Higher Risk Of Wound Complications Research Articles

Wound complication rates after anterior total hip arthroplasty: A case series comparison of interrupted vs. continuous sutures for skin closure

BackgroundThe anterior approach for total hip arthroplasty (THA) carries a higher risk of wound complications, which can significantly affect patient outcomes and increase healthcare costs. There is limited research comparing infection rates based on closure techniques in patients who undergo THA. Therefore, this study aims to compare wound complications based on interrupted or continuous sutures for skin closure after anterior approach THA. MethodsThis single-surgeon retrospective study extracted data from 388 patients who had undergone a primary THA using the anterior approach. Patient demographics, comorbidities, perioperative factors, and infection-related complications were recorded. All variables associated with a given infection complication were controlled for in a binary logistic regression model. ResultsAfter controlling for confounding variables, wound closure type was not associated with any infectious complications. BMI was a strongly associated factor in PJI (p = 0.028; 95 % CI = 1.02–1.34), prolonged drainage (p < 0.001; 95 % CI = 1.08–1.28), readmission (p = 0.023; 95 % CI = 1.01–1.20), and I&D and revision surgery (p = 0.021; 95 % CI = 1.02–1.31). ConclusionBody mass index was the sole factor associated with a higher risk of wound complications postoperatively. These findings suggest a non-inferiority between continuous and interrupted suture closure techniques regarding wound-related infectious complications in anterior total hip arthroplasty.

Higher Risk of Wound Complications but No Clinically Significant Increase in Operative Time for Smokers Receiving Myomectomy for Uterine Fibroids

Myomectomy is a common procedure to remove uterine fibroids. Smoking impacts outcomes across various surgeries; however, may limit fibroid growth. We sought to determine if smoking impacts myomectomy for uterine fibroid removal outcomes. Patients with and without a history of tobacco smoking receiving a myomectomy for uterine fibroid removal were compared. Compared to patients with no history of tobacco smoking, tobacco smokers had a significantly increased risk of wound complications. No other variables analyzed demonstrated a clinically significant difference. Future research is needed to examine how different frequency of tobacco smoking impacts outcomes.

Critical values for body mass index related to morbidity in high-volume low-complexity general surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of body mass index (BMI, kg/m2) on outcomes of high-volume low-complexity (HVLC) general surgery procedures and to determine critical values for BMI when selecting patients into HVLC programmes. A systematic review was conducted of studies looking at patients in different BMI categories undergoing HVLC general surgery procedures (laparoscopic cholecystectomy, inguinal hernia repair and umbilical or paraumbilical hernia repair), in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. A comparison meta-analysis model was constructed to compare the outcomes using random-effects modelling. The QUIPS (Quality In Prognosis Studies) tool and GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) system were used to assess bias. A total of 26 studies including 486,392 patients were examined. In laparoscopic cholecystectomy, BMI ≥40 was associated with higher conversion to open surgery (odds ratio [OR]: 1.33, p=0.040) but did not affect complications (OR: 0.69, p=0.400) or length of hospital stay (mean difference [MD]: -0.01 days, p=0.900). In inguinal hernia repair, BMI ≥35 was associated with longer operative time (MD: 18.00 minutes, p<0.00001), and higher risk of wound complications (OR: 3.01, p<0.00001) and hospital readmission (OR: 1.46, p=0.0008). In umbilical or paraumbilical hernia repair, BMI ≥30 was associated with higher risk of wound complications (OR: 6.45, p<0.0001) and hospital readmission (OR: 5.56, p<0.00001), and longer operative time (MD: 4.01 minutes, p=0.030). Obesity was associated with longer operative time (up to 23 minutes) and higher risk of postoperative morbidity (up to 4-fold) in HVLC procedures. BMI <40 (moderate GRADE certainty - laparoscopic cholecystectomy) and BMI <35 (moderate GRADE certainty - inguinal hernia) appear to represent optimal critical values for perioperative safety metrics.

