Postoperative Paresthesia Research Articles

Radiographic predictors of post-operative inferior alveolar nerve injury in mandibular third molar surgery

BackgroundCone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) provides additional three-dimensional information on the relationship between the mandibular third molar (M3M) and the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN). As such, CBCT is being increasingly utilized in pre-operative M3M assessment. PurposeThe purpose of the study was to compare the radiographic findings on panoramic and CBCT and their association with post-operative IAN paresthesia. Study design, setting and sampleWe conducted a retrospective cohort study in a sample of patients referred to the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the Royal Dental Hospital of Melbourne, for management of impacted M3Ms. Patients were included in this study if they had one or more high risk findings on OPG, had both OPG and CBCT imaging taken and if at least one M3M had been extracted. Subjects were excluded from this study if their M3Ms were not extracted or if a CBCT was not indicated. Independent variablesThe independent variable was radiographic features identified on OPG (Rood and Shehab’s radiographic signs, root morphology, impaction type, Pell and Gregory classification) and CBCT (number and location of roots, severity of IAN compression and the presence of ankylosis). Outcome variableThe outcome variable was post-operative neurosensory function defined as any reported paresthesia at 2-week post-procedural review. CovariatesThe covariates were patient demographic information (age, sex). AnalysesVariables were initially assessed with univariate logistic regression analysis to determine factors related to developing post-operative paresthesia. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was then used to assess the association between positive univariate study variables and post-operative paresthesia, while adjusting for potential confounders. Covariates were assessed using an omnibus likelihood ratio test and included if they were statistically significant at the p<0.05 level. ResultsThe study sample consisted of 257 subjects who underwent surgical removal of n=386 M3Ms. The mean age was 25.9 (SD = 7.05). The panoramic features of narrowing of canal, diversion of canal and dark/bifid roots were identified as statistically significant associations of post-operative paresthesia. No CBCT features were significantly associated of post-operative paresthesia. Conclusions and RelevanceCertain panoramic features, along with patient age, are significant predictors of IAN paresthesia. CBCT findings were not significant predictors upon multivariate analysis, thus additional CBCT imaging did not significantly improve ability to predict paresthesia.

Satisfaction questionnaire survey after surgical orthodontic treatment in patients with jaw deformities

ObjectiveSurgical orthodontic treatment leads to morphological, functional and psychological changes in patients with jaw deformities. For the evaluation of outcomes of surgical orthodontic treatment from the patient's point of view, a questionnaire survey was performed after treatment and factors affecting patient satisfaction were examined. MethodsA survey by mailing questionnaires that each consisted of 30 items was conducted in 250 patients with jaw deformities who underwent orthognathic surgery in our department during the period from January 2015 to December 2020. Eighty-four patients responded (response rate of 34.0%). The patients who responded included 24 males and 60 females. The mean age at the time of surgery was 26 years. ResultsFifty-four patients complained of morphological abnormalities such as facial appearance and malocclusion, and 30 patients complained of functional disturbances such as masticatory disabilities. Eighty-two patients were satisfied with the outcome of surgery, but there were two patients with postoperative paresthesia and residual facial asymmetry who were not satisfied with the outcome. Improvements were observed in mastication and pronunciation in 74 and 46 patients, respectively. Psychologically, 26 patients showed positive personality changes postoperatively. Thirty-three patients had TMJ symptoms before surgery, and the symptoms were resolved after surgery in 24 of those patients. Two patients developed snoring during sleep after surgery. ConclusionsThis survey showed that most patients with jaw deformities were satisfied with the results of surgical orthodontic treatment.

Weighing the benefits: Exploring the differential effects of light-weight and heavy-weight polypropylene meshes in inguinal hernia repair in a retrospective cohort study

