Low Complication Research Articles

A Novel Technique for Top Surgery in Small-Breasted Individuals Who Experience Gender Dysphoria – Concentric Periareolar Mastectomy, Interlocking Suture and Waterjet-Assisted-Liposuction

Background: In small-breasted individuals, who experience gender dysphoria, the concentric periareolar approach is typically the preferred method for mastectomy. However, this method carries a notable risk of hypertrophic scars and changes in the areolar dimensions. This study introduces the periareolar interlocking suture (PIS) as a new scar-minimizing procedure, with a low complication rate and high patient satisfaction. Patients and Methods: We performed a concentric periareolar mastectomy (CPM) combined with PIS and waterjet-assisted liposuction (WAL) in patients with small breasts (A to B-Cup) and good skin quality/elasticity. Outcome measures included complication rates, patient satisfaction (assessed via the BODY-Q Chest and Nipples Scale and scar appearance), nipple sensitivity, and the rate of surgical corrections. Results: Between April 2017 and December 2023, we conducted 2312 mastectomies in 1156 people who experience gender dysphoria, with 410 breasts treated using CPM combined with PIS and WAL. The mean patient age was 23 years, mean hospital stay was 4 days, and mean operation time was 96.1 minutes. The overall complication rate was 7.8%, with acute hematomas occurring in 4.6% of the cases. Secondary revisions were necessary in only 2.2% of cases. Patient satisfaction, measured using the BODY-Q scale, was statistically significant and very high. Conclusion: Individuals with gender dysphoria are well-informed and increasingly demand aesthetic outcomes. Whenever feasible, procedures with minimal scarring are preferred. The technique presented here resulted in very high patient satisfaction, preserved nipple sensitivity, and a low rate of complications and secondary aesthetic corrections in a carefully selected cohort of patients with small breasts.

CIRSE Standards of Practice on Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunts.

Proposed in the early 1980s as a solution for managing complications of portal hypertension, the percutaneous creation of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt has consistently gained a central role. Increasingly lower complication rates have been observed thanks to improvements in both technologies and the skills of interventional radiologists. This document is aimed at interventional radiologists and provides best practice recommendations for transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt creation, describing patient selection, intraprocedural management and follow-up, in addition to recommendations in paediatric settings. The CIRSE Standards of Practice Committee established a writing group consisting of seven European clinicians with recognised expertise in the creation of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt. The writing group reviewed the existing literature performing a pragmatic evidence search using PubMed to select relevant publications in the English language and involving human subjects, preferably published from 2009 to 2024. The final recommendations were developed by consensus. TIPS creation has an established role in the successful management of portal hypertension and its complications. This Standards of Practice document provides up-to-date recommendations for patient selection, materials, its safe performance, and follow-up with complications management.

Comparison of the outcomes between ultrasonic devices and clamping in hepatectomy: a meta-analysis.

Recent advances in ultrasound technology have led to widespread adoption of ultrasonic energy devices in liver resections. While various studies have assessed the comparative advantages of ultrasonic devices and traditional clamp-crushing, their findings vary. Moreover, a specific systematic review on this topic has not yet been conducted. This study aims to present a comprehensive, up-to-date analysis comparing outcomes between ultrasonic devices and conventional clamp-crushing methods in liver resection, based on currently available literature. We conducted a systematic literature search in databases such as PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and CNKI up to November 2023. Studies that compared the efficacy or safety of ultrasonic devices against traditional clamp-crushing methods in hepatectomy were included. The analysis covered intraoperative outcomes like operating time, blood loss, and transfusion rate, as well as postoperative outcomes such as complication rate, mortality, postoperative bleeding, and bile leakage. Review Manager version 5.3 (Cochrane Collaboration, Oxford, UK) and Stata 17.0 (Stata Corp, College Station, TX, USA) were used for data analysis. Thirteen studies, involving a total of 1,417 patients (630 using ultrasonic devices and 787 using clamp-crushing methods), were included. The clamp-crush method resulted in a shorter operation time. Contrarily, the ultrasonic device group experienced reduced blood loss and lower transfusion rates. Postoperatively, there was no significant difference in mortality or postoperative bleeding between the groups. However, the ultrasonic group had a lower overall complication rate, particularly a reduced incidence of bile leakage. Overall, the ultrasonic devices were associated with improved perioperative outcomes. The findings suggest that ultrasonic devices provide better outcomes in hepatectomy compared to traditional clamp-crushing techniques. Nonetheless, large-scale randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm these results due to potential heterogeneity and biases. The choice of using ultrasonic devices should consider the surgeon's experience and individual patient circumstances.

