Minor Postoperative Complications Research Articles

Intra-operative and post-operative complications of endometriosis excision using the SOSURE approach - A single- surgeon retrospective series of 1116 procedures over 8 years.

Endometriosis surgery outcomes have been widely studied, yet heterogeneity in terminology and techniques persist. This study focuses on the perioperative outcomes of a single surgeon using the same structured approach (SOSURE: Survey & Sigmoid mobilisation, Ovarian mobilisation, Suspension of uterus and ovaries, Ureterolysis, Rectovaginal and pararectal space development, Excision of all visible disease) and adheres to the recent standardised terminology proposed by international gynaecological and endometriosis societies. A quality improvement study was conducted retrospectively from January 2015 to January 2023. Data collection involved two databases: the National British Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy (BSGE) database and a more comprehensive locally kept database. The methodology also integrated four endometriosis staging systems. Intra-operative and post-operative complication rates. Between 2015 and 2023, 1047 women underwent 1116 endometriosis procedures in various UK hospitals with S.K. as primary surgeon. Exclusions totalled 20 due to missing records and specific surgical criteria. The rate of major post-operative complications (Clavien-Dindo grade 3a and 3b) was 1.5% and minor post-operative complications (Clavien-Dindo grade 1 and 2) were seen in 13.8%. No Clavien-Dindo grade 4 or 5 complications were noted. Our study has shown a low complication rate in endometriosis surgery, despite increasing complexity of surgical cases. This is likely attributed to the surgeon's learning curve, high surgical volume and adherence to a structured approach. Our study demonstrates the learning curve of a surgeon over the course of 8 years. This series involved more than 1000 patients and to our knowledge, is the first to report the complexity of the casemix using four different endometriosis staging systems.

Postoperative Complications Result in Poor Oncological Outcomes: What Is the Evidence?

The majority of patients with solid tumors undergo a curative resection of their tumor burden. However, the reported rate of postoperative complications varies widely, ranging from 10% to 70%. This narrative review aims to determine the impact of postoperative complications on recurrence and overall survival rates following elective cancer surgeries, thereby providing valuable insights into perioperative cancer care. A systematic electronic search of published studies and meta-analyses from January 2000 to August 2023 was conducted to examine the effect of postoperative complications on long-term survival after cancer surgeries. This comprehensive search identified fifty-one eligible studies and nine meta-analyses for review. Recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) rates were extracted from the selected studies. Additionally, other oncological outcomes, such as recurrence and cancer-specific survival rates, were noted when RFS and OS were not reported as primary outcomes. Pooled hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals were recorded from the meta-analyses, ensuring the robustness of the data. The analysis revealed that long-term cancer outcomes progressively worsen, from patients with no postoperative complications to those with minor postoperative complications (Clavien-Dindo grade ≤ II) and further to those with major postoperative complications (Clavien-Dindo grade III-IV), irrespective of cancer type. This study underscores the detrimental effect of postoperative complications on long-term oncological outcomes, particularly after thoracoabdominal surgeries. Importantly, we found a significant gap in the data regarding postoperative complications in surface and soft tissue surgical procedures, highlighting the need for further research in this area.

Neurologic complications in patients receiving aortic versus subclavian versus femoral arterial cannulation for post-cardiotomy extracorporeal life support: results of the PELS observational multicenter study

