Wound Complication Rate Research Articles

Back to the Bottle: Comparison of Palatoplasty Outcomes Before and After Systematic Changes to Postoperative Precaution Protocols.

To analyze postoperative palatoplasty outcomes before and after systemic protocol changes to preferred bottle and arm immobilizer use after surgery. Retrospective, cohort study. Urban, academic, tertiary medical center in New York City, NY. Eighty-four patients who underwent primary palatoplasty and met inclusion criteria during 1 of 2 treatment periods, 2016 to 2017 (group A, n = 45) and 2019 to 2020 (group B, n = 39). Protocols were amended over the 2018 calendar year to allow for utilization of the baby's preferred bottle (vs alternative feeding methods) and hand socks (vs arm immobilizers) in the immediate postoperative period. Data was extrapolated from electronic medical records to compare surgical outcomes. Postoperative wound complications (fistula and dehiscence) that did not resolve within 1 month, length of stay (hours), and 30-day re-admission. Nonparametric Mann-Whitney U tests and Fisher's Exact test were utilized for statistical analysis. There were no statistically significant differences between sex, age at surgery, Veau classification, or hard and soft palate surgical repair technique. Group A had a wound complication rate of 8.7% (n = 4) versus a 2.6% rate (n = 1) for group B. No patients were re-admitted to the hospital from either group. There were no statistically significant differences between groups regarding length of stay (P = .528) or wound complication (P = .366). The findings from this study suggest relaxing postoperative protocols following palatoplasty to allow immediate bottle feedings and unrestricted arm use may be safe without compromise to surgical outcomes.

Urinary Diversion Versus Adverse In-Hospital Outcomes After Radical Cystectomy.

This study aimed to compare adverse in-hospital outcomes in ileal conduit versus neobladder urinary diversion type after radical cystectomy (RC) in contemporary versus historical patients. Patients were identified within the National Inpatient Sample (NIS 2000-2019). Propensity score matching (PSM; 1:2 ratio) and multivariable logistic regression models (LRMs) were used. Of 10,533 contemporary (2011-2019) patients, 943 (9.0%) underwent neobladder urinary diversion, while 9590 (91.0%) underwent ileal conduit urinary diversion. Furthermore, of 9742 historical (2010-2019) patients, 932 (9.6%) underwent neobladder urinary diversion and 8810 (90.4%) underwent ileal conduit urinary diversion. After 1:2 PSM, within the contemporary cohort, 943/943 (100%) neobladder versus 1886/9590 (19.6%) ileal conduit patients were included. Similarly, within the historical cohort, 932/932 (100%) neobladder versus 1864/8810 (21.1%) ileal conduit patients were included after PSM. In multivariable LRMs, relative to contemporary neobladder patients, contemporary ileal conduit patients exhibited higher rates of overall postoperative (49.0 vs. 43.6%; multivariable odds ratio [MOR] 1.2), wound (4.2 vs. 2.7%; MOR 1.6), and genitourinary (13.1% vs. 10.0%; MOR 1.3) complications as well as blood transfusions (19.0 vs. 15.6%; MOR 1.3). Conversely, in multivariable LRMs within the historical cohort, no differences were recorded between ileal conduit and neobladder patients. Unlike historical comparisons between ileal conduit and neobladder patients, where no differences in adverse in-hospital outcomes were recorded, analyses relying on a contemporary patient cohort subject to PSM and multivariable adjustment revealed higher rates of adverse in-hospital outcomes in 4/13 examined categories. This observation should be considered at informed consent.

Ultrahypofractionated Versus Normofractionated Preoperative Radiotherapy for Soft Tissue Sarcoma: A Multicenter, Prospective Real-World-Time Phase 2 Clinical Trial.

