Surgery Group Research Articles

Identifying Risk Factors for Disease Progression in Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip Using a Contralateral Hip Model

Background: Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) can cause pain and premature osteoarthritis. The risk factors and timing for disease progression in adolescents and young adults have not been fully defined. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of and risk factors for contralateral hip pain and surgery after periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) on a dysplastic hip. Methods: Patients undergoing unilateral PAO for DDH were followed for at least 2 years and categorized into contralateral pain and no-pain groups and contralateral surgery and no-surgery groups. Pain was defined with the modified Harris hip score. Univariate analysis tested group differences in demographics, radiographic measures, and range of motion. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used to assess pain development and surgery in the contralateral hip over time. Multivariable regression identified risk factors for contralateral pain and surgery. Contralateral pain and surgery predictors were secondarily assessed after categorization of the contralateral hips as dysplastic, borderline, and non-dysplastic and in subgroups based on the lateral center-edge angle (LCEA) and acetabular inclination (AI) in 5° increments. Results: One hundred and eighty-four patients were followed for a mean of 4.6 ± 1.6 years (range, 2.0 to 8.8 years), during which 51% (93) reported contralateral hip pain and 33% (60) underwent contralateral surgery. Kaplan-Meier analysis predicted 5-year survivorship of 49% with contralateral pain development as the end point and 66% with contralateral surgery as the end point. Painful hips exhibited more severe dysplasia compared with no-pain hips (LCEA = 16.5° versus 20.3°, p < 0.001; AI = 13.2° versus 10.0°, p < 0.001). AI was the sole predictor of pain, with every 1° increase in the AI raising the risk by 11%. Surgically treated hips also had more severe dysplasia (LCEA = 14.9° versus 20.0°, p < 0.001; AI = 14.7° versus 10.2°, p < 0.001) and were in younger patients (21.6 versus 24.1 years, p = 0.022). AI and a maximum alpha angle of ≥55° were predictors of contralateral surgery. Conclusions: At 5 years after hip PAO, approximately 50% of contralateral hips will have pain and approximately 35% can be expected to need surgery. More severe dysplasia, based on the LCEA and AI, increases the risk of contralateral hip pain and surgery, with AI being a predictor of both outcomes. Knowing these risks can inform patient counseling and treatment planning. Level of Evidence: Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Clinical analysis of robotic-assisted surgery in the treatment of large pheochromocytoma/paraganglioma: a study of 29 cases

This study aimed to compare the safety and clinical efficacy of Da Vinci robotic surgery (control group) versus traditional laparoscopic surgery in the treatment of large (tumor size >6 cm) pheochromocytomas/paragangliomas. The evaluation was based on intraoperative metrics such as operative time, blood loss, conversion to open surgery rates, postoperative drain duration, and length of postoperative hospital stay. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 29 patients (14 males and 15 females) who underwent Da Vinci robotic surgery for large (greater than 6 cm) pheochromocytomas/paragangliomas from October 2019 to September 2023. The average maximum tumor diameter was (7.2±1.6) cm. During the same period, 32 patients underwent laparoscopic resection of challenging pheochromocytomas/paragangliomas.Data showed no significant differences between the two groups, except for the norepinephrine levels. Operative time, blood loss, conversion rate, postoperative drainage duration, and length of hospital stay were recorded and compared between the two groups. The differences between the groups were analyzed using the t-test, and the conversion rates were compared using the chi-square (χ²) test. All surgeries were successfully performed. One patient underwent a one-stage bilateral tumor resection. In the Da Vinci robotic surgery group, the average operative time was (76±32) minutes, compared to (106±45) minutes in the control group (P=0.003). The average intraoperative blood loss was (95±75) ml, compared to (160±90) ml in the control group (P=0.019). The conversion rate to open surgery was 2 cases (6.9%) in the robotic group compared to 5 cases (15.6%) in the control group (P=0.031). The average postoperative drainage duration was (3.0±1.0) days, compared to (3.5±1.5) days in the control group (P=0.128). The average length of hospital stay was (4.5±1.2) days, compared to (4.7±2.2) days in the control group (P=0.657). Postoperative pathological diagnosis confirmed pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma. Blood pressure normalized within 1 to 3 months postoperatively, with an average systolic blood pressure of (116±13) mmHg(1 mmHg=0.133 kPa）and diastolic blood pressure of (73±5) mmHg in the robotic surgery group. Follow-up for 3 to 40 months showed normal levels of blood catecholamines and no recurrence or metastasis on follow-up imaging studies, including chest, abdominal, and pelvic CT scans. The average levels of 3-methoxy-norepinephrine, 3-methoxy-epinephrine, and 3-methoxy-tyramine were (0.42±0.21) nmol/L (normal value≤1.05 nmol/L), (0.11±0.07) nmol/L (normal value≤0.32 nmol/L), and (0.017±0.006) nmol/L (normal value≤0.036 nmol/L), respectively. This study demonstrates that for the treatment of large pheochromocytomas/paragangliomas, the Da Vinci robotic technique offers advantages such as high-definition visualization, precise operation, and flexibility. These advantages enable the safe and efficient completion of surgeries, as evidenced by shorter operative times, less blood loss, and lower conversion rates.