BackgroundCerebral perfusion may change depending on arterial cannulation site and may affect the incidence of neurologic adverse events in post-cardiotomy extracorporeal life support (ECLS). The current study compares patients' neurologic outcomes with three commonly used arterial cannulation strategies (aortic vs. subclavian/axillary vs. femoral artery) to evaluate if each ECLS configuration is associated with different rates of neurologic complications.MethodsThis retrospective, multicenter (34 centers), observational study included adults requiring post-cardiotomy ECLS between January 2000 and December 2020 present in the Post-Cardiotomy Extracorporeal Life Support (PELS) Study database. Patients with Aortic, Subclavian/Axillary and Femoral cannulation were compared on the incidence of a composite neurological end-point (ischemic stroke, cerebral hemorrhage, brain edema). Secondary outcomes were overall in-hospital mortality, neurologic complications as cause of in-hospital death, and post-operative minor neurologic complications (seizures). Association between cannulation and neurological outcomes were investigated through linear mixed-effects models.ResultsThis study included 1897 patients comprising 26.5% Aortic (n = 503), 20.9% Subclavian/Axillary (n = 397) and 52.6% Femoral (n = 997) cannulations. The Subclavian/Axillary group featured a more frequent history of hypertension, smoking, diabetes, previous myocardial infarction, dialysis, peripheral artery disease and previous stroke. Neuro-monitoring was used infrequently in all groups. Major neurologic complications were more frequent in Subclavian/Axillary (Aortic: n = 79, 15.8%; Subclavian/Axillary: n = 78, 19.6%; Femoral: n = 118, 11.9%; p < 0.001) also after mixed-effects model adjustment (OR 1.53 [95% CI 1.02–2.31], p = 0.041). Seizures were more common in Subclavian/Axillary (n = 13, 3.4%) than Aortic (n = 9, 1.8%) and Femoral cannulation (n = 12, 1.3%, p = 0.036). In-hospital mortality was higher after Aortic cannulation (Aortic: n = 344, 68.4%, Subclavian/Axillary: n = 223, 56.2%, Femoral: n = 587, 58.9%, p < 0.001), as shown by Kaplan–Meier curves. Anyhow, neurologic cause of death (Aortic: n = 12, 3.9%, Subclavian/Axillary: n = 14, 6.6%, Femoral: n = 28, 5.0%, p = 0.433) was similar.ConclusionsIn this analysis of the PELS Study, Subclavian/Axillary cannulation was associated with higher rates of major neurologic complications and seizures. In-hospital mortality was higher after Aortic cannulation, despite no significant differences in incidence of neurological cause of death in these patients. These results encourage vigilance for neurologic complications and neuromonitoring use in patients on ECLS, especially with Subclavian/Axillary cannulation.Graphical abstract

Racial and ethnic disparities in reception of muscle flap closure during oncologic spinal surgery

BackgroundRacial disparities persist in surgical outcomes after spine surgery for primary and metastatic cancers. Muscle flap closure of spinal defects after oncologic resection has been shown to reduce wound complication rate with favorable cost-effectiveness. It is currently unknown whether racial disparities may affect the reception of this treatment. MethodsSpinal surgery procedures for tumor resection and subsequent reconstruction were identified in the 2011-2022 National Surgical Quality Improvement Program databases. Cases were propensity score matched for covariates like age, comorbidities, number of vertebral levels reconstructed, and length of stay to isolate the predictive impact of race on reception of muscle flap closure (p<0.05). Results9,467 patients that underwent oncologic spine surgery and had known race and ethnicity were identified in the final cohort. Two hundred thirty-two (2.5%) cases included muscle flap closure during the index surgery. After matching (n=4,196), minority race/ethnicity was associated with lower rates of muscle flap closure (2.2%) than non-Hispanic White race/ethnicity (3.8%) (p=0.0037). Upon weighted univariate logistic regression, minority racial and ethnic identification also predicted lower likelihood of muscle flap closure (OR: 0.57, 95% CI: 0.52-0.63, p<0.001). Among patients who received muscle flap closure, overall rate of all, major, or minor thirty-day postoperative complications were not different depending on race and ethnicity (p>0.05). ConclusionThere are evident racial disparities in the reception of muscle flap closure after oncologic spine surgery. Further work may investigate the role of intersecting socioeconomic factors like insurance status and hospital characteristics. LAY SUMMARYMuscle flap closure is a surgical technique within plastic surgery that has been associated with lower rates of complications after spine surgery to remove tumors. Our study shows that minority racial and ethnic groups are less likely on average to receive muscle flap closure. Data availability statementThe data that support the findings of this study are publicly available.

Percutaneous ultrasound-guided anchor wire placement aids in the intraoperative localization of nonpalpable, superficial foreign bodies and abscesses in dogs.

To describe and evaluate the use of preoperative percutaneous ultrasound-guided anchor wire placement to aid intraoperative localization of superficial foreign bodies and abscesses in dogs. 11 dogs. In a retrospective observational study, the medical records of dogs that underwent surgical exploration of superficial abscesses, guided by anchor wire, between 2018 and 2023 were reviewed for clinical and histopathological findings and complications. Owners or veterinarians were contacted to collect long-term follow-up information. 11 dogs were included. Superficial swelling was the most common clinical presentation. Computed tomography and ultrasound revealed an abscess cavity and suspected foreign body in 9 dogs and an abscess cavity without evidence of a foreign body in 2 dogs. Anchor wires were placed in close proximity to the foreign body or inside the abscess. All documented foreign bodies were successfully located and retrieved. Two dogs suffered minor postoperative complications. No major intra- or postoperative complications were documented. One dog displayed recurrence of clinical signs, but no further surgical management was required. Preoperative percutaneous placement of an anchor wire via ultrasound guidance was successful in aiding intraoperative localization of nonpalpable abscesses and retrieval of foreign bodies. This technique may decrease surgical time, minimize the surgical approach required, and increase the likelihood of successful localization.