Phase II Clinical Trial of Intravenous Levothyroxine to Mitigate Pharyngocutaneous Fistula in Euthyroid Patients Undergoing Salvage Laryngectomy.

Patients undergoing head and neck cancer surgery after prior radiation or chemoradiation are at high risk for wound complications. Hypothyroidism is a known risk factor for wound complications, especially fistulae after salvage total laryngectomy. The purpose of this phase II clinical trial is to investigate the effect of perioperative intravenous levothyroxine supplementation on wound complications in patients undergoing salvage total laryngectomy. Euthyroid patients previously treated with radiation/chemoradiation undergoing total laryngectomy were prospectively recruited (n = 72). Postoperatively, intravenous levothyroxine was administered at a weight-based dose (1.3 mcg/kg/d) and transitioned to enteral dosing on day 7. Free T3, T4, and thyroid-stimulating hormones were collected, and dosing was adjusted accordingly. The primary endpoints were rates of fistula formation and fistula requiring reoperation, compared with matched historic controls. All patients were monitored for adverse effects. The rate of postoperative hypothyroidism was 21% compared with 49% in a matched historic cohort. The rate of fistula formation was 18.1%, whereas the rate of fistula requiring reoperation was 4.2%, significantly lower than rates in our historic cohort (34.6% and 14.8%, respectively; P = 0.02 and 0.01). Postoperative hypothyroidism and recurrent clinical stage predicted fistula requiring reoperation in multivariate analysis; other acute phase reactants were not predictive. There were no observed adverse events related to levothyroxine supplementation. Postoperative intravenous levothyroxine supplementation reduced rates of acute hypothyroidism, fistula formation, and fistula requiring reoperation in patients undergoing salvage total laryngectomy without adverse effects. Intravenous levothyroxine is a viable strategy to reduce wound complications in this high-risk patient population.

Prospective evaluation of a closed-incision negative pressure wound therapy system in kidney transplantation and its association with wound complications.

Wound complications can cause considerable morbidity in kidney transplantation. Closed-incision negative pressure wound therapy (ciNPWT) systems have been efficacious in reducing wound complications across surgical specialties. The aims of this study were to evaluate the use of ciNPWT, Prevena™, in kidney transplant recipients and to determine any association with wound complications. A single-center, prospective observational cohort study was performed in 2018. A total of 30 consecutive kidney transplant recipients deemed at high risk for wound complications received ciNPWT, and the results were compared to those of a historical cohort of subjects who received conventional dressings. Analysis for recipients with obesity and propensity score matching were performed. In total, 127 subjects were included in the analysis. Of these, 30 received a ciNPWT dressing and were compared with 97 subjects from a non-study historical control group who had conventional dressing. The overall wound complication rate was 21.3% (27/127). There was no reduction in the rate of wound complications with ciNPWT when compared with conventional dressing [23.3% (7/30) and 20.6% (20/97), respectively, p = 0.75]. In the obese subset (BMI ≥30 kg/m2), there was no significant reduction in wound complications [31.1% (5/16) and 36.8% (7/19), respectively, p = 0.73]. Propensity score matching yielded 26 matched pairs with equivalent rates of wound complications (23.1%, 6/26). This is the first reported cohort study evaluating the use of ciNPWT in kidney transplantation. While ciNPWT is safe and well tolerated, it is not associated with a statistically significant reduction in wound complications when compared to conventional dressing. The findings from this study will be used to inform future studies associated with ciNPWT in kidney transplantation.

Tibiotalar nailing using an antegrade intramedullary tibial nail: a salvage procedure for unstable distal tibia and ankle fractures in the frail elderly patient.

