Functional Success Rate Research Articles

Outcomes of surgical interventions for the treatment of limbal stem cell deficiency.

Background & objectives:In the current scenario, with availability of different surgical procedures for limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD), there exists no common consensus as to the standardization of the management protocol for the same. In addition, there also exists diversity in the views about the clinical diagnosis, ancillary investigations and clinical parameters. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the reported outcomes of surgical interventions for the management of LSCD.Methods:A systematic review of published literature on limbal stem cell transplantation (LSCT) was performed using Ovid Medline, Embase and PubMed for a duration of 2009 to 2019. Original studies including prospective, retrospective case series and randomized controlled trials, articles in English language, articles with access to full text and studies with more than or at least 10 patients were included in this review. Data related to clinical and visual outcomes were evaluated, and pool estimates of different surgeries were calculated using random-effects model and individually using Pearson’s Chi-square test.Results:A total of 1133 abstracts were evaluated. Finally, 17 studies were included for the analysis. Among these 17 studies, direct limbal lenticule transplantation was performed in five studies, of which autologous tissue from the fellow eye [conjunctival limbal autograft (CLAU)], allograft from a cadaver/live donor [keratolimbal allograft (KLAL)/conjunctival limbal allograft (CLAL)] and combination of CLAU plus KLAL were done in one, three and one studies, respectively. The ex vivo expanded cultivated limbal epithelial transplantation (CLET) was reported in six studies and simple limbal epithelial transplantation (SLET) in four studies. Two were comparative studies comparing CLET and CLAL (living-related CLAL) with cadaveric KLAL, respectively. Outcome analysis of the included studies showed significant heterogeneity. Calculated pool rate for various types of surgeries was calculated. The pool estimate for CLAL was 67.56 per cent [95% confidence interval (CI), 41.75-93.36; I2=83.5%, P=0.002]. For KLAL, this value was 63.65 per cent (95% CI, 31.38-95.91; I2=92.4%, P=0.000). Pool estimate for CLET was 78.90 per cent (95% CI, 70.51-87.28; I2=73.6%, P=0.001). Corresponding values for SLET were 79.08 per cent (95% CI, 74.10-84.07; I2=0.0%, P=0.619). CLAU and combination of CLAU plus KLAL were done in one study each; hence, statistical analysis could not be done. The functional outcome in terms of gain in visual acuity post-operatively was better in KLAL (P<0.005) and SLET group as compared to CLET group.Interpretation & conclusions:The present analysis suggests that though the anatomical success rates were almost identical between SLET, CLET, CLAL, and KLAL procedures, the functional success rates were better following KLAL and SLET procedures as compared to CLET. Decision for LSCT for cases of ocular burns based on either clinical judgement of the surgeon or individual diagnosis remains a suitable option.

Side-by-side versus stent-in-stent bilateral stenting for malignant hilar biliary obstruction: a meta-analysis.

IntroductionBoth side-by-side (SBS) and stent-in-stent (SIS) bilateral stenting have been used for patients with malignant hilar biliary obstruction (MHBO). However, it is unclear which technique is better.AimThis meta-analysis is conducted to investigate the clinical efficacy and safety of SBS and SIS bilateral stenting for patients with MHBO.Material and methodsRelevant studies were searched in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Wanfang, VIP, and CINK databases. The timeline for the searches was from the establishment of the database to September 2021. The relative outcomes are pooled.ResultsA total of 7 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria and entered into this meta-analysis. The pooled technical success rate was significant higher in the SIS group than that in the SBS group (p = 0.04). The pooled early complication rate was significantly lower in the SIS group than in the SBS group (p = 0.04). The pooled stent re-obstruction rate was significantly lower in the SBS group than in the SIS group (p = 0.04). The pooled stent patency duration was significantly longer in the SBS group than in the SIS group (p = 0.01). The pooled functional success rates (p = 0.79), total complication rates (p = 0.34), and overall survival duration (p = 0.27) were comparable between 2 groups. Egger test did not show any publication bias.ConclusionsWhen comparing the SBS and SIS bilateral stenting for patients with MHBO, although SIS technique may have the superiorities of technical success and early complication rates, the longer stent patency was achieved by the SBS technique.