Stapled functional end-to-end intestinal anastomosis with endovascular gastrointestinal anastomosis staplers in cats and small dogs.

To investigate the use of endovascular gastrointestinal stapling devices to perform intestinal functional end-to-end stapled anastomosis in small dogs and cats. Medical records of dogs (≤10 kg) and cats that underwent intestinal resection and functional end-to-end stapled anastomosis with an endovascular gastrointestinal anastomosis (endovascular-GIA) stapling device at five small animal referral centres between April 2014 and September 2023 were retrospectively reviewed. Data including clinical findings, surgical technique, histopathology and complications were collected. A minimum follow-up of 10 days was required. Patients with follow-up of less than 10 days were included if they developed a major complication. Outcome was obtained from assessing the clinical records and contacting the referring veterinarians or owners. Estimated survival was generated according to the Kaplan-Meier method. Differences between survival curves were tested by log-rank test. Twenty-five patients (10 dogs and 15 cats) were included. The median bodyweight was 4.6 kg (range 2.6 to 10 kg). Nine patients were diagnosed with intestinal neoplasia, 16 with non-neoplastic intestinal disease. The median follow-up was 126 days (range 18 to 896 days). Five patients developed minor postoperative complications, including three superficial surgical site infections. No major postoperative complications were reported. Eighteen patients were alive at the end of the study, one patient was lost to follow-up. Kaplan-Meier estimated median survival time was not reached. Survival was significantly longer for patients with non-neoplastic versus neoplastic intestinal. The study suggests that the use of endovascular gastrointestinal anastomosis staplers is safe and effective to perform intestinal functional end-to-end stapled anastomosis in dogs ≤10 kg and cats.

Four-handed Technique for Total Laparoscopic Hysterectomy: An Italian Experience.

In our previous article, we proposed the novel four-handed technique (FHT) for total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH), which, according to us, is more helpful compared to the traditional TLH route. The objectives of the study were to analyze the FHT-TLH feasibility and efficiency by comparing some surgical outcomes recorded from 750 FHT-TLH performed in our hospital to literature data about the traditional TLH route and to underline the great opportunity this novel technique offers to the young specialists and residents to be more confident with gynecological laparoscopy. This was a retrospective analysis carried out by collecting data regarding patient characteristics and surgical outcomes (operative time, blood loss, surgical complications, use of analgesics, and length of hospitalization) from 750 hospital records of women who underwent FHT-TLH (with or without adnexectomy) due to benign or malignant pathology from January 2015 to December 2021 at our hospital. We performed a total of 750 FHT-TLH, with or without adnexectomy. The mean skin-to-skin operative time for a FHT-TLH was 50 min, and the mean blood loss was 150 mL. No visceral damage was caused during surgeries. Only two patients underwent exploratory laparotomy with total abdominal hysterectomy due to the inability to proceed laparoscopically. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were administered only twice a day as analgesics, with advantage. The mean length of stay in the hospital after the procedure was 1.5 days, with discharge on the evening of the 1st day after surgery. No major postoperative complications occurred. The only minor postoperative complication described, in just three patients, was cellulitis of the vaginal vault. Our FHT-TLH experience represents an alternative to the traditional TLH route, which allows to apply a minimally invasive approach with some advantages for patients compared to the traditional TLH route, such as early recovery and reduced operating time, blood loss, use of analgesics, and hospital stay. Moreover, it allows young specialists and residents to be more confident with gynecological laparoscopy, particularly when operating as the first assistant, to improve their laparoscopic surgical skills faster than the traditional TLH route allows them.

Surgical Outcomes of Hugo™ RAS Robot-Assisted Partial Nephrectomy for Cystic Renal Masses: Technique and Initial Experience.

