Postoperative Wound-related Complications Research Articles

The effect of preoperative mechanical bowel preparation in paediatric bowel surgery on postoperative wound related complications: A meta-analysis.

Mechanical bowel preparation (MBP), a routine nursing procedure before paediatric bowel surgery, is widely should in clinical practice, but its necessity remains controversial. In a systematic review and meta-analysis, we evaluated the effect of preoperative MBP in paediatric bowel surgery on postoperative wound-related complications in order to analyse the clinical application value of MBP in paediatric bowel surgery. As of November 2023, we searched four online databases: the Cochrane Library, Embase, PubMed, and Web of Science. Two investigators screened the collected studies against inclusion and exclusion criteria, and ROBINS-I was used to evaluate the quality of studies. Using RevMan5.3, a meta-analysis of the collected data was performed, and a fixed-effect model or a random-effect model was used to analyse OR, 95% CI, SMD, and MD. A total of 11 studies with 2556 patients were included. Most of studies had moderate-to-severe quality bias. The results of meta-analysis showed no statistically significant difference in the incidence of complications related to postoperative infections in children with MBP before bowel surgery versus those with No MBP, wound infection (OR 1.11, 95% CI:0.76 ~ 1.61, p = 0.59, I2 = 5%), intra-abdominal infection (OR 1.26, 95% CI:0.58 ~ 2.77, p = 0.56, I2 = 9%). There was no significant difference in the risk of postoperative bowel anastomotic leak (OR 1.07, 95% CI:0.68 ~ 1.68, p = 0.78, I2 = 12%), and anastomotic dehiscence (OR 1.67, 95% CI:0.13 ~ 22.20, p = 0.70, I2 = 73%). Patients' intestinal obstruction did not show an advantage of undergoing MBP preoperatively, with an incidence of intestinal obstruction (OR 1.95, 95% CI:0.55 ~ 6.93, p = 0.30, I2 = 0%). Based on existing evidence that preoperative MBP in paediatric bowel surgery did not reduce the risk of postoperative wound complications, we cautiously assume that MBP before surgery is unnecessary for children undergoing elective bowel surgery. However, due to the limited number of study participants selected for this study and the overall low quality of evidence, the results need to be interpreted with caution. It is suggested that more high quality, large-sample, multicenter clinical trials are required to validate our findings.

Clinical Outcome after Surgical Treatment of Sacral Chordomas: A Single-Center Retrospective Cohort of 27 Patients.

Introduction: The aims of our study were (1) to determine disease-specific and disease-free survival after the en-bloc resection of sacral chordomas and (2) to investigate potential risk factors for tumor recurrence and major postoperative wound-related complications. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 27 consecutive patients with sacral chordomas who were surgically treated in our institution between 2004 and 2022. Three patients (11.1%) had a recurrent tumor and four patients (14.8%) had history of a second primary solid tumor prior to or after their sacral chordoma. A combined anterior and posterior approach, colostomy, plastic reconstruction, and spinopelvic instrumentation were necessitated in 51.9%, 29.6%, 37%, and 7.4% of cases, respectively. The mean duration of follow-up was 58 ± 41 months (range= 12-170). Death-related-to-disease, disease recurrence, and major surgical site complications were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, and investigation of the respective risk factors was performed with Cox hazard regression. Results: The estimated 5-year and 10-year disease-specific survival was 75.3% (95% CI = 49.1-87.5%) and 52.7% (95% CI = 31-73.8%), respectively. The estimated 1-year, 5-year, and 10-year disease-free survival regarding local and distant disease recurrence was 80.4% (95% CI = 60.9-91.1%), 53.9% (95% CI = 24.6-66.3%), and 38.5% (95% CI = 16.3-56.2%), respectively. The mean survival of the recurred patients was 61.7 ± 33.4 months after their tumor resection surgery. Conclusions: Despite the high relapse rates and perioperative morbidity, long-term patient survival is not severely impaired. Positive or less than 2 mm negative resection margins have a significant association with disease progression.

Comparison of urological outcomes and quality of life after pelvic exenteration: partial vs radical cystectomy.

