Postoperative Reduction Research Articles

Progressive postoperative atrophy of ipsilateral thalamus, putamen, and globus pallidus in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy: A volumetric analysis.

Cortical atrophy close to medial temporal structures has been described consistently in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). Successful TLE surgery may have a neuroprotective effect preventing further atrophy of temporal and extratemporal cortex. However, the effects of epilepsy surgery on subcortical structures demand additional enlightenment. This work aimed to determine how epilepsy surgery affects volumes of subcortical structures in medically refractory temporal lobe epilepsy patients. We compared MRI volumes of subcortical structures in 62 patients with TLE (36 left, 26 right) before and after anterior temporal lobectomy with 38 TLE patients (20 left, 18 right) who were considered to be good surgical candidates and had at least two brain MRIs. There were no volume differences in subcortical structures on preoperative and initial MRIs of non-operated TLE patients. At baseline, the ipsilateral thalamus and putamen in TLE patients were marginally smaller than contralateral structures. Operated patients showed a significant postoperative volume reduction in ipsilateral thalamus, putamen, and globus pallidus. In contrast, there were no significant volumetric reductions in non-operated patients longitudinally. There were no volumetric changes associated with different surgical outcomes or different postoperative cognitive outcomes. Our study demonstrated postoperative volume loss of thalamus, putamen and globus pallidus ipsilaterally to the side of resection. Our findings suggest surgery-related changes, likely Wallerian degeneration within subcortical networks not related to seizure or cognitive outcome. We studied 100 patients with epilepsy, comparing those who had surgery to those who did not. After surgery, the thalamus, putamen and globus pallidus on the same side as the surgery shrank significantly, but not in non-surgery patients. This suggests surgery-related changes in deeper brain structures, unrelated to seizure freedom or cognitive outcomes. This research sheds additional light on the response of the subcortical structure to epilepsy surgery, highlighting potential areas for further study.

Long-term changes in cardiac geometry and mechanics after bariatric surgery- insights from the FatWest study

Abstract Background Patients with severe obesity have a high prevalence of subclinical cardiac organ damage including impaired longitudinal and radial cardiac mechanics. Previous studies on the impact of bariatric surgery on cardiac remodeling, most of them with short patient follow-up, have yielded inconsistent results. Purpose To assess progressive changes in cardiac geometry and mechanics up to five years following bariatric surgery. Methods In the prospective Bariatric Surgery on the West Coast of Norway (FatWest) study, cardiac remodeling was assessed by 2D echocardiography preoperatively and at six months, one year and five years after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass in a cohort of 97 patients (44±10 years, 72% women, body mass index [BMI] 41.8±4.8 kg/m²). Excess weight loss (EWL) was calculated as: absolute weight loss/(initial weight-ideal weight)x100. Left ventricular (LV) size was assessed by the LV mass/ height^2.7, LV longitudinal mechanics by the peak global longitudinal strain (GLS) and radial mechanics by the midwall shortening (MWS). LV myocardial oxygen demand was estimated from the LV mass-wall stress-heart rate product. Right ventricular diameter was measured in the basal one-third of the ventricular cavity. Left atrial (LA) reservoir function was assessed by the LA emptying fraction. Results After a mean follow-up of 63±13 months, the average postoperative EWL was 66%. Overall, both right ventricular diameter, LV mass index, LV GLS, myocardial oxygen demand and LAEF (68% vs. 64%) improved significantly at the 5-year follow-up (all p<0.05), while MWS remained unchanged (Figure). Prevalence of normal LV geometry increased gradually from 56% to 80%, while that of LV hypertrophy fell from 36% to 16% (p<0.001). Analyses of temporal trends showed that improvement in BMI, LV mass and LV GLS occurred during the first postoperative year (Figure). In Cox regression analysis, a low 5-year GLS was associated with preoperative hypertension after adjustment for age, sex, preoperative diabetes mellitus, and postoperative changes in BMI, mean blood pressure and myocardial oxygen demand (p<0.01). In a similar linear model, after adjustment for the same covariates, LV mass index at the 5-year follow-up was independently related to the magnitude of the postoperative BMI reduction (R² = 0.58, p<0.001). Conclusion Ventricular size and longitudinal mechanics are significantly improved 5 years after bariatric surgery, with the reverse remodeling occurring during the first postoperative year. Residual abnormal 5-year LV geometry and mechanics are related to preoperative hypertension and suboptimal BMI reduction.Figure