Background: The Hugo™ Robot-Assisted Surgery (RAS) system is a new cutting-edge robotic platform designed for clinical applications. Nevertheless, its application for cystic renal tumors has not yet been thoroughly investigated. In this context, we present an initial series of Robot-Assisted Partial Nephrectomy (RAPN) procedures carried out using the Hugo™ RAS system for cystic renal masses. Methods: Between October 2022 and January 2024, twenty-seven RAPN procedures for renal tumors were performed at Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico. Our prospective board-approved dataset was queried for "cystic features" (n = 12). Perioperative data were collected. The eGFR was calculated according to the CKD-EPI formula. Post-operative complications were reported according to the Clavien-Dindo classification. Computed tomography (CT) scans for follow-up were performed according to the EAU guidelines. Trifecta was defined as the coexistence of negative surgical margin status, no Clavien-Dindo grade ≥ 3 complications, and eGFR decline ≤ 30%. Results: All the patients successfully underwent RAPN without the need for conversion or additional port placement. The median docking and console time were 5.5 (IQR, 4-6) and 79.5 min (IQR, 58-91 min), respectively. No intraoperative complications occurred, as well as clashes between instruments or with the bedside assistant. Two minor postoperative complications were recorded (Clavien-Dindo II). At discharge, serum creatinine and eGFR were comparable to preoperative values. Only one patient (8.4%) displayed positive surgical margins. The rate of trifecta achievement was 91.7%. Conclusions: RAPN for cystic renal masses using the novel Hugo™ RAS system can be safely and effectively performed. This robotic system provided satisfactory peri-operative outcomes, preserving renal function and displaying low postoperative complications and a high trifecta rate achievement.

Anterior obturator artery perforator (aOAP) flap: A last-resort treatment option for sexual dysfunction in lichen sclerosus et atrophicus

IntroductionLichen sclerosus et atrophicus is an inflammatory, scarring dermatosis of the female anogenital area and may lead to pain and sexual dysfunction. In select cases which are refractory to conservative therapy, surgery may provide significant symptom improvement. The objective of this study was to expand the range of surgical treatment options for these patients by presenting the operative outcomes of a specialised reconstructive method using the anterior obturator artery perforator (aOAP) flap. MethodsA retrospective cohort study was conducted on sexual outcomes following the excision of affected vulvovestibular tissue by skinning vulvectomy and subsequent single-stage reconstruction using the aOAP flap. Additional procedures, such as the Omega-Domed (OD) flap, scar surgery and clitoral re-exposure, were performed when indicated. ResultsBetween 2014 and 2022, a total of 61 patients were surgically treated and retrospectively included in this study. Vulvectomy and subsequent reconstruction with bilateral aOAP flaps were performed in 53 (87%) cases. There was a significant reduction in the prevalence of dyspareunia and inability to have sexual intercourse at the 1-year follow-up compared to baseline (p < 0.001). There were several minor, reversible complications that required secondary intervention. ConclusionsThe outcomes of this study indicate a substantial improvement in sexual function, evidenced by a significant reduction in dyspareunia and an increased ability to engage in sexual intercourse. Altered tissue quality in patients with lichen sclerosus et atrophicus and long-term cortisone application may predispose this patient population to a higher risk of minor post-operative complications. Clinical Trial Registration NumberDRKS00033261

Abstract PO2-22-10: Surgical outcomes after neoadjuvant chemotherapy with and without immunotherapy in patients with triple negative breast cancer