To compare perioperative morbidity, functional and quality-of-life (QoL) outcomes in patients with partial cystectomy vs radical cystectomy as part of pelvic exenteration. Retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database of pelvic exenteration patients (1998-2021) was conducted in a single centre. Study outcomes included postoperative complications, quality-of-life, functional and stoma-related outcomes. The 36-item Short-Form Health Survey Physical and Mental Health Components, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Colorectal questionnaires and Distress Thermometer were available pre- and postoperatively. QoL outcomes were compared at the various time points. Stoma embarrassment and care scores were compared between patients with a colostomy, urostomy, and both. Urological complications were similar between both groups, but patients with partial cystectomy experienced less wound-related complications. Overall, 34/81 (42%) partial cystectomy patients reported one or more long-term voiding complication (i.e., incontinence [17 patients], frequency [six], retention [three], high post-voiding residuals [10], permanent suprapubic catheter/indwelling catheter [14], recurrent urinary tract infection [nine], percutaneous nephrostomy [three], progression to urostomy [three]). The QoL improved following surgery in both the partial and radical cystectomy groups, differences between cohorts were not significant. Patients with two stomas reported higher embarrassment scores than patients with one stoma, although this did not result in more difficulties in stoma care. Partial cystectomy patients have fewer postoperative wound-related complications than radical cystectomy patients, but often experience long-term voiding issues. The QoL outcomes are similar for both cohorts, with significant improvement following surgery.

Implication of nutritional status for adverse outcomes after surgery for metastatic spine tumors.

Surgery for metastatic spinal tumors can have a substantial impact on patients' quality of life by alleviating pain, improving function, and correcting spinal instability when indicated. The decision to operate is difficult because many patients with cancer are frail. Studies have highlighted the importance of preoperative nutritional status assessments; however, little is known about which aspects of nutrition accurately inform clinical outcomes. This study investigates the interaction and prognostic importance of various nutritional and frailty measures in patients with spinal metastases. A retrospective analysis of consecutive patients who underwent surgery for spinal metastases between 2014 and 2020 at the Massachusetts General Hospital was performed. Patients were stratified according to the New England Spinal Metastasis Score (NESMS). Frailty was assessed using the metastatic spinal tumor frailty index. Nutrition was assessed using the prognostic nutritional index (PNI), preoperative body mass index, albumin, albumin-to-globulin ratio, and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio. Outcomes included postoperative survival and complication rates, with focus on wound-related complications. This study included 154 individuals (39% female; mean [SD] age 63.23 [13.14] years). NESMS 0 and NESMS 3 demonstrated the highest proportions of severely frail patients (56.2%) and nonfrail patients (16.1%), respectively. Patients with normal nutritional status (albumin-to-globulin ratio and PNI) had a better prognosis than those with poor nutritional status when stratified by NESMS. Multivariable regression adjusted for NESMS and frailty showed that a PNI > 40.4 was significantly associated with decreased odds of 90-day complications (OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.85-0.98). After accounting for age, sex, primary tumor pathology, physical function, nutritional status, and frailty, a preoperative nutrition consultation was associated with a decrease in postoperative wound-related complications (average marginal effect -5.00%; 95% CI -1.50% to -8.9%). The PNI was most predictive of complications and may be a key biomarker for risk stratification in the 90 days following surgery. Nutrition consultation was associated with a reduced risk of wound-related complications, attesting to the importance of this preoperative intervention. These findings suggest that nutrition plays an important role in the postsurgical course and should be considered when developing a treatment plan for spinal metastases.

D45. Early Outcomes of Muscle Flap Closures in Complex Spine Surgeries: A Propensity-matched Cohort Analysis

PURPOSE: Plastic surgery closure with muscle flaps after complex spinal reconstruction has become popular. Existing evidence for this practice consists of small, uncontrolled, single-center cohort studies. We aimed to compare 30-day postoperative wound-related complications between flap closure and traditional closure after posterior thoracolumbar fusions (PTLFs) for non-infectious pathologies using a national database. METHOD: We performed a propensity-matched analysis using the 2010-2020 NSQIP dataset. RESULTS: Of 117,756 PTLFs meeting inclusion criteria, a higher proportion of flap closures had ASA Class III/IV than traditional closures (65.4% vs. 54.1%; p<0.001). 1,520 PTLFs (760 in each group) were included in the propensity-matched cohort. Unadjusted 30-day wound complication rates were 3.0% for flap and 1.6% for traditional closure (p=0.09). Surgeries were longer with flap closure (p<0.001). After adjusting for operative time, flap closure was associated with lower wound complication odds (AOR, 0.98; p=0.041) and prolonged LOS (AOR, 1.05; p=0.001). Readmission, reoperation, home discharge, mortality, and non-wound complication were not associated with flap use. CONCLUSION: Plastic surgery closure was performed in patients with higher ASA classifications, suggesting consultation in sicker patients. Our propensity-matched cohort analysis of flap closure in PTLFs resulted in lower odds of wound complications than traditional closure. Sequelae of longer procedure time in flap closure may contribute to longer LOS. Further study is needed to assess long-term complications in prophylactic flap closure in complex spine surgeries.

