Postoperative Questionnaire Research Articles

The Tailored Opioid Reduction Strategy (TORS): A Quality Improvement Initiative to Reduce Opioid Prescription Following Hysterectomy

ObjectiveTo evaluate a tailored opioid reduction strategy (TORS) in minimizing opioid prescriptions for patients undergoing hysterectomy. MethodsThis quality improvement initiative was developed by multiple stakeholders at an academic hospital in a Canadian urban centre. The intervention consisted of a three-pronged approach: (1) patient and provider education, (2) perioperative multimodal analgesia, and (3) a targeted opioid reduction strategy. All eligible patients were asked to fill pre- and postoperative questionnaires. Analysis of outcomes pre- and post-TORS implementation as well as intervention compliance was performed. ResultsFrom September 2020 to April 2021, 133 patients who underwent hysterectomy were included in the study, 69 in the pre-intervention group and 64 in the post-intervention group. Of 133 hysterectomies, 78 (58.6%) were performed laparoscopically, 16 (12%) open, 14 (10.5%) vaginally, and 25 (18.8%) robotically. The rate of discharge opioid prescriptions was significantly reduced in the post-intervention group compared with the pre-intervention group (37/64, 58% versus 62/69, 90%, respectively, P < 0.001), as well as the amount of opioid prescribed in oral morphine equivalents (OME) (mean 47 mg pre-intervention, 28 mg post-intervention, P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in patient satisfaction or postoperative pain scores between groups. Overall, compliance with 2 or more components of TORS intervention was seen in 64/64 (100%) cases. ConclusionTORS implementation was successful in reducing the rate of discharge opioid prescriptions and the total amount of opiates prescribed in patients undergoing hysterectomy with no decrease in patient satisfaction or change in postoperative pain scores. We believe it can be applied more broadly across different surgical patient populations to prevent opioid abuse.

Horizontal pillar technique: A single pedicle septum-based approach in reduction mammaplasty with a twist

Breast reduction surgery has proven to be a successful treatment for various conditions such as postural disorders, anxiety, dermatological problems, and body image disorders, and is tailored to accommodate each patient's needs and anatomical variations. The author presents a modified approach for reduction mammaplasty using a septum-based superomedial pedicled nipple-areola complex (NAC) flap combined with horizontal dermoglandular pillars. This adjustment enhances desired breast projection, potentially eliminating the need for alternative pedicles in most cases. The limitations and disadvantages of this new technique are discussed. Between July 2015 and July 2021, 85 patients underwent surgery using the horizontal pillar reduction mammaplasty. Clinical data obtained during follow-up visits were recorded. Patients were asked to answer the local version of the Breast-Q, version 2.0, reduction module postoperative scale questionnaire to evaluate breast shape contentment and patient satisfaction at the 1-year follow-up. Necrosis of the NAC was not observed in any patient. The most common complaints in the early postoperative period were pain along the inframammary fold and swelling that extended into the axillary region. The mean values and standard deviations of the postoperative Breast-Q scores were calculated. The postoperative satisfaction with breasts scale mean value was 84.11±12.86, and the postoperative satisfaction with outcomes scale mean value was 81.08±9.97. The horizontal pillar reduction mammaplasty technique is safe, reliable, and easy to perform in breast reduction. Although the initial findings are encouraging, future anatomical and clinical studies are necessary to fully explore this modified technique's functional limitations and long-term outcomes.

Comparison of ACL and Anterolateral Ligament Reconstruction With Isolated ACL Reconstruction Using Hamstring Autograft: Outcomes in Young Female Patients With High-Grade Pivot Shift.