Voice rehabilitation with phonatory prosthesis after total laryngectomy and pharyngolaryngectomy: comparison of functional outcomes between primary and secondary puncture

&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background:&lt;/strong&gt; Tracheoesophageal puncture (TEP) with voice prosthesis (VP) placement is considered the standard for vocal rehabilitation after total laryngectomy (TL). This study aimed to compare the success rate of primary and secondary TEP and to evaluate the impact of clinical factors on functional outcome.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Methods:&lt;/strong&gt; A retrospective medical chart review was conducted in patients who underwent TL or pharyngolaryngectomy (PLT) and TEP. Variables collected included age, gender, comorbidities, tumor location and stage, extension of surgical resection, reconstruction, neck dissection, radiation therapy, salvage surgery, device lifetime, postoperative complications and successful voice restoration.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Results:&lt;/strong&gt; A total of 186 patients were enrolled in this study, 164 patients (88.2%) underwent primary TEP and 22 (11.8%) secondary TEP. Successful voice rehabilitation was achieved in 76.9% of patients and there was no difference between primary and secondary TEP groups (76.2% vs. 81.8%, p=0.76). A poorer voice restoration outcome was found in patients who underwent radiation therapy (p=0.01) or salvage surgery (p=0.03). Adjuvant radiation was the only independent prognostic factor for functional success (OR=4.7, IC 95%= 1.4-15.9, p=0.04). VP related complications occurred in 65.7% of patients, with higher incidence in secondary TEP group (90.9% vs. 67.7%, p=0.03). Overall device lifetime was similar between primary and secondary groups (9.2 vs. 8.7 months, p=0.89).&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conclusions:&lt;/strong&gt; Voice rehabilitation outcome was similar with primary and secondary TEP. However, TEP related complications were more common in secondary procedures. Primary TEP allows earlier voice restoration, avoiding a second surgical intervention. Functional success rate was poorer for patients who underwent radiation therapy.&lt;/p&gt;

A novel monocanalicular silicone intubation technique for canalicular laceration repair

This study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy and reliability of a novel monocanalicular silicone intubation (nMCI) technique for canalicular laceration repair in a series of patients treated over a 3-year period. The case records of 86 patients (86 eyes) who had undergone nMCI-based surgical repair of canalicular lacerations were retrospectively reviewed. The silicone tube removal was planned for 3 months postoperatively. A minimal follow-up of 6 months was adopted for the final analysis. The primary outcome measures included anatomical patency on irrigation and relief from epiphora, which were assessed subjectively and objectively through a fluorescein dye disappearance test. A total of 86 patients (72 males and 14 females; mean age = 34 years) were included. The upper canaliculus was damaged in 13 cases, while the lower canaliculus was damaged in 73 cases. Successful stenting was achieved in all cases. The postoperative eyelid position was satisfactory in the majority of the patients. The mean period of stenting was 3 months, while the mean postoperative follow-up period was 6 months. There were no cases of premature stent extrusion. The functional drainage following stent removal was normal in 95% of the patients, while the syringing revealed full patency with no narrowing or reflux. The present results suggest that the nMCI technique presents an effective and atraumatic surgical approach for adult patients with canalicular lacerations. The main advantages of the technique are the simple insertion and the easy removal of the tube, which results in high anatomical and functional success rates and offers an effective alternative in the treatment of monocanalicular lacerations.

Comparison of the Hearing Results of Total Ossicular Chain Autogenous Mastoid Cortical Bone Ossiculoplasty and Titanium Total Ossicular Replacement Prosthesis in Patients with Cholesteatoma