Background/Objectives: The historically most commonly used preoperative radiotherapy regimen for soft tissue sarcomas (STSs) consists of 50 Gray (Gy) delivered in 25 fractions over 5 weeks, achieving excellent local control, but with significant challenges due to prolonged treatment duration and early side effects. Reducing therapy duration while maintaining optimal local and distant control would be highly beneficial for patients. We aimed to investigate the outcome of an ultrahypofractionated radiotherapy (uhRT) regimen which may represent a shorter and more patient-friendly alternative. Methods: This multi-center, open-label, phase 2 clinical trial with a clustered cohort design was conducted within the Swiss Sarcoma Network (SSN). Adult patients (aged ≥ 18 years) with STS of the extremities or superficial trunk and an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status of 0-3 were included. Participants were assigned to either normofractionated radiotherapy (nRT) at 50 Gy in 25 fractions or uhRT at 25 Gy in 5 fractions. Data were collected prospectively in real-world-time clinical settings. The primary outcome was local recurrence-free survival (LRFS), with overall survival (OS) and wound complications as secondary outcomes. Results: Between March 2020 and October 2023, 138 patients were included in the study; 74 received nRT and 64 received uhRT. The median follow-up times were 2.2 years for uhRT and 3.6 years for nRT. The LRFS rates at 1 year were 97.0% for nRT and 94.8% for uhRT (p = 0.57). The two-year LRFS rates were 91.9% and 94.8%, respectively (p = 0.57). The one- and two-year OS rates were 97.1%/86.3% and 98.2%/88.8%, respectively (p = 0.72). The wound complication rate was comparable between the nRT (12.0%) and uhRT (12.5%) groups (p = 0.99). Conclusions: UhRT for STSs offers an effective and safe alternative to traditional nRT, with comparable early LRFS, OS and wound complication rates. Given the two-year median follow-up, which is critical for evaluating local recurrence, uhRT shows promise as a shorter and more convenient treatment regimen. UhRT may be a safe and effective alternative treatment option to traditional nRT.

Modern anatomical locking plates are associated with increased postoperative wound complications and unplanned surgical revisions compared to standard tubular plates in the management of unstable ankle fractures: a comparative cohort study in 595 patients

Abstract Background The clinical benefit of locking plates in distal fibula fractures has not yet been proven. In addition, the risk of wound complications appears to be higher than with conventional tubular plates. We hypothesize that the benefits of locking plates in terms of biomechanical properties are outweighed by a higher risk of wound complications. Methods We conducted a retrospective review of fibula fractures treated by osteosynthesis with either a conventional one-third tubular plate or an anatomically shaped locking plate from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2021. We recorded baseline data and relevant comorbidities and defined the need for revision surgery due to wound-related or mechanical complications as primary endpoints. Results A total of 595 out of 727 patients were eligible for our study. Of these 595 fractures, 526 were fixed with a one-third tubular plate, 69 with a locking plate. Revision surgery was required in 54 patients, in 51 cases due to wound complications. Three patients required revision surgery for mechanical reasons and all of them were younger than 40 years of age, have not been diagnosed with osteoporosis, but experienced complex fracture types. As the third tubular plate and locking plate groups differed in terms of age and comorbidities, we performed a 2:1 matching based on age and gender, leaving data from 138 patients receiving a third tubular plate. While the two groups were comparable in many aspects, the rate of wound complications was significantly higher in the locking plate group. Although the locking plate group had a higher percentage of diabetes mellitus, there was no correlation between this comorbidity and the higher revision rate in this group. Conclusions Our data do not support the general use of locking plates in the treatment of distal fibular fractures. The risk of mechanical complications in osteoporotic ankle fractures seems to be overrated, as there were no mechanical revisions in the osteoporotic subgroup. The rate of wound-related revision surgery was significantly higher after the use of locking plates. This might be attributed to the greater thickness of locking plates.

Comparing Outcomes Between Standard Mepilex and Mepilex Silver for Tracheotomy Dressings.

The purpose of the study is to compare the incidence of early postoperative tracheotomy stoma wound complications in pediatric patients using a silver-impregnated barrier dressing (Mepilex Ag) versus a standard absorbent foam dressing (standard Mepilex). This is a prospective, non-blinded, randomized trial of pediatric patients undergoing tracheotomy at a tertiary care children's hospital. Patients were randomized to receive Mepilex Ag versus standard Mepilex tracheostoma dressings following tracheotomy. All patients received standard postoperative wound care and daily stomal examination. Wound related complications, breakdown, granulation, and infection were recorded for the first 7 days after surgery. A non-inferiority study design was used to test the hypothesis that the Mepilex group had a non-inferior wound complication rate (within 10% margin) compared to the Mepilex Ag group. Eighty-two patients were enrolled; 52 received Mepilex Ag, and 30 received standard Mepilex. There was no difference between the groups with respect to age, sex, race, surgical indication, or postoperative length of stay. Non-inferiority testing demonstrated that the Mepilex standard cohort had no more than 10% greater stomal wound complication rate than that of Mepilex Ag dressing group (p = 0.0108). Standard Mepilex was found to be non-inferior to Mepilex Ag in the prevention of tracheotomy stomal wound complications. Standard Mepilex may be used effectively in the postoperative period, potentially reducing costs to caregivers and the institution. Further work is needed to analyze additional factors that could contribute to poor postoperative stoma healing such as bacterial colonization. Randomized Controlled Trial, 2 Laryngoscope, 134:5160-5163, 2024.

