Neck Resection Research Articles

Bladder Neck Contracture as a Complication of Prostate Surgery

Bladder neck contracture (BNC) is one of the most common complications of surgical treatment of prostate diseases. The rate of postoperative BNC varies depending on the type of surgical treatment used. The options for treatment techniques for BNC can vary from endoscopic interventions to complex (abdominal) surgical interventions. This review evaluates various alternative surgical methods of BNC treatment. The search and analysis of publications in the databases PubMed (MEDLINE), Scopus, Cochrane Library, according to the keywords, “bladder neck sclerosis,” “benign prostatic hyperplasia,” “BNC,” “bladder neck stenosis,” “balloon dilation,” “treatment.” As a result, 71 publications were selected and included in this review. In addition to the standard treatment methods in the form of transurethral resection and incision of the bladder neck using electricity and laser energy, the urologist also has alternative methods of treatment, such as balloon dilation, placement of urethral stents, instillation of the bladder or intraoperative injection of cytostatic drugs, hormones, hyaluronic acid derivatives, and biomedical cell products into the bladder neck area. Although transurethral resection is currently the main treatment option for BNC, the recurrence rate after this procedure can reach up to 38%. According to the literature, balloon dilation can be a promising and minimally invasive method of treatment for recurrent BNC. This method can be used as the first stage in the treatment of recurrent contracture deformity. Furthermore, intravesical instillation of various anti-inflammatory drugs and cytostatics can be promising directions in the treatment and prevention of BNC.

Assessment of the Balloon Dilation Efficiency in Bladder Neck Contracture after Transurethral Interventions on the Prostate

Purpose: The aim was to assess the results of balloon dilation in patients with bladder neck contracture (BNC) after endoscopic surgery for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Materials and Methods: The study involved 120 patients with recurrent BNC after transurethral interventions for BPH. All patients underwent transurethral resection (TUR) of the bladder neck and were divided into two groups: Group A (n = 45) included men who, after TUR, additionally underwent repeated balloon dilation, whereas the control group B (n = 75) included men who were treated with alpha-blockers alone. Results: In 9 months after TUR and 3 months after the 4th balloon dilation procedure in Group A, the mean international prostate symptom score (IPSS) decreased from 20.1 ± 8.4 to 17.2 ± 7.4, and the IPSS-quality of life was 4.2 ± 1.2 (P > 0.05). In Group B, they were 21.7 ± 7.7 and 4.7 ± 1.1 (P > 0.05), respectively. In addition, the mean flow rate in Group A was 13.2 ± 5.4 ml/s, whereas in Group B, it was 8.7 ± 4.9 ml/s (P < 0.05). There was a significant decrease in the postvoid residual urine volume from 76.2 ± 96.1 ml to 37.6 ± 55.1 ml in Group A, whereas, in Group B, it increased from 63.0 ± 36.9 ml to 79.4 ± 71.6 ml (P > 0.05). Furthermore, 28.0% of patients of Group B and 13.3% of patients of Group A underwent repeated TUR of the bladder neck in 9 months follow-up period (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Balloon dilation is a safe less invasive procedure and can reduce the possibility of BNC recurrence and thus the rate of repeated transurethral interventions.

Six-year experience of microvascular free-flap reconstruction of head and neck neoplasms.