Background: No studies have investigated the results of ossicular chain reconstruction using mastoid cortical bone ossiculoplasty (MCBO) and titanium total ossicular replacement prosthesis (TiTORP) in Austin-Kartush Group D cholesteatoma patients with severe middle ear risk index (MERI). Objectives: The present study aimed to compare the hearing results of MCBO and TiTORP in Austin-Kartush Group D cholesteatoma patients with severe MERI who underwent ossicular chain reconstruction during primary surgery. Methods: The hearing results of 28 adult cholesteatoma patients who underwent tympanomastoidectomy and ossicular chain reconstruction with MCBO (n=15) or TiTORP (n=13) were analyzed in the current study. The postoperative hearing was tested 12 months after the surgery. The hearing-related functional success rate was determined in accordance with the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation criteria. Results: When all patients were taken into account, the mean preoperative and postoperative air-bone gaps (ABG) were reported as 32.2 decibel (dB) and 17.6 dB, respectively, (P&lt;0.001). In 57.1% of the patients, the mean postoperative ABG was ≤ 20 dB. The mean preoperative and postoperative ABGs of the MCBO group were obtained at 29.9 and 16.2 dB, while these values were reported as 35.0 and 19.3 dB in the TiTORP group (P=0.001 and P&lt;0.001, respectively). Hearing-related functional success rates were calculated at 60.0% and 53.8% in MCBO and TiTORP groups, respectively, without any significant difference between the groups (P= 0.743). Conclusion: As evidenced by the obtained results, MCBO and TiTORP can provide similar and successful hearing results in Austin-Kartush Group D patients with cholesteatoma; nonetheless, MCBO is a more cost-effective option in this regard.

Influence of Surgical Techniques on Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Endoscopic endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy (END-DCR) has increased as a valid alternative to the classic external approach to treat distal lacrimal obstruction. Different surgical varieties of the END-DCR approach have been proposed with no clear understanding of the best surgical technique. A comprehensive research was performed in PubMed, Embase, SCOPUS, and Cochrane databases with a final search on March 2020. The aim of this search was to identify relevant END-DCR procedures performed with mechanical (Mecn-END-DCR) and powered (Pow-END-DCR) approaches to compare their functional success rate. In addition, the influence of mucosal flaps was evaluated. Articles were selected only if they were published later than 2000 and had at least 50 single-clinician surgical procedures performed. Excluded articles included acute infections, cancers, mixed cohort study, and revision cases. A total of 11,445 publications were identified and 2741 reviewed after screening; 15 articles were included after full-text review (0.6% of the initial articles reviewed). The mean success rate was 91.34% (95% CI, 87.1%-94.3%) for Pow-END-DCR and 89.5% (95% CI, 86.5%-91.9%) for Mecn-END-DCR with no significant difference between the surgical approaches (P = .43). For mucosal flaps performed during END-DCR, the mean success rate was 89% (95% CI, 86%-91%) if mucosal flaps were used and 92% (95% CI, 88%-95%) if they were not used, with no statistical difference present (P = .14). Our analyses suggest that there are no differences in outcomes between mechanical and powered approaches in END-DCR and that mucosal flap preservation is not essential to achieve a superior END-DCR outcome.

The safety and efficacy of self-expandable metallic stent placement for malignant biliary obstruction with surgically altered anatomy

Background Single-balloon enteroscopy-assisted endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (SBE-ERCP) has been increasingly performed for the treatment of malignant biliary obstruction (MBO) in patients with surgically altered anatomy (SAA), however evidence is scarce. Therefore, we conducted this study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of self-expandable metallic stent (SEMS) placement using a short type SBE. Methods We retrospectively examined consecutive patients with SAA who received initial SEMS for MBO at our institution between February 2016 and February 2019. We evaluated patient characteristics, technical and functional success rates, time to recurrent biliary obstruction (TRBO) and complications according to the location of the biliary stricture. Results A total of 26 patients were included in this study. The primary tumor was gastric cancer in 12, pancreatic cancer in 6, cholangiocarcinoma in 6 and gallbladder cancer in 2. The biliary stricture site was distal bile duct in 14, hilar bile duct in 3 and hepaticojejunostomy (HJ) anastomosis in 9. Technical and functional success rates were 92 and 88%, respectively. TRBO, median survival time, overall rate of RBO and early complications were not different according to the stricture site (p=.36, .67, .67 and .12, respectively), whereas late complications were significantly different among the three groups (Distal vs. Hilar vs. HJ anastomosis; 0 vs. 67 vs. 22%, p<.05). Furthermore, stent patency was not different between fully covered and uncovered SEMS in distal MBO. Conclusions SEMS placement via SBE-ERCP was safe and effective for the management of MBO in patients with SAA, especially in distal MBO.

