Tube Insertion Research Articles

Safety and efficacy of high tracheostomy with inferior retraction of the thyroid isthmus

ObjectiveIn typical surgical tracheostomy, the thyroid isthmus is divided or retracted superiorly and preserved. However, at our institution, the thyroid isthmus is retracted inferiorly and preserved. Thereafter, a tracheal incision is made above the thyroid isthmus. This method, hereinafter defined as high tracheostomy, has the advantage of facilitating immediate access to the trachea in a superficial position; moreover, it can be quickly replaced with cricothyrotomy in emergency situations. However, tracheotomies placed too high can potentially damage the cricoid cartilage, thereby causing subglottic granulation and tracheal stenosis. We aimed to validate the safety and efficacy of high tracheostomy with inferior retraction of the thyroid isthmus. MethodsThis was a retrospective cohort analysis. We analyzed the operative method and other relevant characteristics of 90 patients who underwent surgical tracheostomy between April 2016 and June 2022. For those who underwent high tracheostomies, we analyzed the duration of surgery, amount of intraoperative bleeding, occurrence of complications, problems with stoma closure, and perioperative mortality. ResultsHigh tracheostomy was performed in 73 patients. Subglottic granulation occurred in one patient, and the granulation tissue spontaneously shrank. Subcutaneous emphysema occurred in two patients. No patient developed wound infection or tracheoinnominate artery fistula. Moreover, no patient experienced false route tracheotomy tube insertion because the thyroid glands were located under the stoma. ConclusionThe frequency of complications was comparable to that reported in other studies on tracheostomy. Additionally, no patient developed tracheal stenosis secondary to tracheostomy above the thyroid isthmus. Therefore, high tracheostomy with inferior retraction and preservation of the thyroid isthmus is safe and advantageous.

Impact of palatoplasty techniques on tympanic membrane findings and hearing prognosis in children with cleft palate.

Children with cleft palate (CP) are at high risk of developing otitis media with effusion (OME) due to Eustachian tube (ET) dysfunction. Palatoplasty has been reported to decrease the frequency of middle ear disease and improve ET function, and although various techniques have been developed, there is no consensus on the differences in the impact of different techniques on the middle ear. The purpose of this study was to determine the differential effects of palatoplasty on middle ear function and hearing. We performed a retrospective observational survey of pediatric patients who underwent palatoplasty for CP between June 2010 and October 2018at Tohoku University Hospital. Cases were divided into three groups depending on the palatoplasty procedures performed: the push-back palatoplasty group, the two-flap palatoplasty group, and the Furlow double-opposing Z-plasty group. We examined the differences in clinical characteristics between patients who underwent each procedure. The primary outcome variable was tympanic membrane (TM) findings, and the secondary outcome was hearing test results. Children who underwent the two-flap palatoplasty had a higher tympanostomy tube (TT) insertion rate and a higher total number of TT insertions than those who underwent the Furlow double-opposing Z-plasty or the push-back palatoplasty. The TM retraction rate tended to be lower in the Furlow double-opposing Z-plasty group than in the push-back palatoplasty group or the two-flap palatoplasty group. The hearing test results at the last visit were not significantly different among the three groups. Children who underwent the two-flap palatoplasty had a higher rate of TT insertions, potentially increasing the risk of TM perforation. In contrast, the Furlow double-opposing Z-plasty group had a lower tendency for TM regression, possibly due to improved ET function and reduced incidence of OME. It is important to understand the advantages and disadvantages of each technique before selecting one suitable for the child's cleft and arch width. Additionally, it is important to conduct regular follow-up of TM findings and hearing test results even after palatoplasty.