Inferior return to sports (RTS) and functional outcomes have been reported in women after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). The purpose was to evaluate the results of combined ACLR and anterolateral ligament reconstruction (ALLR) in young women with a high-grade pivot shift (grade ≥2). It was hypothesized that combined ACLR and ALLR would result in better RTS and rotational stability than isolated ACLR. Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Two groups were retrospectively evaluated and compared. Group I (n = 39; mean age, 31.1 ± 5.7 years) underwent isolated ACLR using hamstring autografts; group C (n = 39; mean age, 30.4 ± 6.1 years) underwent combined ACLR and ALLR. Subjective outcome measures included the International Knee Documentation Committee subjective form, Lysholm, Tegner, and ACL-Return to Sport after Injury (ACL-RSI). Objective tests included a KT-2000 arthrometer stress test, a pivot-shift test, an isokinetic strength test, a Y-balance test, and a single-leg hop test. A postoperative questionnaire was administered to determine the rates and types of RTS, quality of sports performance, and reinjury and satisfaction rates. Subjective scores and clinical tests were performed at 2 years. Magnetic resonance imaging and second-look arthroscopy were conducted during the 1- and 2-year follow-ups, respectively. The mean follow-up for groups I and C were 30.4 ± 3.9 and 29.3 ± 3.5 months, respectively (P = .194). Patients in group C had better anteroposterior (P = .001) and rotational (P = .005) stability and higher ACL-RSI scores (P = .025) than those in group I. Group C had higher composite and posteromedial reach scores on the Y-balance test than group I (P = .014 and P = .010, respectively). A total of 26 (66.7%) patients in group C and 17 (43.6%) in group I returned to their prior level of sports (P = .040). Rerupture of the ACL graft and contralateral ACL rupture occurred in 2 (5.1%) and 2 (5.1%) patients in group I, respectively, compared with no rerupture or contralateral ACL rupture in group C. Combined ACLR and ALLR in young women with a high-grade pivot shift was associated with better knee stability parameters, dynamic postural stability, and psychological readiness to RTS than isolated ACLR.

Sex Differences in Vestibular Schwannoma.

Vestibular schwannoma (VS) are equally common in men and woman. A number of epidemiological studies have reported on sex-specific aspects of incidence, tumor size, tinnitus and hearing loss. However, data on sex-specific, pre- and post-surgically quality of life (QoL) are rare. The objective of the present study was to determine sex-specific aspects on QoL in VS. Health-related QoL was analyzed in 260 patients (112 male/148 female) with unilateral sporadic VS using general (SF-36: general Short-Form Health Survey), disease-specific (PANQOL: Penn Acoustic Neuroma Quality-of-Life Scale, PANQOL) and symptom-specific (DHI: Dizziness Handicap Inventory; HHI: Hearing Handicap Inventory; THI: Tinnitus Handicap Inventory; FDI: Facial Disability Index) QoL questionnaires. Sex differences were evaluated pre- and postoperative by multi- and univariate analyses based on 200 preoperative and 88 postoperative questionnaires. Female patients were significantly more affected by dizziness, headaches, reduced energy and anxiety. Energy and balance changed similarly in both sexes after surgery. However, postoperative women tended to be more affected by facial palsy and headaches than men. Despite the greater physical impairment, general health improved equivalently or even more in female patients than in males. In conclusion, self-rated QoL in VS is significantly affected by sex and surgery. This should be taken into account when counseling VS patients regarding observation, radiotherapy, and surgery.

Design, fabrication, and evaluation of 3-D-printed cystotomy spoons as a retrieval method in dogs.

