Significant Practice Variation Research Articles

From data to practice: brain meningioma treatment in elderly patients – a survey of the Italian Society of Neurosurgery (SINch®) and systematic review and meta-analysis

The management of meningioma in elderly patients (MEP) presents a complex and evolving challenge. Data available offer conflicting information on treatment options and complications. This survey aimed to examine the current approach to MEP, comparing the national profile to data in the current literature. A survey addressing the treatments options and management of meningioma in elderly was designed on behalf of SINch® (Società Italiana di Neurochirurgia) and sent via email to all Chiefs of Neurosurgical Departments. The survey remained open for responses from May 5th, 2022, until November 21st, 2022. A search of the literature published between January 2000 and March 2023, in accordance to PRISMA guidelines, was included. A total of 51 Neurosurgical centers participated in the survey. The caseload profile of each center influences the choice of treatment selection (Stereotactic Radiosurgery versus open surgery) (p = 0.01) and the consolidated practice of discussing cases within a multidisciplinary group (p = 0.02). The pooled meta-analysis demonstrated a significant increased risk in the elderly group for permanent deficits (p < 0.00001), postoperative infections (p = 0.0004) and hemorrhage (p = 0.0001), perioperative mortality (p < 0.00001), and medical complications (p < 0.00001) as compared to the young population. This study presents the initial comprehensive analysis of the existing trends in the surgical management of MEP in Italy. The significant variation in practices primarily stems from the absence of standardized guidelines. While most centers have adopted an integrated approach, there is a need to promote a multidisciplinary care model. Prospective studies are needed to gather robust evidence in this clinical setting.

Diagnosis and management of selective fetal growth restriction in monochorionic twin pregnancies: A cross-sectional international survey.

To identify current practices in the management of selective fetal growth restriction (sFGR) in monochorionic diamniotic (MCDA) twin pregnancies. Cross-sectional survey. International. Clinicians involved in the management of MCDA twin pregnancies with sFGR. A structured, self-administered survey. Clinical practices and attitudes to diagnostic criteria and management strategies. Overall, 62.8% (113/180) of clinicians completed the survey; of which, 66.4% (75/113) of the respondents reported that they would use an estimated fetal weight (EFW) of <10th centile for the smaller twin and an inter-twin EFW discordance of >25% for the diagnosis of sFGR. For early-onset type I sFGR, 79.8% (75/94) of respondents expressed that expectant management would be their routine practice. On the other hand, for early-onset type II and type III sFGR, 19.3% (17/88) and 35.7% (30/84) of respondents would manage these pregnancies expectantly, whereas 71.6% (63/88) and 57.1% (48/84) would refer these pregnancies to a fetal intervention centre or would offer fetal intervention for type II and type III cases, respectively. Moreover, 39.0% (16/41) of the respondents would consider fetoscopic laser surgery (FLS) for early-onset type I sFGR, whereas 41.5% (17/41) would offer either FLS or selective feticide, and 12.2% (5/41) would exclusively offer selective feticide. For early-onset type II and type III sFGR cases, 25.9% (21/81) and 31.4% (22/70) would exclusively offer FLS, respectively, whereas 33.3% (27/81) and 32.9% (23/70) would exclusively offer selective feticide. There is significant variation in clinician practices and attitudes towards the management of early-onset sFGR in MCDA twin pregnancies, especially for type II and type III cases, highlighting the need for high-level evidence to guide management.

THE FRACTURE ANKLE IMPLANT REVIEW (FAIR) STUDY: A NATIONAL MULTICENTRE RETROSPECTIVE REVIEW OF IMPLANTS, FIXATION METHODS, AND OUTCOMES IN FIBULA FIXATION IN ANKLE FRACTURES