Endarterectomy in CTEPH: hemodynamic improvement and RV-PA coupling

Abstract Introduction Pulmonary artery endarterectomy (PAE) remains the gold standard in treating chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH). Reducing the thrombotic burden and mechanical obstruction of the pulmonary artery (PA) leads to significant hemodynamic improvement, allowing for favorable right ventricular (RV) remodeling. Methods Single center retrospective study, including 30 pts submitted to PEA over a 7-year period. Hemodynamic assessment was performed by right heart catheterization (RHC) before PEA, immediately after and at 6-month follow-up (FUP). Echocardiographic assessment of RV function was acquired at baseline and 6m FUP. Mean absolute differences were calculated before and after PEA. Differences between groups were assessed with ANOVA analysis and ROC curve analysis allowed us to define a cut-off point in mPAP reduction to predict favorable RV remodeling. Results We included 30 pts with a mean age of 57,9 ± 13 years old and slight predominance of female sex (57%). Regarding risk assessment with the 4 strata tool at baseline, 23% of pts were high risk, 20% intermediate high, 27% intermediate low and 6% at low risk. Pulmonary hemodynamics improved immediately after PEA, as indicated by a mean reduction of 28,3 ±17 mmHg in mPAP; 44,4±27,6mmHg in sPAP; 8±3,4 Wu in PVR and an increase in CO of 0,5±1 l/min. This improvement was sustained at 6-m post PEA assessment, with a mean reduction of 31,5 ±26,7 mmHg in mPAP; 48,3±41,2mmHg in sPAP; 6,3±6,2Wu in PVR and a 0,5±1 l/min increase in CO. Regarding RV remodeling at 6m post PEA, an increase of 0.15±0.2mm/mmHg in TAPSE/PSAP ratio and 3±2,8cm/s in Tricuspid S’ were recorded. RV/PA uncoupling, defined as TAPSE/PSAP <0,31 mm/mmHg, was evident in 73% of pts at baseline, 25% of which recovered at 6m follow-up. There were no significant differences between groups, according to the 4 strata risk assessment at baseline, regarding pulmonary hemodynamics and RV remodeling. Through ROC curve analysis, we were able to define a cut-off point of 37mmHg in immediate mPAP post-op reduction to predict RV-RA coupling normalization at 6-m FUP (sensitivity 70%, specificity 89%). Conclusions PEA remains a cornerstone of CTEPH treatment. It’s impact on improving pulmonary hemodynamics is immediate and maintained at 6-month FUP. This improvement may be expected regardless of risk assessment at baseline. Reducing RV afterload allows favorable remodeling and an immediate post operative reduction of mPAP > 37mmHg may predict normalization of RV-PA coupling.

Metabolic Effects of Liposuction on Glucose and Insulin Homeostasis with and Without Abdominal Fat Removal.

Liposuction is a common cosmetic procedure aimed at addressing localized fat deposits. While metabolic disruptions associated with adiposity are well documented, the specific impacts of liposuction on metabolic parameters remain unclear. Seventeen individuals underwent liposuction inclusive of the abdominal area, while eleven underwent liposuction excluding the abdomen. Metabolic parameters including glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR, HbA1c, and C-peptide levels were measured preoperatively and postoperatively at 1, 3, and 6 months. Both groups exhibited significant postoperative reductions in glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR, HbA1c, and C-peptide levels. However, the abdominal liposuction group demonstrated more pronounced reductions of these variables. These findings suggest that addressing abdominal adiposity may provide greater metabolic benefits following liposuction. Further research is warranted to explore the long-term sustainability and clinical implications of these metabolic improvements with additional markers. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.