Efficacy and safety of percutaneous post-closure technique during the decannulation for veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

In recent years, during the decannulation process for veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO), methods for suturing the femoral artery have included the pre- and post-closure techniques. The safety and efficacy of the pre-closure technique are widely recognised; however, reports on the post-closure technique are scarce. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the post-closure technique using ProGlide (Abbott Healthcare, Green Oaks, IL, USA) device during VA-ECMO decannulation. We reviewed 170 patients who underwent VA-ECMO between January 2021 and June 2023. All patients had their femoral artery puncture sites closed using the post-closure technique upon decannulation. The success rate of this technique and incidence of lower limb complications were recorded and analysed. Technical success was achieved in 157 (92.4%) patients. Sixteen patients (9.4%) experienced lower limb-related complications, including 8 (4.7%) with lower limb arterial thrombosis and 11 (6.5%) with pseudo-aneurysms. Among all lower limb-related complications, four patients (2.4%) required interventional procedures. This study included 170 patients: 80 in the 'S' (15-16F) group and 90 in the 'M' (17-19F) group. In the univariate analysis of different arterial cannula sizes for in-hospital lower limb-related complications, the differences were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The multivariate logistic model indicated that, compared to the S (15-16F) group, the M (17-19F) group was not associated with an increased rate of in-hospital lower limb-related complications. The suture-mediated closure of the femoral artery during VA-ECMO decannulation is a promising therapeutic strategy.

Perioperative direct oral anticoagulant management during cardiac implantable electronic device surgery: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis.

Patients undergoing cardiovascular implantable electronic device (CIED) implantation are often on direct oral anticoagulation (DOAC). However, the evidence on whether to continue or temporarily discontinue DOAC therapy during the perioperative period in these patients is unclear. We conducted a comprehensive literature review using PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases through July 2024. We included studies comparing uninterrupted versus interrupted perioperative DOAC therapy in patients undergoing CIED procedure- primary implants, pulse generator replacement, and device upgrades. Primary outcomes were clinically significant device-pocket hematoma and thromboembolic events. Secondary outcomes included any device-pocket hematoma, all-cause mortality, major bleeding, and any bleeding. A total of 1,607 patients from 8 studies were included. The mean age was 73.2years, with atrial fibrillation as the indication for DOAC therapy in most patients. The mean CHA2DS2-VASc was 3.4. Among the included studies, 2 were randomized control trials (RCTs), while the others were observational cohort studies, including one that was propensity score matched. Our meta-analysis found both strategies to be similar in terms of clinically significant pocket hematoma (RR 1.70; 95%CI 0.84-3.45; p = 0.14; I2 = 0%), thromboembolic complications (RR 0.35; 95%CI 0.04-3.32; p = 0.36; I2 = 19%), any pocket hematoma, all-cause mortality and any bleeding with a higher risk of major bleeding with uninterrupted anticoagulation. This meta-analysis shows that uninterrupted DOAC therapy is comparable to interrupted therapy for CIED procedures, with a potential increase in major bleeding risk but low overall complication rates. Further research is needed to confirm the best approach of periprocedural anticoagulation in these patients.

Early effectiveness of unilateral biportal endoscopy technique for migrated lumbar intervertebral disc herniation