BackgroundIn fixation of the fibula in ankle fractures, AO advocate using a lag screw and one-third tubular neutralisation plate for simple patterns. Where a lag screw cannot be placed, bridging fixation is required. A local pilot service evaluation previously identified variance in use of locking plates in all patterns with significant cost implications. The FAIR study aimed to evaluate current practice and implant use across the United Kingdom (UK) and review outcomes and complication rates between different fibula fixation methods.MethodThe study was supported by CORNET, the North East trainee research collaborative, and BOTA. Data was collected using REDCap from 22 centres in the UK retrospectively for a one-year period between 1st January 2019 and 31st December 2019 on injury mechanism, fracture characteristics, comorbidities, fixation and complications. Follow-up data was collected to at least two-years from the time surgery.Results1448 ankle fractures which involved fixation of the fibula were recorded; one-third tubular plate was used in 866 (59.8%) cases, a locking plate in 463 (32.0%) cases and other methods in 119 (8.2%) cases. There was significant difference between centres (p&lt;0.001) in implant type used. Other factors associated with implant type were age, diabetes, osteoporosis, open fractures, fracture pattern and the presence of comminution. Incidence of lateral wound breakdown was higher in locking plates than one-third tubular plates (p&lt;0.05). There was no significant difference in infection, non-union, fixation failure or removal of metalware.ConclusionThere is significant variation in practice in the UK in implant use for fixation of the fibula in ankle fractures. Potentially unnecessary use of locking plates, where a one-third tubular shows equivalent outcomes, incurs additional cost and may increase the risk of lateral wound breakdown. We would encourage surgeons with high locking plate usage to evaluate their own unit's practice against this data.

A systematic review of DDH screening practices in the UK

Background: The United Kingdom (UK) currently employs a selective screening system for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). Despite this, late presentation rates remain high. The aim of this study was to systematically review the available literature to gain an understanding of screening practices throughout the UK. Methods: A systematic review was conducted. Studies reporting DDH screening methods from the UK were included. The primary outcome measure was the method of ultrasound and clinical screening. Secondary outcomes were the treatment rate and late presentation rate. A narrative analysis was undertaken, as meta-analysis was felt to be inappropriate due to the differences between included studies. Results: Nine studies were eligible and included. There was significant variability in practice, with a variety of ultrasound techniques being used and a variety of staff members performing clinical screening. Treatment rate ranged from 16.4/1,000 to 0.8/1,000. Late presentation rate ranged from 1.28/1,000 to 0.27/1,000. Discussion: In spite of a national consensus statement, there is no standardised approach to clinical or ultrasound screening in the UK. A variety of different methods are used, which may explain the persistently high late presentation rate. A national system of quality control and a standardised screening process is recommended, with specialised training in the Graf method of ultrasound.

The Management of Elevated Blood Pressure in the Acute Care Setting: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association.

Over the past 3 decades, a substantial body of high-quality evidence has guided the diagnosis and management of elevated blood pressure (BP) in the outpatient setting. In contrast, there is a lack of comparable evidence for guiding the management of elevated BP in the acute care setting, resulting in significant practice variation. Throughout this scientific statement, we use the terms acute care and inpatient to refer to care received in the emergency department and after admission to the hospital. Elevated inpatient BP is common and can manifest either as asymptomatic or with signs of new or worsening target-organ damage, a condition referred to as hypertensive emergency. Hypertensive emergency involves acute target-organ damage and should be treated swiftly, usually with intravenous antihypertensive medications, in a closely monitored setting. However, the risk-benefit ratio of initiating or intensifying antihypertensive medications for asymptomatic elevated inpatient BP is less clear. Despite this ambiguity, clinicians prescribe oral or intravenous antihypertensive medications in approximately one-third of cases of asymptomatic elevated inpatient BP. Recent observational studies have suggested potential harms associated with treating asymptomatic elevated inpatient BP, which brings current practice into question. Despite the ubiquity of elevated inpatient BPs, few position papers, guidelines, or consensus statements have focused on improving BP management in the acute care setting. Therefore, this scientific statement aims to synthesize the available evidence, provide suggestions for best practice based on the available evidence, identify evidence-based gaps in managing elevated inpatient BP (asymptomatic and hypertensive emergency), and highlight areas requiring further research.

Is mechanical bowel preparation necessary to reduce surgical site infection following colon surgery? Protocol for a multicentre Canadian randomized controlled trial.