Rotator Cuff Repair by All-Arthroscopic Versus Mini-Open Technique: A Comparison of Clinical and Functional Outcome.

Rotator cuff tears can lead to debilitating shoulder function and impairment. Rotator cuff repair aims to eliminate pain and improve function with increased shoulder strength and range of motion. This study evaluated the differences between all-arthroscopic (AA) and mini-open (MO) repair procedures for rotator cuff tendon tears regarding clinical and functional outcomes. This was a prospective study conducted at a tertiary care government Hospital in Kolkata, India, between March 2015 and September 2016 which evaluated 25 patients who had undergone all-arthroscopic surgery and 25 patients who underwent mini-open repair (total of 50 patients) for rotator cuff tear with a minimum one-year follow-up. The UCLA score was used to assess the functional outcome of these patients. The mean age of all patients included in this study was 45.32 years. 86% of patients were male. The two groups had similar demographic characteristics, pre-operative baseline parameters, and intra-op findings. The average UCLA score showed significant improvement from 13.92 pre-operatively to 29.76 at the final follow-up. The patients in the all-arthroscopic surgery group experienced a notable decrease in pain within the first three months compared to the mini-open group. However, at the time of the final follow-up, no significant difference was noted between both groups when comparing the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) score, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score for pain, and active or passive glenohumeral motion. The outcomes of all-arthroscopic and mini-open rotator cuff repair surgery are equivocal in terms of both clinical and functional results, with no significant difference in post-operative pain, shoulder joint strength range of motion, or patient satisfaction over the long term.

Is Migraine Surgery Financially Viable for the Hospital and Surgeon? A Single-Surgeon, Ten-Year Study at an Academic Institution.

Data exists to demonstrate that migraine surgery is cost-effective for the long-term treatment of headaches, but no data exists regarding its financial viability for healthcare institutions. The goals of the current study are to demonstrate that (1) migraine surgery is financially viable for an academic institution with a net-positive profitability and (2) migraine surgery is a sought-after therapy that can draw patients into the healthcare system. A retrospective chart review of migraine and bilateral breast reduction (BBR) consults seen in clinic between 05/01/2011-05/30/2020 was conducted. Patient age, sex, payor information, and distance from the hospital was collected. Profit margin, percentage profit, collection percentage, and conversion rate to surgery from clinic was calculated. 407 new migraine consults and 119 new BBR consults were included from which, 150 underwent migraine surgeries and 117 underwent BBR respectively. Migraine surgery group came from a further distance for the initial consult (P-value<0.001) and for surgery (P-value<0.001). There were also more migraine surgery patients from out-of-state (P-value=0.012). Migraine clinic patients had a larger ratio of private insurers (P-value<0.001). Migraine surgery patients had a greater total charge (P-value<0.001), estimated reimbursement (P-value=0.001), and total cost (P-value<0.001). This study provides evidence that migraine surgery is financially viable for hospitals and while performing similarly to bilateral breast reduction in profit margin, it brought in more patients from outside the catchment area of our institution. These findings may encourage hospitals to recruit migraine surgeons to improve care for this underserved patient population.