BackgroundInguinal hernia repair is a common surgical procedure, with more than 20 million cases yearly. Choice between mesh types varies in clinical practice. To compare light-weight polypropylene (LW-PP, 34–36 g/m2) and heavy-weight polypropylene (HW-PP, 95 ​g/m2) meshes. MethodsData from patients who underwent open inguinal hernia repair between 2020 and 2022. Selection criteria ensured homogeneity. Endpoints were to assess the impact of different mesh weights on overall health-related quality of life (HRQoL), using Short Form 36 (SF-36), and to monitor postoperative complications. ResultsTwo hundred patients were included in both groups. Lateral and direct hernias occurred in 60.5 ​% and 39.5 ​%. According to EHS, 31.5 ​%, 22.3 ​% and 46.2 ​% were classified as size 1, 2, 3. Follow-up showed similar HRQoL at 30-days, with a favorable trend towards LW-PP mesh offering fewer limitations, better comfort, and improved general health after 12-months. No difference in postoperative paresthesia, wound hematoma, and interference with daily activities. Conclusion1-year after surgery HRQoL evaluation highlights the non-inferiority of LW-PP. Mesh selection should be tailored, aiming at improving outcomes and postoperative comfort.

Single-center clinical experience of cyanoacrylate embolization method for incompetent perforating veins in treating CEAP-6 patients

ObjectiveThe most severe form of chronic venous insufficiency includes venous leg ulcers in the CEAP-6 stage. The aim of this study is to evaluate the relationship between incompetent perforator veins occluding with cyanoacrylate and closure of perforator veins and healing of venous leg ulcers in patients at the CEAP-6 stage. MethodsA total of 187 patients who underwent cyanoacrylate application to incompetent perforator veins due to venous leg ulcers from 2018 to 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. Twelve months after the procedure, patients were evaluated for perforator vein closure, ulcer diameter, and Venous Clinical Severity Scale. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was used to estimate the probability of postoperative nonocclusion of the perforating vein based on the preoperative ulcers’ diameters and the perforating veins’ mean diameters. Univariate and multivariate binary logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify the risk factors associated with incomplete closure of the perforating vein. ResultsAt the 12 months, 87.1% of patients experienced incompetent perforator veins closure, leading to complete healing of venous leg ulcers. Preoperative ulcer diameter significantly decreased from 7.20 ± 3.48 cm2 to 0.28 ± 0.77 cm2 after the procedure (P < .001). On average, 3.5 ± 1.01 perforating veins were treated, with a diameter of 4.09 ± 0.41 mm. No postoperative paresthesia or deep vein thrombosis occurred. Preoperative Venous Clinical Severity Scale scores decreased significantly from 17.85 ± 3.06 to 8.03 ± 3.53 postoperatively (P < .001). Patients with nonoccluded perforating veins had larger preoperative ulcer diameters (13.77 ± 1.78 cm2) than those with occluded perforating veins (6.24 ± 2.47 cm2; P < .001). The mean perforating vein diameter was also larger in nonoccluded perforating veins patients (4.45 ± 0.41 mm) than in occluded perforating veins patients (4.04 ± 0.38 mm; P < .001). The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the preoperative ulcer diameter cutoff point of 11.25 cm2 for the possibility of postoperative nonocclusion of perforating veins were 100% each. In contrast, those for the preoperative mean perforating vein diameter cutoff point of 4.15 mm were determined as 66.7%, 79.1%, and 77.5%, respectively. The presence of diabetes mellitus increased the likelihood of incompetent perforator veins, remaining open by 3.4 times (95% confidence interval: 1.11-10.44; P = .032), whereas a 1 mm larger mean perforating vein diameter increased this likelihood by 9.36 times (95% confidence interval: 3.47-25.29; P < .001). ConclusionsThis study demonstrates that occlusion of incompetent perforator veins with cyanoacrylate is effective, safe, and associated with low complication rates in CEAP-6 patients. The findings support that cyanoacrylate occlusion of perforator veins may be a valuable option in the treatment of venous leg ulcers.

Reliability and Safety of Super-Thin ALT Flap: A Comprehensive Evaluation of Perfusion-Related Complications and Donor Morbidity.