There is significant practice variation with respect to the use of bowel preparation to reduce surgical site infection (SSI) following colon surgery. Although intravenous antibiotics + mechanical bowel preparation + oral antibiotics (IVA + MBP + OA) has been shown to be superior to IVA + MBP and IVA, there are insufficient high-quality data from randomized controlled trails (RCTs) that directly compare these options. This is an important question, because if IVA + OA has similar effectiveness to IVA + MBP + OA, mechanical bowel preparation can be safely omitted, and the associated side effects avoided. The aim of this work is to compare rates of SSI following IVA + OA + MBP (MBP) versus IVA + OA (OA) for elective colon surgery. This is a multicentre, parallel, two-arm, noninferiority RCT comparing IVA + OA + MBP versus IVA + OA. The primary outcome is the overall rate of SSI 30 days following surgery. Secondary outcomes are length of stay and 30-day emergency room visit and readmission rates. The planned sample size is 1062 subjects with four participating high-volume centres. Overall SSI rates 30 days following surgery between the treatment groups will be compared using a general linear model. Secondary outcomes will be analysed with linear regression for continuous outcomes, logistic regression for binary outcomes and modified Poisson regression for count data. It is expected that IVA + OA will work similarly to IVA + MBP + OA and that this work will provide definitive evidence showing that MBP is not necessary to reduce SSI. This is highly relevant to both patients and physicians as it will have the potential to significantly change practice and outcomes following colon surgery in Canada and beyond.

#2205 Varying practice patterns in prevention, screening and treatment of diabetes early after kidney transplantation: a European survey

Abstract Background and Aims Although post-transplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM) is a common complication after kidney transplantation, there is no consensus on preventive measures, nor on the optimal screening and treatment strategy. Method The European Renal Association—DESCARTES working group—distributed a web-based survey to transplant centers across Europe to gather information on the risk assessment, screening procedures and management practices for the prevention and treatment of PTDM in kidney-transplant recipients. Results Answers were obtained from 121 transplant centers across 15 European countries. Screening practices for pre-existing diabetes during the transplant work-up varied considerably, with only 13% of centers using the recommended oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), while 14% did not screen at all. At transplantation, 19% (n = 23) of centers tailored the immunosuppressive regimen based on perceived PTDM risk, employing strategies like cyclosporin use (12/23), or early steroid withdrawal (2/23). Fifty-two percent adopted strict glycemic control with long-acting insulin in the first days post-transplant. Sixty-eight percent had defined screening protocols for early PTDM (45 days—six months), mostly based on fasting glycemia and/or HbA1c, while only 8/82 incorporated an OGTT. Changes in immunosuppression were considered by 41% in cases of early hyperglycemia (&amp;lt;45 days) and by 58% in established PTDM (&amp;gt;45 days). Besides insulin therapy, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4) inhibitors and metformin were most frequently used to manage early hyperglycemia (&amp;lt;45 days) and PTDM (&amp;gt;45 days). Conclusion This European survey underscores significant variation in PTDM prevention, screening, and treatment practices, emphasizing the imperative for clearer guidance in approaching this complication.

Practice variation in urine collection methods among pre-toilet trained children with suspected urinary tract infection: a systematic review

BackgroundUrinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common cause of acute illness among infants and young children. There are numerous methods for collecting urine in children who are not toilet trained. This review examined practice variation in the urine collection methods for diagnosing UTI in non-toilet-trained children.MethodsA systematic review was completed by searching MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), CENTRAL (Ovid), PsycInfo (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCO), and JBI (Ovid) from January 1, 2000 until October 9, 2021 and updated on May 24, 2023. Studies were included if they were conducted in an acute care facility, examined pre-toilet trained children, and compared one urine collection method with another for relevant health care outcomes (such as length of stay in an ED, or re-visits or readmissions to the ED) or provider satisfaction. Two independent reviewers screened the identified articles independently, and those included in the final analysis were assessed for quality and bias using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.ResultsOverall, 2535 articles were reviewed and 8 studies with a total of 728 children were included in the final analysis. Seven studies investigated the primary outcome of interest, practice variation in urine collection methods to diagnose a UTI. The seven studies that investigated novel methods of urine collection concluded that there were improved health care outcomes compared to conventional methods. Novel methods include emerging methods that are not captured yet captured in clinical practice guidelines including the use of ultrasound guidance to aid existing techniques. Three studies which investigated healthcare provider satisfaction found preference to novel methods of urine collection.ConclusionsThere is significant practice variation in the urine collection methods within and between countries. Further research is needed to better examine practice variation among clinicians and adherence to national organizations and societies guidelines. PROSPERO registration number CRD42021267754.