Current cystotomy methods often implement the use of off-label devices, resulting in urocystolith extraction difficulty and potentially leading to postoperative complications and discomfort for the patient. The objective of this study was to create 3 novel 3-D printed cystotomy spoons that offer a dedicated solution for removing urocystoliths from a patient's urinary bladder. Clinical use of the 3 novel 3-D printed cystotomy spoons were ultimately evaluated in 4 dogs and 1 cat that presented for urocystotlith removal at 3 different veterinary hospitals in northwest Arkansas. The novel cystotomy spoons were designed using SolidWorks, 3-D printed with a Dental Surgical Guide resin, and underwent prototype testing that included chlorhexidine soaking, autoclave sterilization, 3-point bend testing, and Finite Element Analysis. The efficiency of the spoons was then evaluated through a limited proof-of-concept study utilizing a postoperative questionnaire for the participating clinicians. Practitioner feedback indicated positive experiences using 1 or more of the novel 3-D printed cystotomy spoons while performing a cystotomy surgery. However, successful use of the spoons was ultimately limited to dogs in the 23 to 34 kg weight range. Novel 3-D printed cystotomy spoons have the potential to mediate urocystolith extraction difficulty and reduce postoperative complications. Additionally, this research demonstrates how veterinarians might develop custom 3-D models and prints to meet patient-specific needs. As such, further development could impact the standard of healthcare and the veterinary industry by promoting the use of additive manufacturing in veterinary medicine.

Immediate Prepectoral Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction after J-Pattern Skin-Reducing Mastectomy.

Skin-reducing mastectomy for single-stage reconstruction is an oncologically safe procedure used in women with large and ptotic breasts. This study describes a new technique, the J-pattern skin-reducing breast reconstruction with prepectoral implant and acellular dermal matrix (Braxon fast), which is indicated for patients with large and ptotic breasts who would benefit from a breast reduction and need a mastectomy for curative or prophylactic purposes. The authors present a case series of 35 breasts of 19 women who underwent this procedure from January of 2021 through December of 2022 at the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Department of the University Hospital Santa Maria della Misericordia, in Udine, Italy, with a median follow-up of 15 months. The advantages of the J scar consist of a reduced risk of skin necrosis, a reduced bottoming-out rate, simplification of the surgical design, and lower impact of scars not involving the medial quadrants of the breast. Patients were administered the BREAST-Q 2.0 postoperative questionnaire at 3 months postoperatively, which showed a high average level of satisfaction with the reconstruction. This surgical technique is a valid option for patients who have voluminous breasts and adequate pinch test results who wish to undergo immediate heterologous reconstruction along with curative or prophylactic mastectomy. Therapeutic, IV.

Prospective evaluation of postoperative pain and opioid use after minor urologic surgery.

Filling an opioid prescription after a minor urologic procedure increases patient risk of overdose and misuse. Strategies to reduce the number of opioids reaching the community are critical. This study evaluates opioid use after minor urologic procedures at a Canadian academic center and guides future prescribing recommendations. We prospectively evaluated patients over 18 years old undergoing minor urologic procedures (penile, scrotal, urethral, etc.) from September 2020 to May 2022. Consenting participants were given a pain diary and postoperative pain questionnaire. Patients on chronic pain medications or those who had major surgery within six months were excluded. Response rate, pain on visual analog scale, pain control satisfaction, quantity of opioids prescribed, and consumption of opioid and non-opioid medication were collected and analyzed. Ninety-five patients met the inclusion criteria. The mean age was 61.7 years (range 20- 87) and 96% of patients identified as male. The response rate for the opioid diary and pain questionnaire was 57%. Forty-two patients (78%) were offered an opioid prescription following their surgery, but only 12 of those patients (22%) filled and consumed any opioids analgesics. Forty-two patients (78%) used no postoperative opioids, and the mean oral morphine equivalents (OME) consumed was 5.87 (standard deviation 16.7). There was a total of 259 OME unused from post-procedure prescriptions. The mean overall pain score for patients who did and did not fill opioid prescriptions were 3.18/10 and 1.79/10 (p<0.01), respectively, with mean overall pain management satisfaction score of 8.63/10 and 8.58/10 (p=0.94), respectively. Most patients undergoing minor urologic procedures do not require opioids to manage postoperative pain. Based on our data, we suggest that a prescription for 39 OME would adequately treat postoperative pain in 95% of patients undergoing minor urologic procedures. Education around pain management with non-narcotic modalities is imperative, and practice changes are warranted to address the opioid crisis within our specialty.