Oncoplastic Surgery with Volume Replacement versus Mastectomy with Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction: Early Post-operative Complications in Patients with Breast Cancer.

Two common surgical approaches for breast cancer are breast-conserving surgery and mastectomy with implant-based breast reconstruction (MIBR). However, for large tumors, an alternative to MIBR is oncoplastic surgery with volume replacement (OPSVR). We performed a comprehensive analysis comparing OPSVR with MIBR, with our aim to focus on the 30-days post-operative complications between these two techniques. We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database from 2005 to 2020. Only breast cancer patients were included and were divided according to the surgical technique: OPSVR and MIBR. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess independent risk factors for total, surgical, and wound complications. A cohort of 8,403 breast cancer patients was analyzed. 683 underwent OPSVR and 7,720 underwent MIBR. From 2005 to 2020, the adoption of OPSVR gradually increased over the years (p<0.001), whereas MIBR decreased. OPSVR patients were older (57.04 vs. 51.89 years, p<0.001), exhibited a higher BMI (31.73 vs. 26.93, p<0.001), had a greater prevalence of diabetes mellitus (11.0% vs. 5.0%, p<0.001). They also had a higher ASA classification (2.33 vs. 2.15, p<0.001), shorter operative time (173.39 vs. 216.20 min, p<0.001), and a higher proportion of outpatient procedures (83.7% vs 39.5%, p<0.001). Outcome analysis demonstrated fewer total complications in the OPSVR patients, (4.2% vs. 10.9%, p<0.001), including lower rates of surgical complications (2.2% vs 8.0%, p<0.001) and wound complications (1.9% vs. 4.8%, p=0.005) compared to MIBR patients. Multivariate analysis identified OPSVR as an independent protective factor for total, surgical, and wound complications. OPSVR has become a favorable technique for patients with breast cancer. Even in patients with higher comorbidities, OPSVR demonstrates safe and better outcomes when compared to MIBR. It should be considered a reasonable and safe breast surgical option in the appropriate patient.

Evaluation of Modified Frailty Index for Predicting Postoperative Outcomes after Upper Extremity Replantation and Revascularization Procedures.

Upper extremity (UE) replantation and revascularization are challenging surgical procedures, with survival rates being 50 to 90%. Preoperative risk stratification is challenging yet crucial as patients with comorbid conditions face increased complications. This study assesses the predictive value of the modified 5-item frailty index (5-mFI) for postoperative complications in these procedures. A retrospective study was done using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) database (2011-2021) for UE replantation/revascularization. The 5-mFI score assigned points for comorbidities including pulmonary disease, heart failure, diabetes, hypertension, and functional status (0-5 scale; 1 point to each). 5-mFI scores stratified patients into <2 (low-risk) or ≥2 (high-risk) categories. Of 2,305 patients, the mean age and body mass index (BMI) were 53.13 years and 28.53 kg/m2, respectively. The 5-mFI ≥2 cohort experienced higher rates of all-cause complications, systemic complications, unplanned readmissions, and return to the operating room on univariate analysis. There was no significant difference in wound complication rates. Multivariable logistic regression showed that a higher 5-mFI was significantly associated with increased risks of all-cause mild and severe systemic complications. Wound complications, length of stay over 30 days, unplanned readmission, and return to the operating room were higher in high-risk patients, however not statistically significant. 5-mFI is an effective tool for evaluating risk in UE replantation and revascularization, correlating high scores with significantly increased postoperative complications. High-risk patients with 5-mFI ≥2 also had more reoperations and readmissions. The use of 5-mFI in preoperative assessments can help personalize management, enhancing patient selection and care quality in these complex reconstructions.