To explore early effectiveness of unilateral biportal endoscopy (UBE) technique in the treatment of migrated lumbar intervertebral disc herniation. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 87 patients with migrated lumbar intervertebral disc herniation, who were treated with UBE technique between May 2021 and December 2022 and met the selection criteria. There were 55 males and 32 females, with an average age of 48.8 years (range, 29-74 years). The disease duration ranged from 2 to 23 months, with an average of 9.1 months. The surgical segments included 17 cases of L 3, 4, 32 cases of L 4, 5, and 38 cases of L 5, S 1. According to Lee's classification criteria, there were 12 cases of type 1, 17 cases of type 2, 37 cases of type 3, and 21 cases of type 4. The operation time, length of hospital stay, and complications were recorded. The visual analogue scale (VAS) score was used to assess the degree of low back and leg pain before operaion and at 3 days, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months after operation. The Oswestry disability index (ODI) was used to evaluate the lumbar spine function. At last follow-up, the modified MacNab criteria was used to evaluate the effectiveness. According to the preoperative migrated intervertebral disc classification, the patients were allocated into groups Ⅰ to Ⅳ. The differences in VAS score and ODI were compared. All 87 patients successfully completed the operations. There was no nerve root injury, dural sac injury, or dural tear during operation. The operation time was (58.6±14.6) minutes and the length of hospital stay was (4.0±0.8) days. All incisions healed by first intention after operation. No symptomatic epidural hematoma occurred. All patients were followed up for 12 months. There were significant differences in VAS scores and ODI at each time point after operation when compared with those before operation ( P<0.05). There were significant differences in VAS score at 3 days after operation when compared with that at 3, 6, and 12 months after operation ( P<0.05). For ODI, except that there was no significant difference between 6 and 12 months after operation ( P>0.05), there were significant differences between other time points after operation ( P<0.05). At last follow-up, the effectiveness was rated as excellent in 66 cases, good in 13 cases, and fair in 8 cases according to the modified MacNab criteria, and the excellent and good rate was 90.8%. There was no intervertebral disc herniation recurred during follow-up period. There was no significant difference in VAS score and ODI among groups Ⅰ -Ⅳ before operation and at each time point after operation ( P>0.05). The UBE technique is safe and effective in the treatment of migrated lumbar intervertebral disc herniation, with a low complication rate and satisfactory early effectiveness.

Partial adrenalectomy by the posterior retroperitoneoscopic approach: A single institution series of 766 consecutive procedures.

Partial adrenalectomy (PA), as an alternative to total adrenalectomy in selected cases, allows for the preservation of adrenocortical function, especially in hereditary and/or bilateral diseases. In this study, we analyze our experience in posterior retroperitoneoscopic PA (PRPA) and its impact on adrenocortical function. From January 2010 to December 2023, 709 PRPAs were performed on 766 adrenal glands in a total of 697 patients (421F; 276M; and mean age 49.3±15.3). Patients suffered from all types of adrenal tumors (239 pheochromocytoma, 225 Conn's syndrome, 102 Cushing's syndrome (CS), 66 nonfunctioning adenomas, 38 adrenal metastases, and 27 others). Mean tumor size was 2.7±1.5cm. Bilateral disease occurred in 135 patients (60 pheochromocytoma, 19 Conn's syndrome, 32 CS, 2 nonfunctioning adenomas, 17 adrenal metastases, and 5 combined diseases). Mean operating time for unilateral operation was 39.2±17.2min. Minor postoperative complications were observed in 1.5% and major complications in 0.1%. The median hospital stay was 2days. In bilateral cases, 18 of 33 (54%) Cushing patients and nine of 102 (9%) non-Cushing patients received corticosteroid replacement therapy (CRT) early postoperatively. Long-term follow-up data were collected for 242 patients (35%). After unilateral surgery, only patients with CS required CRT (8/24). Eleven (24.4%) out of 45 patients with bilateral non-Cushing disease needed CRT. Eight patients (3%) developed ipsilateral recurrent disease. PRPA is a safe procedure with a low complication and recurrence rate. This makes it the preferred operation in cases of bilateral disease and for selected patients with benign pathologies.

Artificial Intelligence Applied in Early Prediction of Lower Limb Fracture Complications

