Preoperative Levels Research Articles

Association of preoperative NT-proBNP with 30-day and five-year mortality after cardiac surgery

Abstract Background Elevated levels of N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) reflect cardiac status in heart failure patients and are independently associated with mortality and adverse cardiovascular outcomes in elective patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery. However, there is scarce evidence about the association between NT-proBNP and outcome after cardiac surgery in large patient populations. Purpose The aim of this study was to analyze the association of preoperative NT-pro-BNP levels with 30-day and five-year mortality after cardiac surgery. Methods A consecutive cohort of 6938 patients undergoing cardiac surgery was analyzed retrospectively. The relationship between preoperative NT-proBNP and 30-day and five-year mortality adjusted for EuroSCORE II was explored using a Cox proportional hazards model. The dynamics of preoperative NT-proBNP were analyzed by comparing the values at the time of diagnosis or assignment to surgery with the values on the day before surgery (n= 4739). Results were validated in an external cohort from the SWEDEHEART registry (n=3415). Results Median preoperative NT-proBNP was 552 ng/l. Death within 30 days occurred in 2.1% of the patients. High preoperative NT-proBNP levels were associated with a higher 30-dayand 5-yearmortality. Preoperative NT-proBNP thresholds to identify patients at high-risk (>4000 ng/l), intermediate-risk (2000-4000 ng/l) and low-risk (<2000 ng/l) for 30-day mortality were determined. Patients in the intermediate or high-risk category had a higher risk for prolonged ICU stay (OR 2.52), ultrafiltration (OR 3.68), ECMO (OR 3.63), 30-day mortality (HR 2.79), and 5-year mortality (HR 2.41) (p-value all <0.001). Patients who improved in the preoperative NT-proBNP risk had a significant 30-day and five-year survival benefit. Conclusions Preoperative NT-proBNP levels are independently associated with 30-day and five-year mortality after cardiac surgery. NT-proBNP reduction prior to surgery might decrease 30-day and five-year mortality after cardiac surgery.NTproBNP is associated with outcome

Soluble transferrin receptor is associated with red blood cell transfusion in infant cardiac surgery

Abstract Background Iron deficiency (ID) is linked to an increased need for perioperative red blood cell (RBC) transfusion in cardiac surgery. The soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR), an inflammation-independent marker of ID, has emerged as a potential marker for evaluating iron status. However, the relationship between sTfR level and the need for a high-volume of RBC transfusion in pediatric cardiac surgery patients has not been explored. Purpose The objective of this study was to explore the distribution of sTfRs and their association with high-volume RBC transfusion in infants during cardiac surgery. Methods From August 2021 to July 2022, 236 low-weight infants (≤10 kg) who underwent cardiac surgery were included in this study. Preoperative sTfR levels and the volume of RBCs perioperatively transfused were recorded. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis and multivariable logistic model were used to explore the association between sTfR levels and the need for a high-volume of RBC transfusion in this study. Results In our study, 29 (12.2%) patients received more than 2 units during the perioperative period. sTfR level was the most accurate marker for predicting the need for RBC transfusion (AUC=0.643, cutoff=17.53 nmol/L, sensitivity=58.6%, specificity=73.9%). Moreover, in both the continuous and categorical variable-adjusted models, a high sTfR level was associated with a greater need for RBC transfusion (P=0.006; P<0.001). Conclusions RBC transfusion is common for low-weight infants undergoing cardiac surgery. Furthermore, a high preoperative sTfR level is associated with the need for a high-volume perioperative RBC transfusion.

Mid-regional pro-adrenomedullin is an independent predictor of cardiovascular outcomes in cardiac surgery, a prospective cohort study in 500 patients