Functional, biological, and radiological evaluation of the pancreaticojejunal anastomosis 1 year after pancreatoduodenectomy: a prospective study

PurposeThis prospective study aimed to analyze the functional, biological, and radiological aspects of the pancreatic anastomosis 1 year after pancreatoduodenectomy (PD).MethodsFrom 2016 to 2019, patients with PD indication were screened. Questionnaires about pancreas insufficiency, fecal elastase tests, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were performed before and 1 year after PD.ResultsTwenty patients were prospectively included. The only difference between pre- and postoperative questionnaires was constipation (less frequent 1 year after PD). Median pre- and postoperative fecal elastase levels were 96 μg/g (IQR 15–196, normal value > 200) and 15 μg/g (IQR 15–26, p = 0.042). There were no significant differences in terms of main pancreatic duct (MPD) size (4, IQR 3–5 vs. 4 mm, IQR 3–5, p = 0.892), border regularity, stenosis, visibility, image improvement, and secondary pancreatic duct dilation before and after secretin injection. All patients but one (2 refused and 2 were lost to follow-up, 15/16, 94%) had a patent pancreaticojejunal anastomosis on 1-year MRI.ConclusionAlthough median 1-year fecal elastase was significantly lower than preoperatively, suggesting that exocrine secretion was altered, the anatomical outcome as assessed by MRI was excellent showing high patency rate (15/16, 94%) at 1 year. This emphasizes the difference between anatomy and function.

ThTP4.7 Laparoscopic Appendicectomy Consent Form Audit

Abstract Aims Surgical consent forms are difficult for patients to interpret. Surveys show that patients struggle to grasp surgical concepts. Procedure specific consent forms (PSCFs) improve surgical consent because they provide a standardised list of complications. However, PSCFs are nationally underutilised. Laparoscopic appendicectomies are one of the most common operations. Our aim was to assess the variability of appendicectomy consent forms in preparation for the inception of a PSCF. Methods A prospective audit on patients requiring laparoscopic appendicectomy. Their consent forms were assessed for legibility, abbreviations and complications included. Lastly, all were checked to see if the patient had been offered alternative treatment option in the form of antibiotics. Subsequently, each patient was contacted and asked a series of standardised questions. Results 17 consent forms were assessed. 100% included infection and bleeding; 88% conversion to open; 82% bowel resection and damage to local structures; and 76% blood clots. 18 separate complications were used in total, with highly variable inclusion. Of the 17 forms 76% were legible, with 65% of them containing acronyms. 82% indicated that alternative therapies had been discussed. In the post-op questionnaire, approximately 80% of patients gave details surrounding their operation and what it entailed, however only 64% were able to successfully recall some of the basic potential complications. Interestingly, only 43% remember being given options on alternative treatments. Conclusion The use of PSCFs would be beneficial in standardising complication lists and also in ensuring patients are fully aware of alternative therapies.

Preoperative and Postoperative Kinesiophobia Influences Postoperative Outcome Measures Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Prospective Study.

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is the most injured ligament of the knee, and the treatment of choice is usually ACL reconstruction. Kinesiophobia refers to an irrational and paralyzing fear of movement caused by the feeling of being prone to injury or reinjury. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the relationship between preoperative and postoperative kinesiophobia with postoperative outcomes of ACL-R evaluated through SF-36, ACL-RSI, KOOS, and OKS scores. Included patients all underwent ACL reconstruction. The preoperative TSK-13 questionnaire and six-month postoperative TSK-13, ACL-RSI, SF-36, KOOS, and OKS questionnaires were assessed in included patients. Normal distribution was assessed using the Shapiro-Wilk test. The study included 50 patients who filled out the questionnaires at the 6-month postoperative follow-up. Correlations between preoperative TSK-13 and postoperative outcome measures revealed a low-moderate negative correlation between preoperative TSK-13 and SF-36 PCS at 6-month follow-up. Correlations between postoperative TSK-13 and postoperative outcome measures revealed a high negative correlation between preoperative TSK-13 and ACL-RSI, KOOS Symptoms, KOOS Pain, KOOS ADL, and OKS at 6-month follow-up. Preoperative and postoperative kinesiophobia were found to influence postoperative ACL-R outcomes negatively, more specifically an increase in kinesiophobia showed a statistically significant correlation with worse postoperative SF-36 PCS scores in patients.