Study of the efficacy of 3D-printed prosthetic reconstruction after pelvic tumour resection.

The purpose of this study is to explore the effect of using 3D printed pelvic prosthesis to reconstruct bone defect after pelvic tumor resection. From June 2018 to October 2021, a total of 10 patients with pelvic tumors underwent pelvic tumor resection and 3D printed customized hemipelvic prosthesis reconstruction in our hospital. Enneking pelvic surgery subdivision method was used to determine the degree of tumor invasion and the site of prosthesis reconstruction. 2 cases in Zone I, 2 cases in Zone II, 3 cases in Zone I + II, 2 cases in Zone II + III and 1 case in Zone I + II + III. Patients had preoperative VAS scores of 6.5 ± 1.3, postoperative VAS scores of 2.2 ± 0.9, preoperative MSTS-93 scores of 9.4 ± 5.3 and postoperative 19.4 ± 5.9(p < 0.05), all patients had improvement in pain after surgery; Postoperative complications included joint dislocation in 2 cases, myasthenia caused by Guillain-Barre syndrome in 1 case, delayed wound healing in 3 cases and wound infection in 2 cases. Postoperative wound-related complications and dislocations were associated with the extent of the tumor. Patients with tumor invasion of the iliopsoas and gluteus medius muscles had higher complication rates and worse postoperative MSTS scores (p < 0.05). The patients were followed up for 8 ∼ 28months. During the follow-up period, 1 case recurred, 4 cases metastasized and 1 case died. All pelvic CTs reviewed 3-6months after surgery showed good alignment between the 3D printed prosthesis and the bone contact, and tomography showed the growth of trabecular structures into the bone. Overall pain scores decreased and functional scores improved in patients after 3D printed prosthesis replacement for pelvic tumor resection. Long-term bone ingrowth could be seen on the prosthesis-bone contact surface with good stability.

The Likelihood of Wound Complications Following the Use of Rivaroxaban as a Thrombo-Prophylactic Agent in Patients Undergoing Spinal Canal Stenosis Surgery: A Case Series

Background: Wound complications are major morbidities after orthopedic surgery, and thrombo-prophylactic drugs may increase the likelihood of such complications. In this regard, our study has evaluated the possible effects of rivaroxaban on wound complication issues following spinal canal stenosis surgery.&#x0D; Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted on 40 patients suffering from spinal canal stenosis secondary to degenerative lumbar spine changes. The eligible patients included those patients receiving rivaroxaban to prevent thrombo-emboli post-operatively. The patients were followed up for three months and assessed for postoperative wound-related complications.&#x0D; Results: None of the patients suffered vascular and thromboembolic complications. Regarding wound complications, these events are mostly limited to the first week post-operatively, including wound dehiscence in 5.0%, serosanguineous discharge in 25.0%, erythema in 35.0%, superficial infection in 10.0%, requiring surgical debridement in 5.0%, cellulitis in 10.0%, and wound induration in 30.0%. Deep infection or hematoma was not reported in our patients. Erythema and wound induration remained 10.0% and 15.0% within the second week, respectively. The hypertrophic scar was a delayed complication that appeared in 15.0% of patients within 1 to 3 months post-operatively.&#x0D; Conclusion: The main risk profiles related to wound complications, especially infections, were a history of hypertension (HTN), uncontrolled diabetes mellitus (DM), and renal insufficiency. The use of rivaroxaban may be accompanied by temporary and minor wound complications and not with potentially debilitating morbidity in patients undergoing spinal canal stenosis surgery. Therefore, its prescription as a safe thrombo-prophylactic drug in patients undergoing spinal canal stenosis surgery is confidently recommended.