Patient Factors Influencing Prescription of Antithrombotic Medication After Lower Limb Endovascular Intervention

There is significant practice variation in the use of antithrombotic therapy after endovascular intervention for lower limb peripheral arterial disease, with differences in medication choice and duration. Prescriber decision making is complex, and patient factors have been shown to substantially contribute to prescribing variation. To determine the influence of patient factors on antithrombotic prescribing, a discrete choice experiment was distributed to vascular surgeons and trainees across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. After pilot testing, the discrete choice experiment questionnaire was distributed to 300 vascular surgeons and trainee members of the Australian and New Zealand Society for Vascular Surgery. Multinomial logistic regression models were used to analyse patient factors that had the most influence on decisions to prescribe a second antithrombotic agent, and the preferred choice of antithrombotic (clopidogrel 75 mg daily or rivaroxaban 2.5 mg twice daily) in addition to aspirin 100 mg daily. The odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) reported preference strength. A total of 44 questionnaires were completed between September and October 2023, reaching the 15% targeted response rate. Prescribing a second antithrombotic was more likely after femoropopliteal stenting compared with angioplasty (OR 1.89, 95% CI 1.20 - 2.13), and in chronic limb threatening ischaemia compared with intermittent claudication (OR 1.58, 95% CI 1.20 - 2.13). Most respondents preferred clopidogrel over rivaroxaban (62%), with over a third of respondents exclusively prescribing clopidogrel. Patients with stents (OR 1.77, 95% CI 1.32 - 2.37) or moderate bleeding risk (OR 1.38, 95% CI 0.97 - 1.84) were more likely to receive clopidogrel than rivaroxaban. This study demonstrates that vascular surgeons primarily prioritise antithrombotic prescribing decisions by procedure type. Clopidogrel is more likely to be prescribed than rivaroxaban as a second agent in combination with aspirin, especially after stenting. Knowing these clinician preferences can target implementation strategies towards supporting decision making in subgroups of patients according to individual risk profiles.

Streamlining the Management of Children With Simple Hand Injuries

Background: Hand injuries are common in children. Most simple pediatric hand fractures do not require surgery and can be treated with protective immobilization, yielding good outcomes. A recent institutional audit revealed significant practice variation in managing these children with many being overtreated with unnecessary follow-up visits. The objective of this study was to implement and assess a streamlined care pathway to manage “simple” pediatric hand injuries and minimize healthcare utilization. Methods: A single institution prospective study of the streamlined care pathway was conducted. Simple hand injuries included volar plate injuries, phalangeal Salter-Harris type 2 fractures, metacarpal neck fractures, unicortical and buckle fractures, proximal interphalangeal dislocations, and thumb ligamentous injuries. Patients were treated with either thermoplastic splinting or buddy taping. Standardized verbal and written instruction were provided. No routine follow-up was arranged. Participants were contacted by telephone 6 weeks post-injury to identify any concerns or need for follow-up. Results: A total of 101 children with simple hand injuries were included. Sixty-one participants completed the telephone survey. About 90% had no problems during healing and 85% resumed all activities. Ten participants requested follow-up; however, 4 cancelled and the remaining 6 required reassurance with no additional treatment. Conclusions: Most simple pediatric hand injuries heal well with buddy taping or splint immobilization. The described streamlined hand pathway can avoid unnecessary follow-ups for simple pediatric hand trauma, reducing the burden on both families and the healthcare system.

P129 Interdisciplinary collaboration in the care of patients with connective tissue disease-related interstitial lung disease in Wales: an interview study