Growth dynamics of Rathke's Cleft cyst: a risk score system for surgical decision making

ObjectiveRathke's cleft cysts (RCCs) exhibit variable growth patterns, thus posing a challenge in predicting progression. While some RCCs may not cause symptoms, others can insidiously cause pituitary dysfunction, which is often irreversible, even following surgery. Hence, it is crucial to identify asymptomatic RCCs that grow rapidly and pose a higher risk of causing endocrinologic dysfunction. This enables timely surgical intervention to prevent permanent damage. Our study examines the growth rate of RCCs, identifies factors that accelerate growth, and discusses the clinical implications of these findings.MethodsA retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained electronic database revealed 45 patients aged 18–80 years who underwent endoscopic endonasal surgery (EEA) for RCCs between 2010 and 2022 at our center. Of these, 20 required early operative intervention. The remaining 25 patients were followed closely clinically and radiologically before requiring surgery (initial conservative management group). We conducted an analysis of the factors predicting growth over time in this group. Using a regression model, we constructed a risk score system to predict RCC growth over time.ResultsPatients in the initial conservative group had smaller cysts and were generally older than those in the early surgery group. Patients with preoperative pituitary dysfunction showed a higher median growth of 1.0 mm in the longest diameter compared to those with normal pituitary function, with an increase of 0.5 mm. A sum of annual cyst growth of all (z, y, x) diameters, at a rate of 3 mm or greater, was associated with a clinically significant increase in the risk of pituitary dysfunction, exceeding 50%.The most significant factors predicting rapid growth in RCCs were smoking status, age, and T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) intensity of cysts. Smoking was the most critical risk factor for rapid cyst growth (p = < .001). Our risk score system accurately predicted RCC growth with a 74% accuracy rate, 73% sensitivity, and 75% specificity.ConclusionOur analysis showed a strong link between active smoking and the rapid growth of RCC. This novel finding has significant preventive implications but needs validation by a large population database. Surgical intervention for RCC currently is often reserved for symptomatic cases. However, utilizing our risk-based scoring system to predict rapidly growing cysts may indicate early surgery in minimally symptomatic patients, thereby potentially preserving pituitary function.

Comparative analysis of operative time, blood loss, and X-ray parameters: Two-dimensional navigation guided percutaneous endoscopic transforaminal discectomy vs. conventional microscopic surgery for lumbar disc herniation

PurposeThis retrospective comparative study aims to evaluate the clinical efficacy of two-dimensional (2D) navigation-guided percutaneous endoscopic transforaminal discectomy in comparison to conventional microscopic surgery for the treatment of lumbar disc herniation (LDH), based on operative time, blood loss, and X-ray examination parameters. MethodsClinical data of patients who underwent either 2D navigation-assisted endoscopic (2D-NAE) discectomy or conventional microscopic surgery for LDH were retrospectively reviewed. Baseline characteristics, perioperative data, clinical outcomes (including visual analog scale [VAS] scores, Oswestry Disability Index [ODI] scores, and Modified MacNab criteria), and complications were compared between the two groups. ResultsA total of 95 patients were included, with 80 having complete follow-up data. The 2D navigation group comprised 47 patients, while the conventional microscopic surgery group had 33 patients. Both groups showed significant improvement in VAS and ODI scores at each follow-up time point (P < 0.05). The perioperative analysis favored the 2D navigation-assisted group, with a significantly shorter operative time (42.77 ± 7.56 vs. 59.33 ± 3.30 min; p < 0.01) and lower blood loss (10.34 ± 2.24 vs. 11.55 ± 2.20 ml; p = 0.02). The number of X-ray examinations required was similar between the two groups (2.34 ± 0.48 vs. 2.39 ± 0.56; p = 0.65), and post-operative hospitalization durations were comparable (p = 0.5). Clinical efficacy, as reflected by VAS scores for legs and ODI scores, showed no significant differences between the groups. Additionally, the Modified MacNab criteria indicated similar rates of excellent and good outcomes. ConclusionBoth 2D-NAE discectomy and conventional microscopic surgery demonstrated comparable therapeutic outcomes for LDH, with favorable clinical efficacy and safety profiles. However, 2D-NAE surgery may offer additional benefits, including shorter operative times, reduced blood loss, and fewer X-ray examinations.