Psödofakik Retina Dekolmanlı Hastaların Demografik ve Klinik Özellikleri ve Bunların Cerrahi Başarıya Etkisi

Aim: In this study, we aimed to determine the demographic and clinical characteristics of patients who underwent surgical treatment for pseudophakic retinal detachment (PRD) and evaluate the effects of these characteristics on the success of the surgery. Materials and Methods: The study included 60 eyes of 60 patients who were diagnosed with PRD at the Retina Section of the 1st Eye Clinic of the Beyoğlu Eye Training and Research Hospital between February 2006 and January 2009. Demographic and pre-, peri- and postoperative clinical data of the patients were recorded. Results: The mean patient age was 58.45±14.91 years. Of the patients, 46 (76.7%) were male and 14 (23.3%) were female. Fifty-two (86.6%) patients underwent phacoemulsification surgery, 1 (1.6%) planned extracapsular cataract extraction, 1 (1.6%) intracapsular cataract extraction, 3 (5%) refractive clear lens extraction, and 3 (5%) lens extraction with irrigation/aspiration for diagnosed pediatric cataract. Twenty-two (36.6%) patients underwent posterior chamber lens implantation in the capsule, 32 (53.3%) posterior chamber lens implantation in the sulcus, 4 (6.6%) anterior chamber lens implantation, and 2 (3.3%) scleral-fixated lens implantation. In 44 (73%) patients, the posterior capsule integrity was impaired. A tear was detected in 27 (45%) patients during the preoperative retinal examination and in 18 (30%) patients during the surgery. No tear was detected in 15 (25%) of the patients. To treat the patients, four different surgical procedures were performed depending on factors including the proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) stage, condition of the lens and posterior capsule, and location of the retinal tear: 360-degree scleral encircling band + local explant (Group I), 360-degree scleral encircling band + pars plana vitrectomy + tamponade (Group 2), 360-degree scleral encircling band + pars plana vitrectomy + intraocular lens removal + tamponade (Group III), and 23G pars plana vitrectomy + tamponade (Group IV). The mean follow-up was 18.3±5.2 (6–32) months. At the last follow-up visits, anatomical success was achieved in 58 (96.6%) of the 60 patients while 17 (32%) showed functional success. The functional success rate was higher in patients in the early stages (up to C1) of PVR (p&amp;lt;0.001). Discussion and Conclusion: According to our findings, PVR stage is directly related to anatomical and functional success in PRD. Surgical treatment is more successful in PRD patients with early-stage PVR.

Endogenous Endophthalmitis: A Review of Case Series Published between 2011 and 2020.

This is a literature review of 31 case series of endogenous endophthalmitis (EE) published in the last ten years, identified from a literature search of several databases (PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library). While diabetes mellitus and malignancies remain the most frequently associated medical conditions, intravenous drug use is a significant risk factor (especially in the last years, in studies from Western countries). Ophthalmologic screening is recommended for candidaemia, but not in patients with sepsis of other aetiologies (however, the physician treating patients with sepsis must be well aware of EE). The most frequent Gram-positive microorganisms that cause EE are Staphylococcus and Streptococcus; the most frequent Gram-negative organism is Pseudomonas, and yeasts, probably Candida, usually cause fungal infections. In all-cause EE, prognostic factors of better visual outcomes are initial VA better than counting fingers, performing a pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), performing an intravitreal injection within the first 24 hours after clinical diagnosis, and the presence of a focal type of EE. In endogenous fungal endophthalmitis, more than 1/4 of patients have bilateral involvement. Blood samples have a low rate of positivity. Yeasts remain the most prevalent cause. Many authors report using azoles and echinocandins for systemic therapy (and voriconazole for intravitreal injections). Although PPV was performed in small proportions of eyes, the anatomical success rate is quite high. Klebsiella pneumoniae is an important cause of EE in Southeast Asia (and probably an emergent etiology in other regions), which is frequently associated with diabetes. There is a robust association with pyogenic liver abscess (PLA) (but in up to half of the cases, the diagnosis of EE precedes that of PLA). Blood cultures have a high diagnostic yield, while vitreous samples have a low yield. K. pneumoniae may carry antibiotic resistance. Anatomical and functional success rates are small, but they may be improved with PPV.

Feasibility of biliary stenting to distal malignant biliary obstruction using a novel designed metal stent with duckbill-shaped anti-reflux valve.

