Hematoma Rate Research Articles

Establishing a Collaborative Orthoplastic Approach for the Management of Primary Musculoskeletal Neoplasms: An 8-year Case Series.

Orthoplastic surgery is a multidisciplinary approach that is well-studied for extremity trauma, but not for musculoskeletal oncologic reconstruction. Here, the authors describe the application of a collaborative orthoplastic approach for the management of primary musculoskeletal neoplasms and evaluate its impact. The collaboration protocol, implemented in July 2019, comprises specific checkpoints of interdisciplinary co-management, which span the pre-, intra-, and postoperative treatment period. This involves direct communication between attending surgeons and their respective clinical teams. Patients who underwent resection of a primary musculoskeletal neoplasm between March 2014 and April 2022 were retrospectively categorized into conventional or collaboration groups. Of the 136 total patients, there were 63.2% (n = 86) conventional and 36.8% (n = 50) collaboration; 31.6% (n = 43) had reconstruction and 68.4% (n = 93) did not. Compared with the conventional group, the collaboration group had significantly higher rates of diabetes (18% versus 7%, P = 0.048) and radiation treatment (68% versus 43%, P = 0.005). The collaboration group was significantly more likely to have plastic surgery involvement in their care than the conventional group (38% versus 14%, P = 0.001), and to undergo reconstruction (42% versus 26%, P = 0.047). The groups showed no difference in rates of hematoma, seroma, delayed healing, infection, 30- or 90-day reoperation, or partial or complete flap/graft failure. The collaborative approach described here is feasible and associated with increased plastic surgery involvement and reconstructive surgery. Complications were equivalent despite evidence suggesting increased case complexity in the collaboration group. These early results are promising and could inspire wider adoption of structured orthoplastic protocols for care of these patients.

Immediate vs. delayed venous thromboembolism prophylaxis following spine surgery: increased rate of unplanned reoperation for postoperative hematoma with immediate prophylaxis

BACKGROUND CONTEXTThere is significant variability in postoperative chemoprophylaxis protocols amongst spine providers due to perceived risks and benefits, but limited data on the topic. At our institution, both orthopaedic spine and neurosurgery departments utilize unfractionated subcutaneous heparin in identical dosages and frequency, with the only difference being time to initiation postoperatively. PURPOSETo evaluate the rate of symptomatic venous thromboembolism (VTEs) and unplanned reoperation for hematoma based on timing of chemoprophylaxis initiation. STUDY DESIGN/SETTINGSingle institution retrospective cohort study. PATIENT SAMPLEPatients undergoing elective spine surgery, excluding patients undergoing surgery in the setting of trauma, malignancy, or infection OUTCOME MEASURESOutcome measures included the diagnosis of a venous thromboembolism within 90 days of surgery and unplanned reoperation for a hematoma METHODSPatients undergoing elective spine surgery from 2017 to 2021 were grouped based on chemoprophylaxis protocol. In the “immediate” group, patients received subcutaneous heparin 5000 units every 8 hours starting immediately after surgery, and in the “delayed” group, patients received chemoprophylaxis starting postoperative day (POD)-2 for any decompressions and/or fusions involving a spinal cord level (i.e., L2 and above) and POD-1 for those involving only levels below the spinal cord (i.e., L3 to pelvis). A cox proportional hazards model was created to assess independent predictors of venous thromboembolic events, while a logistic regression was utilized for unplanned reoperations for hematoma. RESULTSOf 8,704 patients, a total of 98 (1.13%) VTE events occurred, of which 43 (0.49%) were pulmonary embolism. Fifty-four patients (0.62%) had unplanned reoperations for postoperative hematomas. On cox proportional hazards model analysis, immediate chemoprophylaxis was not protective of a venous thromboembolism (Hazard Ratio: 1.18, p=.436), but, it was a significant independent predictor for unplanned reoperation for hematoma on multivariable logistic regression modeling (Odds Ratio: 3.29, p<.001). CONCLUSIONSBoth chemoprophylaxis protocols in our study resulted in low rates of VTE and postoperative hematoma. However, our findings suggest that the delayed chemoprophylaxis protocol may mitigate postoperative hematoma formation without increasing the risk for a thrombotic event.