Distinct recurrence patterns according to disease manifestation in pilonidal sinus disease treated with cleft lift surgery at 5 years’ follow‐up in a large prospective Danish cohort

AbstractAimPilonidal sinus disease (PSD) is a common condition particularly affecting the young population. The disease is incompletely understood, and optimal treatment is still debated. However, off‐midline closure techniques have become the standard of care in more advanced cases. The literature is, however, lacking disease stratification in evaluation of surgical results. The aim of this study was to evaluate the surgical outcomes in a prospective cohort following Bascom's cleft lift (BCL) in primary extensive disease, nonhealing wounds after previous surgery and recurrence on a large Danish cohort from a high‐volume centre.MethodThe study is based on a prospective database established at Randers Regional Hospital in 2016. All patients undergoing BCL surgery from June 2016 until June 2020 were included in this study.ResultsThree hundred and ninety two patients (326 men/66 women) underwent BCL surgery over a 4‐year period. Of these, 127 (32.4%) presented with primary extensive PSD, 136 (34.7%) with nonhealing wounds and 129 (33.9%) with recurrent PSD. Overall, 87% healed uneventfully within the first 3 months, and 17% had recurrence at a median follow‐up of 60 months (45–73 months). However, the risk of recurrence was higher among patients with nonhealing wounds (20%) and recurrence (17%) compared with primary extensive manifestation (13%).ConclusionTreatment of advanced PSD remains challenging with a high rate of wound complications and recurrences, stressing the need for dedicated care. Patients with either failed surgery or recurrence need particular attention.

Prophylactic closed-incisional negative pressure wound therapy following posterior instrumented spinal fusion: a single surgeon’s experience and cost-benefit analysis

Purpose: Surgical site infections (SSIs) following spine surgery are associated with morbidity and resource utilization. Applying prophylactic closed-incisional negative pressure wound therapy (ciNPWT) during posterior instrumented fusion has mixed results in reducing rates of wound complications and SSI. We evaluated the clinical efficacy and potential cost-savings associated with ciNPWT in high-risk patients receiving posterior instrumented spinal fusion. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed patients receiving posterior instrumented spinal fusion for any surgical indication between July 1, 2017 and December 31, 2019, and compared rates of wound dehiscence, SSI, and reoperation for wound complications between standard surgical dressings and ciNPWT. Surgical dressing selection was based on the senior author’s assessment of infection risk factors. Results: A total of 229 patients (n = 85 standard surgical dressings, n = 144 ciNPWT) were included. The ciNPWT group had significantly more risk factors for wound-related complications, including older age (61.8 vs. 58.5 years, p = 0.042), diabetes mellitus (36.8% vs. 23.5%, p = 0.037), more instrumented levels (5.6 vs. 3.9, p < 0.0001), estimated blood loss (1298 vs. 998 mL, p = 0.036), and deformity was the predominant operative indication (29.9% vs. 17.7%, p = 0.040). Prophylactic ciNPWT was associated with significantly lower rates of wound dehiscence (21.5% vs. 34.1%, p = 0.036) and SSI (8.3% vs. 21.2%, p = 0.005). Number needed to treat with ciNPWT to prevent one SSI was 8 patients. The cost of preventing one SSI was $4,560. Cost-benefit analysis demonstrated a potential mean savings of $21,662 per operative SSI prevented and $270,775 per 100 patients undergoing posterior instrumented fusion with ciNPWT. Conclusions: Prophylactic ciNPWT use is a cost-effective means of reducing rates of wound dehiscence and SSI following posterior instrumented fusion.

EGS SO03 - Audit of wound complications after Emergency laparotomies in A University Teaching Hospital: 2-cycle Prospective Audit

Abstract Background Wound infections and incisional hernias are frequent complications that can occur after an emergency laparotomy. The surgical technique used plays a crucial role in determining the likelihood of complications. The objective of this audit was to evaluate our technique in performing emergency midline incision closure and to compare our complication rates with those of established guidelines. Method A two-year prospective audit, comprising two cycles, was conducted at a teaching university hospital to evaluate the incidence of wound infections following emergency laparotomy. During each cycle, which lasted for one year, 1423 patients underwent an emergency laparotomy. Results The initial outcomes showed that wound infection rate was 123 out of 621, which translates to 19.8%, the overall rate of acute fascial rupture was 66 out of 621, amounting to 10.6%, while overall incisional hernia rate was 87 out of 621, which equals 14%. In the subsequent cycle, wound infection rate was 49 out of 802, corresponding to a percentage of 6.2%. The overall rate of acute fascial rupture was 34 out of 802, which is equivalent to a percentage of 4.3%, while the overall incisional hernia rate was 42 out of 802, which translates to 5.2%. Conclusion In conclusion, the audit revealed several areas of improvement to address in order to enhance its overall performance and achieve its goals of decreasing our rate of wound complications after urgent laparotomy which needs our adherence to this closure technique

Long-term outcomes after open parastomal hernia repair at a high-volume center.

