Required Emergency Surgery Research Articles

EGS SO18 - Entero-enteric intussusception secondary to a capillary haemangioma of the small bowel: A case of a diagnostic conundrum

Abstract Background This is a case of a 50 year-old female who presented with acute on chronic abdominal pain, and she was intra-operatively diagnosed with entero-enteric intussusception secondary to a large small bowel tumour . The video demonstrates the findings during the diagnostic laparoscopy. The lead point appeared to be a tumour and histopathology confirmed it is a benign capillary haemangioma. The patient had a long standing history of abdominal pain that was previously investigated on multiple occasions, but without a definitive diagnosis. Method This is an interesting case of a challenging diagnosis of a rare disease. The patient has been suffering for four years with unexplained upper abdominal pain not associated with weight loss, rectal bleed, or change in bowel habit, but had occasional anaemia. The patient had a normal abdominal US, multiple CTs where she was found to have a right renal stone and an OGD that showed gastritis and positive CLO test initially. A repeat OGD and colonoscopy were negative. While the patient was awaiting further investigations for profound iron deficiency anaemia she presented with acute abdomen and required emergency surgery. Results The patient presented to ED with excruciating colicky pain for one day, one episode of melena and nausea. She was haemodynamically stable, peritonitic with increased inflammatory markers, hb 86 g/dL and lactate of 2 mmol/L. The CT abdomen and pelvis showed small bowel intussusception with possible ischemia, therefore the patient underwent an emergency operation.The laparoscopy showed small bowel intussusception and the patient underwent mini laparotomy. The intussusception was reduced, the small bowel was viable and the lead point was a large size tumour.The patient underwent small bowel resection and primary anastomosis, and made good post operative recovery. Conclusion Rare conditions are hard to diagnose. Small bowel intussusception is rare and in adults is usually linked to serious underlying pathology. Capillary haemangioma of the small bowel is very rare too. The patient's symptoms and occassional anaemia can now be explained. Although the patient went through an appropriate work up at the time, her symptoms remained unexplained to some extent or they were linked to other potential causes. Only when the anaemia became profound the patient warranted further investigations. In retrospect, capsule endoscopy would have been inevitable, however the patient became acutely unwell and required an emergency surgery.

BN SO56 - Post-ERCP clearance of bile duct stones: Should the gallbladder be left in-situ?

Abstract Background Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) has become the gold standard treatment for patients with cholelithiasis and co-existing common bile duct stones (CBSD) with the ultimate goal to prevent further biliary complications. Despite the procurement of ERCP and LC skills, there still remain a significant proportion of patients who are treated non-operatively. There has been debate on the safety of a ‘watch-and-wait’ policy post ERCP for clearance of CBDS alone. The objective of our study was to review our current practice and compare the outcomes of expectant management (EM) versus LC with an aim to evaluate the necessity of LC after ERCP. Method A retrospective review of patients who underwent ERCP for choledocholithiasis from 1st January 2017 to 31st December 2019 was performed. Exclusion criteria applied to patients with previous cholecystectomy, absence of CBDS, gallbladder/pancreatic malignancy, biliary stricture and patients lost to follow-up. Patient characteristics, details of ERCP, initial plan for EM or LC, details of LC and further changes in treatment plan were extracted from the prospectively maintained database of a single institution. Age 70 years is used as cut-off to define elderly group. Primary outcomes measured were biliary-related morbidity and mortality. Secondary outcomes included all-cause mortality, operation-related morbidity and mortality. Results 265 patients were identified, with 136 patients primarily planned for EM and 129 patients initially booked for LC. The median age of patients in the EM group was greater than LC group (80 vs 62 years). 20.6% patients in the EM group re-presented with biliary events compared to 3.9% in the LC group. The median time from first ERCP to recurrence of biliary events in the EM group was 14 months. There was no significant correlation between age and complications from LC. However, 51.4% of our EM group died during follow up with a median survival of 29.5 months. Conclusion Prophylactic cholecystectomy should be performed for patients with concomitant cholelithiasis and choledocholithiasis. A conservative approach should be reserved for the elderly population who are not ideal surgical candidates. A follow-up of up to 2 years is recommended for patients who opt for a ‘watch-and-wait’ approach. Early LC is preferrable due to the risk of recurrence of biliary events and the higher risks of surgery if patients require emergency surgery. Further study is warranted to determine the optimal timing for LC. Patients should be informed about the potential recurrence of symptoms if the waiting time to surgery is longer than expected.

Long-term Follow-up After an Initial Episode of Diverticulitis: A 13- Year Update.