Visualization of “subclinical consequence” after successful and uneventful surgical intervention for unruptured cerebral aneurysms

There are many studies on post-operative cognitive function after surgical clipping (SC) and endovascular coiling (EC) for unruptured cerebral aneurysms, but few reports focusing on possible subclinical damage. The aim of the present study was to detect the subclinical damage after surgical intervention. Patients with anterior circulation aneurysms who underwent either SC (SC group) or EC (EC group) were recruited. Imaging studies and evaluation of cognitive function were performed within 1 month preoperatively and at 6 months and 2 years postoperatively. The ipsilateral/contralateral cerebral blood flow (CBF) ratio (I/C ratio) calculated from values in four regions of interest (ROIs) placed on N-isopropyl-p-[123I] iodoamphetamine (123I-IMP)-single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) was used to detect "subclinical consequence". "Subclinical consequence" was defined as post-operative CBF reduction without abnormality in other radiological examinations and cognitive tests. There were 14 patients in the SC group (mean age, 60.6±11.7 years) and 33 patients in the EC group (mean age, 67.5±7.2 years). All cognitive assessment results showed no significant reduction through the survey period. However, I/C ratios were restored by 2 years in the EC group not but in the SC group. I/C ratios at 6 months and 2 years were significantly lower in the SC group than the EC group (P<0.01). 123IMP-SPECT revealed a statistically significant reduction in ipsilateral CBF in patients who had an uneventful clinical course and no cognitive problems. The subclinical consequence could persist for at least 2 years following SC, and was less pronounced following EC.

The Long-Term Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes of Cerclage Cable Fixation for Displaced Acetabular Fractures Using a Posterior Approach: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

Background and Objectives: Cerclage cable fixation with 2 mm multiple-braided cables for displaced acetabular fractures has shown good midterm functional and radiographic outcomes. We retrospectively evaluated the clinical and radiographic outcomes of cerclage cable fixations over ten years. Materials and Methods: We extracted data for patients who underwent cerclage cable fixation for acetabular fractures at a single institution from 2007 to 2012. We adopted this procedure for acetabulum fractures with posterior column fractures. Postoperative reduction quality, complications, reoperations, and Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) hip objective functional scores were analyzed. Postoperative reduction quality was classified using plain radiography and computed tomography. Results: We evaluated nine patients with a mean follow-up period of 14.1 ± 2.6 years (range: 10.8-18.1 years). The mean age was 47.1 ± 15.5 years old (range: 28-74 years); the mean injury severity score was 13.6 ± 4.7 (range: 9-22). The most frequent type of fracture was a both-column fracture. Anatomical reduction quality was achieved in five cases. Four patients had hip osteoarthritis at the last follow-up; among them, one patient had worsening hip arthritis > 5 years after surgery, and one patient developed osteoarthritis > 10 years after surgery. Their postoperative reduction quality was worse than their anatomical reduction quality, and both engaged in physical labor. None of the patients underwent revision total hip arthroplasty. The mean JOA hip score was 90.9 ± 7.9 (range: 74-100); seven patients scored >90 at the last follow-up. Conclusions: Cerclage cable fixation showed satisfactory postoperative reductions and favorable long-term clinical outcomes. Long-term follow-up might be necessary for patients whose postoperative reduction is not anatomical to detect late occurrence of hip osteoarthritis, even if osteoarthritis is not evident during short-term follow-up periods.

Comparison of Efficacy and Safety of Slow Coagulation Transscleral versus Micropulse Cyclophotocoagulation in Refractory Glaucoma

Background Cyclodestructive laser technology has been developed with the aim of achieving a greater reduction in Intraocular Pressure (IOP) with minimal complication. Micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (MP-TSCPC) and slow-coagulation continuous-wave transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (SC-TSCPC) are considered to have less complications than conventional techniques using continuous-wave transscleral cyclophotocoagulation. Purpose To compare IOP reduction and complications in refractory glaucoma after SC-TSCPC and MP-TSCPC procedures. Methods This study is a prospective interventional study in refractory glaucoma patients. Measurement of IOP using Goldmann applanation tonometry was performed preoperatively, and all patients were monitored at days 1, 7, and 30 in the postoperative period. Success was defined as postoperative IOP reduction of &gt; 20% from baseline with or without glaucoma medication. Complications were identified by evaluating subjective complaints and slit lamp examination. Results The study included a total of 66 eyes, with 33 eyes in each group. Baseline IOP was 50.58 ± 9.937 mmHg and 48.45 ± 12.792 mmHg in SC-TSCPC and MP-TSCPC group, respectively. The mean IOP reduction was 27.44 ± 19.96% vs 14.39 ± 23.52% (p=0.018) in day 1, 46.19 ± 27, 7 3% vs 45.83 ± 24,80% (p=0,956) in day 7 and 46.49 ± 24.63% vs 27.09 ± 23.86% in day 30 (p=0.002), in SC-TSCPC and MP-TSCPC group respectively. Complications between groups were not significantly different. However, hypotonia (IOP &lt; 6 mmHg) was found in the SC-TSCPC group. Conclusion SC-TSCPC showed greater IOP reduction than MP-TSCPC, with no significant differences in complications between the two groups.