With an increasing need for thin flap, the use of super-thin anterolateral thigh (ALT) flaps, raised above the supra-superficial fascia, has drawn great attention. Controversy remains regarding whether such thin flap elevation could affect postoperative outcomes, encompassing perfusion-related complications (PRC) and donor morbidities. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of super-thin ALT flap-based reconstruction compared with those of suprafascially elevated flaps. Patients who underwent free ALT flap-based reconstruction between March 2017 and June 2023 were reviewed, and categorized into two groups based on flap elevation plane; super-thin, and suprafascial. Development of PRC and donor morbidities including paresthesia, were compared. Independent associations of the elevation plane with complication profiles were evaluated. Further analyses were conducted using propensity-score matching. In total, 208 cases were analyzed: 80 super-thin and 128 suprafascial ALT flaps. Nineteen cases (9.1%) experienced PRC, including four total and 14 partial necrosis. The incidence of overall and each type of PRC did not differ based on flap elevation plane even after adjusting for other variables. The super-thin group exhibited significantly lower donor complications compared to the others, upheld in multivariable analyses. Elevating the flaps with a super-thin fashion allowed for a higher rate of preservation of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve, resulting in a significantly lower rate of postoperative paresthesia. Similar associations were observed in the propensity-score matching analysis. Super-thin ALT flap elevation might not appear to increase PRC risk, while reduces donor complications, compared to suprafascial elevation.

Prospective Six-Month Analysis of Multiarea Burst Spinal Cord Stimulation: Correlating Intraoperative Neuromonitoring With Postoperative Programming and Clinical Outcomes

IntroductionDeRidder burst spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has shown superior relief from overall pain to traditional tonic neurostimulation therapies and a reduction in back and leg pain. However, nearly 80% of patients have two or more noncontiguous pain areas. This affects the ability to effectively program stimulation and deliver long-term efficacy of the therapy. Multiple DeRidder burst region programming is an option to treat multisite pain by interleaving stimulation at multiple areas along the spinal cord. Previous intraoperative neuromonitoring studies have shown that DeRidder burst stimulation provides broader myotomal coverage at a lower recruitment threshold. The goal of this study is to correlate intraoperative electromyogram (EMG) threshold and postsynaptic excitability with postoperative paresthesia thresholds and optimal burst stimulation programming. Materials and MethodsNeuromonitoring was performed during permanent implant of SCS leads in ten patients diagnosed with chronic intractable back and/or leg pain. Each patient underwent the surgical placement of a Penta Paddle electrode through laminectomy at the T8–T11 spinal levels. Subdermal electrode needles were placed into lower extremity muscle groups, in addition to the rectus abdominis muscles, for EMG recording. Evoked responses were compared across multiple trials of burst stimulation in which the number of independent burst areas was varied. After intraoperative data collection, all patients were programmed with single- and multiarea DeRidder burst. Intermittent dosing was delivered at 30:90, 120:360, 120:720, and 120:1440 (seconds ON/OFF) intervals. Numerical rating scale (NRS) and Patient Global Impression of Change scores were evaluated at one, two, three, four, and six months after permanent implant. ResultsThe thresholds for EMG recruitment after DeRidder burst differed across all patients owing to anatomical and physiological variations. After a 30-second dose of stimulation, the average decrease in thresholds was 1.25 mA for two-area and 0.9 mA for four-area DeRidder burst. Furthermore, a 30-second dose of multisite DeRidder burst produced a 0.25 mA reduction in the postoperative paresthesia thresholds. Across all patients, the baseline NRS score was 6.5 ± 0.5, and the NRS score after single or multiarea DeRidder burst therapy was 2.87 ± 1.50. Eight of ten patients reported a ≥50% decrease in their pain scores through the six-month follow-up visit. Pain outcomes using intermittent multiarea stimulation with longer OFF times (120:360, 120:720, 120:1440) were comparable to those using single-area DeRidder burst at 30:90 up to six months after implant with patient preference being two-area DeRidder burst. ConclusionsThis study aims to evaluate the use of intraoperative neuromonitoring to optimize stimulation programming for multisite pain and correlate it with postoperative programming and efficacy. These results suggest that multisite programming can be used to further customize DeRidder burst stimulation to each individual patient and improve outcomes and quality of life for patients receiving SCS therapy for multisite pain.

Risk factors for post-extraction infection of mandibular third molar: A retrospective clinical study