Background: Artificial intelligence has become a valuable tool for diagnosing and detecting postoperative complications early. Through imaging and biochemical markers, clinicians can anticipate the clinical progression of patients and the risk of long-term complications that could impact the quality of life or even be life-threatening. In this context, artificial intelligence is crucial for identifying early signs of complications and enabling clinicians to take preventive measures before problems worsen. Materials and methods: This observational study analyzed medical charts from the electronic archive of the Clinical Emergency Hospital in Galați, Romania, covering a four-year period from 2018 to 2022. A neural network model was developed to analyze various socio-demographic and paraclinical data. Key features included patient demographics, laboratory investigations, and clinical outcomes. Statistical analyses were performed to identify significant risk factors associated with deep venous thrombosis (DVT). Results: The analysis revealed a higher prevalence of female patients (60.78%) compared to male patients, indicating a potential gender-related risk factor for DVT. The incidence of DVT was highest among patients aged 71 to 90 years, affecting 56.86% of individuals in this age group, suggesting that advanced age significantly contributes to the risk of developing DVT. Additionally, among the DVT patients, 15.69% had a body mass index (BMI) greater than 30, categorizing them as obese, which is known to increase the risk of thrombotic events. Furthermore, this study highlighted that the highest frequency of DVT was associated with femur fractures, occurring in 52% of patients with this type of injury. The neural network analysis indicated that elevated levels of direct bilirubin (≥1.5 mg/dL) and prothrombin activity (≤60%) were strong predictors of fracture-related complications, with sensitivity and specificity rates of 78% and 82%, respectively. These findings underscore the importance of monitoring these laboratory markers in at-risk populations for early intervention. Conclusions: This study identified critical risk factors for developing DVT, including advanced age, high BMI, and femur fractures, which necessitate longer recovery periods. Additionally, the findings indicate that elevated direct bilirubin and prothrombin activity play a significant role in predicting DVT development. These results suggest that AI can effectively enhance the anticipation of clinical evolution in patients, aiding in early intervention and management strategies.

Evolving Methods and Application of a 3D Printed Model in the Current Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator Flap Elevation.

The choice of the deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap for breast reconstruction has increased. Three-dimensional (3D) models of DIEP flaps have been introduced with advances in 3D technology to assist the tedious intramuscular dissection of the pedicle. This study presents the process of creating an ideal 3D model for a DIEP flap. Collaboration among various professionals, including surgeons, radiologists, and 3D-printing model makers, is essential for manufacturing suitable 3D-printing DIEP models. Our team facilitated the collaboration process by sharing the virtual 3D model via a uniform resource locator (URL) using an online platform accessible on mobile devices. During collaboration in 3D DIEP model-making, we continuously upgraded the model to a better version. The model was modified according to the surgeon's preference from a 1:1 ratio size to a handheld size. Additionally, we achieved significant advancements over conventional methods, including improved visualization of detailed vessel pathways with separation of arteries and veins, tissue transparency, and superficial inferior epigastric vein (SIEV). Through 3D model-making collaborations, our team successfully developed a 3D DIEP model with translucency and visualized arteries and veins separately with accentuation of the perforators, including SIEV tracing, which is more accurate. This ideal 3D model for the DIEP flap enables the selection of a perforator vessel that is safe and easy to dissect to lower complications and procedure time and will be of great help to less experienced surgeons.

Fertiloscopy and its place in the gynaecologist's armamentarium.

Infertility is a prevalent issue worldwide. Current investigation of female pelvic infertility uses transabdominal laparoscopy, exposing patients to its associated risks. An alternative method is fertiloscopy, comprising hysteroscopy, tubal dye studies, and transvaginal hydrolaparoscopy (TVHL), falling under the broader category of VNOTES. This study reviews fertiloscopy cases in Australia to assess its role in managing infertility. Retrospective analysis of 76 cases was performed with review of imaging results, fertiloscopy findings and interventions, and fertility outcomes. Statistical analysis was conducted via R Studio v4.1 with means and averages used for descriptive data and a Kruskal-Wallis analysis of variance test used to evaluate differences in continuous variables. Kaplan-Meier curves were constructed to describe cumulative pregnancy incidence, with differences evaluated using log-rank tests. Statistical tests were two-tailed, and a P-value < 0.05 was considered significant. Of 76 cases, 70 underwent fertiloscopy and 35 an intra-operative intervention. Of the cohort, 53 conceived, 18 spontaneously. The highest chance of spontaneous conception was 44% by day 283. The failure rate of fertiloscopy was 5.3%, and complications occurred in 1.3% of cases. The highest chance of spontaneous conception post-fertiloscopy was 44% by day 283, possibly indicating the time between the procedure and referral to reproductive therapies. This study identified a low associated failure and complication rate, supporting fertiloscopy as a low-risk procedure. Despite limitations, this study highlights spontaneous pregnancy outcomes and associated low complication and failure rates, emphasising fertiloscopy's role in managing infertility in Australia as a lower risk surgical alternative to standard laparoscopy.