Abstract 063: Emergent versus delayed carotid artery stenting in tandem occlusion strokes treated with thrombectomy

Introduction It is controversial when to pursue carotid artery stenting (CAS) after acute tandem occlusion (TO) strokes treated with endovascular thrombectomy (EVT). We conducted a retrospective observational study to evaluate the clinical and safety outcomes of emergent versus delayed CAS in the first week of EVT. Methods In this retrospective cohort study, using 2016‐19 Nationwide Readmissions Database, we identified patients with acute ischemic stroke who had EVT for anterior circulation large vessel occlusions (LVOs) and CAS up to 7 days of EVT. CAS performed on day ‐1, 0 or 1 day after admission was considered as emergent CAS. CAS performed 2‐7 days after EVT was defined as delayed CAS. The primary clinical outcomes were all‐cause mortality during same admission. Secondary safety outcomes included intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), seizures, gastric tube (G‐tube) insertion, > 24‐hours mechanical ventilation, tracheostomy, length of stay (LOS), and discharge location (home vs. others). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to compare outcomes in emergent CAS group in comparison to delayed CAS group. Age, sex, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, and use of thromobolytics were considered as covariates. Results We identified total of 1990 hospitalizations meeting the study inclusion criteria (mean age: 67 years ± standard deviation:12 years, female 612 (31%). Of these, 1745 (87%) had undergone emergent CAS with EVT and 245 (13%) had delayed CAS (2‐7 days) pos‐EVT. Baseline characteristics were similar between the two cohorts. Delayed CAS cohort had significantly less mortality rates [6 vs 13%; OR 0.43, 95% CI 0.24‐0.78], less ICH [20 vs 30%; OR 0.6, 95% CI 0.43‐0.82¬¬], less cerebral edema [16 vs 23%; OR 0.65, 95% CI 0.44‐0.96], and less mechanical ventilation for >24‐hours [11 vs 18%; OR 0.54, 95% CI 0.34‐0.85]. There was no significant difference between the two treatment groups for tracheostomy, G‐tube placements, new‐onset seizure, and mean LOS. Conclusion Delaying CAS for 2‐7 days after EVT might be a safer approach for endovascular revascularization in anterior circulation LVO strokes secondary to tandem lesions.

Reducing refeeding syndrome incidence among patients with head and neck cancer: A quality improvement initiative.

459 Background: Refeeding syndrome (RFS) constitutes a wide spectrum of electrolyte abnormalities and clinical symptoms following re-introduction of nutrition, specifically carbohydrate, in malnourished patients (pts). Refeeding phenomena (RFP) is the isolated decline in electrolyte levels (phosphate, potassium, or magnesium) following refeeding. Average incidence of RFS in head and neck cancer (HNC) pts is 20%. Early identification of high-risk pts and increasing awareness about RFP is crucial to avoid rapid nutritional replenishment and therefore reduce health care costs, morbidity, and mortality from RFS. We conducted a quality improvement (QI) project at a single academic university hospital with objective of reducing RFS incidence, length of hospital stay (LOS) and 30 day all-cause readmission and ED visit rates in HNC pts started on enteral nutrition (EN). Methods: We conducted a prospective observational study between Aug 2021 and Nov 2022 among pts with HNC admitted for feeding tube insertion. Pts determined to be high-risk for RFS according to ASPEN criteria were included. Serum electrolyte levels were obtained and monitored twice daily for 3 days following initiating continuous feeds with a standard, fiber free, 1.5 kcal/mL formula @ 20mL/h (’Safe start’). If low, electrolytes were promptly supplemented. Enteral thiamine supplements (100 mg daily for 5-7 days) were started. A registered dietitian conducted a nutrition assessment within 24 h of EN initiation to provide EN regimen and formula advancement recommendations, as well as EN needs for home. Case management was consulted within 24 h of EN initiation to facilitate timely discharge and delivery of home supplies. Data including LOS and 30-day all-cause readmission and ED visits were collected. ASPEN criteria were used to define mild, moderate, severe RFP. For comparison, similar data was retrospectively collected by reviewing medical records of 57 HNC pts (control group) admitted for feeding tube insertion between Dec 2017 and April 2021. Results: Of the 56 pts in the study group, 8 (14.3%) experienced RFS, 12 (21.4%) mild RFP, 7 (12.5%) moderate RFP, and 12 (21.4%) severe RFP. The average LOS in study group was 10 days compared to 13 in control group. 30-day all-cause readmission and ED visit rates were 21.4% and 12.5% in study group compared to 45.6% and 19.3% respectively in control group (Table 1). Conclusions: RFP/RFS is often underdiagnosed and undertreated in HNC pts. Through QI measures we were able to decrease RFS incidence rate to less than the reported average. Close collaboration between physicians, nurses, dietitians, and case managers facilitates timely intervention to prevent RFS, reduce LOS and readmissions.[Table: see text]

Comparison of oropharyngeal leak pressure of LMA Protector and LMA ProSeal in anaesthetised paralysed patients - A randomised controlled trial.