Microvascular free-flap reconstruction is one of the treatment options after large resection of head and neck neoplasms. The objectives of this study are to identify short-term outcomes and risk factors for flap complication in patients who underwent neoplasms resection of head and neck with microvascular free-flap reconstruction. Retrospective study of patients who underwent surgery for head and neck neoplasm with microvascular free-flap reconstruction between January 2014-2020. Complications were studied at 30-days follow-up and divided into medical and flap complications. Factors independently associated with flap complication were analyzed. We included 31 patients (15 men). The mean age was 60 years. Reconstruction was performed with radial-forearm flap in 74% (n=23) and with free-fibula flap in 26% (n=8). Mean surgical time was 420 minutes. Median hospital length of stay was 7 days. Medical complications were of 23%. Minor complications were of 35% and major of 32%. There was no mortality in 30-days follow-up. Flap complications were of 35%. Reintervention was of 29%, surgical site infection of 9%, dehiscence of 29% and flap loss of 9.7%. Surgical site infection was independently associated with prolonged surgical time (Odds ratio [OR]=1.03, IC95%=0.98-1.04, p=0.02) and body mass index equal to or greater than 30 (OR=1.38, IC95%=0.84-2.26, p=0.04) while flap loss was associated with prolonged surgical time (OR=1.02, IC95%=0.99-1.04, p=0.01). Microsurgical free-flap reconstruction should be considered in our population in patients with large head and neck neoplasms. Preoperative assessment of the risk of postoperative complications is essential before selecting patients for this surgery.

Intraoperative hypotension, oliguria and operation time are associated with pulmonary embolism after radical resection of head and neck cancers: a case control study

BackgroundPostoperative pulmonary embolism (PE) is a serious thrombotic complication in the patients with otolaryngologic cancers. We investigated the risk factors associated with postoperative PE after radical resection of head and neck cancers.MethodsA total of 3512 patients underwent head and neck cancers radical resection from 2013 to 2019. A one-to-three control group without postoperative PE was selected matched by age, gender, and type of cancer. Univariate analyses were performed for the perioperative patient data including hemodynamic management factors. Conditional logistic regression was used to analyze the factors and their odds ratios.ResultsPostoperative PE was prevalent in 0.85% (95%CI = 0.56–1.14). Univariate analyses showed that a high ASA grade, high BMI, and smoking history may be related to postoperative PE. There was significantly difference in operation time between the two groups, especially for> 4 h [22(78.6%) vs 43(51.2%), P = .011]. The urine output was lower [1.37(0.73–2.21) ml·kg− 1·h− 1 vs 2.14(1.32–3.46) ml·kg− 1·h− 1, P = .006] and the incidence of oliguria was significantly increased (14.3% vs 1.2%, P = .004) in the PE group. Multivariable conditional logistic regression showed postoperative PE were associated with the cumulative duration for intraoperative hypotension (OR = 2.330, 95%CI = 1.428–3.801, P = .001), oliguria (OR = 14.844, 95%CI = 1.089–202.249, P = .043), and operation time > 4 h (OR = 4.801, 95%CI = 1.054–21.866, P = .043).ConclusionsThe intraoperative hypotension, oliguria, and operation time > 4 h are risk factors associated with postoperative PE after radical resection of head and neck cancers. Improving intraoperative hemodynamics management to ensure adequate blood pressure and urine output may reduce the occurrence of such complications.

High-Resolution 18F-FDG PET/CT for Assessing Three-Dimensional Intraoperative Margins Status in Malignancies of the Head and Neck, a Proof-of-Concept.

The surgical treatment of head and neck malignancies relies on the complete removal of tumoral tissue, while inadequate margins necessitate the use of adjuvant therapy. However, most positive margins are identified postoperatively as deep margins, and intraoperative identification of the deep positive margins could help achieve adequate surgical margins and decrease adjuvant therapies. To improve deep-margin identification, we investigated whether the use of high-resolution preclinical PET and CT could increase certainty about the surgical margins in three dimensions. Patients with a malignancy of the head and neck planned for surgical resection were administered a clinical activity of 4MBq/kg 18F-FDG approximately one hour prior to surgical initiation. Subsequently, the resected specimen was scanned with a micro-PET-CT imaging device, followed by histopathological assessment. Eight patients were included in the study and intraoperative PET/CT-imaging of 11 tumoral specimens and lymph nodes of three patients was performed. As a result of the increased resolution, differentiation between inflamed and dysplastic tissue versus malignant tissue was complicated in malignancies with increased peritumoral inflammation. The current technique allowed the three-dimensional delineation of 18F-FDG using submillimetric PET/CT imaging. While further optimization and patient stratification is required, clinical implementation could enable deep margin assessment in head and neck resection specimens.