Enhanced recovery after surgery pathway: association with lower incidence of wound complications and severe hypoalbuminemia in patients undergoing posterior lumbar fusion surgery

BackgroundWound complications are associated with worse satisfaction and additional costs in patients undergoing posterior lumbar fusion (PLF) surgery, and the relationship between enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathway and wound complications remains poorly characterized.MethodsIn this retrospective single-center study, we compared 530 patients receiving ERAS pathway care with previous 530 patients in non-ERAS group. The primary aim of our study was to identify the relationship between the ERAS program and the incidence of postoperative wound-related complications and other complications following PLF surgery; other outcomes included the length of stay (LOS), 90-day hospital and rehabilitation center readmission.ResultsThe average patient age was 65 yr. More patients with old cerebral infarction were in ERAS group (p < 0.01), and other demographics and comorbidities were similar between groups. Patients in the ERAS group had a lower incidence of postoperative wound-related complications than the non-ERAS group (12.4 vs. 17.8%, p = 0.02). The non-ERAS group had a significantly higher rate of wound dehiscence or poor wound healing (6% vs. 3%, p = 0.02). ERAS group had a lower incidence of severe postoperative hypoalbuminemia (serum albumin less than 30 g/L) (15.8% vs. 9.0% p < 0.01). Additionally, ERAS patients had shorter postoperative LOS (8.0 ± 1.5 vs. 9.5 ± 1.7, p < 0.01), lower rate of readmission within 90 days (1.9% vs. 6.4%, p < 0.01) and discharge to rehabilitation center (4.2% vs. 1.0%, p < 0.01).ConclusionERAS pathway might help decrease the rates of postoperative wound complications and severe hypoalbuminemia following PLF surgery; additionally, it demonstrated that ERAS pathway was also associated with shorter LOS and lower rate of readmissions within 90 days.

Study of Purse-string Skin Closure Plus Negative-pressure Wound Therapy for Stoma Closure.

Although purse-string skin closure (PSC) is an effective method for stoma closure considering wound infection, the period for scarring will be prolonged. The aim of this study was to assess whether negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT) can reduce the wound-scarring period for PSC after stoma closure. Patients who underwent stoma closure between January 2015 and August 2020 at our department were retrospectively assessed. Patients in the control group received only PSC, and patients in the NPWT group received both PSC and NPWT using the VAC® or PICO®. The primary endpoint of this study was the short-term reduction ratio (RR). The RR is calculated by the length, width, and depth of the wound of the stoma closure site. The secondary endpoints were scarring period and wound-related complications such as surgical site infection, dermatitis, bleeding, enterocutaneous fistula, and ventral hernia. Of the 53 patients included in this study, 21 had their stoma closed by PSC and 32 had their stoma closed by PSC plus NPWT. No significant differences were observed in patient characteristics or peri-operative states. The RR in the NPWT group was significantly smaller than that in the PSC group at 7 postoperative days (p=0.04). There was no difference in scarring period between the two groups (p=0.11).The rates of postoperative wound-related complications were similar in the two groups (control group: 4 (19%), NPWT group: 7 (21.9%), p=1.0). Our study suggests that PSC plus NPWT might be more effective for wound healing after stoma closure than only PSC.

Laparoscopic-Assisted Anorectoplasty for Rectovestibular Fistula: A Comparison Study with Anterior Sagittal Anorectoplasty.

Posterior or anterior sagittal anorectoplasty (ASARP) is the mainstream for correcting rectovestibular fistula (RVF). However, the intermediate RVF has the potential risk of wound complications when applying ASARP due to its high rectal pouch, long fistula tract, and difficulty separating the rectum and vagina. We developed laparoscopic-assisted anorectoplasty (LAARP) for surgical correction of RVF, which has acceptable preliminary outcomes. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of LAARP in comparison with ASARP for patients with RVF. Twenty-five patients with RVF who underwent LAARP between October 2017 and December 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. The outcomes were compared with 43 patients who underwent ASARP between April 2015 and August 2018. The age, weight at operation, sacral ratio, operative time, and postoperative hospital stay were evaluated. The results were assessed for complications, perineum appearance, and bowel function. The two groups were comparable in terms of demographics. The median operative time of the LAARP group was significantly longer than that of the ASARP group (113 vs. 95 minutes; p = 0.015). The mean length of the resected rectum in the LAARP group was also longer than that in the ASARP group (6.75 ± 5.07 vs. 3.31 ± 3.06 cm; p = 0.001). Compared with the LAARP group, complications in the ASARP group were more frequent (4.0 vs. 27.9%, p = 0.036). No intraoperative or postoperative wound-related complications occurred in the LAARP group. However, in the ASARP group, one patient had an intraoperative vaginal injury and four had postoperative anastomosis-related complications. The incidence of redo operation in the ASARP group was significantly higher than that in the LAARP group (p = 0.000). Cosmetic satisfaction was higher in the LAARP group (96.0 vs. 76.7%; p < 0.05). In terms of voluntary bowel movement, soiling, and constipation, the LAARP group had similar results compare with the ASARP group. The LAARP technique has shown several unique strengths in treating intermediate type RVF, including lower risks of complications, and minimal muscular injury, with a comparable bowel function.