Open parastomal hernia repairs (OPHR) are complex with high recurrence rates and no clear optimal technique. This report summarizes long-term OPHR outcomes at a high-volume hernia center. OPHRs were identified from a prospectively maintained institutional database. Recurrence and wound complication rates were compared across operative techniques using standard statistical analysis. Of 97 OPHR patients, mean age was 61.9 ± 12.6years, 56.7% were female, 24.7% were diabetic, and average BMI was 31.3 ± 6.5kg/m2. Mean defect size was 125.3 ± 130.0cm2 and 41.2% were recurrent. Stomas included colostomies (56.7%), ileostomies (30.9%), and urostomies (12.4%). Patients underwent concurrent ventral hernia repair (56.7%), panniculectomy (22.7%), and component separation (30.9%). Patients either had their stoma reversed (13.4%), resited (25.8%), or repaired in situ (60.8%) with suture (11.9%) or mesh (88.1%) in a Sugarbaker (65.4%), keyhole (19.2%), or onlay (15.4%) configuration. Over a mean follow-up of 31.6 ± 35.9months, wound complications occurred in 18.6% and recurrences in 20.6%. There were no significant differences in recurrence by ostomy type. Recurrence rates were highest after in situ suture repair (42.9%), followed by resiting with mesh (34.8%), in situ with mesh (17.3%), and reversal (0.0%)(p = 0.042). When stomas were resited, prophylactic mesh compared to no mesh did not significantly impact recurrence (28.6%vs.50.0%;p = 0.570). Recurrence rates for in situ repairs were not statistically different by mesh technique (onlay 25.0%, Sugarbaker 17.7%, keyhole 10.0%;p = 0.751), but differed by location(retrorectus 50.0%, intraperitoneal 36.4%, onlay 25.0%, preperitoneal 6.5%;p = 0.035). Multivariable analysis did not demonstrate any independent predictors of recurrence or wound complications. This study represents the largest series to date describing long-term OPHR outcomes with a variety of techniques. Recurrence was greatest after in situ primary repair. There were no recurrences after stoma reversal. After ostomy resiting, all recurrences occurred at the new stoma site, independent of prophylactic mesh use. When the stoma was repaired in situ, preperitoneal mesh placement had the lowest recurrence. Optimal technique for OPHR remains unclear, but these results may inform preoperative discussions and surgical planning.

Wound complication rates after anterior total hip arthroplasty: A case series comparison of interrupted vs. continuous sutures for skin closure

BackgroundThe anterior approach for total hip arthroplasty (THA) carries a higher risk of wound complications, which can significantly affect patient outcomes and increase healthcare costs. There is limited research comparing infection rates based on closure techniques in patients who undergo THA. Therefore, this study aims to compare wound complications based on interrupted or continuous sutures for skin closure after anterior approach THA. MethodsThis single-surgeon retrospective study extracted data from 388 patients who had undergone a primary THA using the anterior approach. Patient demographics, comorbidities, perioperative factors, and infection-related complications were recorded. All variables associated with a given infection complication were controlled for in a binary logistic regression model. ResultsAfter controlling for confounding variables, wound closure type was not associated with any infectious complications. BMI was a strongly associated factor in PJI (p = 0.028; 95 % CI = 1.02–1.34), prolonged drainage (p < 0.001; 95 % CI = 1.08–1.28), readmission (p = 0.023; 95 % CI = 1.01–1.20), and I&D and revision surgery (p = 0.021; 95 % CI = 1.02–1.31). ConclusionBody mass index was the sole factor associated with a higher risk of wound complications postoperatively. These findings suggest a non-inferiority between continuous and interrupted suture closure techniques regarding wound-related infectious complications in anterior total hip arthroplasty.

