Postoperative Monitoring Period Research Articles

Is It Possible to Monitor the Safest Time to Perform Secondary Surgery on Free Flaps? A Clinical Evaluation of the Tewameter®.

Background and Objectives: Postoperative monitoring, following free flap surgery, plays a crucial role in ensuring the survival of the flap. However, in microsurgery, not only the immediate postoperative monitoring period but also the choice of the right time for secondary surgeries is crucial for the free flap survival. There is no clear consensus concerning the right choice of timing for secondary surgery. Our aim was to evaluate transepidermal water loss (TEWL), with the objective evaluation tool Tewameter® in free flap surgery to monitor flap autonomization. Materials and Methods: Transepidermal water loss was assessed in 20 patients with microsurgically transplanted free anterior lateral thigh (ALTP) flaps. The transplantation of the ALTP-flap and the postoperative care were administered in accordance with the standard of care of the department. Measures were taken on the free flap and normal skin at follow-ups of 1, 3, and 6 months after initial free flap transplantation. Results: Transepidermal water loss gradually increased to the values found in normal skin, after 6 months. The differences between the two areas demonstrated the smallest variance after 6 months, specifically in the ALTP-flap region. The largest disparities were observed between month 1 and month 6, followed by month 3 and month 6, and month 1 and month 3. Conclusions: Free flap autonomization and physiology are complex processes. TEWL might be a valuable parameter to monitor flap autonomization. Our results indicate that TEWL in the free flap is nearly "normal" after six months. For a clear consensus of when to perform individual secondary surgery, further studies are needed.

Angioleiomyoma of the Pterygopalatine Fossa: A Case Report.

Angioleiomyoma (ALM) is a benign neoplasm marked by the presence of blood vessels and smooth muscle cells, commonly located within the subcutaneous or deep dermal layers. Its manifestation in the pterygopalatine fossa is infrequent, thereby posing difficulties in its diagnosis and distinction from other benign tumors within the same anatomical site. In the present case study, an ALM originating in the right pterygopalatine fossa of a 44-year-old female patient was investigated. The patient underwent surgical intervention for the vascular smooth muscle tumor, and there has been no recurrence noted during the postoperative monitoring period.

Adjunctive dexamethasone palmitate use for intercostal nerve block after video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery: A prospective, randomized control trial

ObjectivesThe efficacy of dexamethasone palmitate in extending durations of local anesthetic blocks is uncertain. In a randomized, double-blind study of patients undergoing video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery, we tested whether intravenous or perineural dexamethasone palmitate caused prolonged analgesia after intercostal nerve block. MethodsA total of 90 patients subjected to video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery between May and December 2022 were randomly assigned to one of three intercostal nerve blocks study arms (n = 30 each), requiring the addition of 0.5% ropivacaine (23 ml) as follows: controls (C group), 2 ml saline; IV-DXP group, 2 ml saline + 2 ml (8 mg) intravenous dexamethasone palmitate; and PN-DXP group, 2 ml (8 mg) perineural dexamethasone palmitate. Time to first postoperative remedial analgesia served as primary outcome measure. Secondary endpoints included postoperative opioid consumption, pain scores by Visual Analog Scale, analgesia satisfaction, and related adverse effects. ResultsCompared with controls or the IV-DXP group, time to first postoperative remedial analgesia was longer and postoperative opioid consumption for rescue analgesia was lower in the PN-DXP group (p < 0.01). Similarly, the Visual Analog Scale scores in patients at 8, 12, 18, and 24 h postoperatively were lower in the PN-DXP group than in controls and the IV-DXP group (p < 0.01). Patient satisfaction was statistically lower in the PN-DXP group, compared with either the control or IV-DXP group (p < 0.05). Clinically, the three groups did not differ significantly in occurrences of adverse effects during the 48-h postoperative monitoring period (p > 0.05). ConclusionsPerineural dexamethasone palmitate is a promising adjunct to ropivacaine intercostal nerve block by prolonging analgesia with almost no related adverse effects.

Same-Day Discharge After Robot-Assisted Partial Nephrectomy: Is It Worth It?