Clinical and radiographic results of internal fixation of quadrilateral plate fractures of acetabulum.

Quadrilateral plate (QLP) is a relatively thin bony structure located below the pelvic brim proximal to the hip joint, so management of its fractures is challenging. Evaluation of the functional and radiological outcomes of internal fixation of quadrilateral plate acetabular fractures; comparison of two methods of fracture fixation. A prospective multicentric study including 30 patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation of QLP fractures through modified Stoppa approach. Patients were divided into two groups according to the method of fixation (anatomical QLP plate vs suprapectineal and infrapectineal plates). Post-operative quality of reduction was evaluated using Matta score. Radiographical assessment according Matta's grading criteria and clinical outcome assessment using the Harris Hip Score (HHS) were repeated at follow-up and at one year to assess displacement. Mean age of patients was 34.9 ± 12.1years. After one year follow-up, clinically mean HHS was 88. ± 5.74. Radiologically post-operative reduction quality was anatomical in 21 (70%) patients, satisfactory in eight (26.7%) patients and unsatisfactory in one (3.3%) patient. Matta's grading at the last follow-up was excellent in 21 (70%) patients, good in six (20%), fair in two (6.7%) patients and poor in one (3.3%) patient. No significant difference was recorded between the two groups in terms of radiographical and clinical results and rate of complications. Accurate reduction of quadrilateral plate fracture with secure fixation through modified Stoppa approach provides good and reproducible outcomes with few complications regardless the type of the implant.

Fourth ventricular roof angle does not predict surgical outcome in paediatric patients with Chiari I malformation.

Pre-operative fourth ventricle roof angle (FVRA) has recently been highlighted as a novel radiographic predictor of clinical severity in Chiari type-I malformation (CM-I) as reported by Seaman et al. (J Neurosurg Pediatr 25:1-8, 2021). This has led to suggestions that FVRA could be included in algorithms to determine indications for surgery. We aimed to test the accuracy of FVRA as a predictor of clinical severity and its effect on post-operative outcome in a large retrospective cohort of paediatric patients who underwent decompression for CM-I. Patients undergoing craniocervical decompression for CM-I at the Queensland Children's Hospital and Mater Hospital, Brisbane, between 2006 and 2018 were included. Data was collected from 66 patients aged 0-18years. Post-operative outcome was assessed by calculating Chicago Chiari Outcomes Score (CCOS) at follow-up. The FVRA was taken from a mid-sagittal T1-weighted MRI as previously described (Seaman et al. in J Neurosurg Pediatr 25:1-8, 2021). The angle is subtended between superior and inferior medullary velum. Whilst results from Seaman et al. demonstrated a strong correlation between a FVRA > 65° and symptomatic CM-I, this did not translate to our dataset (p = 0.61). Additionally, pre-operative FVRA is not useful as a predictive tool for post-surgical outcome as assessed by CCOS (p = 0.50), and post-operative reduction in FVRA did not correlate with improved outcomes (p = 0.81). We did note significantly worse outcomes in patients presenting with pre-operative brainstem dysfunction (p = 0.03). Paediatric CM-I is a challenging cohort to manage, often due to young age and a lack of language skills. There is a heavy reliance on radiological findings. Whilst FVRA has previously been reported to be of value as a determinant of clinical severity in adult and paediatric patients, we find that this measurement is of dubious value in our retrospective cohort.

Levodopa / opicapone as a complement to STN-DBS in clinical practice. A retrospective single-centre analysis.