Abstract Background/Aims Patients with connective tissue disease-related interstitial lung disease (CTD-ILD) often receive care from both rheumatologists and respiratory physicians to manage their conditions. As treatment options become increasingly complex with immunosuppressing and antifibrotic agents, there is a growing recognition of the importance of collaborative approaches to ensure accurate diagnosis, aid management decisions and deliver patient-centred care. However, there is currently no agreed optimal model for shared care, leading to significant practice variation. This study aimed to explore the perspectives of rheumatologists and respiratory physicians regarding the benefits and challenges of cross-speciality management in CTD-ILD. A better understanding of this will enhance the development of services and improve patient-centred care. Methods Semi-structured interviews, both face-to-face and virtual, were conducted with 11 respiratory physicians and nine rheumatologists working in Wales, ensuring representation from all health boards. Interview transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis to identify themes. Results Five main themes were identified: navigating complexity and uncertainty, reliance on clinical experience, prioritisation of efficiency, educational and training benefits, and inconsistent access to services for clinicians and patients. Conclusion The complexity of CTD-ILD care, combined with varying levels of physician expertise and a perceived lack of guidelines, presents significant challenges for clinicians. Cross-speciality collaboration is actively sought by physicians and is perceived to enhance patient care by improving efficiency, aiding confidence in decision-making and providing educational benefits to clinicians. However, resource limitations and geographical variations in service access hinder the implementation and development of shared care models. Physicians perceive that patients like being seen in joint clinics; future exploration of patient perspectives and experiences of joint care systems will be crucial to ensure the direction of clinical practice development remains patient-centred. In addition to implementing integrated cross-speciality clinical services, the development of joint respiratory and rheumatology guidelines as well as greater availability of training opportunities would assist physicians in delivering optimal care to patients with CTD-ILD. Disclosure P. Evans: None. K. Hett: None. N. Hutchinson: None. C. Beynon: None.

Prospective evaluation of the impact of multi-channel studies on treatment outcomes in children with sleep disordered breathing

There are significant variations in practice regarding the use of sleep studies in children with symptoms of sleep disordered breathing (SDB) prior to adenotonsillectomy. Current UK guidance recommends the selective use of sleep studies to confirm a diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) when there is diagnostic uncertainty, in children with comorbidities, or to assess perioperative risk when severe OSA is suspected. We have developed a novel paediatric sleep service over the past decade based on the routine use of multi-channel sleep studies (MCSS) before adenotonsillectomy. We present the results of a prospective evaluation assessing the impact of our service on treatment outcomes.We conducted a prospective service evaluation of 49 children with SDB seen between July 2021 and August 2022. We used medical records and a sleep study database to determine treatment outcomes. Otolaryngologists completed a questionnaire before each multi-channel sleep study to help evaluate the impact of sleep study findings on surgical decision making.Questionnaire responses before MCSS showed that clinicians thought 66 % of children were ‘likely’, ‘very likely’ or ‘definitely’ would require surgery but only 54 % of children underwent surgery following their sleep study. We estimate that the use of MCSS was associated with a 21 % reduction in children undergoing surgery in this small sample.We conclude that our use of MCSS facilitates conservative management, allowing a significant reduction in the number of children with SDB undergoing surgery, but further validation of MCSS against polysomnography is required.

Using a customized GPT to provide guideline-based recommendations for management of pancreatic cystic lesions.

Background and study aims Rising prevalence of pancreatic cysts and inconsistent management guidelines necessitate innovative approaches. New features of large language models (LLMs), namely custom GPT creation, provided by ChatGPT can be utilized to integrate multiple guidelines and settle inconsistencies. Methods A custom GPT was developed to provide guideline-based management advice for pancreatic cysts. Sixty clinical scenarios were evaluated by both the custom GPT and gastroenterology experts. A consensus was reached between experts and review of guidelines and the accuracy of recommendations provided by the custom GPT was evaluated and compared with experts. Results The custom GPT aligned with expert recommendations in 87% of scenarios. Initial expert recommendations were correct in 97% and 87% of cases, respectively. No significant difference was observed between the accuracy of custom GPT and the experts. Agreement analysis using Cohen's and Fleiss' Kappa coefficients indicated consistency among experts and the custom GPT. Conclusions This proof-of-concept study shows the custom GPT's potential to provide accurate, guideline-based recommendations for pancreatic cyst management, comparable to expert opinions. The study highlights the role of advanced features of LLMs in enhancing clinical decision-making in fields with significant practice variability.

Evaluation of cryoprotein investigation using a digital external quality assurance scheme.

Background: Robust preanalytical and analytical processes are critical for the detection of cryoproteins. There is significant variation in practice in the detection, analysis and reporting. Results: A survey in 2018 of 137 laboratories participating in the UK National External Quality Assessment Service (UK NEQAS) (6) quality control program showed significant variation in the laboratory processes which highlighted the need for standardisation of the detection, analysis and reporting of cryoglobulins.Conclusion: The first available EQA scheme aiming to harmonise practice for cryoprotein testing has been developed by UK NEQAS and laboratories should participate in an appropriate EQA scheme to fulfil requirements for ISO accreditation.