Abstract Background: The KEYNOTE-522 trial demonstrated that the addition of neoadjuvant pembrolizumab to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) for the treatment of early-stage triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) significantly improves rates of both pathologic complete response (pCR) and event-free survival. The impact of adding immunotherapy to NAC on surgical outcomes, however, is unknown. The purpose of this study is to compare 90-day surgical complication rates and timing to subsequent adjuvant therapy of patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy for stage I-III TNBC with and without immunotherapy. Methods: Patients treated at University of California, Los Angeles with neoadjuvant therapy for TNBC between 2018-2022 were identified retrospectively. Patient comorbidities, tumor characteristics, type of surgery, 90-day postoperative minor and major complications, timing to adjuvant therapy, and oncologic outcomes were reviewed and analyzed. Major complications were defined as those requiring reoperation or hospitalization. Results: A total of 44 patients were included, 15 patients received neoadjuvant chemotherapy with immunotherapy (NAC-I) and 29 patients received neoadjuvant chemotherapy alone (NAC). There was no difference in patient comorbidities between the groups. Compared to the NAC group, significantly more patients in the NAC-I group had stage II or III tumors (58.6% vs. 86.7%, respectively, p=0.028). 73% of patients in the NAC-I group underwent mastectomy compared to only 44% of patients in the NAC group (p=0.111). In total, 23 patients underwent reconstruction with mastectomy, 6 patients underwent immediate DIEP flap (4 in NAC-I group and 2 in NAC group) and 17 underwent immediate tissue expander (7 in NAC-I and 10 in NAC group). 80% of patients in the NAC-I experienced a pCR compared to only 44% in the NAC group (p=0.026). A total of 15 patients (34.1%) experienced surgical complications and there was no significant difference in the complication rate between the groups (p= 0.552). Five patients (33%) in the NAC-I group experienced minor complications of seroma requiring aspiration (n=4), cellulitis requiring antibiotics (n=1), or wound dehiscence requiring local wound care (n=2). No patients in the NAC-I group had major complications. Ten patients (33%) in the NAC group experienced complications, including 6 minor complications and 4 major complications including postoperative bleeding or flap necrosis requiring unplanned return to surgery or hyperbaric oxygen treatment. On multivariable regression analysis, controlling for patient characteristics, tumor stage, and preoperative immunotherapy, only younger age was a statistically significant variable associated with increased risk of surgical complications (p=0.012). Median time to adjuvant therapy, including radiation and/or systemic therapy, was similar between NAC-I and NAC groups, at 32 and 36 days, respectively (p=0.37). In the NAC-I group, 14 patients (93.3%) had adjuvant systemic therapy including pembrolizumab alone (n=12), pembrolizumab with olaparib (n=1) or capecitabine alone (n=1). In the NAC group, 11 patients (37.9%) underwent adjuvant systemic treatment including chemotherapy with either capecitabine (n=1), pembrolizumab (n=1), or olaparib (n=2); or single agent capecitabine (n=6) or olaparib (n=1). Conclusions: Despite patients in the NAC-I group having more advanced stage tumors and undergoing more extensive surgery and reconstruction compared to those in the NAC alone group, a significantly higher rate of surgical complications was not observed in the NAC-I group and there was no significant difference in time to adjuvant therapy between the two groups. Similar to results from the KEYNOTE-522 trial, more patients in the NAC-I group experienced a pCR compared to NAC alone. Larger studies are needed to continue to assess and optimize the surgical safety of neoadjuvant immunotherapy with chemotherapy in patients with TNBC. Citation Format: Anouchka Coste Holt, Maurice Berkowitz, Nicholas McAndrew, Courtney Smith, Jennifer Baker, Nimmi Kapoor. Surgical outcomes after neoadjuvant chemotherapy with and without immunotherapy in patients with triple negative breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO2-22-10.

Modified Botulinum Toxin Type A Injections Improve Symptoms Associated With Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome in Women: A Retrospective Cohort Study

ObjectiveTo investigate the efficacy and safety of modified botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A) injections (with additional periurethral injection [PUI] of BoNT-A) for the treatment of interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS). MethodsThis single-center, retrospective cohort study included 52 adult female patients with IC/BPS, with 24 patients receiving conventional BoNT-A injections and 28 receiving modified BoNT-A injections. The primary outcome measure was patient-reported global response assessment (GRA). Secondary outcomes included daytime frequency, nocturia, number of urinary urgency episodes in the voiding diary, pain visual analog score, O'Leary-Sant Interstitial Cystitis Symptom Index and Interstitial Cystitis Problem Index, pelvic pain and urgency/frequency scores, risk factors for recurrence, and postoperative recurrence-free time. ResultsThe median duration of follow-up was 16.0 months (interquartile range 11.75–21 months). Patients who underwent modified BoNT-A injections showed significant improvement in postoperative GRA, symptom questionnaires, and pain assessment compared with those who underwent conventional surgery. A statistically significant difference was observed between the two groups in terms of recurrence-free time (12.5 vs. 18.0 months, P=0.02). Subgroup analysis suggested that additional PUI of BoNT-A was more effective in patients with combined severe periurethral pain. No serious complications occurred in both groups, and all minor postoperative complications were temporary. ConclusionsModified BoNT-A injection is an effective treatment for IC/BPS that significantly reduces pain and improves voiding symptoms. It is particularly effective in patients with combined periurethral pain. In such patients, PUI of BoNT-A should be added to the routine intravesical injection of BoNT-A.