Abstract Background MR-proADM (mid-regional pro-adrenomedullin) is a stable pro-peptide of Adrenomedullin, which is expressed in various cell types such as heart, lung, and renal tissue. It is a prognostic parameter for heart failure (HF) and sepsis as well as all-cause and cardiovascular (CV) mortality. Purpose Considering the characteristics of MR-proADM as a reliable biomarker for adverse events, we aimed to investigate the prognostic impact of MR-proADM in patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery. Methods We prospectively enrolled patients undergoing elective cardiac bypass and/or valve surgery at the department of cardiac surgery between May 2013 and August 2018. Blood samples were taken one day prior to surgery. MR-proADM was measured using an automated immunofluorescence assay. Patients were followed prospectively until endpoints were reached. The primary endpoint was the composite of hospitalization for heart failure (HHF) or CV mortality, the secondary endpoint was postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF). The multivariate regression model was adjusted for age, sex, NT-proBNP, type of surgery, and CRP-level at baseline. Results A total of 500 patients (146 female [29.2%]; median age 69.8 years [IQR 60.6-75.5]) were followed over a median of 4.6 years (IQR 3.0–5.8). Valve surgery was performed in 214 (42.8%) patients, 160 (32%) underwent a bypass operation and 126 (25.2%) a combined valve and bypass surgery. The median MR-proADM value of the entire study population was 0.58 nmol/L (IQR: 0.44-0.79 nmol/L). Patients were stratified in risk categories based on their MR-proADM values (Low Risk ≤0.63nmol/L, Intermediate Risk 0.63-0.83nmol/L, High Risk >0.84nmol/L). Patients in the highest category presented with higher rates of diabetes mellitus (p <0.001), COPD (p <0.001), HF (p=0.009) and either bypass surgery (p=0.039) or the combination of bypass and valve surgery (p=0.008), compared to patients in the lowest tertile. We observed a significant increase in 5-year’s event rates for HHF/ CV Mortality in patients in higher risk groups (Low Risk 8.6% vs High Risk 37.7%, p <0.001, Figure 1). The adjusted Cox regression model found that MR-pro ADM was independently associated with a risk increase for HHF/ CV Mortality (adjusted HR of 4.45, 95% CI 2.55-8.09; p<0.001, Figure 2) comparing the High Risk to the Low Risk Group. A comparable risk increase could be observed in POAF, with an adjusted HR of 2.61 (High Risk Group vs Low Risk Group, 95% CI 1.46-4.67, p<0.001). Conclusion Within the prospective investigation, MR-pro ADM was found to be an independent predictor for HHF and CV mortality in patients undergoing cardiac bypass and/or valve surgery. Furthermore, there was a consistent predictive potential for POAF. In the era of personalized medicine, preoperative MR-pro ADM levels could help to identify patients at risk for serious adverse events, in order to apply intensified secondary prevention and reduce mortality and morbidity.

Calcitonin signalling system regulates function and arhythmogenicity of atrial cardiomyocytes

Abstract Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) poses a significant therapeutic challenge due to myocardial remodelling, involving both structural and electrical alterations. Recent investigations have shed light on the role of atrial cardiomyocytes (CMs) in secreting Calcitonin (CT), a factor crucial for maintaining atrial tissue integrity. Dysregulated CT secretion in AF showed to contribute to fibrotic tissue production by atrial fibroblasts, exacerbating arrhythmogenesis [1]. However, the direct impact of CT on CM function and arrhythmogenicity remains unclear, driving the objectives of our study. Methods/Results Serum samples from 20 cardiac surgery patients revealed a noteworthy association between higher pre-operative CT levels and a significant ~2.8-fold reduction in the incidence of post-operative AF (poAF). Using freshly isolated atrial guinea pig CMs, confirmed (by qPCR and immunofluorescence) that CMs express CT-receptor (CTR) to enable CT actions in the cell. Functional studies found that CT administration inhibits spontaneous calcium (Ca2+)-release events induced by pacing and decreases the Ca2+ transients amplitude (at 2 Hz; IonOptix μstep system) in fura2-loaded CMs (n=22 cells) in a concentration-dependent manner. Atrial iPSC-CMs transduced with global RGECO sensor (Genetically encoded Ca2+ indicator) and treated with 15 pM CT showed a reduction in the beat rate when paced at 2Hz, and a significantly increased the time to 50% baseline. Evaluation of the expression and phosphorylation of selected Ca2+ handling proteins, which may potentially account for the observed changes in Ca2+ transients, showed no differences in total or phospho-(ser2808) ryanodine receptor, and SERCA2α in response to CT but an increase in phospho-(Ser16) Phospholamban. Conclusion Our findings highlight the effects of CT on atrial CM function. Maintaining physiological CT levels offer a promising approach for managing AF clinically, potentially through the use of already in clinical use CT-analogues.

Factors influencing hospital stay duration in an elective cardiac surgery cohort

Abstract Cardiac surgery has become more complex in recent years, with increases in patient age, complexity, and associated costs. The use of a multidisciplinary strategy to analyze and standardize patient management offers significant benefits. The development of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) programs has proven useful in various types of surgery, recently including cardiac surgery, yielding good results. One of the primary objectives of ERAS programs is the reduction of the Inpatients' length of stay (LOS), with the subsequent improvement in the patient experience and a reduction in costs. The aim of this study is to analyze preoperative and postoperative factors related to the LOS reduction in a cohort of elective cardiac surgery patients included in the Cardiac ERAS program at our hospital. All patients included in the ERAS program, corresponding to elective cardiac surgery, were included in the analysis. 138 patients were divided into four quartiles based on the inpatient’s LOS. An extensive search was conducted in our quality control database, which contains 470 variables on the factors more strongly associated with LOS. The results were analyzed using Chi-Square test for categorical and the Kruskal-Wallis test for continuous variables, generally of non-normal distribution. The results are summarized in the table. Age, poor mobility, surgery other than coronary bypass, and reoperation were the non-modifiable factors most associated with a prolonged LOS. Lower preoperative hemoglobin and albumin levels were associated with an increase in LOS. A class 3 or 4 NYHA functional class, chronic pulmonary disease, and anticoagulation use were associated with higher LOS. Classic cardiovascular risk factors, such as dyslipidemia, hypertension, and tobacco use, were not associated with differences in hospitalization duration. Postoperative and intraoperative factors associated with higher LOS included extubation in the operating room or within six hours, ICU stay duration, mobilization on postoperative days one and two, time to oral food tolerance and gut motility recovery, hyperglycemia on postoperative day one, the duration of arterial, venous, and urinary catheters, the amount of fluids on postoperative day one and the opioid use in POD 2. The complications most associated with a prolonged duration were any infectious complication, any respiratory complication, reoperation, readmission to intensive care, transfusion after 12 hours or at any time during hospitalization, prolonged postoperative sedation, and any rhythmic complication. Conclusion In our cohort of elective patients for cardiac surgery, factors traditionally addressed by ERAS programs were identified as being associated with a longer inpatient’s length of stay. Pre-operative nutritional and anemia optimization, early extubation and mobilization, and the prevention of respiratory and infectious complications should be targeted to improve hospital stay duration.