OGC SO39 - The OUTLIVE Study - Oesophageal and JUncTional Cancer ELectIVE Surgery Morbidity and Mortality at 90-Day: A TUGS Multinational Audit

Abstract Background Oesophageal cancers are among the most common types of cancer and have a high mortality rate. Todate, oesophagectomy remains the gold standard treatment. However, considerable heterogeneity in the literature fails to generate a truly representative picture of short-term outcomes associated with these procedures. Method This multinational global audit includes all consecutive adults with clinically documented primary oesophageal malignancy undergoing elective surgery with curative intent. The study'sstudy's primary objective was to assess the 90-day mortality and morbidity rates in this population. Data was collected through a standardised dataset, and a descriptive analysis was employed. For analysis purposes, the patients were classified depending on the surgical procedure they underwent (laparoscopic, open, hybrid, converted and robotic surgery). Results A total of 622 individuals were analysed, most male [462 (74%)], with a mean Charlson Comorbidity Index of 4.30. The most common procedure was laparoscopic surgery [222 (35.7%)], followed by open surgery [198 (31.83%)]. 31 (5%) of the procedures reported an intraoperative complication, but more common in open procedures [11 (5.6%)]. 318 (51%) patients suffered postoperative complications within 90 days of surgery. The reoperation rate was 9.3%. McKeown staged procedure, compared to Ivor Lewis, had more infective complications [19% vs 11%, p=0.007] and a higher conversion to open procedures [69 (11.1%)]. 34 (11%) patients died because of a surgical complication. Conclusion No significant differences were found between the number of patients with at least one complication and the surgical approach. Nevertheless, robotic-assisted minimally invasive oesophagectomy (RAMIE) presented with the lowest complication, reoperation, and mortality rates. McKeown three-stage surgery also presented with worse clinical outcomes compared to Ivor Lewis procedures. Further studies and randomised control trials comparing different procedures in the field of elective oesophagectomy are needed to expand our knowledge in this field and guarantee the best outcomes for our patients.

BN SO23 - From referral to resolution, impact of acute biliary pathway on patients care

Abstract Background At our trust, we introduced acute biliary pathway to efficiently manage patients presenting with acute biliary pathology. This pathway begins with a referral form containing relevant patient information for triage. A triage team reviews these forms and classifies patients into three categories based on specific criteria. Method Patients are triaged into three categories:Red: Patients needing emergency surgery during the same admission.Amber: Patients requiring urgent but non-emergency care, scheduled for an outpatient (OP) appointment for consent, followed by a laparoscopic cholecystectomy within 2-3 weeks or 6-8 weeks, based on the pathology.Green: Patients who do not meet the criteria for red or amber are referred for further outpatient assessment before definitive management. Results Over four months , 202 referrals were received. Approximately 50% (102 patients) were referred to the outpatient department. Of the remainder, 45% were categorised as red and had IP cholecystectomy, with a mean length of stay of 1.5 days post-surgery across 30 operations. The remaining patients were managed as amber, resulting in 22 operations. The total complication rate was low, with only 2 cases managed conservatively, and 4 patients required re-admission before definitive treatment. The average wait time for a clinic appointment was 2 weeks, while the average wait time for surgery was 8 weeks, with a total of 6 cancellations. Conclusion The acute biliary pathway demonstrates effectiveness through a low complication rate and timely management of patients. This approach improves the efficiency of patient care and reduces the need for emergency re-admissions. More importantly, this model is straightforward enough to be implemented in any high-volume centre with a sufficient level of expertise in treating biliary patients.

Comparison of results among UBE-TLIF, MIS-TLIF and open TLIF for Meyerding grade I lumbar spondylolisthesis: a retrospective study.