ObjectiveDeep brain stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus (STN-DBS) is a well-established treatment option in Parkinson's disease with motor and non-motor fluctuations allowing for postoperative reduction of dopaminergic medication. However, evidence is scarce on optimal medication adjustments following STN-DBS implantation. Opicapone allows for long-lasting inhibition of the catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) thereby enabling more constant dopaminergic stimulation compared to levodopa alone. However, especially COMT inhibitors are regularly discontinued after STN-DBS surgery. In this single-centre retrospective analysis, we aimed to analyse the clinical phenotype of patients selected for opicapone treatment following STN-DBS implantation and to define clinical determinants of patients requiring more intense dopamine-stabilising strategies after STN-DBS implantation. MethodsA patient cohort treated with STN-DBS + levodopa + opicapone (n = 16) was compared to an age-matched control cohort without opicapone treatment at baseline before and ≥ 5 months post-surgery. As main outcomes we assessed the MDS-UPDRS III and IV scores and reduction of the cumulative dopaminergic medication quantified by the levodopa equivalent dosages (LED). ResultsWhilst the MDS-UPDRS III (median [min – max]) in patients with STN-DBS as well as anatomical electrode positions did not differ significantly between the opicapone 20 [4–40] and control cohort 14 [1–44], the patients selected for opicapone treatment showed a significantly higher degree of dyskinesias already preoperatively as reflected by a UPDRS-IV A subscore of 2 [0–4] compared to controls 0 [0–4]. Postoperatively, the opicapone cohort showed stronger motor fluctuations MDS-UPDRS IV 6 [0–14] compared to the controls 0 [0−10], albeit without statistical significance. Moreover, the opicapone cohort showed significantly less reduction of dopaminergic medication (−36.4 % vs. -46.2 % in the control cohort) following STN-DBS implantation independent from the intake of dopamine agonists. ConclusionThese results indicate a clinical phenotype characterised by more motor fluctuations requiring a more stable dopamine replacement therapy to address the patients' disease biology. In these cases, levodopa + COMT inhibition by opicapone represents a therapeutic approach but determination of the potential clinical benefit requires further prospective studies.

Assessment of radiological and functional outcomes of complex acetabulum fracture managed with combined anterior and posterior approach in a single anaesthetic setting: a retrospective study

Background: Appropriate selection of surgical approach for associated fractures of the acetabulum that involves both columns is still elusive. Therefore, present study aimed to assess the quality of life of complex acetabulum fracture managed with combined anterior and posterior approach (dual approach) as well as the association of postoperative reduction and patient reported outcomes. Material and methods: This retrospective study was performed on 42 associated acetabular fracture patients with involvement of both columns, who were treated with a dual approach including combined anterior modified ilio-inguinal approach in combination with posterior Kocher-Langenbeck (K-L) approach in a single anaesthetic session having minimum two years follow-up. Postoperative reduction and radiological outcomes were assessed using Matta criteria. Functional outcome was assessed by a score system developed by Merle d’Aubigné-Postel. Patient-reported outcomes were assessed using the 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36). Results: The mean age of participants was 47.9 ± 11.95 years and mean follow-up period was 2.8 ± 0.49 years. Anatomical reduction was achieved in 32 (76.19%) cases in postoperative period. 8 (19.04%) cases had congruent and 2 (4.76%) had incongruent reduction. Radiological and functional outcome was excellent/good n = 35 (83.33%) cases. Patient-reported outcome on domains physical function and role physical showed a significant improvement between 6 to 24 months period ( p &lt; 0.001). Conclusions: The dual approach for complex acetabulum fracture with mid-term follow-up showed good to excellent radiological and functional outcomes. A significant improvement in patient-reported outcomes on Physical function and Role physical domains of SF-36 was also seen over the follow-up period.

Surgical treatment delay in patients with headache disorders and neuralgia correlates with poor postoperative outcome