Introduction and Objective: Robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) has traditionally been performed as an inpatient procedure; however, recent studies have suggested the feasibility of same-day discharge (SDD) after RAPN. We aimed to evaluate the safety and cost-effectiveness of SDD for RAPN. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients undergoing RAPN between January 2015 and July 2021. Comparison before and after the implementation of an SDD protocol was assessed through differences in postanesthesia care unit (PACU) time, length of stay, 30-day readmission rate, 30-day return to emergency department (ED) rates, unplanned office visits (OVs), and need for secondary procedures. A cost-efficacy model was generated to estimate the difference in expenditure between SDD and inpatient RAPN. Results: In total, 192 patients underwent RAPN with 74 being SDD and 118 being admitted postoperatively. After SDD protocol implementation, the percentage of patients discharged from the PACU increased from 0% to 76%. The safety profile of SDD was similar to the inpatient group, with no differences in readmission rates (1.4% vs 5.1%, p = 0.18) or return to ED (5.4% vs 9.3%, p = 0.33). Compared with inpatient RAPN, SDD was associated with increased time in PACU (375 vs 251 minutes, p < 0.001), resulting in an additional expenditure of $1,622 per patient. SDD patients were more likely to return for one or more unplanned OVs (17.6% vs 6.8%, p = 0.02). Overall, the total cost of SDD was significantly lower than inpatient RAPN ($5,222 per patient vs $8,425, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Despite a shorter postoperative monitoring period, SDD appears safe, with equivalent readmission rates, return to ED, and secondary procedures. SDD for RAPN saves ∼$3,000 per patient. In implementing an SDD protocol, clinicians should be cognizant of increased demands on PACU infrastructure and be willing to provide additional support in the office setting.

Predictive role of preoperative hemoglobin A1c levels on atrial fibrillation developing after coronary artery bypass graft surgery

Objective: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia seen after coronary artery bypass(CABG) surgery. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels known to have correlation with the developement of post operative atrial fibrillation (POAF) after CABG surgery. In our study we investigated the predictability of preoperative HbA1c levels for postoperative POAF developement in patients who underwent isolated on-pump CABG operation in our clinic. Method: We retrospectiveley studied 85 isolated on-pump CABG patients. Male to female ratio was 3:1 and mean age was 63-year old. All patients monitored in intensive care unit and than service for the occurance of AF. Relationship between HbA1c levels and developement of AF after surgery was evaluated. Results: This study designed as cross-sectional array and performed in our clinic. 85 patients included in the study. Mean age of cohort was 63.5 years and ratio of the male to female found 3:1. During postoperative monitoring period, 22 patients (25.8%) developed POAF (p>0.05) . HbA1c levels found significiantly high in POAF- positive group (p=0.003). Conclusions: According to our data, preoperative HbA1c levels could be used as a predictor of post operative AF in patients undergoing CABG surgery.

Repair of a Full-thickness Eyelid Defect With a Bilamellar Full-thickness Autograft in a Porcine Model (Sus scrofa).

It has been demonstrated the pedicle of a tarsoconjunctival flap advancement does not appear to supply the flap itself and the vascularization of the remaining eyelid/tear film is thought to offer adequate nourishment for survival of the flap; as such, a swine model was constructed to assess the viability of a bilamellar autograft for repair of large full-thickness eyelid defects. Full-thickness defects of varying sizes were created in each lower eyelid of 4 Yorkshire/Yorkshire crossed swine. The defects were then closed with a full-thickness ipsilateral graft from the upper eyelid. Large full-thickness defects were then created in the upper and lower eyelids of 8 Yorkshire/Yorkshire crossed swine and closed with bilamellar autografts from the contralateral eyelids. The subjects were then monitored postoperatively and assessed clinically for graft viability at postoperative days 1, 7, and 30. At the conclusion of the 30-day postoperative monitoring period, necropsy was performed and histopathologic analysis utilized to assess cell morphology and vessel ingrowth of the graft sites. In total, 28 full-thickness bilamellar grafts were constructed and examined. At the conclusion of the postoperative monitoring period, 27 of the grafts were deemed clinically viable and vascular ingrowth was determined to be equivalent to unaffected eyelid sections by histopathologic analysis. One case of postoperative hematoma was noted in the failed graft. One case of postoperative wound dehiscence required subsequent surgical repair. No clinically significant notching of the graft sites was noted. No cases of wound infection, corneal decompensation, or forniceal shortening were identified. This analysis demonstrates the viability of a full-thickness bilamellar autograft as a surgical alternative in the repair of large full-thickness eyelid defects in a porcine model. The postoperative outcomes are consistent with the recent literature. Additional studies need to be performed to assess the procedure's clinical utility in human subjects before incorporation into clinical practice.

Keystone Flaps: Physiology, Types, and Clinical Applications.

The keystone perforator flap (KPF) was first introduced in 2003 by Behan et al for use in reconstruction after skin cancer excision. Since its initial description, KPF use has been expanded to complex defects of various etiologies and disorders throughout the body. At its most basic, the KPF is a perforator-type flap designed with a 1:1 flap-to-defect width ratio. Keystone perforator flaps are specifically raised on pedicles arising from musculocutaneous or fasciocutaneous perforator vessels. Major advantages of the KPF derive from the maintenance of perforator vascular territories, perforosomes, permitting increased flap viability. In turn, this allows for more aggressive undermining in sites away from perforators when greater skin mobilization is necessary. Furthermore, the KPF is relatively easy to perform leading to shorter operative times and no postoperative monitoring period. There are basically 4 different types of keystone flaps in order of increasing undermining and disturbance of underlying fascia. These different classifications of KPFs may be used in different anatomical locations over the entire body based on skin laxity and defect size/depth. Numerous advancements and modifications have been documented adapting the KPF to specific conditions, including myelomeningoceles, and scrotal and lower eyelid defects. The purpose of this article is to provide an organized review of the KPF with emphasis on different classifications, applications, and limitations as well as an overview of the surgical technique. We have additionally included a discussion on KPF physiology and review of current literature.