Comparing the anti-remodeling effect of sacubitril/valsartan and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition on myocardial samples of advanced heart failure patients undergoing heart transplantation

Abstract Background In decreasing heart failure (HF) hospitalization and cardiovascular death in HF patients with reduced ejection fraction, Sacubitril/Valsartan (SAC/VAL) treatment was proved to be superior to angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition (ACEi). According to recent experimental results and clinical data based on echocardiography and circulating biomarkers, this benefit might be at least partially attributed to a greater anti-remodeling effect. However, there is a lack of direct evidence from human myocardial samples for this assumption. Purpose Therefore, we aimed to compare the anti-remodeling effect of SAC/VAL treatment to ACEi on myocardial samples of HF patients undergoing heart transplantation (HTX). Methods We studied left ventricular (LV) samples of seventy advanced HF patients who underwent HTX and received either SAC/VAL (SAC/VAL group, N=32) or ACEi treatment (ACEi group, N=38) for at least three months prior to HTX. Furthermore, all patients received beta-blockers and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists titrated to maximally tolerated or target dose. Our groups were matched for age, sex, ejection fraction and other clinical parameters. Patients with liver or kidney failure, mechanical circulatory support, systemic inflammatory/fibrotic diseases or positive inotrope treatment were excluded. Myocardial mRNA expression of fibrotic markers and B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) were measured with qRT-PCR and normalized to glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase expression. Interstitial fibrosis area was assessed histologically. Results Preoperative plasma N-terminal pro-BNP levels were similar in the two groups (SAC/VAL: 4363±752 pg/mL vs. ACEi: 4616±1020 pg/mL; p=0.911). In contrast, the mRNA level of BNP in the myocardium was lower in patients treated with SAC/VAL (SAC/VAL: 2.2±1.05 vs. ACEi: 5.2±1.74; p=0.006). TIMP metallopeptidase inhibitor 1 (SAC/VAL: 0.07±0.01 vs. ACEi: 0.13±0.02; p=0.011), TIMP metallopeptidase inhibitor 2 (SAC/VAL: 0.06±0.01 vs. ACEi: 0.11±0.01; p<0.001), collagen type I alpha 1 chain (SAC/VAL: 0.02±0.00 vs. ACEi: 0.08±0.02; p<0.001) and collagen type III alpha 1 chain (SAC/VAL: 0.12±0.02 vs. ACEi: 0.27±0.04; p<0.001) relative gene expressions were also decreased in the LV of SAC/VAL-treated patients. Histology analysis confirmed reduced interstitial myocardial fibrosis area in the SAC/VAL group as well (SAC/VAL: 7.2±0.4% vs. ACEi: 8.6±0.5%; p=0.031). Conclusions SAC/VAL treatment decreased the myocardial expression of BNP and fibrosis-related genes to a greater extent compared with ACEi in LV samples of patients undergoing HTX. Histological analysis also verified the differences in fibrosis. Thus, the anti-remodeling effect of SAC/VAL might be superior to ACEi even in advanced HF.

A study of the clinical significance of mSEPT9 in monitoring recurrence and prognosis in patients with surgically treated colorectal cancer.