Laparoscopic Versus Open Inguinal Ligation of Varicocele: A Study of 60 Cases

Objective: To compare the results of trans-peritoneal laparoscopic varicocelectomy with open inguinal technique in terms of operation time, post-operative pain and analgesic requirement, post-operative complications and hospital stay. Study design: Randomized controlled trial. Place &amp; Duration of study: Department of Urology, Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Center (JPMC) Karachi, from January 2017 to December 2020. Methodology: This prospective study composed of 60 patients diagnosed as primary varicocele clinically or as asymptomatic on Doppler U/S. They were divided into two groups on the basis of type of operation by alternate methods. In Group A (n=32), laparoscopic varicocelectomy was performed while in Group B (n=28), open inguinal method was used. Their clinical presentations, operation times, postoperative pain, analgesic requirement, hospital stay and postoperative complications were noted and analyzed. Results: Out of 60 patients included, the age range was from 18-30 years.41.6% patients were asymptomatic and were referred to us because they were declared unfit for recruitment. Left sided varicocele was diagnosed in 81.6% patients, while 16.6% were bilateral. Grade II was most common seen in 60% of patients. Operation time for unilateral laparoscopic varicocelectomy was 17.25±2.1minutes, while open unilateral time was 42.5±3.4 minutes. Post-operative pain and hospital stay were significantly better in laparoscopic group (p value&lt;.001). Postoperative wound related complications and secondary hydrocele was more in open group. In laparoscopic group, subcutaneous emphysema was noted in early postoperative period in 3 patients (9.3%) and portside hernia in one patient (3.1%). Recurrence rate was more in open cases (14.2%), versus 6.2% in laparoscopic group. Conclusion: Laparoscopic varicocelectomy is a simple and safe technique causing minimal morbidity with early recovery and better surgical outcome. Keywords: Varicocele, Laparoscopic Ligation, Open ligation

Extra-articular distal tibia fibula fracture managed with single posterolateral approach: a case report

&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;Extra-articular distal tibia fractures involve distal tibia approximately 4 cm within tibia plafond with no articular extension. The proper preoperative care, planning and selection of surgical approach is very essential to prevent postoperative wound-related complications. We present a case of a 29 year female patient, presented with left ankle pain and swelling with a wound over the medial aspect of the ankle. X-ray of the left ankle showed extra-articular distal tibia fibula fracture with no neurovascular deficit. We managed both the fractures with open reduction and internal fixation using a single posterolateral approach. At present 1 year follow-up, the patient is having a good range of ankle motion with radiological union with no implant failure and wound-related complications. Extra-articular distal tibia fibula fracture fixation using single posterolateral approach is a viable alternative approach to medial or anterolateral approach in cases of medial or anterior soft tissue problems. It helps in getting a better functional outcome, early mobilisation with less wound-related complications.&lt;/p&gt;

Skin closure following abdominal wall reconstruction: three-layer skin suture versus staples