This article describes the technique of tibiotalar nailing performed using an antegrade tibial nail for salvage of distal tibia and ankle fractures in elderly patients. We report indications, surgical technique, and the clinical outcomes and complication rate in our series to date. A retrospective review was performed at our level 1 major trauma centre. Patient demographics, comorbidities, and 12-month post-operative course were collected. Fractures were classified using the OTA/AO and modified Gustilo-Anderson classification. Fifteen patients underwent the procedure. We present data with a minimum 12-month follow-up. The median age of the patients in this cohort was 83 years (range, 51-102). Five patients were diabetic. Six patients (6/15; 40%) presented with an open fracture. At final follow-up, fourteen patients reported painless walking and had returned to baseline activity. This technique may serve as a salvage procedure, with indications similar to those for tibio-talar-calcaneal arthrodesis. Indications would include non-constructible pilon fractures, comminuted intra-articular fractures in low-demand patients, or patients at high risk of wound complications. 3.

Robotic Rectus Abdominis Harvest for Pelvic Reconstruction after Abdominoperineal Resection.

The use of robotic surgical systems to perform abdominoperineal resection (APR) has recently become more prevalent. This minimally invasive approach produces fewer scars and potentially less morbidity for the patient. The rectus abdominis muscle is often used for reconstruction after APR if primary closure is not feasible or the surgical site is at high risk of wound complications. Since the traditional open harvest of this flap creates large incisions that negate the advantages of minimally invasive APR, there has been growing interest in harvesting the rectus abdominis in a similarly robotic fashion. This article reviews the technique, benefits, and limitations of this robotic technique. Compared to the traditional open harvest, robotic harvest of the rectus abdominis leaves smaller scars, provides technical benefits for the surgeon, and offers possible morbidity benefits for the patient. These advantages should be weighed against the added expense and learning curve inherent to robotic surgery.

Secondary post-oncologic vulvar reconstruction - a simplified algorithm.

Surgical treatment is the gold standard of care for vulvar cancer and is burdened by a high risk of wound complications due to the poor healing typical of the female genital area. Moreover, this malignancy has a high risk of local relapse even after wide excision. For these reasons, secondary reconstruction of the vulvoperineal area is a relevant and challenging scenario for gynecologists and plastic surgeons. The presence of tissue already operated on and undermined, scars, incisions, the possibility of previous radiation therapy, contamination of urinary and fecal pathogens in the dehiscent wound or ulcerated tumor, and the unavailability of some flaps employed during the primary procedure are typical complexities of this surgery. Due to the rarity of this tumor, a rational approach to secondary reconstruction has never been proposed in the literature. In this observational retrospective study, we reviewed the clinical data of patients affected by vulvar cancer who underwent secondary reconstruction of the vulvoperineal area in our hospital between 2013 and 2023. Oncological, reconstructive, demographic, and complication data were recorded. The primary outcome measure was the incidence of wound complications. The secondary outcome measure was the indication of the different flaps, according to the defect, to establish an algorithm for decision-making. Sixty-six patients were included; mean age was 71.3 ± 9.4 years, and the mean BMI was 25.1 ± 4.9. The mean size of the defect repaired by secondary vulvar reconstruction was 178 cm2 ± 163 cm2. Vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous (VRAM), anterolateral thigh (ALT), fasciocutaneous V-Y (VY), and deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) were the flaps more frequently employed. We observed five cases of wound breakdown, one case of marginal necrosis of an ALT flap, and three cases of wound infection. The algorithm we developed considered the geometry and size of the defect and the flaps still available after previous surgery. A systematic approach to secondary vulvar reconstruction can provide good surgical results with a low rate of complications. The geometry of the defect and the use of both traditional and perforator flaps should guide the choice of the reconstructive technique.