Contemporary Outcomes after Transurethral Procedures for Bladder Neck Contracture Following Endoscopic Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia.

Objectives: Bladder neck contracture (BNC) is a bothersome complication following endoscopic treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The objective of our study was to give a more realistic insight into contemporary endoscopic BNC treatment and to evaluate and identify risk factors associated with inferior outcome. Material and Methods: We identified patients who underwent transurethral treatment for BNC secondary to previous endoscopic therapy for BPH between March 2009 and October 2016. Patients with vesico-urethral anastomotic stenosis after radical prostatectomy were excluded. Digital charts were reviewed for re-admissions and re-visits at our institutions and patients were contacted personally for follow-up. Our non-validated questionnaire assessed previous urologic therapies (including radiotherapy, endoscopic, and open surgery), time to eventual further therapy in case of BNC recurrence, and the modality of recurrence management. Results: Of 60 patients, 49 (82%) and 11 (18%) underwent transurethral bladder neck resection and incision, respectively. Initial BPH therapy was transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) in 54 (90%) and holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) in six (10%) patients. Median time from prior therapy was 8.5 (IQR 5.3–14) months and differed significantly in those with (6.5 months; IQR 4–10) and those without BNC recurrence (10 months; IQR 6–20; p = 0.046). Thirty-three patients (55%) underwent initial endoscopic treatment, and 27 (45%) repeated endoscopic treatment for BNC. In initially-treated patients, time since BPH surgery differed significantly between those with a recurrence (median 7.5 months; IQR 6–9) compared to those treated successfully (median 12 months; IQR 9–25; p = 0.01). In patients with repeated treatment, median time from prior BNC therapy did not differ between those with (4.5 months; IQR 2–12) and those without a recurrence (6 months; IQR 6–10; p = 0.6). Overall, BNC treatment was successful in 32 patients (53%). The observed success rate of BNC treatment was significantly higher after HoLEP compared to TURP (100% vs. 48%; p = 0.026). Type of BNC treatment, number of BNC treatment, and age at surgery did not influence the outcome. Conclusions: A longer time interval between previous BPH therapy and subsequent BNC incidence seems to favorably affect treatment success of endoscopic BNC treatment, and transurethral resection and incision appear equally effective. Granted the relatively small sample size, BNC treatment success seems to be higher after HoLEP compared to TURP, which warrants validation in larger cohorts.

Surgeon vs Pathologist for Prediction of Pancreatic Fistula: Results from the Randomized Multicenter RECOPANC Study

Surgically assessed pancreatic texture has been identified as the strongest predictor of postoperative pancreatic fistula. However, texture is a subjective parameter with no proven reliability or validity. Therefore, a more objective parameter is needed. In this study, we evaluated the fibrosis level at the pancreatic neck resection margin and correlated fibrosis and all clinico-pathologic parameters collected over the course of the Pancreatogastrostomy vs Pancreatojejunostomy for RECOnstruction (RECOPANC) study. The RECOPANC trial was a multicenter randomized prospective trial of patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy. There were 261 hematoxylin and eosin-stained slides allocated for histopathologic analyses. Pancreatic fibrosis was scored from 0 to III (no fibrosis up to severe fibrosis) by 2 blinded independent pathologists. All variables possibly associated with POPF were entered into a generalized linear model for multivariable analysis. The fibrosis grade and pancreatic texture were scored in all 261 patients. In POPF B/C (postoperative pancreatic fistula grade B or C) patients, 71% had a soft pancreas, and fibrosis grades were distributed as follows: 48% with score 0, 28% with score I, 20% with score II, and 7% with score III, respectively. Fibrosis grading showed substantial inter-rater reliability (kappa= 0.74) and correlated positively with hard pancreatic texture (p < 0.05). In univariable analysis, area under the curve (AUC) for POPF B/C prediction was higher for fibrosis grade than for pancreatic texture (0.71 vs 0.59). In multivariate analysis, the following predictors were selected: sex, surgeon volume, pancreatic texture, and fibrosis grade. However, the addition of pancreatic texture only led to an incremental improvement (AUC 0.794 vs 0.819). Histologically evaluated pancreatic fibrosis is an easily applicable and highly reproducible POPF predictor and superior to surgically evaluated pancreatic texture. Future studies might use fibrosis grade for risk stratification in pancreatoduodenectomy.