Although nerve decompression surgery has proven to be effective in reducing symptoms in patients with head and neck neuralgia and headache disorders, it is currently not part of the treatment algorithms for headache disorders. Therefore, patients wait an average of 20 years from the onset of symptoms to surgery, resulting in high conservative treatment costs ($989,275.65 per patient) and patient morbidity. This study evaluated the clinical impact of treatment delays on surgical outcomes. Overall, 282 patients who underwent nerve decompression surgery at Weill Cornell Medicine and Massachusetts General Hospital between September 2012 and January 2024 were enrolled. Information regarding demographics, onset of symptoms, and headache characteristics was collected using patient surveys. The treatment outcome was evaluated by the percentage of symptom reduction in terms of frequency, duration, and pain intensity. An area under the receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to determine the optimal timepoint to undergo surgery. Postoperative symptom reduction and time between the onset of symptoms and surgery were negatively correlated (r=-0.22; p<0.001). The most significant difference in outcome was found at 2.9 years from symptom onset; patients who underwent surgery before this timepoint reported an average improvement of 79±23% versus 67±35% in those who were treated after the timepoint (p=0.021). Our results indicate that delays in undergoing nerve decompression surgery beyond 2.9 years from symptom onset leads to less favorable postoperative outcomes, underscoring the need for timely referral to peripheral nerve surgeons when conservative management fails. Nonetheless, even with delays in surgical intervention, patients continued to experience significant symptom reduction.

Anteriorization of the inferior oblique muscle versus anteriorization and resection for asymmetrical dissociated vertical deviation

ABSTRACT Purpose To compare the efficacy of two methods: first, bilateral symmetric anteriorization of the inferior oblique muscle and second: combined resection and anteriorization of the inferior oblique (IO) muscle for asymmetric dissociated vertical deviation (DVD). Design Prospective randomized clinical trial. Methods This study included fifty-four patients presenting with bilateral asymmetric DVD and inferior oblique overaction (IOOA). Two equal groups were randomly allocated by odd and even number distribution. Twenty-seven patients underwent bilateral symmetric anteriorization of the IO muscle and twenty-seven patients underwent anteriorization of the IO of one eye and anteriorization with IO resection in the eye with the larger deviation. According to the difference in measured DVD between the two eyes whether less or more than 5 PD; a 3 or 5 mm resection was done, respectively. Results The mean post-operative reduction of DVD in the anteriorization group was 9.19 ± 3.40 PD in the right eye and 8.78 ± 4.17 PD in the left eye, which were highly significant. (p-value .0002). The resection group had a mean post-operative DVD reduction of 11.7 ± 2.74 PD in resected eyes and 7.3 ± 3.72 PD in non-resected eyes. These reductions were also highly significant (p-value 0.0001). Reduction of inter-ocular difference between both groups failed to show a statistical difference (p-value 0.285). The IOOA was significantly reduced in both groups. Improvement in the average post-operative DVD between the two groups and the post-operative improvement in IOOA failed to show a statistically significant difference (p-value 0.265 and 0.804 respectively) which showed that both procedures are effective. Conclusion Both surgical modalities are effective in managing asymmetric dissociated vertical deviation associated with IOOA.

ROLE OF POSTOPERATIVE CT SCAN IN ASSESSING SYNDESMOTIC REDUCTION IN ANKLE INJURIES

Background: Accurate syndesmotic reduction is necessary for achieving joint congruity and better functional outcomes. Radiographs alone don’t suffice, and CT scans are required for the evaluation of postoperative syndesmotic reduction. Methods: All patients who underwent ankle syndesmotic reduction and fixation from December 2019 to July 2021 were taken into the study. Predefined measurements were taken in postoperative radiographs and axial CT images were taken postoperatively. Sensitivity and specificity of X-rays when compared to CT scan were evaluated. Results: Twenty eight patients were included in the study and 13 cases were found to have syndesmotic malreduction in radiographs as per TCS and TFO in AP view and TFO and MCS measurements in mortise view. Five out of 28 cases were found to have syndesmotic malreduction in CT axial cuts as per standard anterior and posterior measurements. Hence 17.85% cases were malreduced in our study as per the gold standard (CT scan). The incidence of syndesmotic malreduction after fixation was 17.85%. Radiographs had a sensitivity of 60% and specificity of 56.5% in detecting malreduction. Conclusion: CT scan is necessary to accurately diagnose syndesmotic malreduction after open reduction and internal fixation of ankle fractures with associated syndesmotic injuries.