Outcomes Following Hemiarthroplasty for Femoral Neck Fracture in Patients Who Have Hemiparesis

BackgroundHemiparesis increases the risk of femoral neck fracture (FNF) in the elderly, which frequently necessitates hemiarthroplasty. There are limited reports on the outcomes of hemiarthroplasty in patients who have hemiparesis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate hemiparesis as a potential risk factor for medical and surgical complications following hemiarthroplasty. MethodsHemiparetic patients who have concomitant FNF and underwent hemiarthroplasty with at least 2 years of follow-up were identified using a national insurance database. A 10:1 matched control cohort of patients who did not have hemiparesis was created for comparison. There were 1,340 patients who have and 12,988 patients who did not have hemiparesis undergoing hemiarthroplasty for FNF. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate rates of medical and surgical complications between the 2 cohorts. ResultsAside from increased rates of medical complications including cerebrovascular accident (P < .001), urinary tract infection (P = .020), sepsis (P = .002), and myocardial infarction (P < .001), patients who have hemiparesis also experienced higher rates of dislocation within 1 and 2 years (Odds Ratio (OR) 1.54, P = .009; OR 1.52, P = .010). Hemiparesis was not associated with higher risk of wound complications, periprosthetic joint infection, aseptic loosening, and periprosthetic fracture, but was associated with higher incidence of 90-day ED-visits (OR 1.16, P = .031) and 90-day readmission (OR 1.32, P < .001). ConclusionWhile patients who have hemiparesis do not have increased risk of implant-related complications other than dislocation, they are at increased risk of developing medical complications following hemiarthroplasty for FNF.

Soft tissue complications following extensile lateral compared with minimally invasive surgical approaches in the operative treatment of calcaneus fractures.

Extensile lateral (ELA) and minimally invasive surgical (MIS) approaches are commonly used in the operative fixation of calcaneus fractures. The ELA has been the standard of care, but is associated with a high risk of wound complications. Minimally invasive surgical approaches have been developed to reduce these complications. We completed a retrospective chart review of 201 patients with calcaneus fractures repaired by either ELA or MIS approaches between 2011 and 2018. We compared the incidence of soft tissue complications, including wound infections (requiring no surgical treatment) and deep infections (requiring surgical intervention), and performed multivariate regression analysis to determine independent risk factors associated with soft tissue complications and reoperation. The overall incidence of soft tissue complications was 8.1% in the MIS group compared with 28.8% in the ELA group (p = 0.0004). The incidence of patients with a deep infection requiring reoperation was 4.7% in the MIS group compared with 19.2% in the ELA group (p = 0.003). Risk factors of soft tissue complications included the presence of an open fracture (odds ratio [OR] 11.59, 95% confidence intervals [CI] 3.25-44.25) and use of ELA (OR 4.22, 95% CI 1.67-10.90). Risk factors for a deep infection requiring reoperation included the use of ELA (OR 4.43, 95% CI 1.51-13.64) and the presence of an open fracture (OR 4.00, 95% CI 0.91-15.3). The ELA is associated with an increased incidence of soft tissue complications and reoperation when compared with the MIS approach. The ELA and open fractures were found to be independent risk factors of soft tissue complications and reoperation. Surgeons treating calcaneus fractures should consider using a MIS technique, provided they are able to achieve the goals of surgical management without the ELA.

Functional outcome of column specific fixation in the management of complex tibial plateau fractures

