral foot ulceration. Collapse and secondary avascular necrosis of the talus; additional stress on the injured bone exacerbates these deformities and contributes to ulcers in the foot, instability during walking, and limb-length discrepancy. Management: The primary indication for surgical ankle stabilization is a foot that cannot be braced and is unstable during walking. Other surgical indications include imminent ulceration, nonhealing ulcers, recurring ulcers, osteomyelitis, and/or severe pain. Achieving ankle and/or hindfoot arthrodesis and correcting these complex multiplanar deformities in this location stabilizes the hindfoot. Various auxiliary techniques that can be combined with Tibio-talo-calcaneal (TTC) are tricortical iliac crest graft and femoral head allograft to build hindfoot, plate augmentation, distally mobilized fibula as biological augmentation and multiple 6.5-mm screws. The choice between internal or exterior fixation is mostly determined by the presence or absence of an active infection and the quality of the bone. Conclusion: Surgical stabilization with TTC nail for Charcot’s arthropathy of the ankle and hindfoot is associated with good clinical outcomes. Despite the high likelihood of complications, limb salvage rates are between 80% and 90%. A meticulous selection of cases, a diligent multimodal strategy, and an experienced team are required to attain this result. Assessment of vascular status, glycemic control, optimum foot care, use of protective footwear during the acute inflammatory phase to prevent inadvertent trivial foot injuries, correction of calcium and vitamin D deficiencies, and cessation of tobacco and alcohol use are preoperative factors that can improve outcomes. Various auxiliary techniques can be combined with TTC nailing for optimum results.

Anesthesia Management of a Patient with Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Recurrence and Metastasis to the Right Atrium and Superior Vena Cava: A Case Report

Postoperative recurrence and metastasis of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) to the superior vena cava (SVC) and right atrium (RA) are rare. The application of Extracorporeal Jugular-femoral Vein Bypass and anesthesia management for SVC reconstruction in this rare situation holds instructive significance. In this case, we describe the successful anesthesia management of a patient with multiple tumor thrombi due to postoperative recurrence of PTC. The diagnosis was based on computed tomography of the chest and blood vessels, revealing three-dimensional SVC, postoperative recurrence of PTC, and multiple tumor thrombi in the internal jugular vein (IJV), subclavian vein, brachiocephalic vein, SVC, and RA. An experienced multidisciplinary team was established, and a detailed plan was made for respiration and circulation support, with cardiopulmonary bypass on standby.

Are Vascularized Fibula Autografts a Long-lasting Reconstruction After Intercalary Resection of the Humerus for Primary Bone Tumors?

A vascularized fibula graft (VFG) is the vascular autograft most frequently used to restore large segmental long bone defects, particularly in the upper limb. Because the use of a vascularized fibula involves an operation in an uninvolved extremity with potential morbidity, it is important to document that this type of reconstruction is successful in restoring function to the humerus. However, the long-term results of VFG after intercalary resection of the humeral diaphysis for bone tumors are still unknown. (1) What was the complication rate of reconstruction? (2) What was the functional result after surgical treatment, as assessed by the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) score, the American Shoulder and Elbow Society (ASES) score, and Constant score? (3) What was the survivorship of these grafts free from revision and graft removal at 5, 10, and 15 years? Between 1987 and 2021, 127 patients were treated at our institution with en bloc resection for a primary malignant or an aggressive benign bone tumor of the humerus; we excluded patients treated with extra-articular resection or amputation. Of those, 14% (18 of 127) were treated with intercalary resection of the humeral diaphysis for primary bone tumors and reconstruction with VFG, with or without a bulk allograft, and were analyzed in this retrospective study. Generally, our indications for reconstruction with VFG are intercalary resection of the humerus for primary malignant or aggressive benign bone tumors in patients with long life expectancy and high functional demands, in whom adequate bone stock of the proximal and distal epiphysis can be preserved. In 13 patients, VFG was used alone, whereas in five patients, a massive allograft was used. Our policy was to use VFG combined with a massive allograft in patients undergoing juxta-articular joint-sparing resections in which proximal osteotomy was performed close to the anatomic neck of the humerus to obtain more stable fixation and better tendinous reattachment of the rotator cuff and deltoid. All 18 patients who were treated with a VFG were available for follow-up at a minimum of 2 years (median follow-up 176 months, range 26 to 275 months), and although three have not been seen in the past 5 years and are not known to have died, they had 172, 163, and 236 months of follow-up, and were included. The median age at surgery was 25 years (range 2 to 63 years), the median humeral resection length was 15 cm (range 8 to 21 cm), and the median fibular length was 16 cm (range 12 to 23 cm). Complications and functional scores were ascertained by chart review that was performed by an individual not involved in patient care. Functional results were assessed with the MSTS score (range 0 to 30), the ASES score (range 0 to 100), and the Constant score (range 0% to 100%). Survivorship was estimated using a Kaplan-Meier survivorship estimator, which was suitable because there were few deaths in this series. Seven patients underwent a revision procedure (one radial nerve transient palsy because of screw impingement, four nonunions in three patients with one humeral head avascular necrosis, treatment for screw-related pain in one patient, and two VFG fractures), and one patient underwent VFG removal. Donor site complications were observed in four patients (one ankle valgus deformity and three claw toes-the first toe in two patients and the other toes in the third). At the final clinical control, at a median follow-up of 176 months (range 26 to 275 months), the median MSTS score was 30 of 30 (range 28 to 30), the median ASES score was 98.3 (range 93 to 100), and the median Constant score was 93.5% (range 79% to 100%). Revision-free survival was 71% (95% CI 53% to 96%) at 5 years and 57% (95% CI 37% to 88%) at 10 and 15 years; VFG removal-free survival was 94% (95% CI 83% to 100%) at 5, 10, and 15 years. VFG appears to be an effective reconstructive option after humeral intercalary resection for primary bone tumors. These are complex procedures and should be performed by an experienced team of surgeons who recognize that complications may occur frequently in the first years after the procedure. The frequency of mechanical complications observed in the first 5 years postoperatively may be lessened by using long spanning-plate fixation, and if successful, this reconstruction provides a long-term, durable reconstruction with excellent functional results. Level IV, therapeutic study.