In the present study, we hypothesised that the laryngeal mask airway (LMA) Protector would provide higher oropharyngeal leak pressure (OLP) than LMA ProSeal. Thus, we planned this study to compare the clinical performance of LMA Protector and LMA ProSeal in terms of OLP as a primary objective and insertion characteristics as secondary objectives. Ninety patients of either gender, aged 18-70 years, were randomised into groups PS (LMA ProSeal) and P (LMA Protector). Following anaesthetic induction, the device was inserted as per group allocation. OLP of both devices was taken as a primary objective. Secondary objectives such as insertion time, ease of insertion, number of attempts required, fibre-optic view grading, amount of air (mL) required to get a cuff pressure (CP) of 60 cm H2O, and CP adjustment required and complications, if any, were also noted. Data were analysed using coGuide statistics software, Version 1 (BDSS Corp. Bangalore, Karnataka, India). The median (interquartile range) OLP was significantly higher with LMA protector than with LMA ProSeal [33.00 (27.0, 36.0) versus [29.50 (26.0, 32.0) (P = 0.009)]. First-attempt success rate was 95.4% (42/44) in group PS and 93% (40/43) in group P. Insertion time, ease of insertion, and fibre-optic view grading were not different between the groups. Gastric tube placement failed in one patient in group PS and in three patients in group P (P = 0.606). The median amount of air (mL) required to get a CP of 60 cm H2O was 26.5 (20, 28) in group PS and 12 (8,13) in group P (95% confidence interval [CI] =10.808-14.575) (P < 0.001). At all time points, CP was significantly higher, and more CP adjustments were needed in group PS than in group P (P < 0.001). Incidence of blood staining and post-operative sore throat at 1 and 24 h were not different between the groups. LMA Protector provided a significantly higher OLP and less requirement of CP adjustments but comparable first-attempt success rate, mean insertion time, fibre-optic view, and gastric tube insertion as compared to LMA ProSeal.

Minimally invasive enucleation of pancreatic tumors: The main pancreatic duct is no longer a restricted area

BackgroundTumors involving the main pancreatic duct (MPD) used to be a contraindication for enucleation. MethodsClinical data of consecutive patients with pancreatic tumors who received laparoscopic or robotic enucleation (LEN or REN) between January 2019 and December 2021 at Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center were analyzed. ResultsNinety-six patients were included in the analysis, with 55 in the LEN group and 41 in the REN group, and no conversion to laparotomy. Most tumors were located in the head of pancreas (71.9 %). The tumor diameter (3.1 vs. 1.9 cm) was larger, and more cystic tumors (92.7 % vs. 56.4 %) and more tumors involving the MPD (34.1 % vs. 3.6 %) were observed in the REN group. MPD support tube insertion was performed in 15 cases, with 11 in the REN group and 4 in the LEN group. The incidence of biochemical and grade B postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) was both 46.9 %, and no grade C POPF occurred. Among the 45 patients with grade B POPF, 28 cases (62.2 %) were due to carrying drainage tube >3 weeks without additional treatment, and only 4 cases required invasive treatment. For patients with MPD support tube implantation (n = 15), support tube fall-offs were observed in 12 cases, 2 patients had MPD dilatation, and no MPD stricture, stone formation or pancreatic atrophy was observed during follow-up. ConclusionsThe incidence of POPF was high but still controllable without serious complications after minimally invasive enucleation. The MPD is no longer a restricted area, and the robotic system has advantages in handling complex enucleations.