Introduction: Complex tibial plateau fractures usually have complicated intra-articular fracture pattern, often associated with severe soft tissue injury and high risk of wound complications. Single or dual column plating fixation principle based upon conventional x-ray for such fractures may not address multiplanar comminution that often has posterior shearing or coronal fractures. Computed tomography based evaluation of such fractures and column specific approach allow direct fracture visualization and anatomic reduction that results in satisfactory outcome.&#x0D; Objectives: To assess the clinical and functional outcome and complications of complex tibial plateau fractures fixed with column specific fixation principle.&#x0D; Methodology: This prospective study was carried out from September 2019 to August 2021 in Orthopaedic department of Nobel Medical College, Biratnagar. Consecutive sampling was used among patient with complex tibial plateau fractures meeting the inclusion criteria. Among 30 patients, with closed and Gustilo grade I or II Schatzker type V-VI fractures or AO type-C injuries to the proximal tibia were operated on column specific approach and followed up for clinico-radiological evaluation.&#x0D; Results: In this study, most of the patients belonged to 31-40 years of age group with mean age of 40.47 years. Majority of patients were male( 76.7%). Fracture was highly associated with road traffic accident which accounted for 83%. Fourteen patients underwent anteromedial and anterolateral plating(46.67%), 10 patients underwent anterolateral and posteromedial plating(33.33%) and remaining 6 patients underwent triple column plating(20%). The Rasmussen’s functional score at final follow up was 27.17±2.793(range 21-30). 86.7% patients had acceptable clinical outcome. The mean Rasmussen’s radiological score at final follow up was 8.97±1.217(range 6-10). Thus 93.4% patients had acceptable radiological outcome.&#x0D; Conclusion: Column specific approach addresses all the fracture fragments of complex tibial plateau fractures to achieve acceptable clinical and radiological outcome.

Evaluation of prognostic factors and oncological outcomes in patients with limb-localized myxoid liposarcoma

This study aims to evaluate the prognostic factors and treatment outcomes of patients with extremity-localized myxoid liposarcoma (MLS). Between January 2001 and October 2019, a total of 43 patients (29 males, 14 females; mean age: 56.3±11.4 years; range, 34 to 76 years) who were histopathologically diagnosed with MLS in our clinic were retrospectively analyzed. Data including demographic characteristics, tumor localization, tumor volume and length, histopathological characteristics, the surgery and chemotherapy (CT)/radiotherapy (RT) applied, survival rates, and complications such as local recurrence and metastasis were recorded. The treatment results and potential prognostic factors were identified. The overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) rates were evaluated. The mean follow-up was 106.8±54.1 (range, 29 to 204) months. The mean tumor size was 11.4±6.5 (range, 4.7 to 36) cm. Tumor localization was determined as lower extremity in 76.7% of cases and upper extremity in 23.2%. The patients were divided into two groups according to the type of RT they received as follows: the patients who underwent neoadjuvant RT + wide surgical resection (n=14, 32.5%) and patients who underwent extensive surgical resection + adjuvant RT (n=29, 67.4%). To four patients who developed distant metastasis and to two who developed local recurrence, adjuvant CT was applied. In the whole cohort, the OS rate was 87.1% at five years and 73.2% at 10 years. The five and 10-year CSS rates were 83.5% and 66.4%, respectively. Local recurrence developed in 12 (27.9%) and distant metastasis in four (9%) patients. In the multivariate analysis, high tumor grade, R2 margins, and metastasis were found to be independent risk factors for OS. Although wide resection provided significantly good local control, neoadjuvant RT and adjuvant CT were not found to be prognostic factors for OS or CSS (p>0.05). High tumor grade, R2 margins, and metastasis are independent risk factors for increased OS and OSS. Surgery with CT and neo/adjuvant RT is not an independent risk factor for OS or CSS. Despite patients with a larger tumor size and neurovascular proximity, similar disease-free survival rates can be achieved in the patients receiving neoadjuvant RT. Neoadjuvant RT can be considered in lesions close to neurovascular structures or in large lesions, with a high risk of wound complications.

Exposure of the Calcaneus in the Sinus Tarsi Approach Versus the Lateral Extensile Approach: A Cadaveric Study.

The lateral extensile approach (LEA) is an operative approach for calcaneal fractures. High rates of wound complications have led to alternative approaches such as the sinus tarsi approach to grow in popularity. The LEA affords substantial visualization of the calcaneus. This visualization has never been compared in a quantitative manner with the sinus tarsi approach (STA). We aim to quantify the calcaneal visualization afforded by STA and LEA. Seven pair-matched, fresh-frozen, below-knee cadaver extremities were included. For each pair, one side received an LEA and the other side received an STA. There were no statistically significant differences in the articular surfaces accessible between the 2 approaches. The total calcaneal surface area accessible was 3107.08 mm2 for LEA and 1444.19 mm2 for STA (P = .02). The LEA allowed better exposure to the lateral wall (P = .01) and the dorsal tuberosity of the calcaneus (P = .04). The STA allows for equivalent articular surface exposure when compared with the LEA. Although LEA allows for greater exposure of the lateral wall and dorsal tuberosity, direct visualization of these structures may not warrant the higher risk of wound complications. Surgeons should consider these differences when choosing an operative approach in the treatment of calcaneal fractures.