To explore the medical significance of methylated septin9 (mSEPT9) in monitoring recurrence and prognostic assessment in individuals with surgically treated colorectal cancer (CRC). To investigate the role of Septin9 in colorectal cancer, we utilized the TIMER2.0 database to analyze its differential expression between tumor tissues and adjacent normal tissues. Colorectal cancer RNA-seq data from the TCGA database was downloaded and curated. The clinical relevance of mSEPT9 in colorectal cancer was explored by examining the correlation between Septin9 methylation levels and clinical characteristics using UALCAN and MethSurv software. Peripheral blood samples were obtained from 130 CRC subjects who underwent surgery for the detection of mSEPT9 and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) expression, along with collection of clinicopathological data such as age, gender, tumor site, TNM stage, and tumor differentiation. Patients were followed up for at least 3 years post-surgery until the death or final follow-up dates (31/12/2022). Additionally, peripheral blood samples were collected from 30 colorectal cancer surgery patients for mSEPT9 detection before and 7 days after surgery. Through bioinformatic database analysis, we identified higher expression levels of SEPT9 mRNA in most tumor tissues compared to normal tissues. Similarly, both paired and unpaired CRC tissues exhibited elevated expression of Septin9 when compared to normal tissues. Following GO and KEGG analysis of Septin9 target genes, we discovered their significant associations with ncRNA metabolic processes, ribonucleoprotein complex biogenesis, spliceosomes, and viral carcinogenesis. Furthermore, the overexpression of mSeptin9 was observed in CRC tissues, and it demonstrated a correlation with colon cancer staging and histologic classification. In our clinical sample study, The positive rate of mSEPT9 in CRC patients 7 days after surgery was 43.44% lower than that of preoperative. The differences in TNM stage, tumor differentiation degree, and preoperative CEA expression level between the preoperative mSEPT9 positive and negative groups of CRC were statistically significant (P < 0.05). Recurrence free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) were shorter in the preoperative mSEPT9-positive group, meaning preoperative mSEPT9 status was a risk factor for CRC recurrence and prognosis (P < 0.05). The sensitivity, specificity, and AUC value of preoperative mSEPT9 and CEA levels for predicting postoperative recurrence in CRC patients were 88% vs. 72%, 56.19% vs. 55.24%, and 0.721 vs. 0.636 respectively, well the AUC value of the combined prediction of postoperative recurrence was 0.758. The detection of mSEPT9 combined with CEA in preoperative plasma helps predict recurrence in colorectal cancer patients.

The impact of transcatheter aortic valve replacement on changes of coronary computed tomography-derived fractional flow reserve

Background The effect of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) on changes of computed tomography-derived fractional flow reserve (CT-FFR) values was controversial. Thus, we aimed to identify the impact of TAVR on changes of CT-FFR values, plaque characteristics, and the associated clinical impact. Methods This single-center observational study included 39 consecutive patients with severe aortic valve disease undergone TAVR between August 2019 and April 2023, whom were performed with preoperative and postoperative coronary CT angiography (CCTA). The computation of CT-FFR and plaque characteristics was performed by an independent central core laboratory. Results Each patient underwent CCTA and CT-FFR assessment without encountering any complications. Notably, both at discharge and six months post-TAVR, there was a significant improvement observed in the New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional classification, left ventricular fractional shortening, and ejection fraction compared to pre-operative levels. The CT-FFR for left anterior descending artery (LAD), left anterior descending artery (LCX), and right coronary artery (RCA) had no obvious change at discharge compared to pre-operation (0.92 ± 0.05 vs. 0.93 ± 0.05, p = 0.109; 0.96 ± 0.03 vs. 0.95 ± 0.03, p = 0.523; 0.97 ± 0.04 vs. 0.97 ± 0.03, p = 0.533; respectively). Furthermore, TAVR did not exert a significant impact on plaque burden during the perioperative period. Conclusions Our report suggested that TAVR did not significantly affect coronary CT-FFR measurements and plaque characteristics in the perioperative period, and furthermore, the patients’ cardiac function showed gradual improvement in the short-term following discharge.

Serum nutritional predictive biomarkers and risk assessment for anastomotic leakage after laparoscopic surgery in rectal cancer patients.

Anastomotic leakage (AL) is one of the severest complications after laparoscopic surgery for middle/low rectal cancer, significantly impacting patient outcomes. Identifying reliable predictive factors for AL remains a clinical challenge. Serum nutritional biomarkers have been implicated in surgical outcomes but are underexplored as predictive tools for AL in this setting. Our study hypothesizes that preoperative serum levels of prealbumin (PA), albumin (ALB), and transferrin (TRF), along with surgical factors, can accurately predict AL risk. To determine the predictive value of preoperative serum nutritional biomarkers for rectal cancer AL following laparoscopic surgery. In the retrospective cohort study carried out at a tertiary cancer center, we examined 560 individuals who underwent laparoscopic procedures for rectal cancer from 2018 to 2022. Preoperative serum levels of PA, ALB, and TRF were measured. We employed multivariate logistic regression to determine the independent risk factors for AL, and a predictive model was constructed and evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. AL occurred in 11.96% of cases, affecting 67 out of 560 patients. Multivariate analysis identified PA, ALB, and TRF as the independent risk factor, each with an odds ratio of 2.621 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.582-3.812, P = 0.012], 3.982 (95%CI: 1.927-4.887, P = 0.024), and 2.109 (95%CI: 1.162-2.981, P = 0.031), respectively. Tumor location (< 7 cm from anal verge) and intraoperative bleeding ≥ 300 mL also increased AL risk. The predictive model demonstrated an excellent accuracy, achieving an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.942, a sensitivity of 0.844, and a specificity of 0.922, demonstrating an excellent ability to discriminate. Preoperative serum nutritional biomarkers, combined with surgical factors, reliably predict anastomotic leakage risk after rectal cancer surgery, highlighting their importance in preoperative assessment.