Skin closure following abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR) has received little attention, even though these patients have demonstrated insufficient wound healing. This study assessed the postoperative wound-related complications and patient-reported outcomes after skin closure using single- or triple layer closure following AWR. This was a retrospective study at a University Hospital from 2016 to 2018. Patients were grouped into a single-layer cohort (SLC) and a triple-layer cohort (TLC). Skin incisions closed with either technique were compared. Postoperative complications were registered from chart review (SLC: n = 48, TLC: n = 40). Patient reported-outcomes were assessed through the Patient Scar Assessment Questionnaire (PSAQ) and the Hernia Related Quality of Life survey. A total of 51 patients were included (SLC: n = 26, TLC: n = 25). There was no difference in wound complications after single- or triple-layer skin closure; seroma (SLC: 16.7% vs. TLC: 15%, p = 1.00), surgical site infection (SLC: 4.2% vs. TLC: 7.5%, p = .834), hematoma (SLC: 6.2% vs. TLC: 2.5%, p = .744) and wound rupture (SLC: 2.1% vs. TLC: 2.5%, p = 1.00). Patients who had incisions closed using single-layer closure were more satisfied; PSAQ satisfaction with scar symptoms (SLC: 6.7 points (IQR 0.0–18.3) vs. TLC: 26.7 points (IQR 0.0–33.3), p = .039) and scar aesthetics (SLC 25.9 points (IQR 18.5–33.3) vs. TLC: 37.0 (IQR 29.6–44.4), p = .013). There was no difference in 30-day wound complications after either skin closure technique. The results favoured the single-layer closure technique regarding the cosmetic outcome. Abbreviations: AWR: abdominal wall reconstruction; SLC: single-layer cohort; TLC: triple-layer cohort; PSAQ: patient scar assessment questionnaire; IH: incisional hernia; QOL: quality of life; BMI: body mass index; HerQLes: hernia-related quality of life; ASA: American Society of Anesthesiologists; SSO: surgical site occurence; SSI: surgical site infection; LOS: length of stay; RCT: randomized controlled trial.

Wound Complications in Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty: An Analysis of ACS-NSQIP

Introduction: Wound complications in patients undergoing revision total knee arthroplasty (RTKA) can be attributed to intraoperative, postoperative and patient- specific factors. Purpose was to evaluate rates wound complications and associated comorbid risk factors in patients undergoing RTKAs. Methods and Materials: ACS-NSQIP (2010-2014) used to identify patients who underwent RTKAs based on the CPT codes 27486, 27487. Pregnant women, children, emergency admissions were excluded. Demographic factors, comorbidities were evaluated among patients with wound complications, defined as a surgical site infection or wound disruption. Â Descriptive and Chi-Square analysis were performed to determine if patient demographics or comorbidities was associated with increased rates of postoperative wound-related complications. Results: Total of 8,317 patients underwent RTKA. Majority of patients were females (59.0%) treated as elective cases (92.2%) in the inpatient setting (99.0%) and discharged home (68.7%). Comorbidities included obesity (61.4%), diabetes (20.6%), hypertension (66.4%), steroid use (4.9%), presence of wound (2.5%), and sepsis (3.2%). Wound complications occurred in 3.2% of patients. Using Chi Square analysis, obese patients 5.4 times more likely to develop a complication (p=0.21), smokers 7.2 times more likely to develop a complication (p<0.05), Steroid use 9.6 times more likely to develop wound complication (p<0.05), septic patients 58.7 times more likely to develop a wound complications (p<0.001) and patients with wounds were 112.3 times more likely to develop wound complication(p<0.001). Conclusion: Obesity, smoking, steroid use, sepsis and presence of wound were associated with developing a wound related complication. Investigation into perfusion of the surrounding tissue is warranted.

Surgical Designs of Revascularization for Moyamoya Disease: 15 Years of Experience in a Single Center

Cerebral revascularization surgery has been established as an effective treatment for moyamoya disease. On the other hand, harvesting grafts and tissues to nourish the scalp may increase the risk of postoperative wound-related complications. The purpose of this study was to clarify risk factors for wound-related complications after examining the relationship with the surgical design. We retrospectively analyzed 115 patients who underwent 197 revascularization procedures between October 2004 and March 2019. The design of the revascularization was classified into 6 types, then further classified according to the number of grafts harvested, resulting in 11 subtypes. Incidences of minor and major wound-related complications for the 11 different surgical designs were assessed. The risk of complications from each design was statistically examined. In addition, the yearly transition rate of complications was also investigated. Wound-related complications occurred in 38 of the 195 operations (19.5%), including 10 major events (26.3%) and 28 minor events (73.7%). Significant differences in the incidence of complications were seen according to surgical design (P < 0.05), with complications significantly more frequent for L(a) double type and L(p) double type and less frequent for L(a) single type and L(p) single type. In addition, significant differences were found in the incidence and degree of complications according to the number of grafts (0-2) (P < 0.05). The incidence of wound-related complications has clearly decreased since2015. Wound-related complications were more frequent and tended to become more severe with double-bypass procedures but were clearly improved under a plastic surgery approach.