Anti-reflux metal stent (ARMS) has been used to prevent recurrent biliary obstruction (RBO) due to sludge formation or food impaction. However, the most suitable ARMS remains to be identified. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of biliary drainage using duckbill-shaped ARMS (D-ARMS). This was a multicenter, retrospective observational study conducted at three Japanese tertiary institutions. Patients with distal malignant biliary obstruction who underwent biliary stenting using D-ARMS were eligible to participate. Technical success, functional success, adverse event (AE), and time to RBO (TRBO) were evaluated. Thirty patients underwent biliary stenting using D-ARMS from December 2018 to October 2019. The technical success rate and functional success rate were 93% and 87%, respectively. However, nonvisibility of the markers at the tip of the metal stent or spontaneous extension was occasionally observed, making biliary stenting using D-ARMS difficult. Early AE occurred in 10% of the patients including cholangitis and pancreatitis. During the median postprocedural observation time of 5.1months (range, 0.8-22.8), RBO occurred in 33% and the median TRBO was 261days. As for reintervention, D-ARMS could be extracted in 67% of the patients with RBO. However, the stent was torn off on removal in half of the patients. Although some modifications are still needed, D-ARMS was feasible and safe for biliary drainage, and sufficient TRBO was achieved. Subsequent multi-institutional studies involving a larger number of patients and a longer follow-up period are warranted to validate the present results.

Endoscopy-guided diode laser-assisted transcaruncular StopLoss Jones tube implantation for canalicular obstructions in primary surgery

PurposeTo introduce and evaluate a minimally-invasive endoscopy-guided transcaruncular laser-assisted StopLoss Jones tube (SLJT) implantation technique for severe canalicular obstructions in primary surgeries.MethodsWe retrospectively identified 12 adult patients (12 eyes) with severe epiphora secondary to long-segment canalicular obstructions. All the 12 eyes underwent an endoscopy-guided transcaruncular SLJT implantation with an 810-nm diode laser’s assistance as the primary surgical approach. Surgical and functional success rates, intraoperative and postoperative complications, as well as the need for secondary surgery, are evaluated.ResultsPrimary surgical success was achieved in 11 of the 12 cases (92%); one patient (8%) required secondary surgery to replace an SLJT with a shorter one. Ultimately, all cases showed well-placed functioning tubes. Three of the 12 cases (25%) presented conjunctival scarring, conjunctival granulation tissue, with or without tube-associated irritation of the ocular surface. We observed no sink-in, extrusion, nor crack of the tube. Complete functional success was achieved in 83%, and moderate functional success in 17% of all patients. The functionally unsuccessful outcome was not present in this study.ConclusionEndoscopy-guided transcaruncular diode laser-assisted SLJT implantation seems to be a promising minimally invasive approach for primary treatment of severe canalicular dacryostenosis. This novel technique shows high functional success rates. It seems to avoid the risk of tube malposition and extrusion, septal and turbinate injury, nasal adhesion, drainage failure, ethmoiditis, postoperative bleeding, and cutaneous scars.

Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Antegrade Radiofrequency Ablation and Metal Stenting With Hepaticoenterostomy for Malignant Biliary Obstruction: A Prospective Preliminary Study.

OBJECTIVES:Endobiliary radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for malignant biliary obstruction is a promising option for improving biliary stent patency, but its efficacy and safety with endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided biliary drainage are uncertain. We examined the feasibility of EUS-guided hepaticoenterostomy with antegrade stenting (EUS-HEAS) and RFA in patients with unresectable malignant biliary obstruction.METHODS:This was a prospective, single-center, single-arm, preliminary study. Twenty patients who met the eligibility criteria for inclusion between August 2018 and January 2020 were enrolled. We evaluated the technical success, functional success, recurrent biliary obstruction (RBO), and adverse events other than RBO associated with EUS-HEAS with RFA.RESULTS:The technical and functional success rates were both 80% (16/20). The procedure was unsuccessful in a total of 4 patients due to failure to insert the RFA catheter through the fistula (2 patients) or failure to pass the RFA catheter through the stricture (2 patients). Early and late adverse events other than RBO occurred in 10% (2/20) and 13% (2/16) of subjects, respectively. The RBO rate was 25% (4/16), and the median time to RBO was 276 days. The success rate of endoscopic reintervention using hepaticoenterostomy was 100% (4/4).DISCUSSION:This preliminary study showed that EUS-HEAS with RFA achieves good results but RFA catheter insertion can be difficult. Further evaluation and device improvements are warranted.