3D printing-assisted fabrication of a patient-specific antibacterial radial head prosthesis with high periprosthetic bone preservation

We present a novel fabrication and surgical approach for anatomical reconstruction of a fractured radial head using a patient-specific radial head prosthesis (RHP) made of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) bone cement. To this end, the use of PMMA bone cement for prosthesis fabrication was initially investigated using computational modeling and experimental methods. The RHP was fabricated through casting of PMMA bone cement in a silicone mold in the operating room before implantation. To enhance the precision of bony preparation for replacement of the radial head, a patient-specific surgical guide for accurate resection of the radial neck with the desired length was developed. Post-surgical clinical examinations revealed biomechanical restoration of elbow function, owing to the use of the patient-specific RHP and surgical guide. Importantly, follow-up radiographs after a mean follow-up of 18 months revealed bone preservation at the bone–prosthesis interface without any signs of erosion of the capitellum. Taken together, our method demonstrated the safety and efficacy of the PMMA RHP in restoring elbow biomechanics. This also provides a very safe and cost-effective method for making various patient-specific prostheses with localized antibacterial delivery and close mechanical properties to native bone for improved periprosthetic bone regeneration. The clinical trial of this study was registered at Mashhad University of Medical Sciences under the trial registration number 970493.

Influence of preoperative femoral orientation on radiographic measures of femoral head height in total hip replacement

BackgroundIn total hip arthroplasty the surgeon aims to restore the biomechanics of the joint. Femoral height has the greatest influence on restoring limb length and contributes equally to the restoration of femoral head centre. On X-ray, the level of femoral neck resection is most often referenced off the upper border of lesser trochanter. Less frequently, femoral head centre is referenced from the tip of the greater trochanter. The error in measurement of femoral height resulting from unknown femoral rotation is crucially important and can result in inappropriate surgical planning for implant selection and placement. It is unknown which reference produces lower error. MethodsA sample of femoral shapes was generated using a femoral statistical shape model. These were placed in a range of orientations in terms of external rotation and flexion, at intervals of 10°. Simulated X-rays were then produced and the distances from the tip of either greater or lesser trochanter to femoral head centre were measured. FindingsAlthough using greater trochanter as a reference demonstrated greater errors at the extremes, both techniques resulted in errors of 7–8 mm with 20° of both femoral external rotation and flexion. InterpretationModerate degrees of femoral external rotation combined with flexion can result in unsatisfactory errors when templating limb length. There should be greater focus and an agreed definition for femoral height. There is a clinical need for a method with a lower error in determining true femoral height and the level of neck resection.

Transurethral Resection of Bladder Neck in the Management of Primary Bladder Neck Obstruction in Female: Our Preliminary Experience in Bangladesh