Effects of postoperative treatment with chemotherapy and cellular immunotherapy on patients with colorectal cancer.

The outcome of surgical treatment for colorectal cancer (CRC) remains unsatisfactory and warrants further exploration and optimization. To clarify the impact of chemotherapy plus cellular immunotherapy [dendritic cell-cytokine-induced killer (DC-CIK) cell immunotherapy] on patients after CRC surgery and to explore the mediating variables. A total cohort of 121 patients who underwent CRC surgery between January 2019 and April 2022 were selected. The sample comprised a control group of 55 patients who received the XELOX chemotherapy regimen and a research group of 66 patients who received XELOX + DC-CIK immunotherapy. We performed comparative analyses of the clinical and pathological data of the two groups, including efficacy (2-year disease-free survival [DFS] rate), the incidence of adverse events (diarrhea, myelosuppression, gastrointestinal reactions, and peripheral neuritis), serum levels of tumor markers [carcinoembryonic antigens and carbohydrate antigens (CA)19-9 and CA242], and T-cell subsets [cluster of differentiation (CD)3+, CD3+ CD4+, CD3+ CD8+, natural killer (NK), and NK T cells]. We also conducted preliminary univariate and multivariate analyses of the variables that affected the efficacy of the treatments. We found a significantly higher 2-year DFS rate of treatment efficacy in the research group than in the control group, with a statistically lower incidence of adverse events. Both groups showed a reduction in serum tumor markers after treatment but there was no marked intergroup difference. After treatment, the various T-cell subgroup indicators in the control group were significantly lower than those in the research group. The indices of T-cell subsets in the research group showed no significant change from preoperative levels. Univariate analysis revealed a significant correlation between TNM staging, tumor differentiation, and the rates of nonresponse to treatment in CRC patients after surgery. Multivariate results indicated that the treatment approach significantly affected the efficacy of postoperative CRC treatment. We concluded that XELOX + DC-CIK immunotherapy for postsurgical CRC patients offers reduced rates of treatment-induced adverse events, extended 2-year DFS, enhanced immunity, and increased physiological antitumor responses.

Association of hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte and platelet (HALP) score with testicular tumor aggressiveness and prognosis.

The hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte and platelet (HALP) score integrates readily available blood markers that reflect systemic inflammation, nutritional status, and immune response, all of which can influence cancer progression. This study investigated the association between the HALP score and clinicopathological characteristics in patients with testicular tumor. Data of patients who underwent radical orchiectomy for testicular tumors between January 2020 and January 2024 were reviewed. Preoperative serum tumor markers, hemogram parameters and albumin levels were recorded. Tumor stages were recorded from postoperative radiological imaging and serum tumor markers. The association between postoperative results and HALP score was analyzed. A total of 74 male patients were included in the study. The mean age of the patients was 30.27 ± 6.42 years. The mean HALP score in the patient group with metastasis and retroperitoneal lypmh node invasion (RPLNI) was statistically significantly lower than the patients without metastasis and RPLNI. HALP score decreased statistically significantly with increasing tumor T stage, N stage and M stage. In addition, the mean HALP score values of patients who received chemotherapy, developed progression and mortality were statistically significantly lower than those of patients who did not. Lower HALP scores are significantly associated with advanced disease and poorer prognosis in patients with testicular tumor. The HALP score, composed of routinely measured blood markers, may serve as a convenient and cost-effective prognostic tool to identify patients at higher risk and guide personalized management strategies.

Low Preoperative Albumin Levels Significantly Associated with Increased Risk of Wound Infection and Bleeding After Panniculectomy.

Introduction: Panniculectomy is recognized to have a high complication rate with up to 56% of patients having postoperative wound healing problems. As they are generally elective procedures, surgeons have the chance to optimize preoperative variables. We reviewed the relationship between preoperative serum albumin and BMI with short-term postoperative panniculectomy complications. Methods: Patients undergoing panniculectomy between January 2005 and December 2019 were identified via CPT code 15830 from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP). Multivariate logistic regression was performed on intra/postoperative bleeding and postoperative wound infection against preoperative serum albumin, diabetes status, age, body mass index (BMI), and smoking status. Odds ratios were adjusted for comorbidities. We established statistical significance at p value <0.01. Results: Out of 1472 patients, 69 sustained intra/postoperative bleeding and 31 suffered wound infection. Lower preoperative albumin levels (R2 = 16.3%, p < 0.0001) and elevated BMI (R2 = 9.4%, p < 0.0001) were both significantly associated with increased likelihood of wound infection. For every 1 g/dL decrease in albumin, patients' odds of bleeding increased 1.85 (OR = 1.85, CI 95%= [1.14-2.99]) times, and odds of wound infection increased 5.03 (OR = 5.03, CI 95%= [2.78-9.10]) times (p < 0.0001). BMI and albumin were weakly correlated (r = -0.28) suggesting each had independent effects on complications. Conclusion: In patients undergoing panniculectomy, preoperative albumin level is significantly inversely associated with postoperative bleeding and wound complications. More research is needed to evaluate whether proactively optimizing albumin may reduce complications.