Short-term recovery after implant versus resection arthroplasty in trapeziometacarpal joint osteoarthritis.

We compared the short-term recovery of patients treated with trapeziometacarpal joint (TMJ) implant arthroplasty versus resection-suspension-interposition (RSI) arthroplasty. Implant patients (n = 147) had a better 3-month postoperative brief Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ) score (mean 82) compared to RSI patients (n = 127), who had a mean score of 69. Key pinch strength at 3 months was also higher in the implant group compared to the RSI group (6.8 kg vs. 3.1 kg). At 1 year, both groups had similar brief MHQ scores, but key pinch remained higher in the implant group (7.0 kg vs. 3.9 kg [RSI]). After implant arthroplasty, employed patients returned to work after a mean of 44 days, which was significantly faster than the 84 days for RSI patients. Patients after TMJ implant arthroplasty recover significantly faster in the first 3 postoperative months compared to RSI patients. However, 1-year postoperative outcomes are similar for both cohorts, with key pinch strength remaining higher for patients with TMJ implant arthroplasty.Level of evidence: II.

Single-Centre Retrospective Study on the Effects of Bariatric Surgery on Nocturia.

The incidence of nocturia is increased in obesity, which causes significant negative impact on quality of life. Bariatric surgery is a reliable method in which to achieve major weight loss and this study aims to determine the effect of bariatric surgery on nocturia and other lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in men and women. Retrospective study of patients undergoing bariatric surgery had pre- and post-operative questionnaires using the validated International Prostate Symptoms Score (IPSS) to assess nocturia between 2018 and 2021. The primary outcome was effect of bariatric surgery on nocturia RESULTS: A total of 99 patients were included with median age of 52.9 (44.9-60.2) and 83.8% being female. The median weight was 129.9kg (110-151.9) and median BMI was 45.5 (41.4-53.4). Improvements were demonstrated in all criteria assessed in IPSS and nocturia significantly improved with a decrease in 1.14 points (p < 0.05). Linear regression analysis showed that, in the post operative period assessed, there were no significant effect on variables measured such as obstructive sleep apnoea, type 2 diabetes on the effect of IPSS post-bariatric surgery within the follow-up period of 4-6 months. Bariatric surgery can have significant improvements on nocturia symptoms in men and women with obesity. This is another means in how bariatric surgery can reduce morbidity and improve quality of life.

Thoraco-dorsal artery perforator flap for totally autologous primary breast reconstruction. Assessment of feasibility with standard reporting scales

This study reports on feasibility and applicability of totally autologous primary breast reconstructions based on TDAP flaps using a standard set of internationally approved reporting scales. We reviewed 15 cases in patients with a good donor area in the back not suitable for implant or free flaps reconstructions. Complications according to Clavien Dindo were: 1 Grade 1 (seroma in the back). The ABS-BAPRAS quality assurance indicators 10, 11, and 12 were entirely fulfilled. No pedicled flap loss occurred; no unplanned return to theatre and no unplanned readmission within 3 months. Breast-related quality of life values are reported at 3 months and one year in four domains of the BREAST Q v. 2.0 (breast reconstruction post-op questionnaire). At 1 year the mean Q-score for satisfaction with breast was 70.5, for psychosocial well-being was 72.3; for sexual well-being was 58.8; for physical well-being (chest wall) was 70.60. The TDAP based totally autologous breast reconstruction reported to be a feasible and safe alternative to implant based or free flaps reconstructions according to consolidate international outcome reporting measures.