Complication Rate of the Nuss Procedure in Adults and Pediatric Patients: National Database Analysis

BackgroundPectus excavatum (PE) is the most common congenital chest wall defect and is characterized by the inward displacement of the sternum and costal cartilages. To date, there are limited data on adult patients undergoing the Nuss procedure for PE. This study aimed to assess the complication rate between the pediatric and adult populations and assess the trends in demographics. MethodsRetrospective analysis was conducted using a global health care database, TriNetX. Current Procedural Terminology codes (21742, 21743) were used to identify all patients who underwent Nuss procedures in the years 2004 to 2023. The cohort was then subdivided on the basis of age and sex. These patients were assessed for 30-day and 90-day major and minor postoperative complications, as well as acute pain and chronic postoperative pain. ResultsA total of 2843 patients who underwent Nuss repair were identified. Patients aged >18 years had increased hemorrhagic complications (3% vs 0.86% in patients aged <18 years; P < .001) and acute pain (55% in patients aged >18 years vs 39.1% in patients aged <18 years; P < .001). Overall complication rates were 28.48% in female patients and 21.7% in male patients (P = .0014). Female patients had higher rates of respiratory complications (6% vs 2.7% in male patients; P = .001), chronic pain (5.2% in female patients vs 2% in male patients; P < .001), and hemorrhagic complications (6% in female patients vs 0.97% in male patients; P = .0042). ConclusionsThis study suggests that adults with PE experience significantly increased postoperative pain and hemorrhagic complications after the Nuss procedure when compared with the pediatric population. Female patients experience significantly higher complication rates when compared with male patients in all age groups.

First report from the European registry for anomalous aortic origin of coronary artery (EURO-AAOCA).

Anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery (AAOCA) is a group of rare congenital heart defects with various clinical presentations. The lifetime-risk of an individual living with AAOCA is unknown, and data from multicentre registries are urgently needed to adapt current recommendations and guide optimal patient management. The European AAOCA Registry (EURO-AAOCA) aims to assess differences with regard to AAOCA management between centres. EURO-AAOCA is a prospective, multicentre registry including 13 European centres. Herein, we evaluated differences in clinical presentations and management, treatment decisions and surgical outcomes across centres from January 2019 to June 2023. A total of 262 AAOCA patients were included, with a median age of 33 years (12-53) with a bimodal distribution. One hundred thirty-nine (53.1%) were symptomatic, whereas chest pain (n = 74, 53.2%) was the most common complaint, followed by syncope (n = 21, 15.1%). Seven (5%) patients presented with a myocardial infarction, 2 (1.4%) with aborted sudden cardiac death. Right-AAOCA was most frequent (150, 57.5%), followed by left-AAOCA in 51 (19.5%), and circumflex AAOCA in 20 (7.7%). There were significant differences regarding diagnostics between age groups and across centres. Seventy-four (28.2%) patients underwent surgery with no operative deaths; minor postoperative complications occurred in 10 (3.8%) cases. Currently, no uniform agreement exists among European centres with regard to diagnostic protocols and clinical management for AAOCA variants. Although surgery is a safe procedure in AAOCA, future longitudinal outcome data will hopefully shed light on how to best decide towards optimal selection of patients undergoing revascularization versus conservative treatment.

Outcome of surgical correction of medial patellar luxation in dogs weighing less than 10 kg.

Varioustrochleoplasty techniques, including trochlear wedge recession (TWR) and trochlear block recession (TBR), are used to treat dogs with medial patellar luxation (MPL). However, the objective outcomes of these surgical proceduresare underreported. Medical records were obtained for dogs weighing less than 10kg that underwent either TWR or TBR and tibial tuberosity transposition to address grade I-III MPL. Long-term (at least 1 year after the last procedure) follow-up included orthopaedic and radiographic examinations, such as osteoarthritis score (OAS), ground reaction force (GRF) analysis and canine brief pain inventory (CBPI). Overall, 20 dogs (26 stifles) were followed up in the long term. Minor postoperative complications, medial patellar reluxation (MPR) and intermittent lameness occurred in 46.15%, 19.23% and 15% of the dogs, respectively. MPR occurred only in TWR-treated stifles, while mean OAS increased in all groups. Using the CBPI, the owners perceived an excellent or very good outcomein 95% of dogs. The limitations of the study include its retrospective observational nature, a lack of randomisation and a small sample size. Surgical treatment resulted in a favourable outcome. GRF analysis could detect subtle differences in weight bearing in dogs treated for MPL, which might not be apparent clinically. There might be a higher risk for reluxation for TWR. However, a larger-scale prospective study would be required to find which treatment is superior.