Preoperative management comprising tube irrigation using a trans-anal indwelling tube for infants with hirschsprung disease can allow single-stage radical surgery

BackgroundPreoperative management of Hirschsprung’s disease (HD) is currently being conducted with the goal of performing single-stage radical surgery without ileostomy.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed HD cases between 2013 and 2022, as well as their outcomes related to preoperative management.ResultsThirty-nine patients with HD were included in this study, including short-segment HD (30 cases), long-segment HD (4 cases), and total colonic aganglionosis (5 cases). Among these 39 patients, 95% (37 of 39 patients) underwent single-stage radical surgery after management with glycerin enema use (n = 13), irrigation with tube insertion each time irrigation was performed (n = 13), and irrigation using a tube placed in the bowel (n = 11).ConclusionsPreoperative management of patients with HD allowed for single-stage surgery of long-segment HD and total colonic aganglionosis. Cases that could be managed without performing an emergency enterostomy during the neonatal period were managed with irrigation until radical surgery was performed.

EP08.04-03 Acute Postoperative Pain is the Most Severe at the Site of Chest Tube Insertion in Multiportal Video-assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery

EP08.04-03 Acute Postoperative Pain is the Most Severe at the Site of Chest Tube Insertion in Multiportal Video-assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery

Radiologically inserted gastrostomy tube in neurological disease: A retrospective study

Objectives: This study aimed to compare the safety and efficacy of balloon and non-balloon (or dilator) gastrostomy devices in radiologically inserted gastrostomy (RIG) for patients with neurological disease. Material and Methods: A retrospective analysis of 152 patients was conducted at a tertiary care hospital from July 2017 to September 2020. 104 and 48 patients were included in the balloon and non-balloon groups, respectively. The frequency of complications per specific neurological indication as well as the breakdown of the different complications pertaining to each indication was recorded for analysis. The recovery time, fluoroscopy time, contrast volume, peak radiation, and pain management dosages for each procedure were all reviewed to evaluate for statistical differences between the balloon and non-balloon groups. An adjusted model odds ratio (OR) was conducted to evaluate how each of the variables (type of gastrostomy tube, body mass index [BMI], age, and gender) affected the frequency of complications within our cohort. Results: This study included 152 patients, with an average age of 65.17 years (interquartile range [IQR] = 12.66) and an average BMI of 26.97 (IQR = 7.19). The majority of patients were male (71.1%). The most common indication for the procedure was stroke (24.3%), followed by post-intubation dysphagia (16.4%) and intracranial hemorrhage (11.8%). Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and altered mental status had a similar prevalence at 9.9%. The overall complication rate was 33.8%, overall mortality rate 3.3%, 30-day mortality rate of 2.6%, and no other major complications according to CIRSE criteria. Notably, patients with neurodegenerative disorders exhibited comparable rates of minor complications: 33.3% in ALS (5/15 patients), 50% in myasthenia gravis (1/2 patients), and 100% in muscular dystrophy (1/1 patient). The study compared two groups: the balloon group (104 patients) and the dilator group (48 patients). The balloon group received significantly lower preoperative sedation in the form of fentanyl (Avg = 4.46 min vs. 6.54 min, P = 0.287). The balloon group had shorter fluoroscopy time, lower radiation exposure dose, and shorter operating time compared to the dilator group, though not statistically significant. In the logistic regression model, there was no statistical difference in complication rates between the dilator and balloon groups. BMI, age, and gender did not significantly affect minor complication rates. Conclusion: RIG tube insertions may serve as a valuable, alternative approach in providing enteral support in patients with neurological disease.

Re-expansion Pulmonary Edema

Re-expansion pulmonary edema (RPE) is a rare complication of pleural puncture (thoracentesis) and chest tube insertion. The incidence of RPE is low (1%), but mortality can be up to 20%. The main pathophysiological mechanism is pulmonary edema due to increased permeability and increased hydrostatic pressure in the pulmonary capillaries. Risk factors include duration of lung collapse (&gt;3 to 7 days), size of pneumothorax (&gt;30%), volume of aspirated air or fluid (&gt;1.5 to 3 L), excessive negative intrapleural pressure, diabetes mellitus, and chronic hypoxemia. Prevention includes limiting the volume of aspirated air or fluid (&lt;1.5 L), air or fluid evacuation in a controlled manner, and preventing excessive negative intrapleural pressure. Treatment is supportive care through cardiovascular and respiratory monitoring, oxygen and decubitus positioning.