For patients with recurrent diverticulitis, the trigger to proceed to elective sigmoid colectomy is unclear. Current clinical practice guidelines suggest this is an individualized decision between surgeon and patient. To assess long-term risk of diverticulitis recurrence and determine predictors of recurrent disease. Retrospective case series. Tertiary care center. Consecutive patients with CT-proven diverticulitis who presented as inpatient or outpatient between 2002-2008. Incidence of diverticulitis recurrence determined via chart review and questionnaire. Risk of recurrent diverticulitis or surgery for diverticulitis. A total of 753 patients with first-time diverticulitis were identified. Patients were 61.5 years old (SD 15.3). Median follow-up was 13.2 years (IQR 3.8-18.3). There were 486 (64.5%) patients alive at time of follow-up. During initial presentation, 29 (3.9%) required IR drainage and 37 (4.9%) required emergency surgery. Forty-three (5.7%) underwent elective surgery after initial presentation, and 77 (10.2%) underwent surgery after more than 1 episode. Of those without surgery for first episode, 353 (52.4%) experienced recurrent disease with median time to recurrence of 2.9 years (IQR 0.83-8.5 years). On multivariate analysis, female sex (HR 1.28, p = 0.04), sigmoid disease (HR 1.35, p = 0.03), smoldering disease (HR 3.17, p < 0.01), length of involved segment >5 cm (HR 1.28, p = 0.04), and maximum fat stranding diameter >1.8 cm (HR 1.29, p = 0.03) were associated with disease recurrence. Kaplan Meier estimates of freedom from recurrence were 73.1% (69.6-76.3%) at 1 year, 47.9% (44.0-51.6%) at 5 years, and 34.6% (31.0-38.2%) at 10 years following initial presentation. Retrospective design. After a single episode of diverticulitis, incidence of recurrence is more than 50% on long-term follow-up. Variables such as female sex, sigmoid disease, smoldering disease, length of involved segment greater than 5 cm, and maximum fat stranding diameter greater than 1.8 cm were associated with an increased risk of recurrence. These findings should be considered when counseling patients on decision to proceed with elective colectomy. See Video Abstract.

The anticoagulant effects of milvexian, a novel small molecule factor XIa inhibitor, are neutralized by activated prothrombin complex concentrates and recombinant factor VIIa in human plasma and whole blood in vitro

BackgroundThe development of anticoagulants that provide antithrombotic efficacy without a concomitant bleeding risk remains an unmet clinical need in thrombosis. Although direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) have a reduced incidence of major bleeding compared with warfarin, they still carry a bleeding risk, resulting in a suboptimal therapeutic index. Epidemiologic data suggest that inhibiting activated factor (F)XI may offer an improved safety profile with respect to bleeding risk compared with current-generation DOACs. Additionally, a phase II trial of milvexian in patients undergoing elective total knee replacement demonstrated robust dose-dependent efficacy with no statistically significant increase in bleeding. Nevertheless, the ability to rapidly and effectively correct FXIa inhibitor–induced anticoagulation may still be important in situations where patients experience uncontrolled bleeding or require emergency surgery. ObjectivesWe assessed the ability to normalize the anticoagulant effects of the novel small molecule FXIa inhibitor milvexian (BMS-986177/JNJ-70033093) in vitro using commercially available prohemostatic agents. MethodsMilvexian-associated anticoagulation and correction was evaluated in activated partial thromboplastin time clotting assays, thromboelastography, and kaolin-initiated thrombin generation assays. ResultsActivated prothrombin complex concentrates (PCCs) and recombinant factor (rF)VIIa corrected the anticoagulant effects of milvexian in activated partial thromboplastin time clotting assays, thromboelastography, and kaolin-initiated thrombin generation assays. In contrast, other agents including PCCs, rFIX, and rFVIII demonstrated either modest or no correction of milvexian-associated anticoagulation. ConclusionThis study demonstrated that currently available activated PCCs and rFVIIa normalize anticoagulation induced by milvexian in vitro. The clinical utility of these agents remains to be established.

A Decade of Follow-Up to Assess the Risk of Recurrence and Surgery after a First Episode of Uncomplicated Left-Sided Diverticulitis