The Impact of Preoperative Spinal Injection Timing on the Postoperative Complications of Lumbar Fusion

ObjectiveTo determine the impact of ESIs on postoperative surgical complications. MethodsThis retrospective all-payer database analysis identified 202,181 adult patients undergoing one- to three-level transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) from 2010 to 2020. 1:1 exact matching on comorbidities and demographics was performed, creating two cohorts: (1) patients who received an ESI within 90 days of surgery and (2) patients who did not receive an ESI. The primary outcome was surgical complication rates between groups at 30 days postoperatively. For the secondary outcome, patients were stratified based on injection time before surgery: 1-30, 31-45, 46-60, 61-75, and 76-90 days. Logistic regression was performed between groups to identify temporal associations of complication rates. The p-value was set to 0.05 for the primary analysis, and the Bonferroni correction was utilized for the secondary outcome. ResultsExact matching produced 12,491 pairs for analysis. Groups were well-matched on demographics, comorbidities, and fusion levels. 30-day postoperative rates of surgical complications, hematomas, wound disruptions, or surgical site infections did not differ between groups (p>0.05). The rate of CSF leak was increased in the ESI group (0.19% vs. 0.09%, p=0.042). When temporally stratified, patients receiving an ESI within 30 days had significantly higher odds of CSF leak (OR: 4.24, 95% CI: 1.97-9.14). ConclusionsPatients who receive an ESI within 30 days of TLIF are at an increased risk for CSF leak. While the incidence of CSF leak remains small, it may be advisable to avoid ESIs at least 30 days before surgery for certain patients.

A More Selective vs a Standard Risk-Stratified, Heparin-Based, Obstetric Thromboprophylaxis Protocol

In 2016, our institution adopted a pregnancy-related venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis protocol based on American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists guidelines that recommended postpartum heparin-based chemoprophylaxis (enoxaparin) based on a risk-stratified algorithm. In response to increased wound hematomas without significant reduction in VTE using this protocol, a more selective risk-stratified approach was adopted in 2021. To evaluate outcomes of the more selective risk-stratified approach to heparin-based obstetric thromboprophylaxis (enoxaparin) protocol. Retrospective observational study of 17 489 patients who delivered at a single tertiary care center in the southeast US between January 1, 2016, and December 31, 2018 (original protocol), and between December 1, 2021, and May 31, 2023 (more selective protocol). Patients receiving outpatient anticoagulation for active VTE or high VTE risk during pregnancy were excluded. Standard risk-stratified and more selective postpartum VTE chemoprophylaxis protocols. The primary outcome was clinical diagnosis of wound hematoma up to 6 weeks pos tpartum. The secondary outcome was new diagnosis of VTE up to 6 weeks post partum. We compared baseline characteristics and outcomes between groups and estimated adjusted odds ratios with 95% CIs of primary and secondary outcomes using the original protocol group as reference. Of 17 489 patients included in the analysis, 12 430 (71%) were in the original protocol group and 5029 (29%) were in the more selective group. Rates of chemoprophylaxis decreased from 16% (original protocol) to 8% (more selective protocol). Patients in the more selective group were more likely to be older, be married, and have obesity or other comorbidities (hypertension, diabetes, cardiac disease). Compared with the original protocol, the more selective protocol was associated with a decrease in any wound hematoma (0.7% vs 0.3%; adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.38; 95% CI, 0.21-0.67), specifically due to a lower rate of superficial wound hematomas (0.6% vs 0.3%; aOR, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.24-0.75). There was no significant increase in VTE or individual types of VTE (0.1% vs 0.1%; aOR, 0.40; 95% CI, 0.12-1.36). A more selective risk-stratified approach to an enoxaparin thromboprophylaxis protocol for VTE was associated with decreased rates of wound hematomas without increased rates of postpartum VTE.

Clinical application of transcranial neuroendoscopy combined with supraorbital keyhole approach in minimally invasive surgery of the anterior skull base

To explore the techniques, safety, and feasibility of minimally invasive neurosurgery through the supraorbital eyebrow arch keyhole approach by neuroendoscopy. Retrospective analysis of clinical data of patients with various cranial diseases treated by transcranial neuroendoscopic supraorbital eyebrow keyhole approach in our hospital from March 2021 to October 2023. A total of 39 complete cases were collected, including 21 cases of intracranial aneurysms, 9 cases of intracranial space occupying lesions, 5 cases of brain trauma, 3 cases of cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea, and 1 case of cerebral hemorrhage. All patients’ surgeries were successful. The good prognosis rate of intracranial aneurysms was 17/21 (81%), and the symptom improvement rate of intracranial space occupying lesions was 8/9 (88.9%). Among them, the initial symptoms of one patient with no improvement were not related to space occupying, while the total effective rate of the other three types of patients was 9/9 (100%). The average length of the craniotomy bone window of the supraorbital eyebrow arch keyhole is 3.77 ± 0.31 cm, and the average width is 2.53 ± 0.23 cm. The average postoperative hospital stay was 14.77 ± 6.59 days. The average clearance rate of hematoma by neuroendoscopy is 95.00% ± 1.51%. Our results indicate that endoscopic surgery through the supraorbital eyebrow arch keyhole approach is safe and effective for the treatment of anterior skull base lesions and cerebral hemorrhage. However, this retrospective study is a single center, small sample study, and the good surgical results do not exclude the subjective screening of suitable patients by clinical surgeons, which may have some bias. Although the clinical characteristics such as indications and contraindications of this surgical method still require further prospective and multicenter clinical research validation, our study still provides a new approach and choice for minimally invasive surgical treatment of anterior skull base lesions.