Outcomes of in-office versus operating room insertion of tympanostomy tubes in children

ObjectiveTympanostomy tube insertion in children is commonly performed under general anesthesia, but there has been increasing interest in office-based alternatives. Although initial research comparing in-office versus operating room (OR) insertion of tubes looks promising, there are scant data available on long-term outcomes. The objective of this study is to compare long-term outcomes of tympanostomy tubes placed in-office versus the OR, with emphasis on the duration of tube function. MethodsWe reviewed electronic medical records in an academic pediatric otolaryngology practice of children under age 13 years who had tubes placed in-office or the OR between 2010 and 2021. Differences in time to unilateral and bilateral tube occlusion/extrusion were compared by Kaplan-Meier survival analysis with log rank comparison. Cox regression modeling was performed to identify predictors of tube occlusion/extrusion. Results817 children were included (473 office tubes, 344 OR tubes). Tube placement was equally successful for both groups (98.3% for office and 98.9% for OR). Comparison of Kaplan-Meier plots for time to unilateral and bilateral tube occlusion/extrusion by location showed no significant difference (P = .842 for unilateral and P = .714 for bilateral). However, regression analysis indicated a strong interaction of location with operator status (resident vs attending). Median time to unilateral occlusion/extrusion and bilateral occlusion/extrusion was shorter for OR residents compared to OR attendings (15.0 vs 19.5 months, P = .002, and 22.1 vs 32.0 months, P = .030, respectively). There was no difference in the time to unilateral or bilateral tube occlusion/extrusion between the office attending and OR attending groups (16.8 vs 19.5 months, P = .057 for unilateral, and 23.0 vs 32.0 months, P = .320 for bilateral). There was no significant difference between groups in the need for tube removal, repeat tubes, tube medialization, or post-extrusion tympanic membrane perforation. ConclusionThe comparable long-term outcomes found for tubes inserted in-office versus the OR, including time to occlusion/extrusion, suggest that both settings are acceptable for the procedure, with choice based primarily on parental preference, clinician experience, and shared decision making with families.

Modified Intravenous Cannula Ventilation Tubes for Otic Barotrauma Prevention.

Objectives: Middle ear barotrauma is a common complication of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). Tympanostomy tube placement prevents barotrauma by facilitating middle ear equalization. We describe variations on techniques published by Mooney et al and Zhang et al for placing modified peripheral intravenous cannula (PIVC) ventilation tubes, which can be performed at the bedside under topical anesthesia. We aim to evaluate the safety and efficacy of this technique when performed to prevent otic barotrauma in patients undergoing HBOT. Methods: We performed an analytical observational study at a tertiary metropolitan Australian hospital with a state-wide adult hyperbaric service between 2018 and 2022. Patients were identified via unit audits. Patient, HBOT, and procedural factors were analyzed against complications using Fisher's exact test with Bonferroni correction and simple logistic regression. Results: Over 4 years, 112 patients (220 ears) underwent modified PIVC ventilation tube insertion. Mean age was 58.6 years (95% CI: 55.7-61.6, SD: 15.9). Thirty-eight patients (33.9%) were female, 74 (66.1%) were male. Thirty-four ears (15.5%) had preexisting barotrauma at the time of tympanostomy tube insertion. Patients underwent a mean of 11.5 dives (95% CI: 9.0-14.0, SD: 13.4), with ventilation tubes being required for a mean of 15.0 days (95% CI: 9.0-14.0, SD: 24.0) to complete HBOT. Fourteen ventilation tubes (6.4%) developed blockage during HBOT, and 12 (5.5%) prematurely extruded. Sixteen ears (7.3%) required reinsertion of ventilation tubes. Nine ears (4.1%) suffered barotrauma despite ventilation tube insertion. Conclusions: Otic barotrauma prophylaxis is paramount for safety during HBOT. We describe a safe, effective, and convenient technique for barotrauma prevention using modified PIVCs.