Outcomes using indocyanine green angiography with perforator-sparing component separation technique for abdominal wall reconstruction.

Usage of intraoperative indocyanine green (ICG) to assess skin flaps prior to abdominal wall closure has been shown to decrease postoperative wound-related complications. Primary outcome assessed is the utility of ICG in intraoperative decision making. Secondary outcomes analyzed are the incidence of surgical site occurrence (SSO) and hernia recurrence rates. A retrospective study using the MedStar Georgetown University Hospital database was conducted, incorporating all consecutive patients undergoing complex incisional hernia repair from 2008 to 2018. 146 patients underwent perforator-sparing component separation (PSCST), 88 underwent flap assessment using intraoperative ICG angiography; they were then analyzed based on patient comorbidities, Ventral Hernia Working Group grade, operative factors, and complications. A total of 146 patients were analyzed with no statistical difference in patient characteristics between the SPY and no SPY group except in BMI (30.2 vs. 33.2kg/m2, p = 0.036). The no SPY group also had higher numbers of patients undergoing concurrent panniculectomy (12 vs. 1, p < 0.001), and extensive lysis of adhesions (30 vs. 31, p = 0.048). Of the 88 patients undergoing intraoperative SPY, 37 (42%) patients had a change of intraoperative management as defined by further subcutaneous skin flap debridement. Despite this change, there was no statistical difference in incidence of SSO between SPY and no SPY (24.3% vs. 11.8%, p = 0.12), and no difference in hernia recurrence rates 5.6% (n = 5) versus 13.7% (n = 8), p = 0.09. Intraoperative ICG assessment of subcutaneous skin flaps with a perforator-sparing component separation does not result in a decrease in surgical site occurrences.

A Comparative Analysis of Surgical Wound Infection Methods: Predictive Values of the CDC, ASEPSIS, and Southampton Scoring Systems in Evaluating Breast Reconstruction Surgical Site Infections

Infection is the most significant complication in breast reconstruction surgery. While the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is the most prevalent tool for surgical site infection (SSI) diagnosis, ASEPSIS and Southampton scoring methods have been speculated to be more sensitive. The ASEPSIS scoring system previously demonstrated much better interrater reliability than the CDC. We sought to assess the predictive value of various wound scoring methods in breast reconstruction SSIs. A retrospective analysis of all single-institution breast reconstruction infections from January 2013 to June 2016 was performed. Patients' postoperative wound-related complications were collected. Southampton, CDC, and modified ASEPSIS scores-extended to 30 postoperative days-were calculated. Relative predictive values for implant-based reconstruction were evaluated. Among the 22 reviewed cases, ASEPSIS scores greater than 30 resulted in a more than 50% rate of implant-based breast reconstruction failure. There was a significant positive correlation between ASEPSIS score and failure rate (P = .022). A Southampton classification of B-minor complication (60% failure)-had a greater associative risk of reconstruction failure than a classification of C-major complication (23% failure)-or classification of D-major hematoma (0% failure). The CDC score had no predictive value of success versus failure of reconstruction. While the CDC criteria and Southampton scoring systems demonstrated little clinical use, the ASEPSIS scoring system shows substantial predictive value for breast reconstruction SSIs. New procedure protocols should be implemented to require detailed surgical notes including the proportion of the wounds affected by inflammatory responses to allow for easier wound score calculation by these alternate scoring systems.