Long-term Implications of Cosmetic Breast Surgeries on Subsequent Breast Reconstruction.

Cosmetic breast surgeries, such as augmentation, mastopexy, and reduction, are common aesthetic medical procedures for enhancing physical appearance. Despite their popularity, the influence of these surgeries on subsequent breast reconstruction for cancer patients remains underexplored. This study seeks to investigate the effects of previous cosmetic breast surgeries on the outcomes of breast reconstruction. A retrospective chart review was conducted from January 2011 to May 2023. This analysis compared patients with histories of implant augmentation, breast reduction, mastopexy, and augmentation-mastopexy against those receiving reconstruction without any cosmetic surgery history. Demographics, comorbidities, complications, revisions, and BREAST-Q surveys were collected. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, with significance set at p<0.05. The study included 124 patients (50 autologous, 74 implant) with a history of cosmetic breast surgery (102 implant augmentations, 17 breast reductions, five mastopexies, and nine augmentation mastopexies). They were analyzed against 1307 patients (683 autologous, 624 implant) without prior cosmetic breast surgery. Patients with prior cosmetic surgeries showed a higher incidence of hematoma with tissue expander placement. A preference for implant-based reconstruction was more common among patients with augmentation history (p<0.001), whereas autologous reconstruction was more common in those with history of breast reduction (p=0.047). Patients with history of breast augmentation had on average significantly more breast revisions (p <0.05). This study demonstrates a significantly higher hematoma rate and number of revisions compared to patients without a history of cosmetic surgery. Furthermore, it suggests that types of cosmetic breast surgery influence the decision-making process regarding implant versus autologous reconstruction.

Comparing the Outcomes of Scalpel and Diathermocoagulation Dissection in Abdominoplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Abdominoplasty, an emerging surgical procedure worldwide, associated with complications, as seroma, infection, and hematoma. This systematic review and meta-analysis compare the outcomes of abdominoplasty procedures performed using a scalpel versus a diathermocoagulation device (diathermy monopolar electrocautery), aiming to find a safer approach with fewer complications. We conducted a systematic search in November 2023 using PubMed, Ovid Medline, and Ovid Chocrane databases. The methodological index for nonrandomized studies and the Revised Cochrane Risk of Bias assessment tools were used to assess risk of bias for observational studies and randomized controlled trials, respectively. The data were analyzed using RevMan software. Six articles (1135 patients) were included, 521 patients were operated using a scalpel and 614 using electrocautery. Our analysis suggests that both seroma and drain output were seen more among the electrocautery group, with an odds ratio (OR) of 0.62 (95% CI [0.39, 0.97], p = 0.04) and - 103.63 (95% CI [- 205.67, - 1.59], p = 0.05), respectively. It is important to note the high heterogeneity seen among the studies discussing the total drain output. Additionally, we did not find any statistical significance between both techniques in terms of the rate of hematoma, wound infection, operation time, and hospital stay length. When comparing the use of scalpel and electrocautery dissection in abdominoplasty, higher rates of seroma and total drain output are significantly associated with electrocautery dissection. 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 .

The SAEORA Flap for Prosthetic Breast Reconstruction: A Novel Flap Design without the Use of Acellular Dermal Matrices.

The gold standard for implant-based breast reconstruction uses acellular dermal matrices (ADMs). They provide improved inferolateral pole coverage, reduced capsular contracture rates, and increased primary expander fill volumes. However, ADMs are costly and have been associated with increased rates of postoperative infection, seroma, hematoma, implant malposition, and mastectomy flap necrosis (MFN). This study describes a novel autologous flap without the need of ADM, the serratus anterior external oblique rectus abdominis (SAEORA) flap, as an alternative in prosthetic-based breast reconstruction. A retrospective study was conducted on all patients who underwent SAEORA flap breast reconstruction by a single surgeon between January 1, 2013 and May 31, 2020 at a single institution. Patient demographics, diagnosis, treatment, tissue expander (TE) volume, implant size, complications, and results were assessed. Forty-seven patients underwent 78 SAEORA flaps. Sixty-two had TEs placed, and 14 were direct-to-implant. Mean body mass index was 23.1 kg per m². Median primary TE fill volume was 150 mL, and final implant volume average was 450 mL. Mean follow-up was 14.5 months. Complications included infection/cellulitis (7.9%), seroma (6.6%), hematoma (5.2%), and MFN (7.9%). The SAEORA flap is a novel autologous flap and is a viable option for prosthetic-based breast reconstruction, with an acceptable complication profile relative to ADM-based reconstructions. Additionally, SAEORA is MFN-resistant and has been used effectively in salvage of exposed implants or ADM, and in double-bubble deformity correction.