Closure of the Osteocutaneous Fibula Flap Donor Site with a Tonearm (Propeller) Flap: Anatomic Considerations and Surgical Indications

BackgroundSkin graft is frequently used for donor site closure after osteocutaneous fibula free flap (OCFFF) harvest when primary closure is not possible. Partial skin graft loss requiring wound care is a common complication. The purposes of this prospective study were to investigate the perforator anatomy for local propeller/tonearm flap closure and compare outcomes to skin graft closure. MethodsAll patients undergoing OCFFF for head and neck reconstruction from February 2022 to October 2023 were considered for the tonearm flap. Intraoperative perforator anatomy was prospectively recorded. Surgical techniques and criteria for tonearm flap reconstruction were described. A minimum 6-month follow-up was required. Outcome measures included the rate of flap success and wound complications. Results40 consecutive patients were included. The tonearm flap was not possible in 16 patients (40%) due to unfavorable perforator anatomy and 2 patients underwent primary closure. All successful tonearm flaps were eccentrically designed on a proximal lower leg perforator, located 13.5±1.99cm from the fibular head. Most proximal perforators were musculocutaneous through the soleus muscle (n=20, 90.9%), while the rest were septocutaneous (n=2, 9.1%) originating from the peroneal artery. Three patients experienced distal partial flap loss; one required an additional skin graft. Only half of the skin graft cohort (n=99, 50.8%) achieved complete skin graft take. The average skin graft loss was 34.3% and wound care was required for an average 51.6±52.8 days. ConclusionsThe study findings demonstrate that local tonearm flaps, when anatomically feasible, can be successfully performed with superior outcomes compared to skin graft closures.

Is Prompt Hyperbaric Oxygen Adjunctive Therapy Able to Reduce Mortality and Amputation in Management of Necrotizing Soft-Tissue Infection?

Background: Necrotizing soft-tissue infection (NSTI) is a rare and serious disease with high morbidity and mortality. Standard therapeutic concepts have included urgent surgical intervention, broad-spectrum antibiotic treatment, and intensive care. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is used as adjuvant therapy in some centers, but its benefits remain controversial. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted in which 98 patients with a clinical diagnosis of NSTI were treated with standard treatments plus HBOT. The clinical outcomes were wound healing, performance status, hospital length, complication rate, recurrence rate, morbidity (amputation rate), and mortality. Primary or secondary outcomes were compared between the time interval of HBOT and the clinical outcomes. Results: The average times from diagnosis of NSTI to initial HBO treatment and from initial surgery to initial HBO treatment were both significantly longer in dead patients than in surviving patients (P = 0.031; P = 0.020). These two time intervals were both significantly longer in amputated patients than in preserved patients (P = 0.031; P = 0.037). Conclusions: Using combined treatment with early surgical debridement combined with HBOT, it is possible to reduce hospital stay, intensive care unit stay, number of debridements, improve complete wound healing rate, and lower amputation and mortality rates among patients with NSTI. The early onset of HBOT soon after diagnosis, especially during critical conditions, is proved to be associated with higher survival and preservation rates.

Impact of malnutrition on postoperative outcomes in total knee arthroplasty: a comprehensive analysis

Introduction: Malnutrition has been shown to cause perioperative complications, which can be particularly detrimental following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). These complications can lead to increased morbidity, extended hospital stays, and significant financial burdens on both patients and healthcare systems. To evaluate the nutritional status and body mass index (BMI) of patients undergoing TKA and monitor them for complications immediately postoperatively, at one week, and three months after surgery. Methods: This prospective study included 88 patients who underwent TKA at government medical college Kozhikode, Kerala, India. Nutritional status was assessed using serum albumin, ferritin, haemoglobin, and BMI (body mass index) levels. Patients were followed up for three months postoperatively to identify any complications. Data analysis was conducted to determine the relationship between malnutrition and postoperative complications. Results: Of the 88 patients, 5 developed major wound complications, with 4 of these patients exhibiting hypoalbuminemia. Hypoalbuminemia was found to have a statistically significant association with major wound complications (p&lt;0.001). Malnutrition was associated with higher rates of major wound complications, increased need for postoperative blood transfusions, and longer hospital stays. Conclusion: Identifying modifiable risk factors such as malnutrition in patients undergoing TKA is crucial for reducing the risk of postoperative complications, which can otherwise lead to disastrous outcomes. Preoperative optimization of nutritional status can significantly improve surgical outcomes and reduce complications.