Background and aims: Acute uncomplicated diverticulitis (UD) of the left colon is common and mostly benign. Due to controversy over the definition of UD and the lack of adequate follow-up in most studies, good quality data to predict long-term outcomes after a first episode of UD are missing. The aim of this study was to assess the long-term risk for adverse outcomes after a first episode of UD. Methods: All consecutive patients with a CT-scan-documented first episode of acute UD (staged “uncomplicated” according to ESCP guidelines and/or modified Hinchey stages 0-1a, and/or CDD 1-2a) between January 2010 and June 2013 were included in the study. CT scans and clinical records were retrospectively reviewed. The primary endpoint was overall recurrence; the secondary endpoint was surgery for diverticular disease. Results: One hundred and five patients were included in the study with a median follow-up of 116.4 (4.9–154.7) months. Of these, 51 (48.5%) patients had a recurrence, 11 (10.4%) had 4 or more episodes. Twenty-one (20%) patients underwent sigmoidectomy, all in an elective setting, mostly due to multiple recurrent episodes. Male gender was the only independent risk factor for surgery (OR (95%CI): 0.301 (0.109–0.834), p = 0.021). Classification systems did not predict recurrence, but stage CDD 1a was protective for surgery (OR (95%CI): 0.201 (0.042–0.957), p = 0.044). Conclusions: After a decade of follow-up, almost half the patients experienced at least one recurrent episode after UD, higher than previously thought. None of those patients required emergency surgery, but one in five patients, mostly men, underwent elective sigmoidectomy for multiple recurrent episodes.

Incidence and risk factors of parasitic myoma after laparoscopic myomectomy using uncontained power morcellation: Retrospective analysis of 87 patients who had a subsequent second laparoscopic surgery.

Studies on parasitic myomas after laparoscopic morcellation are mainly limited to case reports, and the incidence and risk factors have not yet been well-understood. We aimed to clarify the actual incidence and risk factors of parasitic myoma after laparoscopic myomectomy using uncontained power morcellation by reviewing cases with subsequent laparoscopic surgery. This retrospective study included 87 patients who had laparoscopic myomectomy using uncontained power morcellation, followed by subsequent second laparoscopic surgery for gynecological disease between 2008 and 2021. First, the incidence and characteristics of parasitic myomas detected at the second laparoscopic surgery were reviewed. Second, patients were stratified according to the presence of parasitic myoma (PM+ and PM- groups), and risk factors were analyzed by comparing the background, intraoperative findings, and clinical course after laparoscopic myomectomy. Of the 87 patients, parasitic myomas were detected in 16 (18.4%). Twelve patients (75.0%) were asymptomatic and diagnosed incidentally during surgery. Two patients presented with acute abdomen requiring emergency surgery. Comparing the PM+ and PM- groups, the total weight of the enucleated myomas and the diameter of the largest myoma at the initial laparoscopic myomectomy were significantly greater in the PM+ group. Other factors, including age and number of enucleated myomas did not differ between the groups. The actual incidence of parasitic myoma after laparoscopic myomectomy using uncontained power morcellation is higher than that previously reported. In laparoscopic power morcellation, large myomas increase the risk of developing parasitic myoma, and a containment bag system is expected to minimize this complication.

Impacts of participation in surgical clinical trial on safety and survival outcomes in patients with right-sided colon cancer