Neighborhood Deprivation is Associated With Increased Postoperative Complications After Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction

PurposeThe Area Deprivation Index (ADI) ranks neighborhoods by deprivation based on US Census data. This study utilizes ADI scores to investigate the impact of neighborhood deprivation on complication rates following breast reconstruction. Patients and methodsPatients who received implant-based reconstruction from 2019 to 2023 were identified at a single institution in New York. Patients were linked to a state-specific ADI score and categorized into groups: “High ADI” (6-10) and “Low ADI” (1-5). Patient characteristics and complication rates were compared between the ADI groups with Chi-Square analysis and t-tests. The predictive value of ADI scores on complication rates was assessed using logistic regression models. ResultsIn total, 471 patients were included, of which 16% (n = 73) were in the High ADI group, and 84% (n = 398) were in the Low ADI group. There were no baseline differences between the 2 groups, except that there were more patients of Hispanic descent in the High ADI group (30% vs. 15%, P < .01). The High ADI group had a higher overall complication rate than the Low ADI group (34% vs. 21%, P < .01), as well as higher individual rates of hematoma (12% vs. 3%, P < .01) and unexpected reoperations (18% vs. 7%, P < .01). After adjusting for differences in race, High ADI scores predicted hematoma, reoperations, and any complication (P < .05). ConclusionPatients living in neighborhoods with high ADI had a higher incidence of postoperative complications, independent of comorbidities and race. This measure of disparity should be considered when counselling patients about their risk of complications following procedures like implant-based breast reconstruction.

Risk factors of periprosthetic joint infection after hemiarthroplasty for displaced femoral neck fracture in the elderly: Analysis of 1619 cases in the multicenter database

PurposeThis multicenter retrospective study focuses on understanding the incidence, causative bacteria, and risk factors for Periprosthetic Joint Infection (PJI) following hemiarthroplasty in elderly patients with displaced femoral neck fractures (FNF). MethodsFrom 2016 to 2020, 1,619 patients were diagnosed with displaced FNFs and treated surgically across 11 centers. After exclusions, 1,438 patients (399 men and 1,039 women) were included in the study, averaging 82.1 years in age and 20.2 kg/m² in BMI, observed over 25.7 months on average. Data on demographics, medical history, surgical details, and complications were described. ResultsPJI occurred in 20 of the 1438 patients (1.4%). The causative organism was methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus in 6 patients and methicillin-resistant S. aureus in 6 patients. In patients' backgrounds, the average age was slightly higher in the non-PJI group (82.1 years) compared to the PJI group (80.4 years). There was a higher percentage of males in the PJI group (45%) than in the non-PJI group (27.5%). Drug history showed that the prevalence of anticoagulant use in the PJI group was 25%. Peripheral vascular disease and diabetes mellitus were more prevalent in the PJI group. Most patients in both groups were independent in daily activities. The blood transfusion rate was significantly higher in the PJI group (50%) than in the non-PJI group (23.8%). Notably, the incidence of hematoma was higher in the PJI group (40%). ConclusionThis multicenter retrospective study demonstrates a low incidence (1.4%) of PJI in elderly patients undergoing hemiarthroplasty for FNF, primarily due to Staphylococcus aureus. Increased usage of antiplatelets and anticoagulants, as well as comorbidities related to atherosclerosis, like peripheral vascular disease and diabetes mellitus, were observed in patients with PJI. Additionally, these patients experienced higher rates of blood transfusion and postoperative hematomas, highlighting the need for careful management. It should be noted, however, that this finding is a conclusion limited by study design issues, including the retrospective design, small PJI sample size, and variability in treatment approaches.

Ultrasonic Shears Decrease Postoperative Hematomas in Head and Neck Microvascular Reconstruction.