At least ninety days of follow-up are required to adequately detect wound outcomes after open incisional hernia repair.

Incisional hernia repair (IHR) carries a high risk of wound complications. Thirty-day outcomes are frequently used in comparative-effectiveness research, but may miss a substantial number of surgical site occurrences (SSO) including surgical site infection (SSI). The objective of this study was to determine an optimal length of follow-up to detect SSI after IHR. All adult patients undergoing open IHR at a single academic center over a 3year period were reviewed. SSIs, non-infectious SSOs, and wound-related readmissions were recorded up to 180days. The primary outcome was the proportion of SSIs detected at end-points of 30, 60, and 90days of follow-up. Time-to-event analysis was performed for all outcomes at 30, 60, 90, and 180days. Logistic regression was used estimate the relative risk of SSI for relevant risk factors. A total of 234 patients underwent open IHR. Median follow-up time of 102days. Overall incidence of SSI was 15.8% with median time to occurrence of 23days. Incidence of non-infectious SSO was 33.2%, and SSO-related readmission was 12.8%. At 30, 60, and 90days sensitivity was 81.6%, 89.5%, and 92.1 for SSI, and 46.7%, 76.7%, and 83.3% for readmission. In regression analysis, body mass index (RR 1.08, 95% CI 1.00, 1.15, p = 0.04) anterior component separation (RR 4.21, 95% CI 2.09, 6.34, p = 0.003), and emergency surgery (RR 3.25, 95% CI 1.47, 5.02, p = 0.01), were independently associated with SSI after adjusting for age, sex, contamination class, and procedure duration. A considerable proportion of SSIs occurred beyond 30days, but 90-day follow-up detected 92% of SSIs. Follow-up to 90days captured only 83% of SSO-related readmissions. These results have implications for the design of trials evaluating wound complication after open IHR, as early endpoints may miss clinically relevant outcomesand underestimate the number needed to treat. Where possible, we recommend a minimum follow-up of 90 days to estimate wound complications following open IHR.

Surgical Factors Influencing Wound Complication After Cochlear Implantation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

To identify perioperative surgical factors associated with wound complications following cochlear implantation (CI). PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases. Eligible studies included peer-reviewed research in English evaluating wound complications (wound infection, skin flap breakdown/dehiscence, seroma/hematoma) following CI. Studies with paired samples were included in the meta-analysis. Surgical factors (techniques and perioperative management) in CI and reported wound complications were examined. Level of evidence was assessed using the Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine guidelines and bias was assessed using the NIH Quality Assessment Tool. Twenty-six studies representing 10,214 cochlear implantations were included. The overall wound complications rate was 3.1% (range 0.03-13.9%). Eleven studies contained paired data and were used for meta-analysis regarding three different surgical factors: incision length, implant placement method, and antibiotic usage. Longer incision lengths (≥7 cm) demonstrated a higher risk of wound complications (risk ratio 2.27, p = 0.02, CI 1.16-4.43). Different implant placement techniques (suture fixation versus periosteal pocket) (p = 0.08, CI 0.92-3.69) and postoperative antibiotic regimens (postoperative use versus none) (p = 0.68, CI = 0.28-7.18) were not associated with differences in wound complication rates following CI. Overall rate of wound complications following CI is low. Shorter incision length is associated with lower risk of wound complications. Differences in perioperative techniques and practices regarding implant placement and antibiotic use were not associated with differences in wound complication rates. Considering the low number and quality of studies, there is a need for research in CI outcomes using paired sample prospective designs and standardized reporting.