Post-extraction infection is one of the most concerning complications of mandibular third molar extraction, which is the most common procedure in oral and maxillofacial surgery. We investigated risk factors for post-extraction infection by retrospectively analyzing 2,513 teeth/cases of mandibular third molar extraction (1,040 males, 1,473 females) performed at a single medical facility in Kobe, Japan from January 2014 to May 2022. The predictive variables were categorized as patient attributes, health status, and anatomic, pathological, and operative variables that may be associated with post-extraction infection. The outcome variable was the post-extraction infection rate. The post-extraction infection rate was 5.73 % (144 of the 2,513 teeth), and the mean age of the patients with a post-extraction infection was 41.76 ± 16.8 years. Our analyses also revealed that the postoperative infection rate was significantly increased in patients aged ≥36 years. A multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the following variables were significantly associated with post-extraction infection: preoperative antibiotic administration (odds ratio [OR] 4.68, p < 0.001), postoperative paresthesia of the inferior alveolar nerve (OR 4.34, p < 0.001), intraoperative hemostatic procedure (OR 1. 74, p = 0.008), position of Pell and Gregory classifications (OR 1. 70, p < 0.001), Winter's classification (OR 1.28, p < 0.03), and age (OR 1.03, p < 0.001). Oral and maxillofacial surgeons should be aware of these risk factors.

Comparison of bite force evaluation for mandibular angle fracture fixation by conventional miniplates versus new design miniplates: a clinical study.

To evaluate postoperative masticatory efficacy of a new design non-compression titanium miniplate compared to conventional non-compression titanium miniplate on the basis of bite force for treatment of mandibular angle fractures. The prospective study included 20 patients with mandibular angle fractures randomly categorized into 2 groups: Group I, fixation of angle fractures by conventional miniplates, and Group II, fixation of angle fractures by new design miniplates. Evaluation was done for clinical outcome, primarily bite force; radiological outcome; and associated postoperative morbidities at different time intervals. The results showed to be highly significant in terms of mean operating time for plate adaptation and fixation and bite force adaptation (p = 0.003 at follow-up of 6 months) for the newer miniplate compared to the conventional miniplate. No statistically significant difference was seen for postoperative paresthesia, malunion, non-union, occlusal discrepancy, or hardware failure. Within the limits of the study, it appears that the single, monocortical, non-compression, superior border new design miniplate proved to be a successful procedure for treating non-comminuted mandibular angle fractures specifically in terms of enhanced postoperative masticatory efficiency as compared to conventional miniplates. Further clinical studies with larger sample size can derive a more comprehensive conclusion.

Evaluating the influence of the mandibular canal trajectory on the duration of postoperative paraesthesia in patients undergoing inferior alveolar nerve lateralisation: a prospective cohort study

This prospective cohort study aims to evaluate the influence of the mandibular canal trajectory on the duration of postoperative paraesthesia in patients undergoing inferior alveolar nerve lateralisation (IANL). Twenty patients received a total of 50 dental implants, and their postoperative paraesthesia duration, implant success rate, and anatomical variables were assessed. All patients experienced temporary neurosensory disturbances postoperatively during the first week, but none reported permanent issues at the 12-month follow up. The median paraesthesia duration was 120 days, and no significant differences were detected between genders, anaesthesia types, or patient satisfaction. No significant association was found between the mandibular canal trajectory and postoperative paraesthesia duration. The implant success rate was 100%, with all implants integrating successfully. Our findings suggest that IANL is a safe and effective method for dental implant placement in atrophic mandibles.

ID: 214525 Utilizing intraoperative EMG and Post-Operative Paresthesia Thresholds to Quantify Post-Synaptic Excitability Following Burst SCS

Burst spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has demonstrated superior relief from overall pain and a reduction in back and leg pain compared to traditional tonic neurostimulation therapies. However, nearly 80% of patients have 2 or more non-contiguous pain areas. This can affect the ability to effectively program stimulation and the long-term efficacy of therapy. Multiple BurstDR region programming is a new option to treat multi-site pain by interleaving stimulation at multiple areas along the spinal cord. Prior intraoperative studies have shown that BurstDR stimulation provides broader myotomal coverage at a lower recruitment threshold. The overall goal of this study is to use changes in intraoperative EMG threshold and post-operative paresthesia thresholds to optimize burst stimulation programming.

Single Versus Two Plate Osteosynthesis for Parasymphysis Fractures of the Mandible: A Prospective Comparative Study.