To evaluate postoperative hematoma and takeback rates in a large series of microvascular reconstructions. We sought to determine whether the use of ultrasonic shears reduced these rates. Retrospective cohort study. Tertiary referral hospital. A total of 2288 patients undergoing free flap reconstruction for head and neck defects between 1995 and 2022 were reviewed. Patients undergoing dissection with and without ultrasonic shears were compared to determine postoperative hematoma and takeback rates. The overall hematoma rate was 1.3% (29/2288) for the entire cohort. The postoperative hematoma rates with and without ultrasonic shears were 0.63% (9/1418) and 2.3% (20/870), relative risk = 0.28, P = .0015. Of 870 patients undergoing surgery without ultrasonic shears, 14 (1.61%) were taken back to the operating room for control of bleeding compared to 8 of 1418 (0.56%) in the ultrasonic shears cohort. Our large series of patients undergoing microvascular reconstruction shows a decrease in postoperative hematoma rate and takeback for bleeding with the adoption of ultrasonic shears. Ultrasonic shears are an effective tool that can help decrease perioperative morbidity secondary to hematoma after head and neck tumor resection and microvascular reconstruction.

Clinical characteristics and management of vertebral artery dissection without definitive imaging features: A single center cohort study

BackgroundManagement of vertebral artery dissection (VAD), which is difficult to diagnose definitively on imaging, is a clinical concern. The aim of this study was to clarify the clinical characteristics of VAD without definitive imaging features and evaluate our clinical decisions and their consequences. MethodsWe searched our database to identify patients with VAD registered between January 2008 and December 2021. We performed a retrospective chart review to obtain detailed clinical information and compared the clinical characteristics and radiological findings between patients with definitive VAD and those with non-definitive VAD by radiological findings at the initial evaluation. ResultsOf 188 patients (mean age 52.7 ± 12.3 years, 121 male), 127 had definitive VAD. Patients in the definitive group had a younger average age and a high rate of intramural hematoma, while those in the non-definitive group were more likely to have a history of hypertension. Overall, the prognosis was good for the majority (n = 163), and there was no significant difference in the prognosis between two groups. Especially, the prognosis of non-definitive VAD patients without stroke was favorable. ConclusionsCases of non-definitive VAD are likely to be complicated by atherosclerotic changes. Therefore, clinicians should carefully evaluate the potential etiologies based on the clinical history and imaging data to provide patients with the optimal treatment options. Identification of IMH was an important factor to make a definitive diagnosis, and the vessel wall imaging is a useful imaging modality for the purpose.

Endoscopic Transaxillary Breast Augmentation – a Case Series of 1300 Patients

Abstract Level of Evidence: V – case series Goals/Purpose Breast augmentation is currently one of the most common aesthetic surgical procedures performed in the United States. Transaxillary breast augmentation offers an advantageous hidden scar compared with other options for implant placement. While first described as a blunt and blind approach, endoscopic technique further refined this procedure to offer surgeons complete control and visualization of dissection for precise implant placement. Despite this, breast augmentation is done far more commonly as was initially described over 60 years ago with incisions on the breast that can result in visible scarring. The purpose of this study was to report surgical outcomes on the largest published series to date in a patient cohort of 1389 endoscopic transaxillary breast augmentations. We describe the refinement of this technique and statistical analysis of patient outcomes. Methods/Technique This study included all patients with breast hypoplasia who chose endoscopic transaxillary breast augmentation from 2006 to 2022 by a single surgeon (S.C.). All patients were followed for a minimum of 3 months post procedure. All implants used were smooth, round, silicone gel implants with volumes ranging from 180 to 800cc. Implants were placed in the subfascial or submuscular plane. An incision was marked in the most prominent axillary crease. If there were no creases, an incision was marked at the highest point of the armpit along Langer’s lines. A 30 degree endoscope (Karl Storz, USA) was placed in an endoscopic breast retractor (Karl Storz, USA) and dissection proceeded either in the submuscular plane between the pectoralis major and minor, or in the subfascial plane with an angled suction cautery (Black and Black Surgical, Texas). In the case of subfascial implant placement, the pocket was dissected according to the preoperative markings. With submuscular placement, pocket dissection also followed markings, but the pectoralis muscle was divided with cautery from the level of the areola along the sternal origins of the muscle to completely divide the muscle inferiorly and laterally. The inframammary fold was lowered as necessary by cautery dissection above the level of the pectoralis fascia inferiorly. Glandular scoring was performed with cautery when needed as well. After dissection was completed, saline breast implant sizers were inserted and filled with air to estimate implant size and confirm pocket dissection in the upright position. Adjustments were made to the implant pocket with endoscopic cautery dissection as was necessary. Results/Complications A total of 1389 patients were included in our data analysis for surgeries performed between March 2006 and December 2021. Overall complication rate in our cohort was 6.69%. Malposition of implants was the most common complication at 3.64%. Contracture rate was 1.74%. There was a significant increase noted in hematoma rate in subfascial placement (3.51% increase, p-value&amp;lt;0.05) compared to submuscular and a decrease in implant malposition in the subfascial group (6.58% decrease, p-value&amp;lt;0.05) compared to the submuscular group. These complications were largely managed using endoscopic techniques. There were no significant differences noted between subfascial, subglandular and submuscular pocket placement in asymmetry, contracture and hypertrophy. Conclusion We describe a safe and effective approach to endoscopic transaxillary breast augmentation that has demonstrated long term results compared to the direct vision inframammary technique. The advantages of a hidden scar should be a consideration for surgeons to adopt this technique to improve patient outcomes.