Prophylactic incisional negative pressure wound therapy for gynaecologic malignancies.

Wound complications are an important cause of postoperative morbidity among patients with gynaecologic malignancies. We evaluated whether the placement of closed‐incisional negative pressure therapy (ciNPT) at the time of laparotomy for gynaecologic cancer surgery reduced wound complication rates. A retrospective cohort study with primary wound closure performed by a gynaecologic oncologist was carried out. We evaluated two cohorts of patients who underwent surgery in 2017 with standard closure and patients who underwent surgery in 2019 with the placement of prophylactic ciNPT. Postoperative outcomes were examined. A total of 143 patients were included, 85 (59.4%) vs 58 (40.6%) with standard closure and ciNPT, respectively. The total complication rate in our sample was 38.71%. The rate of surgical complications in patients treated with ciNPT was 6.9% compared with 31.8% (P = .000) in patients treated with standard closure. In the analysis of complications, a significant reduction in infections (17.1%), seromas (15.4%), and wound dehiscence (17.1%) were observed when ciNPT was applied. The median hospital stay was 8 vs 6 days in the standard closure vs ciNPT groups (P = .048). The use of the prophylactic ciNPT following a laparotomy may decrease wound complications and hospital stays in oncological patients. ciNPT could be considered as part of clinical practice in patients at high risk of wound complications, such as patients with gynaecological malignancies.

Plastic surgery wound closure following resection of spinal metastases

ObjectiveSurgical site infection and dehiscence are devastating complications of surgery for spinal metastases. Wound closure involving plastic surgeons has been proposed as a strategy to lower post-operative complications. Here we investigated whether plastic surgery closure is associated with lower rates of wound complications, wound infection, and wound reoperation compared to simple closure by spine surgeons. MethodsPatients surgically treated for metastatic tumors at a single comprehensive cancer center between April 2013–2020 were retrospectively identified. Primary pathology, demographic information, clinical characteristics, pre-operative laboratory values, tumor location, operative characteristics, and post-operative outcomes were collected. Univariable analyses used student t-tests for continuous variables and χ2 tests for categorical variables. Multivariable regressions were performed to control for confounders. ResultsWe included 317 patients, of which 56 underwent closure by plastic surgeons and 291 by neurosurgeons. Patients in the plastic surgery cohort were more likely to have received prior radiation to the surgical site, more often on long-term corticosteroid therapy, and more likely to have sacrococcygeal tumors. Operations involving plastic surgeons were more likely to be revision surgeries, corpectomies, and to involve a staged approach. Additionally, patients in the plastic surgery cohort had longer incision lengths, longer surgeries, greater intraoperative blood loss (IOBL), were more likely to receive transfusions, and had longer hospitalizations. Local paraspinous advancement flaps were the most common complex wound closure technique. Plastic surgery closure was not significantly associated with a difference in rates of post-operative wound complications, wound infection, or wound-related reoperations compared to simple wound closure. ConclusionWe identified that patients undergoing plastic surgery wound closure had worse baseline risk, longer surgeries, greater IOBL, and longer hospitalizations compared to patients receiving simple closure. Despite their increased risk, complex wound closure did not significantly alter the rates of post-operative wound complications, wound infection, or wound-related reoperations. Consideration may be given to plastic surgery closure in patients at high risk of wound complications or with extensive wound defects.

Utilization of a Novel Negative Pressure Platform Wound Dressing on Surgical Incisions: A Case Series.