Point-of-care ultrasound Usage and accuracy within a Canadian urology division.

This research evaluates the utility and precision of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) in urology, inspired by recent affirmations of its feasibility and value.1,2 Our study provides valuable insights for urologists about POCUS's practical usage. A prospective study assessed POCUS usage and accuracy in the University of Alberta's Division of Urology using data from April 4, 2022, to April 4, 2023. Data include POCUS indications, findings, and correlation with the final diagnosis/gold standard. Additionally, a qualitative survey was conducted among urologists and residents about POCUS's pros, cons, and barriers to integration. Thirty-three patients underwent POCUS examinations, mainly for suspected hydronephrosis (27%, n=9). Other indications included urinary retention, testicular mass, torsion, cryptorchidism, renal mass, extended focused assessment with sonography in trauma (eFAST ) exams, nephrostomy tube placement confirmation, and scrotal hematomas. POCUS findings matched the final diagnosis in most cases, showing 86% sensitivity, with an average exam time of 1-5 minutes. POCUS showed potential for suprapubic tube insertions. Residents (60%, n=20) were the most frequent users, followed by staff (33%, n=10), and students (6%, n=2). The surveyed urologists and residents expressed comfort with POCUS but cited time, cost, and practicality as barriers. POCUS proves accurate and beneficial in urology, particularly for hydronephrosis. Most findings align with the gold standard, and the average exam time is brief. Barriers include time and cost. Further research is necessary to evaluate cost-effectiveness and POCUS's impact on patient outcomes in routine urologic practice.

Determination of Tympanostomy Tube Types for Otitis Media with Effusion in Patients with Cleft Palate: Comparison between Paparella Type 1 and Type 2 Tubes.

This study examined the effects of different types of tympanostomy tubes in pediatric patients undergoing cleft palate (CP) surgery in order to provide guidance for the proper insertion of tympanostomy tubes in the management of otitis media with effusion (OME). A total of 101 ears with middle ear effusion in 51 patients with CP were included in this study. Patients underwent palatoplasty and tympanostomy tube surgery at the same time. The type of tube inserted (Paparella type 1 or 2), the severity of CP, and types of palatoplasty surgeries were investigated. All patients were followed up for at least 6 months, and recurrence rates, complications, and reinsertion surgery were evaluated. The rate of OME recurrence after spontaneous tube extrusion was significantly higher in the type 1 group than in the type 2 group (44.3% vs. 19.4%, respectively, p = 0.016). Persistent eardrum perforation was more common in the type 2 group than in the type 1 group (41.9% vs. 12.9%, respectively, p = 0.001). The tube reinsertion rate was higher in the type 1 group than in the type 2 group (22.9% vs. 3.2%, respectively, p = 0.015). The tube reinsertion rate decreased to 8.6% in cases of palatoplasty with Sommerlad's technique, even with type 1 tube insertion, which was not significantly different from the reinsertion rate in the type 2 group (3.7%, p = 0.439). The Paparella type 1 tube would be a better choice in cases of palatoplasty performed using Sommerlad's technique, particularly considering the higher rate of persistent eardrum perforation after extrusion associated with the Paparella type 2 tube. Alternatively, a larger size type 2 tube may be considered in other surgeries to decrease the frequency of recurrence and tube reinsertion.