Outcomes of suprachoroidal haemorrhage drainage with and without vitrectomy: a 10-year study.

The management of suprachoroidal haemorrhage (SCH) remains a challenge. We aimed to analyse and discuss the safety and efficacy outcomes of SCH drainage surgery over a 10-year period in one of the largest tertiary centres in the UK. Retrospective observational study of consecutive patients who underwent SCH drainage in Manchester Royal Eye Hospital over a 10-year period (from 2008 to 2018). Safety and efficacy were assessed by analysing surgery-related complications and functional and anatomical success. Outcomes of those who underwent external drainage alone versus combined drainage and vitrectomy were compared. Twenty consecutive patients with a mean age of 70 ± 19 years were studied. Age over 70 years, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and glaucoma were the most common risk factors for SCH. Eleven patients underwent external drainage alone and nine patients had combined vitrectomy and drainage. Overall, mean pre-operative BCVA improved from 2.22 ± 0.26 logMAR (20/3319 Snellen) to 1.42 ± 1.02 LogMAR (20/526 Snellen) at last follow-up visit (p = 0.002). Severe hypotony occurred in 4 patients. Overall anatomical and functional success rates were both 75%. Drainage of SCH with or without vitrectomy is a valuable approach in the management of extensive SCH, a condition generally associated with poor prognosis.

Long-term outcomes after pyeloplasty for pelvi-ureteric junction obstruction in adults associated with renal congenital anomalies: Age, sex and renal function matched analysis

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the long-term outcomes after pyeloplasty for pelvi-ureteric junction obstruction (PUJO) associated with renal anomalies. Patients and methods: Data were collected for patients after pyeloplasty for PUJO associated with renal anomalies and analysed retrospectively. Long-term functional success was evaluated by comparing the renographic split renal function (SRF) and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) at last follow-up with baseline values. A change of 5% in SRF was considered significant. Factors affecting functional outcome were assessed. The outcomes were compared to an age, sex and renal function matched group with PUJO in otherwise normal kidneys (Group 2) to evaluate the pattern of difference in functional recoverability in both groups. This was assessed using repeated-measures analysis of variance. Results: The study initially included 70 adult patients, with a mean age of 31.8 years. At a median of 44 months, 55 patients completed follow-up (Group 1) and no statistically significant changes in GFR (P = 0.7) and SRF (P = 0.06) were found. In all, 17, four and 34 patients showed a decrease, increase and static SRF (functional success rate was 69%). Higher preoperative SRF (P = 0.02) and Anderson–Hynes (A–H) pyeloplasty (P = 0.003) were associated with functional preservation. In the comparison with the other matched group (Group 2), the patients in Group 2 had better functional recoverability after pyeloplasty than patients with associated anomalies [GFR (P = 0.001), SRF (P = 0.002) and functional success (P = 0.001)]. Conclusion: Functional preservation after pyeloplasty in associated renal anomalies could be achieved in 69% of patients, which was significantly lower than those with otherwise normal kidneys. A–H pyeloplasty and higher preoperative SRF were associated with better functional outcomes. Abbreviations: A–H: Anderson–Hynes; HSK: horseshoe kidneys; OR: odds ratio; PUJO: PUJ obstruction; SRF: split renal function; T1/2, half-time

Surgical outcomes of the anterior versus posterior approach for advancement of the levator aponeurosis in Japanese patients

To compare the surgical outcomes of the anterior and posterior approaches for advancement of the levator aponeurosis for aponeurotic blepharoptosis in relation to levator function (LF). This retrospective study included 223 eyelids from 125 patients with aponeurotic blepharoptosis. The anterior approach was used for 115 eyelids from 65 patients (anterior group), while the posterior approach was used in 108 eyelids from 60 patients (posterior group). Patients were subdivided into two groups in accordance with their LF (fair: 5-10 mm; good: > 10 mm). Functional success was defined as a margin reflex distance of 2-5 mm without serious complications at 3 months postoperatively. Cosmetic success was defined as the achievement of ≤ 1 mm laterality of the upper eyelid height, ≤ 2 mm laterality of the pretarsal show, and eyelid contour symmetry at 3 months postoperatively. The functional success rates of the anterior and posterior groups were comparable for patients with good LF (78.9% vs 87.7%, p = 0.228), whereas it was better in the posterior group (85.7%) than the anterior group (64.1%) in the total group (p = 0.022) and in patients with fair LF (p = 0.031). The posterior group achieved better cosmetic success than the anterior group regarding upper eyelid height symmetry (p = 0.042) and pretarsal show (p = 0.012). No serious complications occurred during follow-up. The posterior approach achieved better functional and cosmetic outcomes than the anterior approach, indicating that the posterior approach is more useful in patients with aponeurotic blepharoptosis, particularly for those with only fair LF.