Objective: To explore the impact on safety and prognosis in patients with right-sided colon cancer participating in surgical clinical research. Methods: This retrospective cohort study utilized data from a randomized controlled trial (RELARC study) conducted by the colorectal surgery group at Peking Union Medical College Hospital in which laparoscopic complete mesocolic excision (CME) was compared with D2 radical resection for the management of right-sided colon cancer. The eligibility criteria were age 18-75 years, biopsy-proven colon adenocarcinoma, tumor located between the cecum and right 1/3 of the transverse colon, enhanced chest, abdomen, and pelvic CT scans suggesting tumor stage T2-T4N0M0 or TanyN+ M0, and having undergone radical surgical treatment from January 2016 to December 2019. Exclusion factors included multiple primary colorectal cancers, preoperative stage T1N0 or enlarged central lymph nodes, tumor involving surrounding organs requiring their resection, definite distant metastasis or otherwise unable to undergo R0 resection, history of any other malignant tumors within previous 5 years, intestinal obstruction, perforation, or gastrointestinal bleeding requiring emergency surgery, and assessed as unsuitable for laparoscopic surgery. Patients who had participated in the RELARC study were included in the RELARC group, whereas those who met the inclusion criteria but refused to participate in the RELAEC study were included in the control group. The main indicators studied were the patient's baseline data, surgery and perioperative conditions, pathological characteristics, adjuvant treatment, and postoperative follow-up (including average frequency of follow-up within the first 3 years) and survival (including 3-year disease-free survival rate (DFS) and 3-year overall survival rate (OS). Differences in these indicators between the RELARC and control groups were compared. Results: The study cohort comprised 290 patients, 173 in the RELARC group (RELARC-CME group, 82; RELARC-D2 group, 91) and 117 in the control group (CME control group, 72; D2 control group, 45). There was a significantly higher proportion of overweight patients (BMI ≥24 kg/m2) in the RELARC-CME than in the CME control group (67.1% [55/82] vs. 33.3% [24/72], χ2=17.469, P<0.001). There were no other statistically significant differences in baseline characteristics (all P>0.05). No significant disparities were found between the CME and D2 groups in terms of operation duration, intraoperative blood loss, rate of conversion to open surgery, combined organ resection, intraoperative blood transfusion, or intraoperative complications (all P>0.05). There was a trend toward Clavien-Dindo grade II or higher postoperative complications in the RELARC-CME group (24.4% [20/82]) than in the CME control group (18.1% [13/72]); however, this difference was not statistically significant (χ2=0.914, P=0.339). Similarly, the difference in this rate did not differ significantly between the RELARC-D2 group (25.3% [23/91]) and D2 control group (24.4% [11/45], χ2=0.011, P=0.916). The median duration of postoperative follow-up was significantly shorter in the RELARC groups than in the corresponding control groups. Specifically, the median duration of follow-up was 4.5 (4.5, 4.5) months in the RELARC-CME and 7.2 (6.0, 9.0) months in the CME control group (Z=-10.608, P<0.001). Similarly, the median duration of follow-up was 4.5 (4.5, 4.5) months in the RELARC-D2 group as opposed to 8.3 (6.6, 9.0) months in the D2 control group (Z=-10.595, P<0.001). The 3-year DFS rate (91.5%) and OS rate (96.3%) tended to be higher in the RELARC-CME group than in the CME control group (84.7% and 90.3%, respectively). The 3-year DFS rate (87.9%) and OS rate (96.7%) tended to be higher in the RELARC-D2 group than in the D2 control group (81.8% and 88.6%, respectively); however, these differences were not statistically significant (all P>0.05). Subgroup analysis according to pathological stage revealed that patients in the RELARC-D2 group with pN0 stage achieved a significantly superior 3-year OS rate than did those in the D2 control group (100% vs. 88.9%, P=0.008). We identified no statistically significant differences in survival rates between the remaining subgroups (all P>0.05). Conclusions: A high-quality surgical clinical trial with close follow-up can achieve perioperative safety and a trend toward improved survival outcomes.

Risk factors for proximal and distal aortic events after type A acute aortic dissection.

Type A acute aortic dissection (TAAAD) is a life-threatening condition often requiring emergency surgery, with approximately 30% of patients needing reoperation. This study aimed to identify predictors of long-term aortic events from early postoperative computed tomography (CT) examinations. A total of 336 cases underwent TAAAD surgery at two institutions between 2002 and 2018. Of these, 302 patients received CT examinations immediately after initial TAAAD surgery. Predictors of aortic events were evaluated from these early postoperative CT exams. Aortic events were defined as any events involving aortic-related death, open surgery, reoperation, endovascular stenting, or thoracic aorta diameter enlargement to ≥ 55mm. Excluding 34 in-hospital deaths (10.1%; 34/336), the 1-, 5-, and 10-year actuarial survival rates after primary TAAAD surgery were 98.2%, 88.6%, and 81.7%, respectively. Over a mean follow-up period of 7.4 ± 5.1years, 67 aortic events (proximal: 19, distal: 45, both: 3) were observed. Freedom from proximal aortic events was 98.6%, 93.9%, and 85.2% at 1, 5, and 10years, respectively. Proximal anastomosis new entry was identified as a significant risk factor for aortic events, with a 92% vs. 42% incidence at 10years (p < 0.001). Freedom from distal aortic events was 99.6%, 84.5%, and 67.2% at 1, 5, and 10years, respectively. A false/true area ratio greater than 1 and distal anastomosis new entry were significant risk factors for aortic events (low-risk group: 83.3% vs. high-risk group: 42.3% at 10years, p < 0.001). Detailed analysis of early postoperative CT scans following primary TAAAD surgery may help identify predictors of subsequent aortic events, potentially improving long-term patient management and outcomes.

FP5.9 - Improving the pre-operative administration of medications for patients requiring emergency surgery who are ‘nil-by-mouth’ (NBM)

Abstract The statement ‘nil-by-mouth’ can be misleading with regards to drug administration. Inappropriate pre-operative drug omission or administration can lead to poor patient outcomes, experiences and increased hospital stays. The aim of this quality improvement project was to reduce the number of patients who had regular medications incorrectly administered, omitted or experienced pre-operative medication-related complications. Two interventions were delivered targeted at educating junior doctors and nursing colleagues. Electronic records of general surgical patients requiring emergency surgery in a district general hospital were reviewed. Data on incorrect medication omission, administration and medication-related perioperative complications was retrospectively collected. The percentage of patients who had medications incorrectly administered was 11% pre-intervention, 11% after intervention 1, and 6% after intervention 2. There was a reduction in the number of medications incorrectly omitted from 57% pre-intervention, to 40% after intervention 1 and 0% after intervention 2. One peri-operative medication-linked complication was recorded prior to the interventions which fell to zero cases following both interventions. A sustained reduction in incorrect drug omission and medication-related perioperative complications has been shown following interventions 1 and 2 together, highlighting the importance of involving all members of the multidisciplinary team when aiming to improve how medications are handled preoperatively. No statistically significant change was made to the incorrect administration of medications pre-operatively. This is likely a reflection on the prescribing clinicians within the on-call team who rotate twice weekly. Other interventions targeting a consistent member or process within the on-call team should be explored to ensure follow-through going forward.