A chest tube after robotic thymectomy is unnecessary

ObjectiveChest tubes are frequently placed after thymectomy, without data to support this common practice. We report our experience in eliminating them after robotic thymectomy. MethodsThis is a retrospective database review of patients who underwent robotic thymectomy performed by a single surgeon in which intraoperative chest tube insertion was not planned. Patient characteristics and postoperative outcomes are presented. ResultsBetween January 2018 and October 2022, 75 patients underwent robotic thymectomy performed by a single surgeon. Of those, 64 (85.3%) underwent a left-sided thoracic approach. The most common indication for resection was a suspicious anterior mediastinal mass. There were no conversions to an open operation. The median operative time was 72 minutes (range, 38-164 minutes), and the median estimated blood loss was 20 cc (range, 10-60 cc). Ten patients (13.3%) went home on the day of surgery, and all others (86.7%) were discharged on postoperative day 1. A chest tube was placed in 1 patient at time of closure because of a persistent air leak after extensive adhesiolysis from a prior thoracotomy; the tube was removed on the day of surgery after resolution of the air leak. No other patient required chest tube placement intraoperatively, immediately postoperatively, or within 60 days postoperation. Two patients underwent outpatient thoracentesis within 1 month postoperation for effusions. There were no 30- or 90-day mortality and no major morbidities. ConclusionsA chest tube after robotic thymectomy is not necessary in almost all patients and can be safely omitted. The dogmatic routine practice of chest tube placement should be questioned.

Analysis of Paparella Type 1 tympanostomy tubes in pediatric patients: A single-center retrospective review

ObjectiveThis study aims to evaluate the demographic characteristics, indications for surgery, clinical follow-up results and complication rates of pediatric patients who have received a Paparella Type 1 tympanostomy tube (TT) insertion. MethodsRetropective review of 816 ears of 442 pediatric patients who received Paparella type 1 tympanostomy tube insertions was performed. The patients' age, indication for surgery, middle ear effusion, time to extrusion and postoperative complications were analyzed retrospectively. Ears operated for chronic otitis media with effusion (COME) and recurrent acute otitis media (RAOM) were included in the study. Ears that underwent tympanostomy tube insertion for middle ear atelectasis and suppurative complications of acute otitis media were excluded from the study. Ears with middle ear effusion mucoid and serous were included. Ears without middle ear effusion or with purulent effusion were excluded from the study. Patients with a cleft palate, Down syndrome, craniofacial anomalies and those without regular follow-up until their tubes were extruded, were excluded from the study. ResultsThe mean age of surgery was 5.11 years. 54.3 % of the patients were male and 45.7 % were female. 734 (90 %) tube insertions were performed for patients with COME and 82 (10 %) for those with RAOM. Mucoid middle ear effusion was observed in 86.9 % and serous in 13.1 %. The mean extrusion time of the tubes was 7.16 months. 93.1 % of the tubes were extruded spontaneously within 1 year and 99.9 % within 2 years. Postoperative complications of patients that were included were 8.7 % with otorrhea, 7.7 % premature extrusion, 8.2 % tube occlusion, 0.2 % displacement into the middle ear, 8.2 % tympanic membrane changes (5.4 % sclerosis, 2.3 % retraction and 0.5 % atrophy), 1.2 % permanent perforation, 0.1 % cholesteatoma and 0.1 % retained their tube. Premature extrusion was found to be significantly higher in the RAOM group compared with the COME group (p = 0.042). Tube extrusion time did not affect tympanic membrane changes (p = 0.061). ConclusionsComplication rates after Paparella Type 1 tube insertion are low. The incidence of complications such as otorrhea and tube occlusion were not significantly different between the indication and middle ear effusion groups. Compared to COME group, premature extrusion were found more frequently in the RAOM group. Complications of displacement into the middle ear, permanent perforation, cholesteatoma and retained tube were much rarer.

Management of delayed bleeding of upper gastrointestinal endoscopic submucosal tunneling procedures: a retrospective single-center analysis and brief meta-analysis.