Objectives: To determine the effectiveness of transurethral resection of bladder neck in the management of primary bladder neck obstruction (PBNO) in female Patients and Methods: This prospective study has been done with thirty female patients aged from 27 to 48 years who were presented with difficult micturition or urinary retention. These patients had unremarkable physical findings with normal perianal sensation, anal sphincter tone and lower extremity reflexes. Patients associated with cystocele, meatal stenosis, stricture urethra, urethral caruncle and urethral diverticula that may lead to mechanical bladder outflow obstruction were excluded from the study. Preoperative investigations include uroflowmetry, ultrasonography, serum creatinine, urethrocystoscopy with simultaneous “water flow test” was done. Seven patients presented with obstructed voiding symptom without renal impairment (serum creatinine, mean±SEM 1.24±0.04) and were initially treated with á-blocker (category A). Among the other 23 patients those had renal impairment 18 presented with near retention and these patients were on indwelling catheterization before operation (category B, serum creatinine, mean±SEM 2.72±0.13).Rest of the 5 patients presented with nausea, vomiting, and disorientation in addition to near retention and were put on haemodialysis along with indwelling catheterization to reach near normal creatinine level before operation(category C, serum creatinine, mean±SEM,9.34±0.96 ). PBNO causing voiding difficulty were diagnosed in all the cases and were undergone transurethral bladder neck resection (BNR). Three months after operations, their pre- and post-operative symptoms were analyzed, and serum creatinine levels, ultrasonographic findings (MCC, PVR), uroflowmetric study were compared. Results: Twenty-nine (96.33%) Patients become symptom free. Their average pre- and post-operative values of MCC (Maximum Cystometric Capacity), PVR (Post Voidal Residual urine), Qmax (Peak urinary flow during uroflowmetric study, Serum creatinine level were changed from 679.50 to 482.17ml, from 574.50 to 29.37ml, from 8.43 to 29.37ml/sec, from 3.48 to 1.13 mg/dl respectively. One patient (3.33%) did not continent ever postoperatively. One patient had become dry after using pad for stress incontinent for one month only. Serum creatinine level of category C patient did not reach to the normal level (post operative creatinine level Mean±SEM,2.8±0.15)within this three moths follow up period. Conclusions: Our short term follow-up suggests that judicious Transurethral BNR is effective in relieving voiding difficulty due to primary bladder neck obstruction in female. A thorough gynaecological, neurological and urological examination is essential along with uroflowmetric, ultrasonographic and cystoscopic study to reach a correct diagnosis and making a treatment plan. Bangladesh Journal of Urology, Vol. 17, No. 1, Jan 2014 p.23-28

Bladder Neck Resection Combined with Ten Point Intralesional Mitomycin C Injection in Management of Refractory Bladder Neck Contracture in Post TURP Status: A Single-Center, 2-Year Experience.

PurposeBladder neck contracture is an annoying problem for patients as well as urologists. Recurrence still remains a common problem associated with significant morbidity. This study evaluated the efficacy and side effects of mitomycin C (MMC) which has anti-fibroblast as well as anti-collagen properties in the deterrence of bladder neck contracture (BNC) recurrence after transurethral bladder neck resection (TUBNR).Materials and MethodsTen patients between March 2017 and April 2018 with extremely persistent BNCs who underwent multiple failed endoscopic procedures (≥3 times) were evaluated by using International Prostate Symptom Score (IPPS), uroflowmetry, quality of life (QOL) and post void residual urine (PVR) preoperatively. All patients underwent transurethral bladder neck resection (TUBNR) followed by ten-point intraoperative MMC injection, not exceeding a total dose of 2 mg (0.2 mg/mL), which was given circumferentially at the resected site, using Williams cystoscopic needle. Patients were reviewed at 3 months, 6 months, 1 year and 2 years postoperatively.ResultsThe procedure was done on a day care basis. The recurrence period prior to our treatment was 3.2 ± 1.3 months. The follow-up was for 24 months. Overall 80% (8 of 10) of patients demonstrated resolution of BNCs as well as sufficient flow rate which was evaluated by uroflowmetry, PVR, IPPS and QoL postoperatively. One patient had detrusor underactivity. Relapse was seen in two patients. None of the patients experienced any significant adverse effects related to MMC.ConclusionIntraoperative ten-site injection of MMC after TUBNR can be regarded as a safe and efficient technique with no serious adverse event.