Comparison of high and low pulse energy dusting protocols using holmium: YAG laser in flexible ureteroscopy for treatment of renal stones

ABSTRACT Objectives The management of renal stones, particularly those less than 2 cm in diameter, has changed with the development of endourological techniques, among which flexible ureteroscopy (FURS) using laser for lithotripsy has become a cornerstone. This study aims to compare the effectiveness of high pulse energy versus low pulse energy laser settings in renal stone dusting by Holmium YAG laser. Patients and Methods This prospective randomized study was conducted between September 2021 and November 2023 to compare the efficacy and safety of high energy versus low-energy pulse settings using a Holmium: YAG laser dusting of renal stones less than 2 cm in diameter. A total of 174 adult patients were included, divided equally into high- and low-pulse energy groups, based on the energy settings of the laser high energy (ranged from 1.2–2.5 Joules and frequency of 8 hz) and low energy (less than 0.5 Joules and frequency ≥ 15 hz) using the dusting ‎technique with non-touch non-stop approach. The study sought to evaluate the impact of these settings on stone fragmentation efficiency, operative time, laser energy consumption, and postoperative outcomes, including stone-free rates and complications. Results The study involved 174 patients who underwent renal stone lithotripsy and showed that using high pulse energy laser dusting settings significantly reduced operative times and more rapid dusting compared to low pulse energy settings, without affecting the stone-free rate. The study observed no significant differences in stone size or location between both groups. Minor postoperative complications were similar between both groups, indicating high pulse energy settings for lithotripsy dusting. Conclusion The efficacy of high pulse energy dusting in enhancing stone removal during surgery, potentially reducing operative time. Further validation through larger-scale studies is needed to solidify these findings. This technique presents a promising solution, particularly in regions with limited resources where acquiring expensive laser equipment is challenging.

Efficacy of flexible ureterorenoscopy with holmium laser in the management of calyceal diverticular calculi

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of flexible ureteroscopy with holmium laser lithotripsy in the management of calyceal diverticular calculi. In this study, we retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 27 patients with calyceal diverticular calculi admitted to the Department of Urology of the Zigong First People’s Hospital from May 2018 to May 2021. Intraoperatively, the diverticular neck was found in all 27 patients, but flexible ureterorenoscopy lithotripsy was not performed in 2 cases because of the slender diverticular neck, and the success rate of the operation was 92.6%. Of the 25 patients with successful lithotripsy, the mean operative time was 76.9 ± 35.5 (43–200) min. There were no serious intraoperative complications such as ureteral perforation, mucosal avulsion, or hemorrhage. Postoperative minor complications (Clavien classification I-II) occurred in 4 (16%) patients. The mean hospital stay was 4.4 ± 1.7 (3–12) days. The stone-free rate was 80% at the 1-month postoperative follow-up. After the second-stage treatment, the stone-free rate was 88%. In 22 cases with complete stone clearance, no stone recurrence was observed at 5.3 ± 2.6 (3–12) months follow-up. This retrospective study demonstrated that flexible ureterorenoscopy with holmium laser is a safe and effective choice for the treatment of calyceal diverticular calculi, because it utilizes the natural lumen of the human body and has the advantages of less trauma, fewer complications, and a higher stone-free rate.

Long-Term Outcomes of Robotic Versus Laparoscopic Total Mesorectal Excisions: A Propensity-Score Matched Cohort study of 5-year survival outcomes.

To compare long-term outcomes between laparoscopic and robotic total mesorectal excisions (TMEs) for rectal cancer in a tertiary center. Laparoscopic rectal cancer surgery has comparable long-term outcomes to the open approach, with several advantages in short-term outcomes. However, it has significant technical limitations, which the robotic approach aims to overcome. We included patients undergoing laparoscopic and robotic TME surgery between 2013 and 2021. The groups were compared after propensity-score matching. The primary outcome was 5-year overall survival (OS). Secondary outcomes were local recurrence (LR), distant recurrence (DR), disease-free survival (DFS), and short-term surgical and patient-related outcomes. A total of 594 patients were included, and after propensity-score matching 215 patients remained in each group. There was a significant difference in 5-year OS (72.4% for laparoscopy vs 81.7% for robotic, P = 0.029), but no difference in 5-year LR (4.7% vs 5.2%, P = 0.850), DR (16.9% vs 13.5%, P = 0.390), or DFS (63.9% vs 74.4%, P = 0.086). The robotic group had significantly less conversion (3.7% vs 0.5%, P = 0.046), shorter length of stay [7.0 (6.0-13.0) vs 6.0 (4.0-8.0), P < 0.001), and less postoperative complications (63.5% vs 50.7%, P = 0.010). This study shows a correlation between higher 5-year OS and comparable long-term oncological outcomes for robotic TME surgery compared to the laparoscopic approach. Furthermore, lower conversion rates, a shorter length of stay, and a less minor postoperative complications were observed. Robotic rectal cancer surgery is a safe and favorable alternative to the traditional approaches.