The unilateral biportal endoscopic (UBE) technique has garnered significant attention for its little paraspinal iatrogenic damage, expedited recovery, and low complication rates. This method is also applicable to open transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF). Therefore, this study aimed to conduct a comparative analysis of the outcomes associated with unilateral biportal endoscopic transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (UBE-TLIF), minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF), and TLIF for Meyerding grade I lumbar spondylolisthesis. The study examined the outcomes of 79 patients with Meyerding grade I lumbar spondylolisthesis who underwent single-level intervertebral fusion. Clinical assessments included the measurement of pain levels using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for low back and leg pain, the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), surgical data, and demographic information. Imaging techniques were utilized to evaluate the fusion rate. The VAS-Back demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in Group UBE-TLIF compared to the other groups at the one-week postoperative evaluation (p < .05). Additionally, the UBE-TLIF group exhibited a significantly longer total operative time compared to the other groups (p < .05). However, it was noted that the Postop Hemovac drain were significantly greater in the MIS-TLIF and TLIF groups compared to the UBE-TLIF group (p < .05). The present research demonstrated the effectiveness of UBE-TLIF, MIS-TLIF, and TLIF as surgical approaches for treating Meyerding grade I lumbar spondylolisthesis. Among these methods, UBE-TLIF demonstrated a reduction in Postop Hemovac drain, and an increase in operative duration.

BN SO49 - An early experience in robotic Upper GI surgery at a busy District General Hospital

Abstract Background Robotic surgery is being adopted in performing Upper GI surgery due to the added advantage of precision and safety. Current literature suggests that robotic surgery may be associated with improved patient outcomes, such as blood loss, length of stay and perioperative complications, with majority of evidence stemming from colorectal, urological or thoracic surgical domains. Our UGI unit started robotic surgery in November 2021, initially one surgeon trained, and from June 2022, a second consultant surgeon began robotic surgery. This study describes the early outcomes of robotic Upper GI surgery at our UGI surgery Unit in a busy District General Hospital. Method We retrospectively assessed data of patients undergoing Robotic UGI surgery from a prospectively maintained database. Patient demographics, surgical procedure and duration of surgery was recorded. Conversion rates, post-operative complications and length of stay were recorded. Results Between November 2021 and January 2024, 125patients underwent robotic UGI surgery at our Hospital. The surgeries included cholecystectomy (n=80), Anti-reflux surgery (n=22), Hellers cardiomyotomy (n=4), Gastrectomy (n=6) and oesophagectomy (n=1). The median length of stay was 2 days. Morbidity as per Clavein-Dindo classification 3 and 4 was 3%. There were no mortalities. Conclusion Our preliminary experience suggests that robotic surgery is feasible and safe. It has low complication rate and reduced critical care stay. A structured training of surgeons ensures a safe introduction of robotic services.

Integrating 3D-printed customized guides with hemicorticotomy bone transport: clinical outcomes in chronic osteomyelitis management.

Chronic osteomyelitis with large bone defects remains a challenging condition in orthopedic surgery. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of hemicorticotomy bone transport assisted by 3D-printed customized guides in the treatment of chronic osteomyelitis with bone defects. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 21 patients with chronic osteomyelitis treated with hemicorticotomy bone transport with 3D-printed guide assistance between January 2015 and January 2021. Preoperative planning utilized 3D CT reconstruction for precise guide design and osteotomy placement. The surgical technique involved hemicorticotomy, placement of the 3D-printed guide, and gradual bone transport using a monolateral external fixator. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Association for the Study and Application of Methods of Ilizarov (ASAMI) scoring system. The external fixation time (EFT), external fixation index (EFI), and complications evaluated using the Paley classification were recorded. The mean bone defect size was 7.9 ± 2.0cm. The average follow-up period was 28.6 ± 6.4 months. The mean external fixation time was 289.4 ± 52.7 days, with an external fixation index of 36.8 ± 4.2 days/cm. According to the ASAMI criteria, the bone results were excellent in 17 patients (81%), good in 3 (14%), and fair in 1 (5%). The functional results were excellent in 15 patients (71%), good in 4 (19%), and fair in 2 (10%). Complete eradication of the infection and union at the docking site were achieved in all patients. The complication rate was 38% and all of which were successfully managed. Hemicorticotomy bone transport assisted by 3D-printed customized guides is an effective treatment for chronic osteomyelitis with bone defects. This technique offers excellent bone healing, favorable functional results, and a relatively low complication rate. Further studies with larger sample sizes are warranted to validate these findings.

Comparative Outcomes Between Surgical and Conservative Management of Mallet Thumb: A Systematic Review and Pooled Analysis.