Regional Practice Variation and Outcomes in the Standard Versus Accelerated Initiation of Renal Replacement Therapy in Acute Kidney Injury (STARRT-AKI) Trial: A Post Hoc Secondary Analysis.

Among patients with severe acute kidney injury (AKI) admitted to the ICU in high-income countries, regional practice variations for fluid balance (FB) management, timing, and choice of renal replacement therapy (RRT) modality may be significant. Secondary post hoc analysis of the STandard vs. Accelerated initiation of Renal Replacement Therapy in Acute Kidney Injury (STARRT-AKI) trial (ClinicalTrials.gov number NCT02568722). One hundred-fifty-three ICUs in 13 countries. Altogether 2693 critically ill patients with AKI, of whom 994 were North American, 1143 European, and 556 from Australia and New Zealand (ANZ). None. Total mean FB to a maximum of 14 days was +7199 mL in North America, +5641 mL in Europe, and +2211 mL in ANZ (p < 0.001). The median time to RRT initiation among patients allocated to the standard strategy was longest in Europe compared with North America and ANZ (p < 0.001; p < 0.001). Continuous RRT was the initial RRT modality in 60.8% of patients in North America and 56.8% of patients in Europe, compared with 96.4% of patients in ANZ (p < 0.001). After adjustment for predefined baseline characteristics, compared with North American and European patients, those in ANZ were more likely to survive to ICU (p < 0.001) and hospital discharge (p < 0.001) and to 90 days (for ANZ vs. Europe: risk difference [RD], -11.3%; 95% CI, -17.7% to -4.8%; p < 0.001 and for ANZ vs. North America: RD, -10.3%; 95% CI, -17.5% to -3.1%; p = 0.007). Among STARRT-AKI trial centers, significant regional practice variation exists regarding FB, timing of initiation of RRT, and initial use of continuous RRT. After adjustment, such practice variation was associated with lower ICU and hospital stay and 90-day mortality among ANZ patients compared with other regions.

Analysis of guideline recommendations for treatment of asthma exacerbations in children: a Pediatric Emergency Research Networks (PERN) study

RationaleThere is significant practice variation in acute paediatric asthma, particularly severe exacerbations. It is unknown whether this is due to differences in clinical guidelines.ObjectivesTo describe and compare the content and...

Management of well-appearing febrile young infants aged ≤90 days

Abstract The evaluation and management of young infants presenting with fever remains an area of significant practice variation. While most well-appearing febrile young infants have a viral illness, identifying those at risk for invasive bacterial infections, specifically bacteremia and bacterial meningitis, is critical. This statement considers infants aged ≤90 days who present with a rectal temperature ≥38.0°C but appear well otherwise. Applying recent risk-stratification criteria to guide management and incorporating diagnostic testing with procalcitonin are advised. Management decisions for infants meeting low-risk criteria should reflect the probability of disease, consider the balance of risks and potential harm, and include parents/caregivers in shared decision-making when options exist. Optimal management may also be influenced by pragmatic considerations, such as access to diagnostic investigations, observation units, tertiary care, and follow-up. Special considerations such as temperature measurement, risk for invasive herpes simplex infection, and post-immunization fever are also discussed.

Maximum Pain at Rest in Pediatric Patients Undergoing Elective Thoracic Surgery and the Predictors of Moderate-to-Severe Pain—Secondary Data Analysis