Background The treatment of mandibular fractures has undergone a revolutionary change after the invention of miniplate osteosynthesis. There aren't manystudies in the literature comparing the outcomes of treating mandibular parasymphysis fractures with two miniplates versus one miniplate. Aim To evaluate the outcomes of single vs. two plate osteosynthesis in the management of parasymphysis fractures of the mandible. Materials and methods Sixteen patients with parasymphysis fracture of the mandible treated with a single high-profile miniplate or with two miniplates were included in the study. Multiple outcome variables such as fracture union, wound infection, dehiscence, iatrogenic dental injury,intraoperative time,plate exposure, and need for plate removalwere recorded andanalyzed statistically using the Student's t-test. Results The occurrence of iatrogenic dental injury (P= 0.021) and the mean operating time showed a statistically significant difference between the groups, whereas variables such as osseous healing, plate exposure, wound dehiscence, and postoperative paresthesia had no significant difference (P > 0.05). Conclusion Despite both systems providingenough stability for osseous healing, the use of a single high-profile miniplate demonstrated fewer post-operative problems, such as iatrogenic injury to the dental rootsand occurrence of infection/dehiscence and plate exposure, than the use of two miniplates.

The Key to a Successful PBC in Treatment of Trigeminal Neuralgia.

As a minimally invasive treatment of trigeminal neuralgia, percutaneous balloon compression (PBC) has become increasingly popular worldwide. Because it is simple and straightforward, it does not need a complicated apparatus only a fluoroscope plus an operator's experience. Therefore, the surgical technique seems to be essential and worth further addressing. The paper stresses that the target of PBC should be the semilunar ganglion (the soma of neurons) rather than the rootlets (axons) because the latter is renewable. To obtain a sufficient pressure against the ganglion, Meckel's cave should be covered utterly by an inflating balloon, which fluoroscopically appears in a pear shape. To attain a proper balloon position, it is suggested to make a tunnel with a blunt stylet in a proper penetrative angle before inserting a soft catheter. Too large a pear is unnecessary, hence injecting should be stopped when growth becomes apparently slow. To avoid an unacceptable postoperative paresthesia, a prolonged compression is not encouraged.

Cervical spine injuries in spinal ankylosing disorders: results of single-stage posterior stabilization without posterolateral fusion

Patients with long-segment cervical spinal fusion resulting from spinal ankylosing disorders (SADs) are at high risk for highly unstable cervical spine fractures necessitating surgery as the treatment of choice; however, without an existing gold standard. Specifically, patients without concomitant myelo- pathy, representing a rare entity, may benefit from a minimized surgical approach of a single-stage posterior stabilization without bone grafting for posterolateral fusion. This retrospective monocenter study in a Level I trauma center included all patients treated with navigated posterior stabilization without posterolateral bone grafting between January 2013 and January 2019 for cervical spine fractures in preexisting SADs without myelopathy. The outcomes were analyzed based on complication rates, revision frequency, neurologic deficits, and fusion times and rates. Fusion was evaluated by X-ray and computed tomography. 14 patients (11 male, 3 female) with a mean age of 72.7 ± 17.6 years were included. Five fractures were at the upper and nine at the subaxial cervical spine (predominantly C5-7). There was one surgery-specific complication of postoperative paresthesia. There was no infection, implant loosening, or dislocation, and no revision surgery necessary. All fractures healed after a median time of 4 months and 12 months being the latest time of fusion in one patient. Single-stage posterior stabilization without posterolateral fusion is an alternative for patients with SADs and cervical spine fractures without myelopathy. They can benefit from a minimization of surgical trauma while having equal times of fusion and no increased rate of complications.

Evaluation of Nutrient Canals in the Anterior Region of the Mandible in Patients Referring to Radiology Department of Islamic Azad University of Isfahan by Using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography

Introduction: The nutrient canals in the anterior region of the mandible are derived from the incisive branch of the inferior neurovascular bundle the damage of which in any surgery could lead to more hemorrhage and postoperative paresthesia. Evaluating the incidence and anatomical location of these canals using dental CBCT is the purpose of this study.&#x0D; Materials &amp; Methods: In this study, the CBCT scans of 196 patients- consist of 89 women and 107 men with a mean age of 49.1 from the archive of the radiology department of Isfahan Islamic Azad University were scrutinized. Sex, location, number, size (mesial-distal and buccal-lingual diameter), shape (round or ovoid) of nutrient canals were recorded. Results were analyzed using Mann-Whitney, Independent T-test, and Kruskal-Wallis test. (p value &lt; 0.05).&#x0D; Results: There are nutrient canals in 83.6% of the cases, in most of the cases (73.4 %), two nutrient canals in the anterior region of the mandible were detected. The independent t test showed that the average mesial-distal (p value = 0.48) and buccal-lingual (p value = 0.40) nutrient foramen diameter in between dentate and edentulous ones had no meaningful relation. The number of nutrient canals in the anterior region of the mandible in dentate was statistically higher than the edentulous ones (p value &lt; 0.001).&#x0D; Conclusion: There were nutrient canals present in most of the cases. There was no significant correlation between age and the number of nutrient canals in the anterior region of the mandible. There was no significant correlation between sex and the number of nutrient canals in the anterior region of the mandible. There was significant correlation between dentate and edentulous ones and the number of nutrient canals in the anterior region of the mandible. Preoperative knowledge of these findings via CBCT scans would be useful to prevent the complications of mandibular surgery.