While mallet finger remains a relatively common injury of the hand, mallet thumb is much rarer in occurrence. Mallet thumb management has been noted infrequently within the literature and reliable evidence regarding the most effective method of management remains absent. The aim of this review is to assess the quality of literature that exists pertaining to mallet thumb to determine whether conservative or surgical management is superior. A search was completed in February 2023 of Ovid Medline, Embase, CINAHL, and SPORTDiscus with no limitation on study type, and date of publication. Comparative outcomes of thumb interphalangeal (IP) joint range of motion, tip, lateral pinch and grip strength, complications, outcome measure scores, and follow-up period were recorded. We assessed 103 mallet thumbs (51 surgically and 52 conservatively managed) across the 23 studies of low to moderate quality based on the Structured Effectiveness Quality Evaluation Scale. The authors adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. While recommendations remain weak due to low quality of evidence, our review found a lower complication rate and higher IP joint flexion in thumbs managed conservatively. These findings demonstrate a need for future research to shift toward ensuring standardized patient-rated outcome measures are utilized and functional outcomes are included in research planning and operationalization in order to contextualize clinical outcomes.

EGS SO12 - A District General Hospital experience for setting up a "Hot Gallbladder" pathwayBackground

Abstract Background This project details a quality improvement initiative at Chesterfield Royal Hospital (CRH) to establish a “Hot Gallbladder” pathway (HGP) amidst immense NHS pressures. Before this service, CRH performed emergency cholecystectomies solely in an NCEPOD emergency theatre shared with other specialities, resulting in low case volumes, unpredictability, long patient waiting times with extended inpatient stays. The new service now dedicates two half-day lists per week to suitable patients admitted acutely and managed by five dedicated surgeons. Method This quality improvement project involves two separate yearly retrospective audits analysing patients who underwent gallbladder removal through the HGP in 2022 and 2023 at CRH. The primary objective was to assess the HGP's efficacy in terms of the number of cases performed and list completion (2 cases per half-day list). The secondary objective evaluatedadherence to the HGP protocol, appropriate patient selection, indications, and completion of adequate pre-operative investigations. The final objective assessed the HGP's safety by comparing incidence of complications and length of stay with patients undergoing cholecystectomy on the emergency NCEPOD list. Results 268 patients had gallbladder removal through the HGP and 84 cases in the emergencyNCEPOD theatre. The median age was 51, with a 3:1 female-to-male ratio. 75% of patients were managed through surgical ambulatory care. The HGP saw a 30% increase in cases and list completion rates rose from 41% to 61% in one year. NCEPOD emergency theatre usage reduced to 37%. All patients had appropriate indications and pre-operative investigations. 70% of cholecystitis patients were operated within 7 days. The HGP had a lower complication rate (6.2%) compared to emergencies (8%) and shorter post-operative stays (2 days vs 2.5 days). Conclusion This project demonstrates the benefits of establishing a HGP in a DGH. Inpatient stays were significantly reduced as 75% of patients were managed through the ambulatory carepathway. This led to financial benefits and greater patient satisfaction. Timely operations by dedicated surgeons resulted in a lower complication rate and shorter length of stay. The pathway increased the number of cases performed. The reduction in emergency theatre cases allowed better care for patients requiring emergency theatre access.

Abstract 4131630: Comparative Outcomes of Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion Device Implantation in Atrial Fibrillation Patients with a Lower Stroke Risk

Introduction: Current guidelines recommend oral anticoagulation in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients with a CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc score ≥ 2 for stroke prevention. Left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) devices serve as alternatives to reduce stroke risk in select AF patients that are unable to tolerate long-term oral anticoagulation. However, Centers for Medicare&amp;Medicaid Services reimburses left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) for patients with CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc score ≥ 3. Objective: To evaluate differences in outcomes and complications of LAAO therapy in AF patients with a CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc score of ≥ 3 versus &lt; 3. Methods: National Inpatient Sample and International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision codes were used to identify AF patients who underwent LAAO device implantation in the U.S. from 2016−2020. The study population was stratified by stroke risk into two groups, CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc ≥ 3 and &lt; 3. Study endpoints assessed included procedural complications, inpatient outcomes and resource utilization. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to assess the independent association of CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc score with study outcomes. Results: A total of 73,795 and 15,500 LAAO devices were implanted in patients with CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc ≥ 3 and &lt; 3, respectively. Compared to patients with CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc score of ≥ 3, patients with CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc &lt; 3 had lower overall (6.9% vs 9.9%, P&lt; 0.01) and major (4.5% vs 6.2%, P&lt; 0.01) complications in the crude analysis. After multivariable adjustment for potential confounders, CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc &lt; 3 was associated with lower overall complications (aOR 0.84, 95% CI 0.78 – 0.91), major complications (aOR 0.90, 95% CI 0.81-0.99) and cost of hospitalization (aOR 0.95, 95% CI 0.91-0.99). Conclusions: Patients with CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc &lt; 3 had lower complications and hospitalization costs after LAAO device implantation than patients with CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc ≥ 3 . These data, if redemonstrated in a large randomized trial can have important clinical implications for stroke prevention in AF patients.