Endovideoscopic urethra-sparing simple prostatectomy via an extraperitoneal approach as treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia

Aim. To evaluate the efficacy of endovideoscopic urethra-sparing simple prostatectomy via an extraperitoneal approach (EUSP) for patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia.&#x0D; Materials and methods. In the period from January 2021 until September 2022 8 patients underwent EUSP. Initial clinical datas, perioperative and postoperative outcomes, implications, IPSS questionnaires, IIEF-5 and ejaculatory datas have been evaluated. The technique of the present method was adopted from Ping Wang, Dan Xia, SunYi Ye, DeBo Kong, Jie Qin, TaiLe Jing, YeQing Mao, HongZhou Meng, Shuo Wang (2018).&#x0D; Results. Seven (87.5%) patients underwent EUSP successfully, 1 (12.5%) patient needed conversion into open simple prostatectomy. Mean time of operation was 171 minutes (150–185), mean blood loss was 232 ml (180–300). In 2 (25%) cases urethral reconstruction after damage was needed. Mean catheterization time was 1.5 days (1–4). According to Clavien–Dindo classification (2004) such complications were found: low degree – 2 (1 or 2 group), 3а group – 1 (severe hematuria, when bladder infusion is needed). Mean management time was 8.4 months (6–11). Results from post-operative questionnaire IPSS (p0.1) и QoL (p0.1) significantly improved. Totally 4 patients had secure erectile function: 3 of them had normal erection, the last one (1) – retrograde ejaculation.&#x0D; Conclusion. EUSP is technically applicable for patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia. Patients have shorter time of catheterization, risk profile, significant improvement of urination и support of antegrade ejaculation.

Pre and post-operative self-care management among women undergoing hysterectomy.

Surgery is a major part in the field of Gynecology. Hysterectomy is the removal of the uterus which is leading non-obstetric surgery worldwide, after caesarean sections. The objective of the current study was to determine how well women undergoing hysterectomy surgery managed their pre-operative and post-operative self-care. A quasi experimental single group pre-test and posttest design was used for this inquiry. Pre - and post-operative self-care management questionnaires were used to collect data from 60 women. Utilizing descriptive and inferential statistics like mean, standard deviation, and chi-square test, data were gathered and examined. Data analysis revealed, the mean post-test knowledge score (23.81) was greater than the mean pre-test knowledge score (10.33). The average disparity was (13.48) with the estimated "t" value (16.003), which was more than the table value (1.67) at 0.05 level of significance, showing that the self-care management education program was successful in increasing women's understanding on hysterectomy. The study concluded that pre- and post-operative self-care management education program had significantly improved health status among women underwent hysterectomy.

Does an Adductor Canal Block Influence Patient-Reported Outcomes at One Year Following Total Knee Arthroplasty?

Introduction Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) for osteoarthritis is performed to improve knee function and quality of life. Adductor canal block (ACB) (with posterior capsule local anaesthetic) and periarticular local anaesthetic infiltration (LA) alonearecommon methods used for post-operative pain control following TKA. The primary aim of this study was to investigate the influence of ACB compared to LA alone on knee function at one year in patients undergoing primary TKA. The secondary aims were to investigate the influence on health-related quality of life (HRQoL), patient satisfaction at one year, and length of stay (LOS) in hospital following TKA. Methods During a three-year period, 1396 patients who underwent TKA at the study centre completed pre-operative and one-year post-operative questionnaires. Data collected included patient demographics, co-morbidities, LOS, Oxford Knee Score (OKS), EuroQol 5-Dimension (EQ-5D) and satisfaction scores. Patients who had a spinal anaesthetic (n=1096) with either ACB (with posterior capsule local anaesthetic) (n=224) and LA infiltration alone (n=872) were compared. Results There was a significant improvement in pre-operative to one-year post-operative knee function as measured by OKS overall (15.1, p<0.001), however there was no significant difference between ACB and LA groups (p=0.37). There was no significant difference in change (p=0.43) or one-year post-operative (p=0.70) HRQoL, as measured by EQ-5D. There was also no significant difference in one-year patient satisfaction between groups (p=0.57). There was no significant difference in median LOS between groups (four days with ACB, four days with LA), although patients younger than 55 yearsundergoing ACB had a statistically significant median of one day reduced LOS compared with the LA group (p=0.01). Conclusions ACB when compared with LA alone was not associated with a difference in change in knee function, HRQoL, or patient satisfaction at one year following TKA. There was also no difference between groups in length of stay post-operatively. However, ACB was associated with a shorter length of stay in patients younger than 55, and this may be a group that would benefit from this intervention.