Introduction: Pain management among children following thoracic surgery is an area of significant practice variability. Understanding the risk factors of moderate-to-severe pain intensity will allow for adequate pain relief. The aim of the study was to assess the maximum intensity of pain at rest in pediatric patients within 24 h of thoracic surgery and to investigate the prevalence and predictors of moderate-to-severe pain. Methods and findings: This is a prospective cohort study of patients in observational and randomized controlled trials following thoracic surgery. A secondary analysis of data was conducted using data collected from 446 patients aged 7–18 years undergoing thoracic surgery. The primary endpoint was maximum pain intensity (Numerical Rating Scale; NRS; range: 0–10) and the secondary endpoint was the prevalence and predictors of moderate-to-severe pain (NRS &gt; 2/10). The median maximum pain in the cohort was 3 [0; 4]. During the immediate postoperative period, 54% of patients reported a maximum NRS &gt; 2/10. The infusion of morphine by an intravenous route (vs. epidural route) was a protective factor against moderate-to-severe pain. Taking into account the findings related to the type of epidural analgesia (vs. intravenous morphine), it was found that only the administration of 0.25% bupivacaine combined with morphine or fentanyl was a protective factor against moderate-to-severe postoperative pain. Patients aged 14–18 years (vs. aged 7–13 years) had an increased risk of reporting pain as moderate-to-severe. Conclusions: The route of analgesic administration, type of multimodal analgesia, and patients’ age predict moderate-to-severe pain in pediatric patients after thoracic surgery.

Thromboembolism prophylaxis practices of pediatric and congenital electrophysiologists during invasive electrophysiology studies: A PACES survey.

Thromboembolic events related to invasive electrophysiology studies, while rare, can have devastating consequences. Use of systemic anticoagulation for a pediatric or adult-congenital invasive electrophysiology study is recommended, however there is no established standard of practice in this population. To report on procedural practices for thromboembolism prophylaxis during invasive electrophysiology studies for pediatric patients and adults with congenital heart disease. An anonymous web-based survey was sent to the members of the Pediatric and Congenital Electrophysiology Society. The survey focused on pre-procedural, intra-procedural, and post-procedural thromboembolism prophylaxis practices during invasive electrophysiology studies. Significant practice variation was defined as <90% concordance among respondents. Survey was completed by 73 members; 52 (71%) practicing in the United States, 65 (89%) practicing in an academic institution, and 14 (19%) in an institution that performs more than 200 invasive electrophysiology procedures annually. Responses showed significant variation in practice. Prior to an invasive electrophysiology procedure, 25% discontinue aspirin while 47% discontinue anticoagulants. Heparin is given for all procedures by 32%. When heparin is administered, the first dose is given by 32% after sheaths are placed, 42% after crossing into the systemic atrium, and 26% just prior to systemic-side ablation. Most target an activated clotting time between 200-300 seconds. Post systemic-side ablation, 58% do not initiate a heparin infusion. Post-procedural oral agents were initiated on day of procedure by 34% of respondents and on post-procedure day 1 by 53%. If treating with aspirin, 74% use low-dose (3-5mg/kg or 81mg daily), and 68% treat for 4-6weeks. There is significant variation in thromboembolism prophylaxis for invasive EP studies among pediatric and congenital electrophysiologists. Further studies are needed to optimize the management of thromboembolism prophylaxis in this population.

Characterization of Prescribing Practices for Uncomplicated Streptococcal and Enterococcal Bacteremias: The NARRATE Study.

Bloodstream infections (BSIs) rank among the top causes of death in North America. Despite the prevalence of these infections, there remain significant practice variations in the prescribing of antibiotics. To investigate current prescribing practices for management of uncomplicated streptococcal and enterococcal BSIs. A retrospective cohort study was conducted using charts for patients admitted to an acute care centre in British Columbia between November 16, 2019, and October 20, 2020. Adult patients (≥ 18 years of age) with a diagnosis of uncomplicated streptococcal or enterococcal BSI were included. Patients were excluded if they had polymicrobial bacteremia or deep-seated infection or had been admitted for no more than 48 hours. The primary outcomes were duration of antibiotic therapy (IV and oral) and time to appropriate oral therapy for treatment of BSI. The secondary outcomes were observed rates of re-initiation of antibiotics and readmission with recurrent BSI. Descriptive statistics were calculated and regression analysis was performed for the primary and secondary outcomes. A total of 96 patients met the inclusion criteria. The median total duration of therapy for uncomplicated streptococcal and enterococcal BSI was about 2 weeks. Streptococcus pneumoniae BSIs were associated with a significantly shorter duration of IV therapy and were more likely to be associated with transition to oral antibiotics. No recurrent BSIs were observed in patients for whom therapy was transitioned to oral antibiotics. Further study is warranted to explore shorter duration of antibiotic therapy and transition to oral therapy as treatment approaches for uncomplicated streptococcal and enterococcal BSI. Other outcomes of interest for future research include determining the optimal time for transition to oral therapy.