Clinical and Radiological Correlation with Surgery of Third Mandibular Impacted Molars

Overview :Tooth extraction is one of the most common procedures in dentistry and oral maxillofacial medicine. Vigilant investigation of the condition and an accurate preoperative assessment, planning, evaluating indications and contraindications, is needed in all the cases. The objective : The aim of this study is to evaluate the role of radiographic examinations in diagnosis and surgery planning of lower third molar extraction. Materials and methods : Review of literature; on pubmed, medline, embase, sciencedirect, and the Cochrane library, using key words of impacted molars, third molars, mandibula, alveolar, dentistry, oral maxillofacial. Results: During dental and oral maxillofacial daily clinical practice is quite often to face impacted third lower molars, a condition that can lead to a close relation with important anatomical structures. Radiographic examinations are useful in the diagnosis and subsequently in the surgery planning and must submit to principle of justification and optimization. Intraoral radiography and orthopantomography hardly permit to evaluate the buccal or lingual position of the inferior alveolar nerve so to better predict the risk of complications. There are some radiographic signs that suggest the necessity to perform a more accurate radiographic investigation that provides a three-dimensional view of the images. The three-dimensional radiographic methods, by means of sagittal, frontal and axial views, are used to determine anatomical location, proximity, and possible contact of the third molar with the mandibular canal, blood vessels and nerves branches. The beginning of Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) has reduced the equipment cost but then again above all the radiation exposure for the patients. Conclusions: In the past few years three-dimensional reconstructive technologies were introduced: besides advantages, in addition to the potential benefit in the reduction of complications related to the patient, also resides in the different approach of the surgeon: stress and duration of dental and oral maxillofacial surgical procedures significantly is reduced because the respective medical specialist know exactly the position of anatomical structures. This information will help the surgeon to determine a possible post-operative paresthesia and plan the better surgical technique. Keywords : Impacted molars, third molar, surgery, inferior alveolar nerve, OPT, CBCT DOI: 10.7176/ALST/95-04 Publication date: November 30 th 2022

A comparative study of mesh fixation with non-absorbable versus delayed-absorbable monofilament suture in Lichtenstein tension-free hernioplasty in a medical college

Background: Mesh placement and subsequent fixation are an important aspect of hernia surgery. Different methods are available in modern days for fixing the mesh in inguinal hernioplasty surgery in both open and laparoscopic approach. However, sutures are still preferred by most of the surgeons because of its easy availability and cost- effectiveness. Conventionally, non-absorbable sutures are used to fix mesh. Aims and Objectives: The objective of our present study is to compare the post-surgical outcomes of mesh fixation with monofilament non-absorbable sutures versus monofilament delayed absorbablesutures. Materials and Methods: This prospective and randomized study was conducted at the Department of Surgery, ESIC-PGIMSR, Joka during the period of January 2017 –March 2019. Total 160 patients having unilateral uncomplicated inguinal hernia were included in this study; operated by the same surgical team. The patients were divided into two groups, each of 80 patients. In Group I, mesh fixation was done with delayed absorbable sutures whereas, in Group II, mesh was fixed with non-absorbable sutures. The data were analyzed with appropriate statistical tests such as Chi-square test and P &lt; 0.05 that were considered as statistically significant. Results: The development of post-operative pain was more common in Group II. The difference was statistically significant at 6 months post-operative time (P =0.042). When we compared the post-operative par esthesia in both surgical groups, more number of patients developed it in Group II but no significant statistical difference was observed (P-value came as 0.784, 0,221, and 0.385 after analyzing 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year data, respectively). Regarding other complications such ash ematoma, wound infection, seroma formation, and scrotal/ cord edema, no statistically significant differences were observed in either group (P-values were 0.339, 0.149, 0.313, and 0.117, respectively). No patient developed chronic discharging sinus post operatively in either group. No recurrence was noted in any patients included in this study, after 1 year of follow- up. Conclusion: Using delayed-absorbable suture material with air knotting technique for mesh fixation in Lichtenstein tension-free open inguinal hernioplasty causes less chance of post-operative inguinal pain and pare sthesia. Hence, it is a good alternative choice for surgeons; in terms of safety and efficacy.