Free flap transfers for head and neck and skull base reconstruction in children and adolescents - Early and late outcomes

ObjectivesReconstruction of surgical defects by free tissue transfer following resection of head and neck tumors in children are sparse. This study aims to assess the feasibility and safety of free flap reconstruction following surgical ablation of head and neck and skull base tumors in children based on our experience and the recent literature. MethodsData from medical files of all children and adolescents <18 years of age who underwent free flap reconstruction following resection of head and neck and skull base tumors at our tertiary center between 2000 and 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Data on early and late complications at the primary and donor sites, functional and aesthetic outcome, and tumor control were analyzed. ResultsTwenty-four children (mean age 11.3 ± 5.1 years) were enrolled. Early complications occurred in 14 (56%) and late complications occurred in 8 (32%) of the procedures, with surgical intervention required in 4 (16%). Prior chemoradiation, sarcoma, non-reanimation procedures, and the use of rectus abdominis free flaps were associated with higher complication rates. The final functional and cosmetic outcomes, including mastication, deglutition, and speech, were satisfactory in all patients with one exception. ConclusionsFree flap transfer is a safe and feasible technique for reconstructing head and neck and skull base defects following surgical excision of tumors in children. Early identification and precautionary measures against the effects of potential causes of complications may improve outcome. Larger international cohort studies are warranted.

Postoperative Delirium is Associated With Prolonged Head and Neck Resection and Reconstruction Surgery: An Institutional Study

Delirium is a recognized complication of surgery. It has a deleterious effect on a patient's postoperative recovery and well-being. The purpose of this study was to estimate the frequency and identify the risk factors for the development of postoperative delirium (POD) in a cohort of patients who underwent extensive head and neck surgery (HNS) of greater than five hours duration. The authors undertook a retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent HNS of greater than five hours duration. The primary predictor variables comprised a set of risk factors (sociodemographic, disease-specific, duration of surgery, and duration of inpatient stay) that were thought to be associated with the development of POD. The primary outcome variable was the development of POD. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate statistical analysis was undertaken, and significance was set at P<.05. One hundred and seventy patients were included in the study. There were 124 males and 46 females. Forty patients (23.53%) developed POD: 30 documented and 10 inferred. The mean age of the POD cohort was 65years (SD 13), with a median age of 69years. The occurrence of POD was statistically related to increased age, mental health status, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score, and drug dependence (either illicit or prescription). POD and operative duration were statistically associated. POD and length of stay were not statistically associated. Delirium did occur postoperatively in 23.53% of our patients who underwent extensive and prolonged HNS. POD may go unrecognized by treating teams. As POD has a deleterious effect on the cognitive function, it is important to identify and aggressively treat episodes of POD that occur during a patient's postoperative recovery.

Outcomes of microvascular bone flaps versus osteocutaneous flaps in head and neck reconstruction.

Surgical resection of head and neck (H&N) neoplasms requiring osseous reconstruction have underdefined complication profiles. This study aimed to characterize postoperative outcomes of patients with H&N neoplasia undergoing osteocutaneous flap (OCF) or bare bone flap (BBF) reconstructions. Retrospective analysis of the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) 2005-2017 databases. Queried for diagnosis and procedural codes extracted patients with H&N neoplasms undergoing BBF or OCF reconstruction. Postoperative complications were evaluated. Multivariable regression generated adjusted odds ratios. A cohort of 746 patients were identified. Of reconstructions, 24.9% (n = 186/746) were BBFs while 75.1% (n = 560/746) were OCFs. 58.1% of the BBF cohort and 59.9% of the OCF cohort experienced an all-cause complication (p = .654). Sub-stratified, 24.2% of BBF and 17.5% of OCF patients experienced a wound complication (p = .045). Regression analysis demonstrated no difference in risk for medical complications between cohorts. However, patients receiving OCFs had a decreased likelihood of developing a wound complication (OR 0.652; 95%CI 0.430-0.989; p = .044) compared to patients receiving BBFs. The incidence of complications following osseous reconstruction of the H&N is considerable. Although several complication outcomes do not seem to differ between BBF or OCF reconstructions, OCFs is associated with a decreased likelihood of wound complications.