Marijuana Use in Aesthetic Surgery Patients: A Retrospective Review of 441 Cases

Abstract Goals/Purpose Marijuana use is increasing in Canada following its legalization in 2018. 27% of Canadians were reported to have consumed marijuana in 2022. Marijuana use in surgical patients is a topic that has had exponential growth in the literature recently. The drug has many therapeutic effects such as analgesia, muscle relaxation, sedation and mood improvement. However, it is also associated with deleterious cardiovascular, respiratory and coagulopathic effects that can significantly impact the care of surgical patients in the peri-operative period. Literature from other surgical specialities has shown similar recovery and ultimate surgical outcome between marijuana users and non-marijuana users despite increased pain and poorer quality of life associated with marijuana use. There is a paucity of information about the effects of marijuana on aesthetic plastic surgery outcomes. The prevalence of marijuana use in aesthetic plastic surgery patients is currently unknown and there is a need for more evidence to develop clinical practice guidelines regarding the use of marijuana in the perioperative period. The purpose of this study is to describe the effects of marijuana consumption on aesthetic plastic surgery outcomes. Methods/Technique A single-center retrospective review was completed including all patients who underwent abdominoplasty, mastopexy and/or other body contouring surgery (such as brachioplasty, thigh lift or lower body lift) between January 2021 and August 2023. Other procedures such as liposuction, fat grafting, implant insertion or removal were also reviewed if they took place during the same general anesthetic. Marijuana use was defined as use within 4 weeks pre- and/or post-operatively. Data collection included patient demographics, body mass index (BMI), marijuana use, smoking status, comorbidities, surgical procedure(s) performed, operative time, resection weight and/or liposuction volume (if applicable), complications and follow up. Results/Complications A total of 1000 procedures in 441 patients were reviewed during the 32-month study period. Average patient age was 43 years old and average patient BMI was 27.3 kg/m2. 20.4% of patients were marijuana users. The average number of procedures completed per patient was 2.3 and average operative time was 167 minutes (2 hours and 47 minutes). 79% of cases involved more than one surgical procedure. 63% of the 441 cases involved an abdominoplasty, 49% involved a mastopexy, 5% involved a brachioplasty and 4% involved a thigh lift procedure. 33% of cases included breast implants and 47% liposuction. Average follow up time was 5.2 months. Overall surgical complications consisted of a 5% superficial infection rate, 1% deep infection rate, 9% seroma rate, 1% hematoma and lymphocele rates, 3% rate of wound dehiscence requiring surgical intervention and 11% rate of superficial delayed wound healing. There were no cases of nipple necrosis or full thickness skin necrosis. A comparison of patient demographics between marijuana and non-marijuana user groups revealed that marijuana users were significantly younger than non-marijuana users (average age 39 and 44 years old respectively). Surgical data, outcomes and complications were not found to be significantly different between the 2 groups for all variables. Conclusion Marijuana consumption in the perioperative period does not appear to affect aesthetic surgery outcomes such as post-operative infections, seroma, lymphocele, wound dehiscence, or fat necrosis based on the results of this study. There is a need for prospective work on this topic to produce better quality evidence and ultimately to create evidence-based guidelines on the perioperative use of marijuana for aesthetic surgery patients.