Prothrombin complex concentrate for emergency surgery in patients on oral Xa-inhibitors

BackgroundIt is uncertain whether prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC) improves hemostasis in patients on treatment with oral factor Xa-inhibitors (XaI) who require emergency surgery. ObjectivesTo evaluate whether, in patients with therapeutic levels of oral XaI, preoperative PCC prevents excessive bleeding during and after emergency surgery and is not associated with thrombotic complications. MethodsWe conducted a prospective cohort study wherein a fixed 2000 IU dose of 4-factor PCC was given to patients taking oral XaI with plasma XaI levels of at least 75 ng/mL before the emergency surgery with an expected blood loss of at least 50 mL. Patients were followed for 30 days. The primary efficacy outcome was the incidence of normal or mildly abnormal surgical hemostasis, as assessed by the surgeon; primary safety outcome was the incidence of thromboembolic events within 7 days. ResultsWe included 20 patients, of which 50% were female, on apixaban (75%) or rivaroxaban (25%) with median XaI level of 128 ng/mL (range, 77-497 ng/mL). The median duration of surgery was 2 hours 42 minutes (range, 15 minutes to 8 hours 17 minutes). Normal or mildly abnormal hemostasis was observed in 16 patients (80%); 2 patients had moderately abnormal and 2 had severely abnormal hemostasis, 1 each of those was considered due to local or technical factors. There were 4 deaths (20%) secondary to underlying disease and 1 incidental pulmonary embolism in a patient with cancer. ConclusionA fixed dose of PCC appears to control hemostasis in patients with therapeutic plasma levels of apixaban or rivaroxaban requiring emergency surgery.

Systemic methotrexate (MTX) in early pregnancy: a retrospective study of a tertiary maternity hospital

BackgroundMethotrexate (MTX) is used in clinical practice as a medical treatment option in patients with early pregnancy complications like ectopic pregnancy.AimsTo review systemic MTX therapy use in the first trimester of pregnancy in our hospital and to examine subsequent clinical outcomes.MethodsRetrospective review of all women treated with systemic MTX in early pregnancy identified from electronic prescription records from 1 January 2018 to 31 December 2020 at Cork University Maternity Hospital, Ireland. Relevant data was transcribed from electronic health records.ResultsIndications for treatment were tubal ectopic pregnancy (70%, n = 51), persistent pregnancy of unknown location (22%, n = 16) and caesarean scar pregnancy (7%, n = 5). Treatment was successful in 88% (n = 44) of tubal ectopic pregnancies with 73% (n = 37) and 14% (n = 7) of women receiving a single dose and repeated doses, respectively. Only 8% (n = 4) of tubal ectopic pregnancies required emergency surgery for subsequent tubal rupture. In 93% (n = 15) of cases of persistent pregnancy of unknown location, treatment was successful with one patient requiring uterine evacuation. Women with caesarean scar pregnancy were treated with combined MTX and uterine evacuation without complication.ConclusionsThe efficacy of medical treatment with systemic MTX for confirmed tubal ectopic pregnancy in our hospital is in line with national and international standards. Careful consideration should be given to treating caesarean scar pregnancy and persistent pregnancy of unknown location with systemic MTX. Systemic MTX use guided by clinicians specialised in early pregnancy complications and safe medication practices may improve treatment success and reduce adverse events.

Transabdominal preperitoneal laparoscopic method for treatment of emergency groin hernias in adult patients

Background. Emergency groin hernia is an understudied research field despite its severity requiring emergency surgery associated with high postoperative morbidity and mortality rates. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy, critical technical elements, and management of problems associated with the transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) laparoscopic technique for adult patients in need of an emergency groin hernia repair. Methods. We analyzed adult patients who were treated between January 2021 and March 2023 for emergency groin hernia repair. These patients' preoperative data were examined. Results. The surgery was successfully performed on all 21 patients. The duration of the surgery was 71.6±19.7 minutes (range, 45–120 minutes). The hospitalization time was 3.2±2.2 days (range, 2–5 days). Conclusions. The TAPP approach is a secure and efficient method for performing emergency groin hernia repair in adults due to its ability to evaluate hernia content and reduce the incidence of incisional infection.