Development of a multivariate model predictive of post-adrenalectomy renal function decline in patients with primary aldosteronism: a large-cohort single-center study.

To develop a multivariate liniear model for predicting long-term (> 3 months) post-adrenalectomy renal function decline in patients with primary aldosteronism (PA). The model aims to help identify patients who may experience a significant decline in renal function after surgery. We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 357 patients who were diagnosed with PA and underwent adrenalectomy between September 2012 and February 2023. LASSO and multivariate linear regression analyses were used to identify significant risk factors for model construction. The models were further internally validated using bootstrap method. Age (P < 0.001), plasma aldosterone concentration (PAC) measured in the upright-position (PACU, P = 0.066), PAC measured after saline infusion (PACafterNS, P = 0.010), preoperative blood adrenocorticotropic-hormone level (ACTH, P = 0.048), preoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR, P < 0.001) and immediate postoperative eGFR (P < 0.001) were finally included in a multivariate model predictive of post-adrenalectomy renal function decline and the coefficients were adjusted by internal validation. The final model is: predicted postoperative long-term (> 3 months) eGFR decline =-70.010 + 0.416*age + 6.343*lg PACU+4.802*lg ACTH + 7.424*lg PACafterNS+0.637*preoperative eGFR-0.438*immediate postoperative eGFR. The predicted values are highly related to the observed values (adjusted R = 0.63). The linear model incorporating perioperative clinical variables can accurately predict long-term (> 3 months) post-adrenalectomy renal function decline.

Co-expression of multiple transcription factors is associated with clinical features and endocrine prognosis in growth hormone-secreting pituitary adenomas.

The types of growth hormone-secreting pituitary adenomas are diverse, we have found that there are significant differences in clinical features and prognosis between PIT-1 single-cell spectrum growth hormone adenomas and growth hormone phenotypic polyhormonal adenomas. This study examined a cohort of 193 patients with growth hormone-secreting pituitary adenoma (GHPA), stratifying them into two groups: PIT-1 single transcription factor positive growth hormone adenoma (STF-GHPA) and Multiple transcription factor-positive growth hormone-secreting adenomas (MTF-GHPA). The objective was to compare these two groups' clinical characteristics. Within the MTF-GHPA group, we further subtyped them based on transcription factors to evaluate potential variations in clinical manifestations. Logistic regression analyses were employed to develop a risk factor model for investigating factors influencing hormone remission. There were no statistically significant differences in terms of age, gender, serum GH, and IGF-1 levels between patients diagnosed with MTF-GHPA and STF-GHPA. However, patients with MTF-GHPA exhibited a higher proportion of hypopituitarism compared to those with STF-GHPA. Furthermore, MTF-GHPA were characterized by smaller tumor size and less invasiveness, as indicated by lower Knosp classes. However, patients with MTF-GHPA have a lower rate of hormonal remission (30.8%) and more postoperative complications (31.0%), which means that STF-GHPA (hormonal remission:71.6%; postoperative complications:13.4%) has a better endocrine outcome than MTF-GHPA patients. Between the PIT-1 + SF-1+ and PIT-1 + TPIT+ subtypes within MTF-GHPA, significant differences were also observed in tumor size, endocrine outcomes, and postoperative complications. Risk factors influencing hormonal remission for GHPA included preoperative GH level, primary/recurrent, extent of resection, and transcription factor expression. Co-expression of multiple transcription factors is an important factor associated with clinical behavior and endocrine outcomes in patients with GHPA.

Diagnostic accuracy of NT-proBNP to predict the incidence of CSA-AKI: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Cardiac surgery-associated acute kidney injury (CSA-AKI) is a severe complication following cardiac surgery. Early identification and diagnosis are critical. In this study, we aim to systematically assess the diagnostic value of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) for CSA-AKI. The PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases were searched from January 1971 to October 2023 to identify prospective observational and retrospective observational studies. Data extraction and study screening were carried out independently by 2 authors. The methodological quality of the included studies was evaluated by the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2 standards, and all statistical analyses were conducted by Stata 15.0. Seven studies including 37,200 patients were identified. The pooled sensitivity of 0.67 (95% credible interval [CI] = 0.56-0.77), specificity of 0.55 (95% CI = 0.45-0.64), area under the summary receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.65 (95% CI = 0.60-0.69), positive likelihood ratio of 1.5 (95% CI = 1.2-1.8), negative likelihood ratio of 0.60 (95% CI = 0.46-0.79), and diagnostic odds ratio of 2 (95% CI = 2-4) suggested that patients with higher preoperative NT-proBNP levels (pg/mL) are at higher risk of developing acute kidney injury after cardiac surgery. However, NT-proBNP lacks sufficient sensitivity and specificity to reliably predict CSA-AKI. Our findings suggest that the diagnostic accuracy of NT-proBNP to predict the incidence of CSA-AKI is limited. However, we provide novel perspectives on the early detection of CSA-AKI biomarkers, and it is urgent to identify more precise and practical biomarkers for the early diagnosis of CSA-AKI.