Efficacy of a Religious-Based Slow Deep Breathing Technique in Reducing Postoperative Pain: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Non-pharmacological methods offer a noninvasive solution for postoperative pain reduction, enhancing patient quality of life, and expediting recovery post-surgery. The aim of this study was to analyze differences in pain scale reduction in postoperative patients after administering slow deep breathing distraction-relaxation techniques with a religious approach. The design was experimental with pre- and post-tests by providing treatment to respondents using slow deep breathing exercises with a religious approach (the activity related to relaxation using sentences and special treatment explained in the data collection section) to postoperative patients. Pain scale scores ranged from 0 to 10. The total number of participants was 60 (laparotomy, mastectomy, or fracture surgery). A dependent t-test was used to analyse data . The pain scale score for patients after slow deep breathing surgery with a religious approach ranged from 4 to 10 on a numerical rating scale. The average reduction in pain scale score for patients after slow deep breathing surgery with a religious approach was 2.17 with a standard deviation of 0.994. The results of the statistical tests with the dependent t-test obtained a p-value of 0.000. This shows a significant reduction in pain levels among postoperative patients who perform slow deep breathing exercises with a religious approach. These findings suggest that this method is an effective and accessible way to manage postoperative pain. In conclusion, slow deep breathing with a religious approach is effective in reducing postoperative pain

Impact of innovations in surgical techniques and advanced imaging on postoperative recovery and reduction of complications in patients with long bone fractures: a systematic review

Long bones fracture is one of the most complicated surgeries in orthopedics and the progress in the techniques as well as technologies used has recorded a steady progression in the last few years. Minimally invasive surgery (MIS), computer-assisted surgery and improved imaging techniques can all be cited as impacting on emerging practices. Conversely, the success of such techniques and their influences on the performance results should continue to be assessed in order to adjust the treatment approaches and patients’ conditions. This paper aimed at reviewing and researching current journals and literature on the topic of managing long bone fractures with specific emphasis on the new developments in surgery, imaging, and after care. Included articles were randomized control trials, cohort studies, meta-analysis, from reputable orthopedic journals and evaluated both effectiveness, and adverse outcomes of these advancements. In light of the study, it emerges that less invasive procedures in thoracic surgery lead to fewer postoperative complications and quicker convalescence time among the patients; and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and intraoperative fluoroscopy improves diagnostic accuracy and also surgical localization. Computer assisted surgery and augmented reality have been recognized as useful adjuncts in both the preoperative planning and intra operative navigation through the surgical field but they are still not widely used due to the costs associated with the purchase of equipment and initial technical difficulties. In particular, the use of these technologies successfully advanced the clinical efficiency in the treatment of long bone fractures.

Nominal and achieved stromal ablation depth after myopic transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy: implications for residual stromal thickness calculation

BackgroundThe primary objective of this investigation was to compare the nominal central ablation depth with the achieved central corneal stromal ablation depth after StreamLight transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy (tPRK) for myopia with WaveLight® laser by Alcon Laboratories, TX, USA.MethodsThis ambispective study encompassed a retrospective analysis of 40 eyes who underwent treatment for myopia and astigmatism, followed by a prospective examination conducted 6–9 months postoperatively. Pre- and postoperative Avanti spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT; Optovue Inc., CA, USA) provided stromal and epithelial thickness maps. The difference between pre- and postoperative central stromal thicknesses at the corneal vertex was used to calculate the achieved stromal thickness ablation depth. This value was then compared with the corresponding central nominal depth on the laser ablation planning map.ResultsA total of 40 eyes (OD/OS:18/22) of 40 patients (31.4 ± 9.2 years) were available for evaluation. The mean treated spherical equivalent was − 2.98 ± 1.46 D. The mean nominal and achieved central stromal ablation depths were 51.22 µm and 59.67 μm, respectively, showing a mean stromal excessive ablation of 16.50%. The mean pre- and postoperative central epithelial thicknesses were 53.74 μm and 59.31 μm, respectively, showing a mean postoperative thickness increase of 10.46%. This increase in the epithelial thickness rendered the mean postoperative pachymetry reduction to 54.11 μm, only 2.33% greater than the mean nominal ablation depth.ConclusionsThe study revealed a central stromal ablation 16.50% greater than the nominal ablation depth. This excessive stromal removal was largely compensated for by the increase in epithelial thickness, resulting in a mean difference between the nominal ablation depth and the achieved central corneal pachymetry reduction of only 2.33%. This significant excessive central stromal ablation must be taken into consideration in the calculation of the residual stromal thickness.