Designing and integrating a quality management program for patients undergoing head and neck resection with free-flap reconstruction

BackgroundCare pathways (CPs) offer a proven method of systematically improving patient care. CPs are particularly helpful in complex clinical conditions where variation in care is a problem such as patients undergoing major head and neck resection with free flap reconstruction. Although CPs have been used to manage this patient group, most CPs are implemented as part of relatively short-term quality improvement projects. This paper outlines a detailed methodology for designing and delivering a quality management program sustained for 9 years.MethodsWe describe a change management approach informed by Kotter’s “8 Step Process” that provided a useful framework to guide program development and implementation. We then provide a detailed, step by step description of how such a program can be implemented as well as a detailed summary of time and costs for design, implementation and sustainability phases. An approach to design and delivery of a measurement, audit and feedback system is also provided.ResultsWe present a summary of resources needed to design and implement a head and neck surgery quality management program. The primary result of this study is a design for a sustainable quality management program that can be used to guide and improve care for patients undergoing major head and neck resection with free flap reconstruction.ConclusionsA change management approach to design and delivery of a head and neck quality management program is practical and feasible.

The impact of a quality management program for patients undergoing head and neck resection with free-flap reconstruction: longitudinal study examining sustainability

BackgroundCare pathways (CPs) are helpful in reducing unwanted variation in clinical care. Most studies of CPs show they improve clinical outcomes but there is little known about the long-term impact of CPs as part of a sustained quality management program. Head and neck (HN) surgery with free flap reconstruction is complex, time-consuming and expensive. Complications are common and therefore CPs applied to this patient population are the focus of this paper. In this paper we report outcomes from a 9 year experience designing and using CPs in the management of patients undergoing major head and neck resection with free flap reconstruction.MethodsThe Calgary quality management program and CP design is described the accompanying article. Data from CP managed patients undergoing major HN surgery were prospectively collected and compared to a baseline cohort of patients managed with standard care. Data were retrospectively analyzed and intergroup comparisons were made.ResultsMobilization, decannulation time and hospital length of stay were significantly improved in pathway-managed patients (p = 0.001). Trend analysis showed sustained improvement in key performance indicators including complications. Return to the OR, primarily to assess a compromised flap, is increasing.ConclusionsCare pathways when deployed as part of an ongoing quality management program are associated with improved clinical outcomes in this complex group of patients.

Treatment of Monolateral Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease with Autologous Bone Marrow Mononuclear Cells in 32 Dogs

Abstract Objective In the present study, we report our results of the use of autologous bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMCs) as a minimally invasive treatment for Legg-Calvé-Perthes in dogs. Study Design In accordance with Ljunggren's scale, inclusion criteria were determined by clinical condition and radiographic features of the disease, resulting in 32 dogs enrolled in this retrospective study from 2007 to 2019. Bone marrow was collected from each dog from the iliac crest and the mononuclear fraction was separated with density gradient centrifugation. The mean number of BMMCs was 104.7 ± 46.5 × 106 cells. The mean BMMC colony-forming units were 71.6 ± 51.9 × 102/mL.Cells were suspended in fibrin glue before BMMC administration and implanted via transcutaneous injection under computed tomography or radiographic guidance, using a Jamshidi needle inserted through the femoral head and neck. Results A progressive reduction of pain within 3 weeks after BMMC administration was observed in 28 patients, with gradually increased weight bearing on the affected limb. In four dogs, however, pain and lameness persisted and at 3 months post-BMMC injection, femoral head and neck resection was performed. Histological and immunohistochemical studies were done on samples from those four dogs, which showed evidence of formation of new cartilage and subchondral bone in the area where cells were implanted. Clinical Significance Based on these results, BMMC therapy may be considered as effective and minimally invasive treatment option for LCPD in dogs.