Evaluation of gastroscopy and biopsy of the proventriculus and ventriculus in pigeons (Columba livia)

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy and safety of gastroscopy and biopsy of the proventriculus and ventriculus in pigeons (Columba livia). ANIMALS 15 adult pigeons. PROCEDURES Each pigeon was anesthetized, and the upper gastrointestinal tract (from the cervical portion of the esophagus to the ventriculus) was endoscopically evaluated by use of a rigid endoscope inserted orally. Saline (0.9% NaCl) solution was orally infused to achieve lumen dilation and visibility. Two mucosal biopsy specimens were collected from each of the proventriculus and ventriculus, histologically evaluated, and graded for crush artifacts and depth. Pigeons were monitored for adverse effects for 3 to 6 days after the procedure, after which they were euthanized for necropsy. RESULTS Gastroscopy via the oral approach provided excellent visibility of the lumen and mucosal surfaces of the proventriculus and cranial portion of the ventriculus and was safe provided that appropriate precautions were taken. Two intraoperative deaths occurred at the beginning of the study; following procedure refinement, no additional deaths occurred. No major adverse effects of the procedure were detected in the remaining 13 pigeons during the postoperative monitoring period or at necropsy. Diagnostic quality of proventriculus specimens was adequate for 10 of 13 pigeons. Eight of 13 ventriculus specimens were of inadequate quality, and only 3 were of adequate quality. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Gastroscopy was useful for evaluating the lumen and mucosal surface of the proventriculus and ventriculus in pigeons, and biopsy of those organs was safely performed with the appropriate technique. Further evaluation of these techniques is needed in birds with clinical disease and birds of other species.

Perioperative Complication Rate using Minimally Invasive Lumbar Fusion Techniques in Elderly and Obese Patients with Degenerative Lumbar Disease

Background: Minimally invasive spine surgery (MIS) is associated with less blood loss, faster recovery, and less perioperative morbidity while yielding similar results as those achieved with open procedures. The risk of periand postoperative complications in the elderly and obese patients is a much debated issue. MIS has been poorly investigated in aged and obese patients. Objective: The aim of the present study is to establish whether MIS techniques are a safe and adequate tool in these patients. Methods: A retrospective analysis of 33 patients aged 65 years or older, undergoing minimally invasive spinal fusion techniques, in order to identify the risk of peri- and postoperative morbidity in the obese. Obesity was classified according to the body mass index (BMI). Results: Any harmful event was noted and included in the statistical analysis. The median blood loss and drainage in the postoperative monitoring period was 200 ml. significant differences in blood loss were observed in relation to preoperative administration of NSAIDs. Patients using NSAIDs preoperatively had more frequent (p=0.055) and greater (p= 0.014) blood loss. No difference in blood loss was noted with reference to age or BMI groups. No severe wound healing disorder was observed. We encountered 5 major complications, which consisted of one patient with a neurogenic deficit, one with a transient ischemic attack, one with cardiac ischemia, one with a malpositioned rod, and one with an epidural hematoma. Minor complications included one patient with urinary tract infection, one with respiratory tract infection, and one with fever. No association was observed between complications and obesity. Conclusion: This study confirms the low soft tissue damage resulting from minimally invasive surgery techniques, which is an important factor in elderly and obese patients. The smaller approach helps to minimize infections and wound healing disorders. Moreover, deeper regions of wounds are clearly visualized with the aid of tubular retractors.

Patients with Elevated Serum PSA and Indwelling Catheter after Acute Urinary Retention: Prospective Study of 63 Patients with 7-Year Follow-Up