Preoperative Anxiety in Patients Scheduled for Minimally Invasive Abdominal Surgery: Institutional Experience

Introduction: Preoperative anxiety is an unpleasant emotional state, characterized by feelings of tension, nervousness, fear, and intensified activation of the autonomic nervous system. According to the WHO, more than 4 million people undergo surgery annually in the world, and in about 50 to 75% of them, they develop some degree of anxiety during the course of the preoperative period. Objective: To analyze preoperative anxiety levels through the application of the Amsterdam Preoperative and Information Anxiety Scale (APAIS) in patients scheduled for laparoscopic cholecystectomy in a third-level health institution of complexity in the department of Huila during the first half of 2023. Methodology: Descriptive-cross-sectional study, the APAIS scale will be applied. The population will be patients over 18 years of age scheduled for laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The data obtained will be coded and tabulated in the SPSS statistical program. Results: Preoperative anxiety mostly affects mature adult women, Catholic and married. In addition, those who have had previous surgeries tend to experience less anxiety before the procedure, additionally it is observed that patients with a lower level of education tend to show lower levels of preoperative anxiety, however, despite this, all patients express a strong desire to receive more information about the procedure, which highlights the importance of clear and complete communication to help reduce anxiety before surgery. Conclusions: It is recommended to provide detailed information and to carry out early and individualized interventions to reduce preoperative anxiety and the desire for information. New research approaches may evaluate the reduction of anxiety in the face of different interventions.

Decreased volume of rectus femoris and iliocapsularis in patients with femoroacetabular impingement syndrome after primary hip arthroscopy

Purpose(1) to investigate the consecutive changes in hip muscle volume in patients with femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) during the initial postoperative period, and (2) to determine the potential effect of the early changes in hip muscle volume on clinical outcomes.MethodsData between March 2021 and March 2022 was reviewed. Patients diagnosed with FAIS based on clinical symptoms and radiographic findings, and undergoing hip arthroscopic treatment were included. Exclusion criteria were incomplete MRI data, prior history of hip surgery, and concomitant hip conditions including hip osteoarthritis with a Tönnis grade > 1, avascular necrosis, Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, osteoid osteoma, synovial chondromatosis, pigmented villonodular synovitis, and developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). MRI was performed preoperatively and 3, 6, 12-month postoperatively. Cross-sectional area (CSA) of hip muscles including rectus femoris (RF), iliocapsularis (IC), iliopsoas (IP), gluteus medius/minimus complex (G-med/min), and gluteus maximus (G-max) were collected on MRI. The CSA was corrected by body surface area (BSA). Preoperative and a minimum of 2-year postoperative patient-reported outcome (PRO) scores including Visual Analog pain Scale (VAS), modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS), and international Hip Outcome Tool, 12-component form (iHOT-12) were collected. A multivariate linear regression model was built to determine the influence of the potential factors on postoperative PROs.ResultsA total of 76 patients were included in the study. Compared to the preoperative level, decreased volume of RF and G-max, and increased IC/RF ratio were observed at postoperative 3 months (all with P < .05). Both G-med/min and G-max presented decreased volume at postoperative 6 months (all with P < .05). G-med/min presented decreased volume (P = .001) at postoperative 12 months. Changes in RF at postoperative 3 months and 12 months were positively related to improvement of iHOT-12 (Beta = 0.371, P = .012 and Beta = 0.330, P = .026, respectively). Changes in IC at postoperative 6-month was positively related to improvement of mHHS (Beta = 0.367, P = .027) and iHOT-12 (Beta = 0.315, P = .044).ConclusionDuring the initial first year following arthroscopic treatment for FAIS, decreased volume of the RF and gluteal muscles was observed. Early changes in volume of RF and IC were positively correlated to the improvement of minimum 2-year PROs.Level of evidenceLevel IV; case series.

Impact of High-Intensity Statin on Atrial Fibrillation After Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass.