A deep learning-powered diagnostic model for acute pancreatitis

BackgroundAcute pancreatitis is one of the most common diseases requiring emergency surgery. Rapid and accurate recognition of acute pancreatitis can help improve clinical outcomes. This study aimed to develop a deep learning-powered diagnostic model for acute pancreatitis.Materials and methodsIn this investigation, we enrolled a cohort of 190 patients with acute pancreatitis who were admitted to Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital between January 2020 and December 2021. Abdominal computed tomography (CT) scans were obtained from both patients with acute pancreatitis and healthy individuals. Our model was constructed using two modules: (1) the acute pancreatitis classifier module; (2) the pancreatitis lesion segmentation module. Each model’s performance was assessed based on precision, recall rate, F1-score, Area Under the Curve (AUC), loss rate, frequency-weighted accuracy (fwavacc), and Mean Intersection over Union (MIOU).ResultsUpon admission, significant variations were observed between patients with mild and severe acute pancreatitis in inflammatory indexes, liver, and kidney function indicators, as well as coagulation parameters. The acute pancreatitis classifier module exhibited commendable diagnostic efficacy, showing an impressive AUC of 0.993 (95%CI: 0.978–0.999) in the test set (comprising healthy examination patients vs. those with acute pancreatitis, P < 0.001) and an AUC of 0.850 (95%CI: 0.790–0.898) in the external validation set (healthy examination patients vs. patients with acute pancreatitis, P < 0.001). Furthermore, the acute pancreatitis lesion segmentation module demonstrated exceptional performance in the validation set. For pancreas segmentation, peripancreatic inflammatory exudation, peripancreatic effusion, and peripancreatic abscess necrosis, the MIOU values were 86.02 (84.52, 87.20), 61.81 (56.25, 64.83), 57.73 (49.90, 68.23), and 66.36 (55.08, 72.12), respectively. These findings underscore the robustness and reliability of the developed models in accurately characterizing and assessing acute pancreatitis.ConclusionThe diagnostic model for acute pancreatitis, driven by deep learning, exhibits excellent efficacy in accurately evaluating the severity of the condition.Trial RegistrationThis is a retrospective study.

Necrotizing Enterocolitis-Associated Acute Kidney Injury-Transforming the Paradigm.

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is one of the most common conditions requiring emergency surgery in the neonatal intensive care unit and is associated with a septic shock-like state contributing to multiorgan dysfunction. NEC affects 6 to 10% of very low-birth-weight infants and remains a leading cause of death. The occurrence of severe acute kidney injury (AKI) following surgical NEC is a harbinger of multiple morbidities. This review presents current evidence about the clinical impact of NEC-associated AKI on the clinical outcomes. Studies evaluating nephroprotective strategies to prevent AKI and its consequences are greatly needed to improve the postoperative recovery and clinical outcomes in neonates with NEC. Future observational studies and clinical trials in preterm infants with NEC prioritize measuring short-term (AKI) and longer term (chronic kidney disease) kidney outcomes. KEY POINTS: · Severe AKI is common following surgical NEC.. · Severe AKI following NEC is associated with poor clinical outcomes.. · Studies evaluating nephroprotective strategies to prevent AKI and its consequences are needed.. IMPACT: · Severe AKI (stage 2 and 3) occurs in 32.6% of neonates after NEC diagnosis and in 58.7% following surgical NEC diagnosis.. · NEC-associated AKI is associated with severe postoperative course, moderate-to-severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia, surgical complications, brain injury, and longer hospital stay in preterm infants.. · Severity of NEC-associated AKI can be utilized by bedside providers for the prognostication of clinical outcomes in preterm infants..

Late-onset lethal complication of non-surgically managed massive gastric conduit necrosis after esophagectomy: a case report

BackgroundGastric conduit necrosis (GCN) after esophagectomy is a serious complication that can prove fatal. Herein, we report a rare case of GCN with a severe course that improved with conservative treatment.Case presentationWe present the case of a 78-year-old male patient who underwent an Ivor Lewis esophagectomy and developed a massive GCN. The patient was critically ill in the initial phase but recovered quickly; he also had a ruptured gallbladder and a bleeding jejunal ulcer. On the 22nd postoperative day, massive GCN was revealed on endoscopy. Considering the recovery course, careful observation with a decompressing nasal gastric tube was the treatment of choice. The GCN was managed successfully, having been completely replaced by fine mucosa within 9 months postoperatively. The patient completed his follow-up visit 5 years after surgery without any evident disease recurrence. Five and a half years after the surgery, the patient presented with progressive weakness and deterioration of renal function. Gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed a large ulcer at the anastomotic site. Three months later, computed tomography revealed a markedly thin esophageal wall, accompanied by adjacent lung consolidation. An esophagopulmonary fistula was diagnosed; surgery was not considered, owing to the patient’s age and markedly deteriorating performance status. He died 2013 days after the diagnosis.ConclusionsMassive GCN after esophagectomy often requires emergency surgery to remove the necrotic conduit. However, this report suggests that a conservative approach can save lives and preserve the gastric conduit in these cases, thereby augmenting the quality of life.