Delayed bleeding is a rare but important major adverse event (mAE) after endoscopic submucosal tunneling procedures (ESTP), which is scarcely reported. We aimed to characterize the clinical characteristics of delayed bleeding and provide better management of this mAE. From August 2010 to October 2022, we reviewed 3852 patients with achalasia receiving peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) and 1937 patients with upper gastrointestinal tumors receiving submucosal tunneling endoscopic resection (STER). Among these, records of 22 patients (15 POEM, 7 STER) with delayed bleeding were collected. Clinical characteristics, treatment, and outcomes of delayed bleeding were analyzed. The mean age was 43.6years. Ten patients (45.5%) were intratunnel bleeding, seven (31.8%) were intratunnel bleeding accompanied by mucosal bleeding, and five (22.7%) were mucosal bleeding. The most common accompanied symptoms were hematemesis, fever, and melena. The most common accompanied mAEs were fistula, pulmonary inflammation, and pleural effusion with atelectasis. The mean duration from ESTP to endoscopic intervention was 5.3±4.9days. Active bleeding was identified in 21 patients (95.5%). The bleeding was successfully controlled by electrocoagulation (19 cases), endoscopic clipping (six cases), and Sengstaken-Blakemore tube insertion (three cases), and no patient required surgical intervention. The mean hemostatic procedure duration was 61.8±45.8min. The mean post-bleeding hospital stay was 10.0±6.2days. A brief meta-analysis of previous studies showed the pooled estimate delayed bleeding rate after POEM, STER, and G-POEM was 0.4%. Delayed bleeding is uncommon and could be effectively managed by timely emergency endoscopic procedures without requiring subsequent surgical interventions.

Incidental Diagnosis of Left Pneumothorax Using a New Variant of the Lung Point Sign During Cardiac Ultrasound

BackgroundPneumothorax is a common issue in the intensive care unit and emergency department, often diagnosed using lung ultrasound. The absence of lung sliding and the presence of the lung point sign are characteristic findings for pneumothorax. We describe a case of left pneumothorax diagnosed incidentally while performing a cardiac ultrasound through a new variant of the lung point sign. Case ReportA 60-year-old patient with a medical history of diabetes, stroke, and right colon cancer underwent urgent surgical treatment for intestinal sub-occlusion. In the intensive care unit, the patient required mechanical ventilation due to shock unresponsive to fluid administration, and hemodynamic monitoring was performed using echocardiography. During systole in an apical four-chamber view, the abrupt vanishing of the heart was observed. When evaluating the tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) using M-mode, the interposition of the stratosphere sign during mid-systole prevented the visualization of the TAPSE peak. Lung ultrasound revealed the absence of lung sliding and the presence of the lung point sign on the left side of the thorax, confirming the diagnosis of pneumothorax. A chest x-ray study further confirmed the diagnosis, and urgent drainage was performed. The patient showed improvement in hemodynamic and respiratory conditions and was successfully weaned from mechanical ventilation, and eventually discharged home. Why Should an Emergency Physician Be Aware of This?By incorporating the lung ultrasound findings, including this new variant of the lung point sign, into their diagnostic approach to pneumothorax, emergency physicians can promptly initiate appropriate intervention, such as chest tube insertion, leading to improved patient outcomes.

Clinical profile and outcome of emphysematous pyelonephritis presenting to a tertiary care hospital

BackgroundEmphysematous pyelonephritis is a necrotizing infection of the renal parenchyma by gas-forming organisms. The diagnosis of emphysematous pyelonephritis is made by clinical features and the detection of air in the renal parenchyma. In the past, nephrectomy was considered the only treatment option with a high mortality rate, but with advances in minimally invasive conservative techniques and better antibiotic treatment, the rate of kidney salvage has increased.Case presentationFrom January 2019 to December 2022, eight cases of emphysematous pyelonephritis were diagnosed based on clinical features and documentation of gas in the renal parenchyma by a Computed tomography scan. The mean age was 61.75 ± 4.3 years. 62.5% were female and 75% were diabetics. E. coli was the most common pathogen (87.5%). All 8 patients underwent early interventions in the form of DJ stenting or percutaneous nephrostomy tube insertion with only one patient requiring nephrectomy without any immediate mortality.ConclusionEmphysematous pyelonephritis is more common in women and the elderly. Diabetes mellitus and nephrolithiasis are major risk factors. E. coli was the most frequently isolated pathogen. Early diagnosis and early minimally invasive intervention in the form of a DJ stenting or percutaneous nephrostomy reduced the rate of nephrectomy and mortality.

A New Technique for Jejunal Tube Insertion During Laparoscopic Conversion of One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass (OAGB) to Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB) Due to Anastomosis Leakage.

A New Technique for Jejunal Tube Insertion During Laparoscopic Conversion of One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass (OAGB) to Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB) Due to Anastomosis Leakage.