Elevated PSA value in the presence of an indwelling catheter is still an enigma. The aims of this prospective study were: to investigate the reliability of elevated PSA levels in patients with normal DRE and indwelling catheter after AUR; to assess the impact of preoperative TRUS-biopsy in detecting prostate cancer in such circumstances; to estimate the crucial duration of follow-up period. 63 patients were included in the study. PSA was assessed 5 days after catheter insertion. All patients failed to void without catheter and have been scheduled for surgery. TRUS-biopsy was performed before operation. All patients underwent surgery at least two weeks after prostate biopsies. Postoperative follow-up visits continued for at least 7 years. Biopsies were taken when indicated by persistently elevated PSA or an abnormal DRE. Mean PSA before catheter insertion differed significantly from PSA obtained on the 5(th) day after AUR (p = 0.001). Mean prostate volume calculated on TRUS was 80.5 +/- 28 ml. Mean duration of indwelling catheter placement was 37.8 +/- 7.97 days. Mean delay in operative treatment as a result of preoperative evaluation was 23.548 +/- 2.487 days. Carcinoma was detected in 13 patients, while clinically insignificant cancer was present in 31% (4 patients). It must be also emphasized that 38% of patients with carcinoma were >70 year-old. Preoperative TRUS-biopsy and postoperative pathologic exam diagnosed carcinoma in 5 patients (2 and 3 respectively). During 42 months of 7-year follow-up cancer was revealed in 8 patients. Mean PSA value in the follow-up period was significantly elevated in patients with carcinoma: 5.99 +/- 3.34 v/s 2.34 +/- 1.68 ng/ml (p = 0.007) and was the strongest predictor for cancer detection (p = 0.001). The detection rate of clinically significant cancer on preoperative biopsies postoperative pathologic exam in patients with AUR and indwelling catheter is low. These patients could be safely operated on without any delay. However, in order to detect clinically important cancer in the peripheral zone a postoperative monitoring period of should be recommended: starting 6 months after operation and continuing subsequently for at least 4 years. Postoperative PSA level is the strongest predictor of cancer detection and could be usefully employed in these patients. AUR and in the patients with large prostate cause elevated PSA. Cancer detection rate on preoperative biopsies is low in these patients. Long postoperative monitoring period should be strongly recommended.

Expandable vertebral body replacement in patients with thoracolumbar spine tumors

The objectives of surgical interventions for tumoral lesions of the spine include the establishment and improvement of tumor-related symptoms. Anterior tumor resection followed by reconstruction indicated if surgical treatment allowed a marginal removal of the tumor or could extend the individual survival rate in combination with adjuvant therapy options. Sufficient re-stabilization depends on adequate anterior column reconstruction. The purpose of this retrospective study was to present our experiences and results after anterior tumor resection followed by reconstruction with the expandable vertebral body replacement device (VBR, Ulrich, Germany) based on clinical application over 4 degrees years. We carried out an anterior tumor resection followed by reconstruction using an anterior extendable device in 32 patients with different spine tumors between 1996 and 2000. A retrospective evaluation was executed considering the patients medical records and radiological findings. Additionally, a clinical and radiological investigation of still living postoperative patients was carried out. The mean surgical time of all evaluated patients was 317.2 min. The average blood loss was 1,272.5 ml. According to the Tokuhashi score, patients with a postoperative survival time of at least 12 months demonstrated a score value > or = 9 points. According to our evaluated patients group metastatic lesions of the spine represented the largest group (78.1%). The average survival rate of this group amounted to 18.4 months postoperatively. Considering primary tumors the average survival rate at the time of last re-examination amounted to 34.8 months postoperatively. Preoperative neurological pathologies were present in 12 patients (Frankel stage C-D). During the postoperative monitoring period 58.3% of the patients demonstrated an improvement in initial neurological findings. There were no intraoperative complications or perioperative deaths. Implant dislocations were not observed. On account of the underlying, the anterior tumor resection with supplementary instrumentation represented a sufficient procedure in spinal tumor surgery. Adjuvant therapy can influence the postoperative survival period positively in addition to the surgical procedure. Following anterior tumor resection, extendable vertebral body replacements like the VBR device provide immediate spine stability by excellent defect adaptation. With regard to their intraoperative flexibility, expandable cages are more advantageous in contrast to non-expandable implants or bone grafts.

Compartment Syndrome after Closed Intramedullary Nailing of the Tibia

Two patients developed an anterior tibial compartment syndrome after closed reamed intramedullary nailing of their fractured tibial shaft. Subsequently, a study was undertaken using a canine model to evaluate the risk of compartment syndrome after this operative procedure. A closed tibial fracture was created in 20 mongrel canines by applying a torsional load localized to the tibial shaft through a stress riser made with an intramedullary drill. Compartment pressures were measured in the canine anterolateral and deep posterior leg compartments. In 10 dogs, closed intramedullary nailing with reaming was performed while compartment pressures were measured. The remaining 10 dogs served as controls. Compartment pressures were monitored for 4 hours. In the experimental group, one dog attained and maintained a pressure greater than 50 mm Hg; a second dog maintained a pressure of 20 mm Hg during the postoperative monitoring period. In both of these cases, fasciotomy reduced the pressures to zero. The high tissue pressure readings were localized to the anterolateral muscle compartment. In the control group, no pressures higher than 8 mm Hg were recorded. Compartment syndrome is a potential complication of closed intramedullary nailing of the tibia, and the anterior muscle compartment appears to be the one most at risk. Therefore, perioperative tissue pressure monitoring is recommended.