Identification of severely injured children at very low risk of emergent surgery: A national trauma registry study

ObjectiveThe number of pediatric trauma patients requiring surgical interventions has been steadily decreasing allowing for a judicious approach to immediately available resources. This study aimed to derive and validate a prediction rule that reliably identifies injured children who are at very low risk for requiring emergency surgery upon emergency department (ED) arrival. MethodsA retrospective cohort study of data included in the Israeli National Trauma Registry from January 1, 2011, through December 31, 2020, was conducted. We included children aged 0–14 years who presented to EDs from the scene of injury and were hospitalized. We excluded patients transferred between facilities or with isolated burns. The primary outcome was emergency operative intervention (EOI) performed within one hour of ED arrival. We tested mechanism, GCS, heart rate, and blood pressure as candidate predictors. We then randomized patients to two cohorts, derived and internally validated a prediction rule. ResultsDuring the study period, 83,859 children met enrollment criteria. The median age was 6 years (IQR 2–10) and 56,867 (67.8 %) were male; 75,450 (90.0 %) sustained blunt trauma. One hundred sixty-nine (0.20 %) children underwent EOI. In the derivation and validation cohorts, 34,138 (81.4 %) and 34,271 (81.7 %) patients, were classified as low risk based on blunt trauma mechanism, normal GCS (15), and low-risk heart rate (according to age). Of those, 8 (0.02 %) and 13 (0.04 %) required an EOI, respectively. In the validation cohort, the prediction rule for EOI had a sensitivity of 84 % (95 % CI 75–91), a specificity of 82 % (95 % CI 81–82), and a negative predictive value of 99.96 % (95 % CI 99.94–99.98). Among children with an Injury Severity Score>15, the sensitivity was 87 % (95 % CI 77–94), the specificity of 57 % (95 % CI 54–59), and the negative predictive value was 98.97 % (95 % CI 98.13–99.44). ConclusionsA limited set of physiologic parameters, readily available at hospital admission can effectively identify injured children at very low risk for emergent surgery. For these children, immediate deployment of surgical resources may not be necessary.

Effectiveness of a specific trauma training on war-related truncal injury management: A pre-post study

BackgroundNon-Compressible Torso Hemorrhage (NCTH) is the leading cause of preventable death in combat casualty care. To enhance the French military surgeons' preparedness, the French Military Health Service designed the Advanced Course for Deployment Surgery (ACDS) in 2008. This study evaluates behavioral changes in war surgery practice since its implementation. MethodsData were extracted from the OPEX® registry, which recorded all surgical activity during deployment from 2003 to 2021. All patients treated in French Role 2 or 3 Medical Treatment Facilities (MTFs) deployed in Afghanistan, Mali, or Chad requiring emergency surgery for NCTH were included. The mechanism of injury, severity, and surgical procedures were noted. Surgical care produced before (Control group) and after the implementation of the ACDS course (ACDS group) were compared. ResultsWe included 189 trauma patients; 99 in the ACDS group and 90 in the Control group. Most injuries were combat-related (88 % of the ACDS and 82 % of the Control group). The ACDS group had more polytrauma (42% vs. 27 %; p= 0.034) and more e-FAST detailed patients (35% vs. 21 %; p= 0.044). Basics in surgical trauma care were similar between both groups, with a tendency in the ACDS group toward less digestive diversion (n= 6 [6 %] vs. n= 12 [13 %]; p= 0.128), more temporary closure with abdominal packing (n= 17 [17 %] vs. n= 10 [11 %]; p= 0.327), and less re-operation for bleeding (n= 0 [0 %] vs. n= 5 [6 %]; p= 0.046). ConclusionThe French model of war trauma course succeeded in keeping specialized surgeons aware of the basics of damage control surgery. The main improvements were better use of preoperative imaging and better management of seriously injured patients.

Understanding the Spectrum of Flood Syndrome: A Case Series.