Venous thromboembolism chemical prophylaxis after skull base surgery

PurposeThere is no guidance surrounding postoperative venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis using pharmacological agents (chemoprophylaxis) in patients undergoing skull base surgery. The aim of this study was to compare VTE and intracranial haematoma rates after skull base surgery in patients treated with/without chemoprophylaxis.MethodsReview of prospective quaternary centre database including adults undergoing first-time skull base surgery (2009–2020). VTE was defined as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) within 6 months of surgery. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine factors predictive of postoperative intracranial haematoma/VTE. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used in group comparisons.ResultsOne thousand five hundred fifty-one patients were included with a median age of 52 years (range 16–89 years) and female predominance (62%). Postoperative chemoprophylaxis was used in 81% of patients at a median of 1 day postoperatively. There were 12 VTE events (1.2%), and the use of chemoprophylaxis did not negate the risk of VTE entirely (p > 0.99) and was highest on/after postoperative day 6 (9/12 VTE events). There were 18 intracranial haematomas (0.8%), and after PSM, chemoprophylaxis did not significantly increase the risk of an intracranial haematoma (p > 0.99). Patients administered chemoprophylaxis from postoperative days 1 and 2 had similar rates of intracranial haematomas (p = 0.60) and VTE (p = 0.60), affirmed in PSM.ConclusionPostoperative chemoprophylaxis represents a relatively safe strategy in patients undergoing skull base surgery. We advocate a personalised approach to chemoprophylaxis and recommend it on postoperative days 1 or 2 when indicated.

Feasibility and safety study of distal radial artery approach in emergency PCI of elderly STEMI patients

Objective: To investigate the feasibility and safety of distal radial artery approach in emergency percutaneous coronary intervention(PCI) of elderly ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction(STEMI) patients. Methods: This study is a cross-sectional study. Elderly patients with acute myocardial infarction who received emergency PCI at the Third Central Hospital of Tianjin from January 2020 to December 2022 were selected. They were divided into the distal radial artery group and the classic radial artery group based on the puncture location. The success rate, puncture time, surgical success rate, and surgical time of the two groups were observed; The incidence of complications in patients, including radial artery occlusion rate, radial artery spasm rate, local hematoma rate, aneurysm incidence rate were recorded. Results: There were 70 cases in the distal radial artery group, including 33 males (47.1%), aged (65.6±6.7) years old; There were 70 cases in the classic radial artery group, including 35 males (50.0%), aged (66.4±6.9) years old. There was no statistically significant difference in puncture success rate, puncture time, surgical success rate, and surgical time between the distal radial artery group and the classical radial artery group (P>0.05). The incidence of radial artery occlusion in the distal radial artery group was significantly lower than that in the classical radial artery group (1.4% vs. 8.6%, P=0.024). The postoperative compression time in the distal radial artery group was significantly shorter than that in the classical radial artery group ((291.6±10.5) min vs. (343.5±9.8) min, P=0.047). There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of radial artery spasm, local hematoma, and aneurysm between the two groups (P>0.05). Conclusions: The distal radial artery approach has a lower radial artery occlusion rate, shorter compression time, and better safety. It can be used as a new approach for emergency PCI in elderly patients with STEMI for clinical application.

The Efficacy of Topical Tranexamic Acid in Breast Surgery Evaluating the Drain Output and Complications Reduction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Introduction : The topical administration of Tranexamic Acid (TXA) has gained significant attention for its potential advantages in various plastic surgery procedures. This study aims to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis focusing on the use of topical TXA in breast surgery, analysing its impact on postoperative drain output and complications. Method : PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library databases were systematically searched to identify relevant studies. The data synthesis utilized random-effects models and the findings were presented as a mean difference and weighted odds ratio along with the corresponding 95% confidence interval. Results : Seven studies including four RCTs and three observational studies, comprising 1,553 breasts undergoing surgery were included. The average age of participants was 46 years; mean body mass index (BMI) was 26.1 kg/mm2. Of the breasts studied, 764 (49%) received topical TXA and 789 (51%) received normal saline as placebo. Overall, topical TXA was associated with a lower drain output in the first 24 hours postoperative (MD -25.87; p=0.00001) and a lower cumulative drain output (MD -59.72; p&lt;0.00001). The rate of hematoma is significantly lower in the topical TXA group compared to the control group (OR 0.19; p=0.0009). There were no significant differences in rates of seroma, infection, thromboembolic events and time to drain removal between groups. Conclusion: Evidence of this study suggests that administration of topical TXA significantly reduces the drain output production and hematoma in breast surgery. The use of topical TXA not significantly affecting rates of seroma, infection and postoperative duration with drain.