Study of laparoscopic repair of abdominal incisional hernia

Background: An incisional hernia is defined as any abdominal wall gap with or without bulge in the area of postoperative scar perceptible or palpable by clinical examination or imaging. It occurs in about 3 to 20 percent of patients undergoing laparotomy. Open hernia repair methods have an increased incidence of wound infections and wound-related complications. These problems have been overcome by laparoscopy. The placement of a large mesh by laparoscopy allows for an even distribution of forces along the surface area of the mesh, which account for the strength of the repair and the decreased recurrence rates associated with it. The merits of the laparoscopic approach are decreased rates of recurrence, reduced risks of wound complications. The aims and objective of this study were to evaluate etiological factors of incisional hernia, various techniques of laparoscopic repair of incisional hernia, and to investigate the influence of laparoscopic approach on hospital stay, complications associated with the procedure and recurrence rates.Methods: In this hospital based prospective study, total 40 cases of incisional hernia were studied which were operated laparoscopically and followed up over period of two years.Results: Incisional hernia occurrence was common in females (80%) with commonly observed risk factor was postoperative wound related complications (28 cases) and obesity (22 cases). Infraumbilical midline incision (67.5%) and supraumbilical midline incision (27.5%) was most commonly responsible for incisional hernia occurrence. LSCS was most commonly responsible for incisional hernia occurrence (45%) followed by laparotomy for various indications (27.5%). Intraperitoneal onlay mesh repair of single defect without anatomical repair was most common modality of laparoscopic repair (70%). Early postoperative pain (20%) and prolonged ileus (17.5%) was the most common complication observed. Average hospital stay was 4.22 days.Conclusions: Postoperative wound related complications are important risk factor for incisional hernia. Laparoscopic repair of incisional hernia is better choice in view of reduced wound related complications, post-operative pain and hospitals stay.

Factors Associated With Wound- and Implant-Related Complications After Surgical Treatment of Ankle Fractures

We have described the epidemiology of complications after surgical treatment of ankle fractures and assessed which factors are associated with the most frequent complications. We conducted a retrospective cohort study at 2 level 2 and 1 level 1 trauma center in a single trauma region in the Netherlands. The study variables were collected from the electronic medical patient records; all ankle fractures were classified using the Lauge-Hansen classification, and the complications were recorded. A total of 989 patients were included from 3 hospitals, with 173 complications in 156 patients (15.8%). The most frequent complication was wound related, occurring in 101 patients (10.2%). Implant-related complications occurred in 44 patients (4.4%). Other complications, such as cast pressure spots, posttraumatic dystrophy, nonunion, impingement, and pneumonia occurred in 28 patients (2.8%). The 2 most important complications were further analyzed for risk factors. Multivariate analysis showed the risk factors for wound-related complications were advanced age, increased American Society of Anesthesiologists classification, smoking, right side symptomatic, open fracture, and initial external fixation. Most implant-related complications were caused by malreduction (n = 22) or untreated syndesmotic injury (n = 19). Malreduction was associated with supination eversion fractures (p = .059), and untreated syndesmotic injury occurred more often with pronation external rotation fractures (p < .001). The most frequent complications after ankle fracture surgery were wound- and implant-related complications. Postoperative wound-related complications were multifactorial and dependent on a combination of trauma-, patient-, and treatment-related factors. In contrast, implant-related complications resulted from the interaction between the fracture type and subsequent surgical treatment.

Local muscle flaps minimize post-operative wound morbidity in patients with neoplastic disease of the spine

ObjectivesPatients with neoplastic disease involving the spine either from primary or metastatic disease present a unique challenge given these patients’ frequent poor nutritional status at the time of surgery, the delivery of early post-operative chemotherapy or radiation, and placement of large amounts of hardware and avascular bone graft into a wound bed that is atrophic, previously operated or irradiated. As a result, wound morbidity has traditionally been high in this cohort of patients. Herein we review the outcomes of patients at our institution who underwent local muscle flap closure following spinal tumor extirpation. Patients and MethodsBetween 2007 and 2017, 55 patients with oncologic disease of the spine underwent 60 spine surgeries and concomitant muscle flap reconstruction. Charts were retrospectively reviewed for diagnosis and indications for surgery, as well as risk factors for poor wound healing including diabetes, steroid use, body mass index (BMI), history of pre-operative chemo and or radiation therapy, preoperative albumin and hemoglobin levels. Outcomes were postoperative wound related complications including surgical site infection, wound dehiscence and/or need for reoperation. Results60 reconstructions were included in 55 patients. Median follow up was 253 days. Paraspinous muscle flaps were used in all cases. There were 2 major complications (3.3%) related to wound infections which required reoperation and 10 minor wound complications (16.7%), of which 9 were subcutaneous seromas aspirated in the office, that did not require return to the operating room. Median postoperative stay in the hospital was 10 days. Closed suction drains placed at the end of the reconstruction were removed at a median of 17.5 days. Regression analysis found patient BMI to be a significant risk predictor for wound related post-operative complications. ConclusionsPost-operative wound specific complications that required return to the operating room were uncommon despite the high-risk profile of this subset of patients. These data indicate that muscle flap closure should be routinely practiced in this high-risk cohort of patients.