Background:Closed incision negative pressure therapy (ciNPT) has been shown to improve wound healing for patients at high risk for wound complications. Current devices consist of opaque interface dressings that do not allow ongoing visual evaluation of the surgical incision and utilize a negative pressure of −80 mm Hg to −125 mm Hg. The Negative Pressure Platform Wound Dressing (NP-PWD) was developed to address these aspects. This case series is the first evaluation of the NP-PWD in a clinical setting.Methods:Patients aged 18–85 undergoing an operation with an anticipated incision and primary closure were screened. Demographics, comorbidities, and operation performed were recorded. Following closure, the incision was measured and photographed before NP-PWD placement. The NP-PWD was removed at the first postoperative check (POC) between postoperative days (PODs) 3–5. Subjects were followed until PODs 9–14. POCs consisted of incision assessment, measurement, photography, and adverse event monitoring.Results:A total of 8 patients with 10 incisions were included in the study. Five patients were men. Median age was 56 years (IQR 53–74 years). All incisions were intact and without inflammation or infection at all POCs. Three adverse events, including small blisters and interruption of therapy, were noted.Conclusions:This case series reports that patients tolerated the NP-PWD on closed surgical incisions well and that all incisions were intact without evidence of inflammation or infection after 2 weeks of follow-up. Future controlled, clinical studies should further examine the safety and efficacy of the use of the NP-PWD.

Endoscopically Assisted, Minimally Invasive Reconstruction for Chronic Achilles Tendon Rupture With a Double-Bundle Flexor Hallucis Longus.

Background:High morbidity has been reported regarding Achilles tendon (AT) injuries, and the upward trend has accelerated since the mid-1990s. A chronic Achilles tendon rupture usually results from a neglected or misdiagnosed acute rupture, and about one-fifth of acute AT ruptures are missed and lead to chronic AT rupture. Although many techniques have been described, there is no gold standard in the treatment of chronic AT ruptures.Hypothesis:Endoscopically assisted, minimally invasive reconstruction for chronic AT rupture using a double-bundle flexor hallucis longus (FHL) tendon would result in improvement of the overall function, with a low rate of wound complications.Study Design:Case series; Level of evidence, 4.Methods:Between May 2015 and November 2016, a total of 19 consecutive patients were enrolled and treated using endoscopically assisted, minimally invasive reconstruction for chronic AT rupture using a double-bundle FHL. The operative assessment comprised the Achilles Tendon Total Rupture Score, the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society score, the Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment–Achilles score, and a postoperative questionnaire. All postoperative complications were recorded.Results:The mean follow-up time for all patients was 31 months (range, 20-42 months). According to the postoperative questionnaire, the result of surgery was excellent in 8 (42%) of 19 patients, good in 10 (53%), and fair in 1 (5%). All clinical outcome scores (mean ± SD) improved significantly after surgery: Achilles Tendon Total Rupture Score, 23.3 ± 10.3 vs 98.3 ± 9.2 (postoperatively vs preoperatively); American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society, 52.1 ± 12.4 vs 97.5 ± 18.9; and Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment–Achilles, 23.4 ± 11.2 vs 95.7 ± 17.1 (P < .05). No complications with regard to wound healing or infection were noted. Twelve relatively young patients returned to preinjury activity levels, such as playing basketball or badminton, and the older patients were able to meet their daily needs, such as walking up stairs and jogging.Conclusion:Chronic AT ruptures were successfully treated via minimally invasive reconstruction using a double-bundle FHL, which provided excellent functional improvement. It is best suited for patients with complex requirements who are at high risk for wound complications.

Achilles Tendon Rupture Treatment: Operative Versus Nonoperative

Acute Achilles tendon ruptures are common injuries with increasing incidence. Management of acute ruptures is controversial. Early evidence suggested that nonoperative treatment led to a significantly higher rerupture rate; however, operative modalities have also been shown to have a higher risk of wound complications. Advances in therapeutic protocols have normalized the rerupture rate between operative and nonoperative modalities, and many have recommended nonoperative treatment becuase of the mitigated complication profile. The purpose of this review is to report contemporary management of Achilles tendon ruptures and provide our preferred technique of management. Level of Evidence: Diagnostic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.