No Difference in Return to Duty Between Minimally Invasive, Percutaneous Achilles Tendon Repair and Nonoperative Functional Rehabilitation in Active Duty Military Members

Category:Sports; Trauma; OtherIntroduction/Purpose:Achilles tendon ruptures are common injuries in the active duty US military population. Timely rehabilitation has critical importance in force readiness. There remains debate about optimal treatment of Achilles tendon ruptures. Recent studies have found decreased risk of rerupture but increased complication rates with operative management, with similar times to full recovery. The development of a minimally invasive, percutaneous Achilles tendon technique has shown lower rates of wound complications than open management, with similar re-rupture rates. However, there exists no comparative studies between the percutaneous, minimally invasive Achilles tendon surgery and nonoperative management. This was a retrospective cohort study comparing the results of the Percutaneous Achilles Repair System (PARS) and nonoperative management in the active duty military population.Methods:All Achilles tendon injuries in active duty patients were identified using the MHS system M2 from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2020. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied and charts were reviewed. Demographic and treatment information were recorded. Time to return to duty, rerupture, complications, and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) were recorded and compared between each cohort. 47 patients met inclusion criteria with an average age of 38.7 years. There were 23 patients in the percutaneous operative group and 24 patients in the nonoperative group. Patients in the nonoperative group underwent regular functional rehabilitation supervised by a licensed physical therapist under the tri-service rehabilitation guidelines, based on the Willits protocol for nonoperative management (2010). 2 patients failed nonoperative management and underwent open Achilles reconstruction. They were excluded from the time to return to duty analysis. Demographics were described. There were no significant differences in group demographics.Results:There was no difference in time to return to duty in the nonoperative and percutaneous Achilles tendon repair (160.5 days, 5.35 months vs 161.7 days, 5.39 months) cohorts (p=0.47). No patient failed to return to duty due to treatment of an Achilles rupture. There were no DVTs in either group. There was 1 wound complication (infection) (4.3%) and 3 instances of postoperative paresthesias (2 sural, 1 peroneal) 13% in the operative cohort. 2 patients failed nonoperative management (reruptured Achilles tendon) and underwent open reconstruction with flexor halluces longus augmentation (8%). The operative cohort had a higher rate of complications (17.3% vs 8.3%, p=0.42, OR=2.11, CI= (0.34, 12.86)), although this was not statistically significant. There were no reruptures in the operative cohort.Conclusion:There was no difference in time to return to duty in the nonoperative and percutaneous Achilles tendon repairs. There was a higher rate of reruptures in the nonoperative group. Percutaneous operative treatment had a higher risk of complications. There were no failures in the operative cohort. The final decision on management of acute Achilles tendon ruptures should be based on specific patient factors and shared decision to return military members back to duty as quickly as possible. Prospective or well designed randomized controlled trials are necessary in the future to better delineate outcomes between nonoperative and percutaneous Achilles rupture management.

Endoscopic versus open in situ decompression for the management of cubital tunnel syndrome.