Endoscopic transnasal canaliculorhinostomy for refractory common canalicular obstruction with an unidentifiable lacrimal sac.

To describe the role of endoscopic transnasal canaliculorhinostomy (ETC) in refractory common canalicular obstruction (CCO) associated with an absent or unidentifiable lacrimal sac. The records of patients with refractory CCO who underwent ETC at the Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University from October 2007 to December 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. Fifty-six patients (56 eyes) with refractory CCO were recruited into the study. Eight patients were excluded due to the presence of a residual lacrimal sac or failure to complete the follow-up duration. The anatomic and functional success rates were both 85.4% (41/48) at a mean follow-up of 18.6mo. Five cases failed as a result of ostial synechia and two failed because of ostial obstruction by granulation. Postoperative complications included mild nasal bleeding in 5 cases, dried nasal feeling in 8 cases, and olfactory dysfunction in 4 cases. Although being surgically challenging, ETC has comparable findings to its external approach counterpart or conjunctivodacryocystorhinostomy (CDCR) with Jones tube. And it may prove to be a novel alternate surgical technique for patients with refractory CCO without identifiable lacrimal sac.

MANCHESTER REVISIONAL MACULAR HOLE STUDY: Predictive Value of Optical Coherence Tomography Parameters on Outcomes of Repeat Vitrectomy, Extension of Internal Limiting Membrane Peel, and Gas Tamponade for Persistent Macular Holes.

To evaluate the efficacy of repeat pars plana vitrectomy and gas tamponade for persistent macular holes (MHs), especially looking at a predictive value of optical coherence tomography parameters in revisional surgery. Retrospective, nonrandomized interventional case series of consecutive patients with a persistent MH that underwent revisional pars plana vitrectomy and gas tamponade. The primary outcome measure was anatomical closure of the MH after revisional surgery. The secondary outcome measure was a functional outcome of the MH closure based on the best-corrected visual acuity. The changes of minimum linear diameter and MH index after the primary surgery were evaluated to see if they were prognostic markers of success for the revisional surgery. A total of 27 patients with a persistent MH after primary MH surgery were identified, all of whom underwent a second operation with pars plana vitrectomy and gas tamponade with an internal limiting membrane peel extension in 20 cases. The MH closure rate after revisional surgery was 89% (24/27). Twenty-two cases were included in the optical coherence tomography analysis, of which 14 MHs that showed both a reduction of the minimum linear diameter and an increase in the MH index after the primary repair closed after revisional surgery. The mean best-corrected visual acuity before revisional surgery was 0.86 logMAR (20/145 Snellen) but increased significantly postoperatively to 0.69 (±0.15) logMAR (20/98 Snellen) at 3 months and to 0.49 logMAR (20/62 Snellen) at 12 months. For a persistent idiopathic MH, simple repeat pars plana vitrectomy with gas tamponade has a good anatomical and functional success rate in selected cases. The minimum linear diameter and MH index can be useful optical coherence tomography markers for prognostic guidance.

Reoperation rate and outcomes following the placement of polypropylene mesh by the vaginal route for cystocele: very long-term follow-up.