Quality of life, post-operative complications, and hernia recurrence following enhanced-view Totally Extra-Peritoneal (eTEP) Rives-Stoppa for incisional and primary ventral hernia repair.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the quality of life (QoL), early post-operative complications, and hernia recurrence rate following laparoscopic enhanced-view Totally Extra-Peritoneal (eTEP) Rives-Stoppa (RS) for incisional and primary ventral hernia repair. Retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database of all patients undergoing eTEP-RS between 2017 and 2020. Data retrieved included demographics, and clinical and operative variables. QoL was assessed using the EuraHS-QoL scale prior to- and following eTEP-RS. During the study period, 61 patients met the inclusion criteria. Age and BMI were 62 (60.4 ± 13.8) years and 29.7 (30.4 ± 6)kg/m2, respectively. Incisional hernia was the most common pathology (n = 40, 65%) followed by primary ventral hernia (n = 21, 35%), with 24 patients (39%) having a previous hernia repair. Diastasis-recti repair was undertaken in 34 patients (55%), a concomitant inguinal hernia was repaired in 6 patients (10%), and 13 patients (21%) underwent transversus abdominis release (TAR). Median follow-up time was 13months and 15 patients (25%) had at least 2years of follow-up. Hernia recurrence was found in 4 patients (6.5%). Pre-operative and post-operative EuraHS-QOL questionnaire scores were available for 46 patients (75%) and showed significant improvement in pain (7 vs. 0.5, p < 0.0001; 5 vs. 0.5, p < 0.0001; 5 vs. 1.5; p < 0.006), restrictions (median of 5 vs. 0.5, p < 0.0001; 5 vs. 0, p < 0.0001; median of 5 vs. 1, p < 0.0001, of 6.5 vs. 1.5, p < 0.0001), and cosmetic appearance (8 vs. 4, p < 0.0001). Abdominal wall repair using the eTEP-RS approach significantly improves subjective QoL variables with an acceptable post-operative complications and hernia recurrence rates in a short-term follow-up.

The role of cochlear implantation in alleviating Tumarkin drop attacks of Meniere's disease; a case report

Ménière's disease (MD) patients may suffer episodes of sudden falls, named Tumarkin drop attacks (DAs). This fall occurs abruptly and without warning or loss of consciousness. DAs usually aggravate the clinical picture of MD and are challenging to manage. The present report describes a case treated by cochlear implantation (CI) due to concomitant deafness and offers some clinical considerations for this condition. A male patient aged 48 years with a 10-year history of definite bilateral MD had profound SNHL on the right and severe SNHL on the left side. He suffered from intermittent attacks of vertigo, ear fullness, and tinnitus and, in the last year, had developed DAs and experienced 14 episodes in the previous six months. The preoperative category of acoustic performance was 3. The Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) questionnaire showed a total score of 46, which indicated a moderate degree of disability. A CI was planned for the right side. The patient did not report any further DAs episode for two years since then. The postoperative category of acoustic performance became 11, and the postoperative DHI questionnaire showed a decrease in the total score (from 46 to 19), which indicated a mild disability. Unilateral CI effectively alleviated the DAs associated with bilateral MD. Our report proposes a new modality for managing vertiginous symptoms in cases of MD with hearing loss without the need for more aggressive surgical interventions with the need for clinical trials to confirm our results.