Surgical and survival outcomes of early-onset colorectal cancer patients: a single-centre descriptive Australian study.

Early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC) incidence is increasing in Australia. However, no Australian studies have reported on EOCRC patients' surgical management and survival patterns. A retrospective study of 111 EOCRC patients treated at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital (RPAH), Sydney, Australia between January 2013 and December 2021 was performed. RPAH is a quaternary referral centre for pelvic exenteration (PE) and cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS/HIPEC). Most patients had left-sided tumours (76.58%) and stage IV disease at the time of presentation (37.85%). 27.93% of patients underwent either CRS/HIPEC and PE and 72.07% of patients underwent other colorectal resections of which the most common was low anterior resection (19.82%). A stoma was fashioned in 50.54% of patients. Complications occurred in 54.95% of patients of which most were Clavien-Dindo grade II (47.54%). Absolute 1-, 3- and 5-year time intervals were 93.69%, 87.39% and 85.48%. Disease-free and overall survival were poorer in stage IV patients who had PE, followed by CRS/HIPEC then other colorectal resections (P < 0.001 and P = 0.003). Stoma formation, PE and CRS/HIPEC and minor postoperative complications were common in our EOCRC cohort. Despite this, the 5-year absolute survival rate was acceptable. Thus, an aggressive surgical approach in EOCRC patients at a quaternary referral centre may be feasible at the cost of greater postoperative morbidity. This information is imperative in the surgical consent and preoperative counselling of EOCRC patients and highlights the need for further research to assess the postoperative functional outcomes and quality of life of EOCRC patients.

Single-Incision Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Using a Set of Novel Needle Instruments.

Although the technique of single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC) has improved remarkably, problems such as limited exposure and instrument collision persist. We describe a new SILC technique that uses a set of specially-designed needle instruments. Fifty-six patients with benign gallbladder disease underwent SILC using the newly-designed needle assembly instruments (NAIs). The NAIs comprise an needle assembly exposing hook for operative field exposure and an needle assembly electrocoagulation hook for dissection. During the operation, the NAIs were assembled and disassembled before and after gallbladder removal within the abdominal cavity. The operative efficacy and postoperative complications of this procedure were evaluated. SILC was completed successfully in 52 cases, and four cases (7.14%) required an additional trocar. There were no conversions to open surgery. The mean operative time was 48.2 ± 21.8min, and the mean operative bleeding volume was 10.5 ± 12.5mL. Minor postoperative complications occurred in 3 cases, including 2 cases of localized fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity and 1 case of pulmonary infection, and all of them recovered after conservative treatment. There was no occurrence of bile leak, abdominal bleeding, bile duct injury and incisional hernia. The medical cost of each case was saved by approximately $200. The abdominal scars produced by the needle instruments were negligible. NAIs can make SILC safer, more convenient, and less expensive.

Ligation of the Intersphincteric Fistula Tract as an Emergency Treatment for Cryptoglandular Anal Fistula.

Ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) is a sphincter-preserving procedure for treating anal fistula of cryptoglandular origin. Our prospective study aimed to determine the postoperative outcomes of patients undergoing LIFT in emergency and elective settings. This was a single-centre prospective observational study of the LIFT procedure for the treatment of anal fistulas. The differences in the 6-month postoperative outcomes between the emergency and elective procedures were analysed, including the healing rate, healing time, recurrence rate, recurrence time, postoperative complications and length of hospital stay. Twenty-two patients were recruited for this study: 11 patients underwent LIFT as an emergency procedure (EM-LIFT), while the others underwent LIFT as an elective procedure (EL-LIFT). The healing rate for the EM-LIFT group was 90.9% (n = 10), with a median healing time of 2 months (range 0.5-4). For the EL-LIFT group, the healing rate was 100% (n = 11), with the same median healing time of 2 months (range 0.5-4). Two of the patients in the EM-LIFT group developed recurrence, with a median recurrence time of 5 months (range 4-6) and three developed recurrence in the EL-LIFT group, with the same median recurrence time of 5 months (range 4-6). There were minor postoperative complications of pain and subcutaneous infection, with no faecal incontinence. There was no statistically significant difference in postoperative outcomes between the groups. EM-LIFT is a feasible and safe primary procedure for active cryptoglandular-type anal fistulas.