The aim was to evaluate the reoperation rate and outcomes in women who underwent transvaginal non-absorbable monofilament polypropylene mesh placement for the treatment of cystocele. The retrospective cohort study included 63 patients who underwent transvaginal surgery using a synthetic polypropylene mesh (Gynemesh™) for cystocele. Patients were evaluated using a clinical examination (POP-Q) and validated questionnaires (PGI-I, PFDI-20, PFIQ-7) at 18years of follow-up (median 18years [IQR 16-19]). Cumulative death rate was 13 out of 63 (20%) and rate of total loss to follow-up was 21 out of 50 (42%). Finally, among the 63 women who underwent surgery, 29 completed maximum follow-up and 21 underwent a clinical examination. The cumulative reoperation rate was 35% (22 out of 63). Three patients were reoperated on because of recurrence of pelvic organ prolapse. Among the 63 patients initially operated, vaginal mesh exposure occurred in 16 (25%) during follow-up and 11 women (17%) needed a reintervention for vaginal mesh exposure. One patient was reoperated on for bladder mesh exposure. Among the 29 women who completed follow-up, the overall postoperative improvement rate was 93% after 18years (PGI-I: 1-3). Mean overall satisfaction rate was 80 out of 100. Functional success rate was 76% (22 out of 29) and anatomical success rate was 62% (13 out of 21). The median score of the POP-DI-6 was 4.1 (IQR: 0-11) and the median score of the PFDI-20 was 30.7 (IQR: 13-60) in the 29 women who completed maximum follow-up. At very long-term follow-up, the recurrence rate of cystocele following polypropylene mesh placement by the vaginal route remained low and the satisfaction rate was high. However, we found high cumulative reoperation and mesh exposure rates.

Long-term outcomes of therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty for microbial keratitis in a tertiary care center in Turkey

To present the long-term results of therapeutic keratoplasty for microbial keratitis in moderate to advanced phases. The medical records of 44 patients who underwent therapeutic keratoplasty for microbial keratitis at the ophthalmology clinic of a training and research hospital between June 2012 and March 2018 were reviewed in this retrospective study. Of the 65 patients that underwent TPKP, 44 eyes of 44 patients met the inclusion criteria and enrolled in this study. The most commonly found predisposing factor for keratitis was a history of trauma (n = 17, 38.6%), and most of them had occurred with a vegetative matter (n = 14, 31.8%). The most common clinically suspected cause was fungal (n = 17, 38.6%) followed by bacterial (n = 12, 27.3%). In 26 (59.1%) cases, the causative microorganism could not be proved with a microbial culture. The most common causative microorganism was Staphylococcus spp. (n = 4, 9.1%), followed by Fusarium solanii (n = 3, 6.8%). The mean follow-up time was 42 (range 12-54) months. At the last follow-up visit, anatomical success was achieved in 40 (90.9%) cases and the BCVA of more than half of the patients was over 1.0 (logMAR, n = 24, 54.5%). Most commonly seen complication was found to be secondary glaucoma (n = 19, 43.2%), followed by cataracts (n = 9, 34.6%) and graft rejection (n = 12, 27.3%). TPKP offers a definitive solution in the management of microbial keratitis with high rates of anatomical and functional success. However, secondary glaucoma is the most common complication after TPKP, which was seen in almost half of the patients.

Ostium Characteristics and Its Relevance in Successful Outcome Following Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy.

Study aims to assess the postoperative ostium shrinkage pattern and also attempted to evaluate various ostium parameters and their impact on surgical outcome by using DOS scoring system. Prospective study comprising 44 patients of NLD obstruction with 52 procedures performed during October 2016 to November 2018. Various dimensions of bony neo-ostium were recorded intraoperatively and during 1st, 3rd and 6th month follow up. Degree of ostium shrinkage and its correlation with anatomical and functional success was studied. DCR ostium (DOS) scoring system, comprised of ten various ostium parameters, was used to evaluate postoperative ostium. Intraoperative mean ostium height and width were 13.67 ± 2.76mm and 7.0 ± 1.94mm and surface area was 98.33 ± 38.46 mm2. Maximum ostium shrinkage (by 66.93%) occurred at 1month and after which, average size of ostium was quite stable with little change. The anatomical and functional success rate was 94.23% and failure rate was 5.77%. DOS score was "excellent" in 40(75.92%), "good" in 9(17.31%) and "poor" in 3(5.77%) cases. Meticulous evaluation at regular intervals is important for surgeon to understand the characters of ostium during healing and also helps in early detection of pathologies and may facilitate early corrective intervention. We believe that DOS system provides an effective protocol to standardize the ostium evaluation. The ostium parameters with favourable surgical outcome are ostium location anterior to axilla of MT, circular/ oval shape with shallow base, size > 8 × 5mm, clearly visualized and dynamic ICO, absence of ostium cicatrization, granulomas, synechiae and other pathologies.