Exteriorized Giant Zenker’s Diverticulum: Case Report

Abstract Zenker’s diverticulum (ZD) also known as cricopharyngeal (CP), pharyngoesophageal or hypopharyngeal diverticulum is an outpouching of mucosal and submucosal layers originated from the pharyngoesophageal junction. Radiological evaluation of deglutition, modified barium swallow radiography may reveal the retentive character of the diverticular sac and confirm the diagnosis. Many different types of surgical approaches have been developed over the decades with modifications focusing on the need to reduce intra-operative or post-operative complications and overall morbidity. The authors present the case of a 76-years-old woman with spontaneous apparition of an exteriorised tumor in the oral cavity after an excessive cough effort. Surgical treatment is elective, preventing the occurence of complications that may endanger the patients life and improve the quality of life. Surgical therapy was open neck resection of the Zenker’s diverticulum with esophageal myotomy and pharynx reconstruction.

Determining and Achieving Target Limb Length and Offset in Total Hip Arthroplasty Using Intraoperative Digital Radiography

BackgroundAchieving appropriate limb length and offset in total hip arthroplasty (THA) is challenging. Target limb length and offset may not always mean equal radiographic measurements bilaterally. The goal of this study is to introduce a method for determining as well as achieving target limb length and offset using digital radiographic measurements. MethodsOne hundred and two consecutive patients with unilateral hip osteoarthritis undergoing primary THA in the lateral decubitus position were included. Limb length and offset were measured on anterior-posterior pelvic radiographs preoperatively, intraoperatively, and postoperatively. Offset was defined as the length of a line parallel to the inter-teardrop line, extending from the edge of the ischium, at about the lower border of the ipsilateral obturator foramen, to the edge of the femoral cortex, usually at, or just below, the neck resection level. Target limb length was determined for each patient based on patient perception and severity of disease. Target offset equaled the contralateral limb. Using intraoperative digital radiography, adjustments were made until targets were achieved and the hip was stable. Patients were followed for an average of 4.2 years postoperatively. ResultsLimb length was within 5 mm of target measurements in 100% of patients and offset was within 5 mm of targets in 97.1%. Target measurements differed by >5 mm from the contralateral side in 2.0% of limb length and 2.9% of offset measurements. There were no significant differences between intraoperative and postoperative limb length (P = .261) or offset (P = .747) measurements. At final follow-up, there were no dislocations or reoperations and average Hip disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Joint Replacement was 95.78. ConclusionTarget limb length and offset goals can be determined for most patients undergoing THA. Targets are not always equal to the contralateral side. Intraoperative digital radiography can allow surgeons to accurately achieve target limb length and offset to within 5 mm in a homogenous cohort of patients with unilateral hip osteoarthritis with excellent clinical outcomes.

Supraclavicular artery island flap in the reconstruction of oral cavity cancer defects

Background: Microvascular free flaps are the standard of care in the reconstruction of head and neck resection defects, however they need a significant surgical expertise and increase the operative time. Supraclavicular artery island flap (SCAIF) is a versatile fasciocutaneous flap that offers the advantage of both, a regional flap (easy to harvest) and a free flap (thin and pliable) in the head and neck reconstruction.Methods: In this study we analysed the utility of this flap for the oral cavity cancer defect reconstruction done in 12 consecutive cases.Results: There were 8 males and 4 females with a mean age of 54.75 years. The oral cavity subsites were as follows: buccal 3 (25%); tongue 3 (25%); lower alveolus 2 (16.66%); floor of mouth 1 (8.33%); gingivobuccal sulcus 2 (16.66%); retromolar trigone 01(8.33%).The excisional defect size ranged from 4×2 cm to 6×3 cm with a mean size of 5×3 cm. The mean harvest time was 45 minutes (range 35 min - 65 min). We had complete flap loss in 2 (16.66%) patients and partial flap loss in 1 (8.33%) patient. Donor site wound gape was noted in 2 (16.66%) patients. The hospital stay ranged from 7 days to 10 days in non-complicated cases. The mean follow up period was of 8.58 months.Conclusions: SCAIF is versatile, easy to harvest, safe and reliable in selective cases of oral cavity cancers and a potential alternative regional flap in head and neck reconstruction.