There is uncertainty regarding the impact of high-intensity statins on postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing surgical myocardial revascularization. This study was conducted to evaluate the impact of high-intensity statin treatment on the occurrence rate of new-onset postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) after off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB). Six hundred thirteen patients (66.8±9.8 years, male:female = 476:137) who underwent isolated OPCAB were retrospectively enrolled. Hypertension (n = 409, 66.7%), diabetes mellitus (n = 343, 59.6%) and chronic kidney disease (n = 138, 22.5%) were common comorbidities. Statins and beta-blockers were administered to all patients until the day of surgery and resumed within 6 hours after surgery. Risk factors associated with POAF were analyzed, including the use of high-intensity statins (atorvastatin 40 mg-80 mg or rosuvastatin 20 mg), as well as baseline characteristics and preoperative risk factors. High-intensity statins were used in 158 patients (25.8%). POAF occurred in 184 patients (30.0%). The use of high-intensity statins was not correlated with preoperative levels of low-density lipoprotein (P = 0.135) or high sensitivity C-reactive protein (P = 0.365). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the use of high-intensity statins was significantly associated with a reduced occurrence of POAF (P = 0.022, odds ratio [95% confidence interval] = 0.592 [0.378-0.926]). Age, acute coronary syndrome, insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus and chronic kidney disease were also significantly associated with POAF. Preoperative administration of high-intensity statins was associated with a 41% reduction in the occurrence rate of POAF in patients who underwent OPCAB.

Association of elevated exosomal miR-21 levels with nonunion in clavicular fractures post-ORIF: A prospective analysis

BackgroundThis study investigates the relationship between plasma exosomal miRNAs and nonunion risk following open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of clavicle fractures, aiming to identify predictive molecule to enhance patient management and personalized orthopedic care. MethodsConducted as a prospective cohort study at Taian City Central Hospital, participants included individuals with unilateral, closed clavicle fractures who underwent ORIF (n = 763, 546 males and 217 females). Plasma samples were collected preoperatively for exosome isolation and miRNA extraction, specifically analyzing miR-100, miR-124, miR-125b, and miR-21 using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Patients were classified into union and nonunion groups based on follow-up outcomes at a minimum of three months post-surgery. ResultsOut of 763 patients, 720 achieved union while 43 developed nonunion. Notably, the nonunion group exhibited significantly elevated exosomal miR-21 expression levels. Univariate analysis demonstrated a significant association between high miR-21 expression and nonunion occurrence (Relative Risk [RR] = 1.82, P = 0.0004). Multivariate logistic regression analysis corroborated this association (RR > 1.8, P < 0.05), adjusting for covariates. High miR-21 levels (3.12 to 7.89) were robustly associated with nonunion outcomes (RR > 4), independent of other factors. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis indicated certain clinical diagnostic value of miR-21 for predicting nonunion (Area Under the Curve [AUC] = 0.7885). ConclusionsThe elevated preoperative levels of exosomal miR-21 were significantly associated with an increased risk of bone nonunion at three months ORIF in patients with clavicle fractures, indicating that miR-21 holds potential as a non-specific predictive molecule.

Association between Pre-operative Vitamin-D level and Shortterm Clinical Outcomes Regarding Pain &amp; Disability following PLID surgery

Background: Low back pain (LBP) is a common problem affecting 70% of the population in the developed countries and prevalence is also increasing in the developing countries. There were strong associations between vitamin D deficiency and LBP. According to the latest report in Bangladesh 86% (eighty-six percent) people had hypovitaminosis- D. A high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency is seen in patients with degenerative diseases of the spine. Considering the hypovitaminosis D led to musculoskeletal issues we want to examine the level of vitamin D in patients before PLID surgery and observe its impact 01 month postoperatively regarding pain &amp; disability outcomes by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) &amp; Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate an association between preoperative Vitamin-D level and short-term outcome regarding pain &amp; disability following PLID surgery. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional observational study will be conducted in the Department of Neurosurgery, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University. Patient’s data will be collected in questionnaire/data collection sheet. All the patient will be evaluated by serum Vitamin-D level preoperatively. Patient will be clinically assessed by VAS (Visual Analogue Scale) score and ODI (Oswestry Disability Score) preoperatively and 01 month postoperatively. Then our aim is to determine a relationship between pre-operative Vitamin-D level and mean difference between pre and post-operative VAS &amp; ODI Score. Statistical analysis: Data was processed and analyzed by using computer software SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) version 22. Appropriate statistical test for data analysis (Unpaired T-test) was done. Statistical significance was set at pvalue &lt;0.05. Results: In this study population, the mean age was 42.84 ± 10.14 years ranging from 31 to 78 years. Out of 38 patients 17 (45%) patients had hypovitaminosis-D and 19 (55%) patient had normal vitamin-D level. 15 (39.5%), 11 (28.9%), 10 (26.3%) and 2 (5.3%) patients were service holder, housewife, Businessman and other (retired) respectively. T-test &amp; Chi square test showed positive association between preoperative vitamin-D level and post-operative clinical outcome regarding pain and disability, with a significant p-value of p = &lt;0.05. Conclusion: Our study has showed an association between Pre-operative Vitamin-D level and post-operative clinical outcome regarding pain &amp; disability, that is, insufficient Vitamin-D level leads to decrease alleviation of symptoms following PLID surgery. Bang. J Neurosurgery 2024; 13(2): 75-85