Optimizing strategies for lymphaticovenular anastomosis in lower secondary extremity lymphedema

BackgroundLymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) has become an increasingly common treatment for patients with secondary extremity lymphedema. The objective of this study was to optimize strategies for lower secondary extremity lymphedema using LVA techniques, with the aim of enhancing patient outcomes. MethodsWe conducted a retrospective analysis of 121 patients who underwent LVA at Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province from January 2020 to December 2023. Preoperative and postoperative assessments included intraoperative observations, functional parameters, and clinical outcomes. The efficacy of LVA was evaluated based on circumferential reduction, quality of life improvements (Lymphoedema Quality of Life Questionnaire), and postoperative complications. ResultsThis study enrolled 121 patients with lower secondary extremity lymphedema, with an average age of 58.19 years. The results revealed significant associations between incision depth, lymphatic vessel size, the number of LVAs performed, and the number of incisions per patient, all of which correlated with postoperative volume reduction. The resulted analysis that identified optimal incision depths of 10 to 15 mm, lymphatic vessel size of 0.4 to 0.6 mm, and a recommended number of 6 to 8 LVAs. After LVA, there was a marked improvement in patient quality of life, with particularly notable enhancements in functionality and appearance. ConclusionsThis study’s findings optimizing the strategy for LVA surgery recommend the depth of incision, the size of lymphatic vessels, and the number of anastomoses to improve the quality of life and limb volume in patients with secondary lymphedema of the lower limbs.

805. BOCHDALEK HERNIA - CASE REPORT

Abstract Introduction Bochdalek hernia is a rare type of diaphragmatic hernia congenital and is quite uncommon in adulthood, representing only 0.17-6% of all diaphragmatic hernias. The objective of the present study is to report the technique surgery performed on a patient with a bochdalek hernia. Methods The information was obtained through medical record review, interview with the patient and literature review. Results/Discussion A 49-year-old female patient was admitted to a hospital in Natal (RN- Brazil) with vomiting for seven months, average of 3-4 vomits daily after meals, associated with dysphagia, epigastric pain and weight loss of 26 kg during this period. The physical examination, she was dehydrated, emaciated and with a flaccid abdomen and painless. Laboratory exams, she presented high levels of ureia and hypokalemia. CT scan of the chest and abdomen with contrast showed a hernia right posterolateral diaphragm with insinuation of the transverse colon and portion distal part of the stomach, in addition to significant gastric stasis, without signs of ischemia. Vigorous hydration was carried out and fasting was maintained, in addition, was inserted nasogastric tube and began parenteral nutrition. After ten days of parenteral nutrition and correction of hydro electrolyte disorders, there was an improvement in symptoms with laboratory normalization. So, she undergo a surgical intervention by videolaparoscopy. Surgical intervention took place with the pneumoperitoneum with Veress needle and trocars inserted (2 10-inch trocars). mm and 3 of 5 mm). Introduction of 30° optics. Cavity inventory identified massive right posterolateral diaphragmatic hernia, containing transverse colon and part of the stomach. Hepatic retractor was positioned to retracted the right hepatic lobe. Completely reduced the hernia through the Bochdalek foramen, after undoing content adhesions with the diaphragm. Afterwards, the closing of the defect with 2-0 Ethibond thread and a biocompatible mesh placed over the suture (Phasix) 10x10 cm and fixed with the same thread in separate stitches. Left drain blake type number 24 Fr, was left in the right hemithorax. The procedure was done uneventful. Conclusions Bochdalek hernia is a structural defect in the diaphragm, which can cause the passage of practically any intra-abdominal organ to the chest. Surgical repair of the defect is the only existing treatment option. In this case, we have a late presentation and in a complicated form. We opted for clinical stabilization of the patient, with nutrition and timely videolaparoscopy on the tenth day of hospitalization. The correction of hernia laparoscopically allows wide access to the workplace and with good mobility for dissection of the hernial sac, in addition to unquestionable acceleration of postoperative recovery and reduction of surgical trauma and size of the incisions. This way, we have a shorter hospitalization time with early return to the patient's daily activities.

Efficacy of Enzotein in post-operative recovery and morbidity reduction in acute necrotizing pancreatitis: a case report

Efficacy of Enzotein in post-operative recovery and morbidity reduction in acute necrotizing pancreatitis: a case report