The Use of Subcutaneous Hemovac Drain after Open Heart Surgery with Sternotomy

Background: This study investigated the effect of subcutaneous Hemovac drain use on sternal wound complications in patients with a body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m2 undergoing open heart surgery through median sternotomy. Methods: This retrospective study included a total of 120 patients (74 males, 46 females) with a BMI ≥30 kg/m2 who underwent open heart surgery through median sternotomy between January 2021 and January 2024. The mean age was 60.36 ± 11.31 years (range, 18–80 y). After median sternotomy, a Hemovac drain was placed subcutaneously in the study group (n = 60) and in controls no Hemovac drain was placed (n = 60). Durations of hospital stay, types of surgery, sternal wound complications, and preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative data were compared between the two groups. Results: The duration of hospital stay (p = 0.018; p &lt; 0.05), the rate of sternal wound complications (p = 0.001; p &lt; 0.01), the rate of superficial sternal complications (p = 0.001; p &lt; 0.01), and the need for antibiotics in superficial infections (p = 0.001; p &lt; 0.01) were significantly lower in cases with a Hemovac drain compared to those without. Conclusion: Subcutaneous placement of a Hemovac drain after open heart surgery is a simple, easily applicable, and effective method that reduces sternal wound complications, and hospital stay in obese patients.

Perioperative Complications and In-Hospital Mortality in Paraplegic Radical Cystectomy Patients.

The aim of this study was to test for the association between paraplegia and perioperative complications as well as in-hospital mortality after radical cystectomy (RC) for non-metastatic bladder cancer. Perioperative complications and in-hospital mortality were tabulated in RC patients with or without paraplegia in the National Inpatient Sample (2000-2019). Of 25,527 RC patients, 185 (0.7%) were paraplegic. Paraplegic RC patients were younger (≤70years of age; 75 vs. 53%), more frequently female (28 vs. 19%), and more frequently harbored Charlson Comorbidity Index ≥3 (56 vs. 18%). Of paraplegic vs. non-paraplegic RC patients, 141 versus 15,112 (76 vs. 60%) experienced overall complications, 38 versus 2794 (21 vs. 11%) pulmonary complications, 36 versus 3525 (19 vs. 14%) genitourinary complications, 33 versus 3087 (18 vs. 12%) intraoperative complications, 21 versus 1035 (11 vs. 4%) infections, and 17 versus 1343 (9 vs. 5%) wound complications, while 62 versus 6267 (34 vs. 25%) received blood transfusions, 47 versus 3044 (25 vs. 12%) received critical care therapy (CCT), and intrahospital mortality was recorded in 13 versus 456 (7.0 vs. 1.8%) patients. In multivariable logistic regression models, paraplegic status independently predicted higher overall CCT use (odds ratio [OR] 2.1, p<0.001) as well as fourfold higher in-hospital mortality (p<0.001), higher infection rate (OR 2.5, p<0.001), higher blood transfusion rate (OR 1.45, p=0.009), and higher intraoperative (OR 1.56, p=0.02), wound (OR 1.89, p=0.01), and pulmonary (OR 1.72, p=0.004) complication rates. Paraplegic patients contemplating RC should be counseled about fourfold higher risk of in-hospital mortality and higher rates of other untoward effects.

Assessment of Local Complications with Preoperative versus Postoperative Radiotherapy in Patients with Soft Tissue Sarcoma in Extremities: A Randomized Comparative Clinical Trial

Abstract Background Radiotherapy is considered a cornerstone as adjuvant or neo adjuvant to surgery in extremity soft tissue sarcoma (ESTS). Wound complications are the most agonizing complication that may have an impact on patient’s functional outcome following radiotherapy. The best care for ESTS is by combining extensive surgical excision with safety margin and radiotherapy either preoperative (neoadjuvant) or postoperative. Preoperative radiotherapy allows for lower dose of radiation over smaller fields which is supposed to decrease long-term complications. However, several studies have shown that early complications which include wound dehiscence, infection, seroma and burn may be more frequent with preoperative radiotherapy than with postoperative radiotherapy. Most of these studies were retrospective. This study aims to prospectively assess and compare the early complications associated with radiotherapy in both techniques. Hypothesis Preoperative radiotherapy is not inferior to postoperative radiotherapy regarding early wound complications. Patients and Methods Between January 2021 and June 2022, we prospectively studied 22 patients and categorized them into two groups, group A (preoperative radiotherapy) and group B (postoperative radiotherapy). We included patients with extremity soft tissue sarcoma in skeletally mature patients who were randomized into two groups with follow up 9 – 12 months. Wound complications, local complications, recurrence, time for wound healing and survival rate were recorded and analysed using SPSS 25. Results 22 patients were included, 10 in group A and 12 in group B, their mean age was 46.4 years with mean follow up 9 months. The major wound complications were higher in group A (preoperative radiotherapy). in comparison with group B (postoperative radiotherapy), however, this was not statistically significant. While other local complications were higher in group B, it was also statistically insignificant. Time for wound healing was higher in group A more than group B and was statistically significant (p value = 0.011) Conclusion No increase in the wound complications rate with preoperative radiotherapy by using low fractionated doses of radiotherapy and increasing interval before surgery to six weeks, although there is increased risk of delayed wound healing time after surgery. The size and site of the tumor may increase the risk of wound complications unrelated to the type of radiotherapy.