Implementation of Robotic-Assisted Sacrocervicopexy for Apical Organ Prolapse Using the Semitendinosus Tendon-Pilot Study and Analysis of Clinical Outcome.

This video demonstrates a robotic-assisted sacrocervicopexy using the semitendinosus tendon. Between June 2022 and February 2023, we performed the worldwide first Da Vinci robotic-assisted sacrocervicopexies (SCP) for apical organ prolapse using the semitendinosus tendon of the left knee. Analysis of safety, feasibility, and clinical outcome of the first ten patients operated on using this new surgical technique included the German pelvic floor questionnaire (GPFQ) as well as a clinical examination. Ten patients with a follow-up of 12months were included. There was a significant reduction of the patient's symptoms according to the GPFQ regarding the domain bladder (preoperatively versus 3 months postoperatively, mean 3.85 vs 1.61, p = 0.034), total score (preoperatively versus 3 months postoperatively, mean 12.79 vs 3.28, p = 0.034), and descensus symptoms (preoperatively versus 12months postoperatively, mean 4.74 vs 0.67, p = 0.022). POP-Q stage (point C) was significantly reduced between the preoperative period and at the time of discharge (mean 2.2 vs 0, p = 0.004). No serious intra- and postoperative complications occurred. This pilot study showed satisfying clinical outcomes after a follow-up of 12months, with a low mid-term complication rate.

Abstract 4136563: In-Hospital Outcomes of Percutaneous Versus Surgical Mitral Valve Repair in Patients With COPD

Background: Percutaneous mitral valve repair has been increasingly utilized for the treatment of mitral valve disease in the recent years, although surgical mitral valve repair and/or replacement remains the preferred therapy, especially for primary mitral regurgitation. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common comorbidity that can adversely affect outcomes of cardiac procedures. While COPD is an independent predictor of adverse outcomes after surgical mitral valve repair, its effects on percutaneous mitral valve repair is not well-defined. Methods: Using National Inpatient Sample data from 2011 to 2019, we conducted a retrospective study of adult patients with COPD who underwent surgical or percutaneous mitral valve repair, using ICD-9 and ICD-10 codes. We excluded patients with surgical mitral valve replacement. Patient baseline characteristics and in-hospital outcomes were compared and adjusted for covariates to investigate outcomes using a logistic regression model. Statistical significance was determined with a p-value of &lt;0.001. Results: A total of 18,050 patients with COPD were included. Of these, 10,308 (57.1%) underwent surgical mitral valve repair and 7,742 (42.9%) underwent percutaneous mitral valve repair. The percutaneous cohort had a higher prevalence of heart failure, previous myocardial infarction, pulmonary hypertension, chronic kidney disease, and diabetes, while the surgical cohort had a higher prevalence of obesity and atrial tachyarrhythmias. Percutaneous repair was associated with lower rates of mortality, intraoperative complications, postoperative shock, acute coronary syndrome, and transfusions. Upon logistic regression, percutaneous repair was associated with lower rates of mortality (OR 0.28; 99% CI [0.19-0.40]), acute kidney injury (OR 0.38; 99% CI [0.33-0.44]), pneumothorax (OR 0.14; 99% CI [0.09-0.22]), vascular complications (OR 0.40; 99% CI [0.26-0.62]), and infection (OR 0.54; 99% CI [0.39-0.73]; p&lt;0.001 for all groups). Conclusions: In patients with COPD, percutaneous mitral valve repair is associated with lower mortality and procedural complications compared to surgical repair. The presence of COPD should be taken into consideration when deciding treatment strategy for patients with mitral valve disease.