Trading mental and physical health in vestibular schwannoma treatment decision.

Observation, radiotherapy and surgery are treatment options in vestibular schwannomas (VS). Decision making differs between centers and is usually based on tumor characteristics (e.g., size) and the expected physical health (PH) outcome (i.e., hearing and facial function). However, mental health (MH) is often under-reported. The objective of the present study was to ascertain the impact of VS treatment on PH and MH. PH and MH were assessed in a prospective cross-sectional study including 226 patients with unilateral sporadic VS before and after surgical removal (SURG). Quality-of-life (QoL) was estimated by self-rating questionnaires: general Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36), Penn Acoustic Neuroma Quality-of-Life Scale (PANQOL), Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI), Hearing Handicap Inventory (HHI), Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI), and Facial Disability Index (FDI). QoL changes over time as well as predictive factors were accessed by multivariate analyses of covariance (MANCOVA). In total, 173 preoperative and 80 postoperative questionnaires were analyzed. There was a significant PH deterioration related to facial function (FDI, PANQOL-face) after surgery. In line with facial rehabilitation, however, FDI improved within the first five years after surgery and did not differ compared to the preoperative patient cohort, eventually. In contrast, MH (i.e., PANQOL-anxiety) and general health (i.e., PANQOL-GH) improved with surgery and correlated with the extent-of-resection. Physical and mental health is significantly influenced by VS surgery. While PH might decrease after surgery, MH potentially increases when patient is cured. Practitioners should take MH into account before advising an incompletely VS treatment (e.g., subtotal resection, observation or radiosurgery).

Need for frequent dilations after magnetic sphincter augmentation: an assessment of associated factors and outcomes.

Dysphagia is the most common complaint after magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA), with nearly one-third of patients requiring at least one dilation following MSA. A subset of patients require frequent dilations, but there is a paucity of data on the characteristics of this population. This study aimed to identify predictors of the need for frequent dilations within the first year after implant and to assess these patients' outcomes. This is a retrospective review of prospectively collected data of patients who underwent MSA over an 8-year period. Frequent dilations were defined as 2 or more dilations within 1year of surgery. Patients completed baseline and 1-year postoperative GERD-HRQL questionnaires and objective physiology testing. Baseline demographic, clinical characteristics, and objective testing data were compared between patients who did and did not require frequent dilations. A total of 697 (62.7% female) patients underwent MSA, with 62 (8.9%) patients requiring frequent dilation. At a mean (SD) of 12.3 (3.4) months follow-up, the frequent dilation group had higher median GERD-HRQL total scores (21.0 vs. 5.0, p < 0.001), PPI use (20.8% vs.10.1%, p = 0.023), dissatisfaction (46.7% vs. 11.6%, p < 0.001), and device removal (25.8% vs. 2.2%, p < 0.001) rates. Acid normalization was comparable (p = 0.997). Independent predictors of frequent dilation included preoperative odynophagia (OR 2.85; p = 0.001), IRP > 15mmHg (OR 2.88; p = 0.006), and > 30% incomplete bolus clearance (OR 1.94; p = 0.004). At a mean (SD) of 15.7 (10.7) months, 28 (45.1%) patients underwent device removal after frequent dilation. Independent predictors of device removal after frequent dilation within 5years of surgery were preoperative odynophagia (OR 7.18; p = 0.042), LES resting pressure > 45mmHg (OR 28.5; p = 0.005), and ≥ 10% failed swallows (OR 23.5; p < 0.001). The need for frequent dilations after MSA is a marker for poor symptom control, dissatisfaction, and device removal. Patients with preoperative odynophagia, high LES pressures, and poor esophageal motility should be counseled of their risk for these poor outcomes.