Flood syndrome refers to ruptured umbilical hernias in patients with chronic ascites with underlying liver cirrhosis. These ruptures may introduce infection into the abdomen and hence require emergency surgery. However, these patients are at high risk during these procedures owing to coagulopathy, hypotension and electrolyte imbalances. In our series, we describe six patients who presented with varying degrees of severity and were treated with a standardised protocol of primary anatomic repair and drain placement. Furthermore, we assessed the Child-Turcotte-Pugh(CTP) and Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) scores in these patients and correlated them to postoperative outcomes. This surgical technique has a good outcome in patients whose CTP and MELD scores predict a safe postoperative period.

Impact of preoperative respiratory distress on outcomes of slide tracheoplasty.

Children with congenital tracheal stenosis born in the developing world face a high risk of mortality due to limited access to proper treatment. Patients who required preoperative respiratory support were suspected to have poor survival after slide tracheoplasty; however, this was not clearly demonstrated in the previous studies. This study aims to investigate the impact of preoperative respiratory conditions on outcomes of slide tracheoplasty. From 2016 to 2022, children who underwent slide tracheoplasty were retrospectively reviewed. Patients with respiratory distress requiring emergency operations (group A) were compared with patients in stable condition who were scheduled for surgery (group B). Perioperative results revealed that group A (n = 43) had a longer bypass time (P < 0.001), operation time (P = 0.01), postoperative ventilation time (P < 0.001) and length of intensive care unit stay (P = 0.00125) than group B (n = 60). The early mortality rate was 7.8%, and the actuarial 5-year survival rate was 85.3%. The cumulative incidence test revealed that group A was highly significant for overall mortality [sudistribution (SHR) 4.5; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.23-16.4; P = 0.023]. Risk factors for overall mortality were prolonged postoperative ventilation time (hazard ratio 3.86; 95% CI 1.20-12.48; P = 0.024), bronchial stenosis (hazard ratio 5.77; 95% CI 1.72-19.31; P = 0.004), and preoperative tracheal mucositis (hazard ratio 5.67; 95% CI 1.51-21.31; P = 0.01). Four patients needed reintervention during a follow-up of 28.4 months (interquartile range 15.3-47.3). Preoperative respiratory distress negatively affected the outcomes of patients who required slide tracheoplasty. Therefore, early detection of congenital tracheal stenosis and aggressive slide tracheoplasty are crucial and obligatory to enhance long-term survival in this lethal congenital airway disease.

Adjuvant chemotherapy in clinical local advanced CRC following preoperational therapies and pT0-3N0M0 diagnosis (CANWATCH).

TPS3645 Background: Adjuvant chemotherapy is often deemed unnecessary in pathological stage II colorectal cancer (CRC) following initial surgery without high-risk factors for recurrence. However, the efficacy of adjuvant chemotherapy for pT1-3N0M0 CRC following preoperative chemotherapy or chemoradiotherapy remains uncertain. Some cases of clinical locally advanced CRC (cTxN1-2M0), which are down-staged to pT0-3N0M0 after preoperative chemotherapy or chemoradiotherapy, may not truly require adjuvant chemotherapy due to the down-staging effects of preoperative treatments or false-positive imaging diagnosis of lymph nodes. Methods: CANWATCH is a multicenter, open-label, randomized, phase III study with a parallel design conducted in China. Patients were randomly assigned (1:1) to the wait-and-watch group or the adjuvant chemotherapy group. Enrollment and random assignment were performed using a computerized randomization management system. Patients in the wait-and-watch group did not receive adjuvant chemotherapy but were followed up periodically, while patients in the adjuvant chemotherapy group continued to receive adjuvant chemotherapy based on 5-FU or 5-FU analogues (mFOLFOX6 or Capeox). This study is the first prospective randomized controlled study to assess the necessity of adjuvant chemotherapy for patients with locally advanced CRC who received neoadjuvant therapy and achieved a down-staging to pT0-3N0M0. The study aims to provide precise clinical evidence for individualized precision treatment in locally advanced CRC patients. Key inclusion criteria included preoperative clinical tumor stage III (cTxN1-2M0) CRC, pathologically confirmed CRC adenocarcinoma by endoscopic biopsy, postoperative pathological stage T0-3N0M0 without high-risk factors for recurrence, and patient ability to understand and sign written informed consent. Main exclusion criteria were a history of other malignant tumors, complications requiring emergency surgery (occlusion, sub-occlusion, massive hemorrhage, and abscesses), colorectal tumor extension toward the abdominal wall and/or adjacent organs preventing immediate R0 resection of liver metastases, non-resectable lymph node metastasis, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grading ≥ IV, and/or Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) score ≥ 2. A total of 650 patients are planned to be enrolled in this study, and 301 patients have been enrolled as of February 6, 2024. The study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03748485) and is ongoing. Clinical trial information: NCT03748485 .