Measurement of periarticular subcutaneous fat on CT images and adverse outcomes following total knee arthroplasty

BackgroundObesity is associated with a higher rate of wound complications following primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA). With readily available computer tomography (CT) images from robotic-assisted TKA, we analyzed measurement of fat content on preoperative CT images as a possible predictor of wound complications following primary TKA. MethodsPatients who underwent robotic-assisted TKA at one institution in 2018 were included in this retrospective cohort study. Two independent reviewers measured three SCF areas at different axial CT cuts and normalized them by dividing the area of the distal femur. These areas were distributed into 4 groups. Any wound complication that required clinical or surgical intervention was reviewed and analyzed. For further comparison, prepatellar SCF thickness ratio measured on CT scan and BMI were grouped and analyzed similarly for wound complications. We also analyzed any association of SCF measurement with secondary outcomes such as operative time, length of stay, readmission, and reoperation. ResultsOne hundred fifty patients with diagnosis of osteoarthritis, mean age of 64 years and BMI of 34.3 kg/m2 were included in this study. Ninety-one patients (61 %) were female. Normalized SCF measurements at 2 cm above the patella, mid-patella, and tibial tubercle had excellent intraclass correlation coefficient at 0.987, 0.989, and 0.989, respectively. When SCF at 2 cm above patella was analyzed, Group 1 (smallest amount of SCF) had a significantly higher wound complication rate compared with Groups 2 and 3 combined (18.9 vs 5.3 %, p = 0.036). Group 4 (largest amount of SCF) also had a significantly higher wound complication rate compared with Groups 2 and 3 combined (18.9 vs 5.3 %, p = 0.036). ConclusionsAccurate and consistent measurement of periarticular fat around the knee based on axial CT images demonstrated that moderate amount of fat is associated with better clinical outcomes following primary TKA. Our study did not find any clinical significance of gender difference in fat distribution. Therefore, more studies should be undertaken to evaluate for any clinical association of gender-specific fat distribution and to confirm our finding that a certain amount of fatty tissue is necessary for improved outcomes following TKA.

A Cost–Utility Analysis of the Use of −125 mm Hg Closed-incision Negative Pressure Therapy in Oncoplastic Breast Surgery

Background: Closed-incision negative pressure therapy (ciNPT) decreases the rate of wound complications in oncoplastic breast surgery (OBS) but at a fiscal cost. Our aim was to examine the cost-utility of ciNPT in OBS. Methods: A literature review was performed to obtain the probabilities and outcomes for the treatment of unilateral breast cancer with OBS with ciNPT versus without. Reported utility scores in the literature were used to calculate quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) for each health state. A decision analysis tree was constructed with rollback analysis to determine the more cost-effective strategy. An incremental cost–utility ratio was calculated. Sensitivity analyses were performed. Results: OBS with ciNPT is associated with a higher clinical effectiveness (QALY) of 33.43 compared to without (33.42), and relative cost increase of $667.89. The resulting incremental cost-utility ratio of $57432.93/QALY favored ciNPT. In one-way sensitivity analysis, ciNPT was the more cost-effective strategy if the cost of ciNPT was less than $1347.02 or if the probability of wound dehiscence without was greater than 8.2%. Monte Carlo analysis showed a confidence of 75.39% that surgery with ciNPT is more cost effective. Conclusion: Despite the added cost, surgery with ciNPT is cost-effective. This finding is a direct result of decreased overall wound complications with ciNPT.