O193: Drains versus No Drain in Thyroid Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials

Abstract Introduction Thyroid surgery does not come without its risks of complications of post-operative haemorrhage, haematoma and seroma, for which drains may be used. Placement of a drain may prevent these complications, which may be life-threatening due to vascular compromise and airway compression. Objective This study aims to evaluate the outcomes and complications in patients undergoing thyroid surgery with a drain and without a drain. Methods Systematic review of all studies up to October 2023. These studies were identified from all major databases including MEDLINE, Cochrane (1960–2023), and EMBASE (1991–2023). All studies reporting a comparison between drain and no drain thyroid surgery were searched; all studies were included. Post-operative complications and outcomes were recorded and analysed. Results 35 studies with 4089 patients contributed to the summative outcome measures. The no drain group showed a statistically significant superiority compared to the drain group when it came to infection rates (p=0.0001), re-operation rates (p=0.05), pain score (p&amp;lt;0.00001) and length of stay (p&amp;lt;0.00001). There was no statistical difference for haematoma (p=0.52), haemorrhage (p=0.39) or seroma rates (p=0.38). Conclusion There is a superiority in postoperative outcomes and reduced complications in favour of patients without a drain compared to patients with a drain following thyroid surgery. A large number of studies with a large patient population were included; further studies are required to assess the individual suitable indications for a drain in thyroid surgery.

A Case report on subdural hematoma in a 60yr old male patient with ESRD

A subdural hematoma occurs when a clot forms between the brain and its outer covering. Chronic dialysis becomes necessary as a treatment to externally filter the blood, when kidneys are no capable of fulfilling this role. This validates that the patients undergoing hemodialysis face a higher risk of developing subdural hematoma. The KDIGO foundation guidelines defines the chronic kidney disease using the markers such as the proteinuria and the glomerular filtration rate(GFR). Hemodialysis patient and other type of bleeding tendency are more prone to the spontaneous traumatic subdural hematoma and the intracerebral hematoma. This increased risk is attributed to the elevated mortality rate observed in the dialysis patient affected by the subdural hematoma. Consequently, it becomes imperative to implement the preventive measures aimed at reducing the occurrence of subdural hematoma in the individuals with the end stage renal disease, especially those undergoing the hemodialysis treatment. The high occurrence rate of the subdural hematoma and its recent surge is related to the increased use of anticoagulant in the long-term hemodialysis patient. Hence proper care for the patient is necessary to prevent devastating the disorder. This case report is demonstrating that there is a striking enrichment for the underlying comorbid conditions in the patient who has developed subdural hematoma and has the high risk of the immediate mortality.

Comparative Outcomes of Peripheral Vascular Interventions in Patients on Chronic Anticoagulation with Factor Xa Inhibitors and Vitamin K Antagonists

In patients undergoing revascularization for peripheral arterial disease (PAD), low-dose Factor Xa inhibitors (FXaI) taken with aspirin improved limb and cardiovascular outcomes compared to aspirin alone. Furthermore, in atrial fibrillation and venous thromboembolism, FXaI are recommended over vitamin K antagonists (VKA) for chronic anticoagulation. While studies have evaluated different perioperative anticoagulation regimens in patients treated for PAD, the optimal regimen for chronic anticoagulation in patients with PAD undergoing peripheral vascular intervention (PVI) has not been determined. This analysis compares outcomes of patients after PVI that require chronic anticoagulation with FXaI and VKA. The Vascular Quality Initiative-PVI database was used. Patients consistently treated with FXaI or VKA before the procedure, at discharge, and on long-term follow-up were defined as those receiving chronic anticoagulation. Patient demographics, procedural details, and perioperative and long-term outcomes were compared between FXaI and VKA groups. A total of 109,268 patients were analyzed, and 6,885 were chronically anticoagulated with FXaI (N=2,427) or VKA (N=4,458). Patients anticoagulated with VKA were more frequently males (65.3% vs. 61.0%, P<0.001) with end-stage renal disease (9.7% vs. 4.6%, P<0.001) and more likely to be treated for chronic limb-threatening ischemia (58.1% vs. 52.7%, P<0.001). Rates of hematoma following PVI were significantly higher in patients taking VKA compared to FXaI (3.5% vs. 1.9%, P<0.001). Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that VKA were associated with increased perioperative hematoma than FXaI (odds ratio=1.89 [1.30-2.82]). Compared to patients taking VKA, those receiving FXaI had lower rates of major amputation (6.7% vs. 8.4%, P=0.020) and mortality (7.6% vs. 15.2%, P ≤ 0.001). Using Kaplan-Meier analysis, patients consistently anticoagulated with FXaI had improved amputation-free survival after PVI. Adjusting for significant patient and procedural characteristics, Cox proportional hazard regression demonstrated that there is an increased risk for major amputation or mortality in patients using VKA compared to FXaI (hazard ratio 1.61, [1.36-1.90]). Chronic anticoagulation with FXaI as compared to VKA was associated with superior perioperative and long-term outcomes in patients with PAD undergoing PVI. FXaI should be the preferred agents over VKA for chronic anticoagulation in patients with PAD undergoing PVI.