This study aimed to compare the results of endoscopic in situ decompression (EISD) versus open in situ decompression (OISD) in the management of cubital tunnel syndrome (CUTS). In this retrospective study, 32 patients who underwent either OISD or EISD for the treatment of CUTS between 2012 and 2019 were identified and divided into one of the two groups: Group I consisted of 13 patients undergoing EISD and group II consisted of 19 patients receiving OISD. Patients were queried regarding the presence of preoperative and postoperative paresthesia. Electromyography (EMG) was performed on all patients preoperatively and at the final control. Preoperative and postoperative pain with palpation were evaluated over the cubital tunnel. The Dellon classification was used for preoperative evaluation of patient symptoms, and the Bishop classification was used for postoperative evaluation. Hand grip strength was measured with a dynamometer. At the preoperative and postoperative final follow-up, the palmar, key, and tip pinches were measured with a pinchmeter. The surgical incision length was measured with a ruler at the end of the operation in all patients. The operation duration was recorded as the time interval between the beginning of the incision and the end of the tourniquet. The overall mean age was 43.8 (range; 22 to 66) years. Nine patients were female, and 23 patients were male. No Dellon I patients were present in either group. Overall, 68.75% of the patients were Dellon II and 31.25% were Dellon III. According to the Bishop score, excellent and good results were obtained in 84.6% of the patients in Group I and 73.7% of the patients in Group II. The final follow-up examination found continued paraesthesia in 6 (18.75%) patients. Comparison of the improvement in the postoperative NCV value showed a statistically significantly superior improvement in Group I compared to Group II. The postoperative palmar pinch and tip pinch tests results were statistically significantly better in group I than in group II. Although EISD had better results clinically, no statistically significant difference was found between the two techniques in terms of Bishop scores and complications. Examination of the electrophysiological results suggested a better outcome in patients who underwent EISD. Level III, Therapeutic Study.

Early surgical and oncological outcomes during adoption of a single port VATS lung resection in a tertiary cancer center: a retrospective analysis

BackgroundVideo-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) is a safe and effective surgical approach for pulmonary resection. VATS can be accomplished with only a single incision, resulting in less postoperative pain and paresthesia, better cosmetic results, and greater patient satisfaction. Single-port VATS (spVATS) has become increasingly common for lung resection. We assess the early surgical and oncological outcomes after adopting this new technique at our tertiary cancer center as the first institution to do so in the country.MethodMedical records for 257 patients in a tertiary cancer center, with a diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer, pulmonary metastasis, or other chest-confined pathology, were accessed to obtain perioperative outcomes, pathologic results, post-operative follow-up data, and early surgical and oncological outcomes. All patients underwent spVATS for limited or major lung resection. Simple descriptive analysis was utilized.ResultsspVATS was either performed with curative intent (79.8%, N = 205), or as a diagnostic procedure (20.2%, N = 52). Resection types were subcategorized for curative intent group as limited (73.6%, N = 151), lobectomy (16.6%, N = 34), and complex (9.7%, N = 20). Resection with a negative margin (R0) rate was 100% for the primary lung cancer (PLC) patients and 97% for the pulmonary metastasectomy (PM) group. The complication rate was 5%. Three-year disease-free survival was 87% and 68.5% for PLC and PM group, respectively. The 3-year overall-survival was 91.3% for the PLC and 82.8% for PM. Operation duration showed a downtrend over the study period in each curative subcategory with a borderline difference in the limited resection (P value = 0.05).ConclusionAll the spVATS procedures were successfully performed without perioperative severe complications or mortality, regardless of complexity. R0 resection was excellent. Middle- and long-term efficacies of spVATS for lung cancer require further follow-up. With proper training, appropriate indication and meticulous application, adopting spVATS is safe and feasible technique that does not compromise surgical and oncological outcomes.

Pediatric Supracondylar Humerus Fractures: Should We Avoid Surgery during After-Hours?

Pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures occur frequently. Often, the decision has to be made whether to operate immediately, e.g., during after-hours, or to postpone until office hours. However, the effect of timing of surgery on radiological and clinical outcomes is unclear. This literature review with the PICO methodology found six relevant articles that compared the results of office-hours and after-hours surgery for pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures. The surgical outcomes of both groups in these studies were assessed. One of the articles found a significantly higher “poor fixation rate” in the after-hours group, compared with office hours. Another article found more malunions in the “night” subgroup vs. the “all groups but night” group. A third article found a higher risk of postoperative paresthesia in the “late night” subgroup vs. the “day” group. Lastly, one article reported increased consultant attendance and decreased operative time when postponing to office hours more often. No differences were reported for functional outcomes in any of the articles. Consequently, no strong risks or benefits from surgical treatment during office hours vs. after-hours were found. It appears safe to postpone surgery to office hours if circumstances are not optimal for acute surgery, and if there is no medical contraindication. However, research with a higher level-of-evidence is needed make more definite recommendations.