A Prospective Comparative study to assess the effect of modified del Nido versus standard del Nido on Myocardial protection in Adults

Objective. This comparative observational study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of modified del Nido cardioplegia (MDN) prepared using Ringer Lactate [Group R] compared to the standard del Nido cardioplegia (SDN) with Plasmalyte–A [Group P] in adult patients undergoing cardiac surgery with cardioplegic arrest. Materials and Methods. A total of 88 patients were evaluated. The primary outcome of myocardial injury was measured by specific markers viz cardiac Troponin I (cTnI), Creatine Phosphokinase–MB (CPK–MB), and Coronary Sinus (CS) Lactate at various time points. Secondary outcomes were postoperative left ventricular ejection fraction, inotropic score, and duration of intensive care unit (ICU) stay. The differences in primary and secondary outcomes between the groups were measured and analysed. Results. Two primary outcome parameters showed significant differences between the two groups viz. the CS lactate levels measured immediately after the removal of the aortic cross–clamp (group–R 3.23 ± 1.07, group–P 2.58 ± 0.99, p–0.004) and troponin–I levels measured at 24 hours post–surgery (group–R 6.45 ± 4.89, group–P 4.64 ± 3.98, p–0.012). However other primary and secondary parameters did not exhibit significant differences between the two groups. Conclusion. Although there were no significant differences in the secondary outcome parameters, two of the primary outcome parameters associated with myocardial injury showed significant difference. Hence modified del Nido should be used with caution unless the safety is validated by large multi–centric RCTs.

Propensity score matching analysis of early vs. delayed surgery for intertrochanteric fracture in older patients: a retrospective multicenter cohort study of 7414 patients with a mean 4-year follow up

BackgroundThe widespread acceptance of early surgery as a treatment for acute intertrochanteric fracture (ITF) has been accompanied by ongoing controversy due to conflicting conclusions presented in previous studies. This study aims to compare the occurrence of perioperative complications and mortality, as well as functional outcomes in older patients with ITF who underwent either early or delayed surgery.MethodsA retrospective multicenter cohort study involving 7414 patients with ITF between Jan. 2017 and Dec. 2021 was conducted. After predefined participants selection inclusion and exclusion criteria, 2323 surgically treated ITF patients were included and analyzed utilizing propensity score matching (PSM) method. Their demographics, injury-related data, surgery-related data, and perioperative adverse outcomes during hospitalization were collected and compared between the early or delayed surgery groups by PSM with a 1:4 ratio. All participants received a minimum of two-year follow-up and perioperative outcomes, functional outcomes, and survival analyses were conducted and compared.ResultsAfter adjustment for potential confounders, there were no significant difference in surgery duration, intraoperative blood loss, transfusion rate, mortality rates, functional outcomes, and perioperative complications rates including severe complications, cardiac complications, pulmonary complications, and neurological complications regardless of whether the patient was treated with early or delayed surgery (all P > 0.05). Although length of hospital stay (mean, 11.5 versus 14.4 days, P < 0.001), total hospital costs (mean, 39305 versus 42048 yuan, P < 0.001), and minor complications rates including hematological complications (31.7% versus 41.2%, P = 0.007) and nutritional/metabolic complications (59.3% versus 66.4%, P = 0.039) were lower in the early surgery group, our result indicated patients with early surgery were more inclined to receive more blood transfusion (mean, 2.8 versus 2.2 units, P = 0.004).ConclusionsOur findings suggest that a 48-hour delay in surgical intervention for older patients with an ITF does not result in a higher mortality rate, worse functional outcomes, and increased incidence of major perioperative complications when compared to early surgery. While expedited surgery is undoubtedly necessary for suitable patients, a reasonable preoperative delay of 48 h may be justified and safe for those with severe conditions, rather than strictly adhering to the current guidelines.

Strain Elastography Evaluation of Patellar Tendons in Dogs after TPLO/TTA for Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture, Qualitative and Semiquantitative Evaluation Compared with Healthy Subjects.

Strain elastography (SE) evaluates tissue stiffness, providing qualitative and semiquantitative evaluation, with a strain ratio (SR) > 1 indicating that the target lesion is stiffer than the reference tissue. The patellar tendon has been described as soft in healthy dogs and hard in dogs with cranial cruciate ligament rupture, but SR usefulness has not been assessed. Dogs were divided into healthy (G1) and at least 1 month after surgery (G2) groups. Thickness was recorded, and a B-mode score of 0-3 was determined based on the abnormality's severity. SE was qualitatively performed with a score of 1-4, and EI was recorded on the whole ligament and in proximal, intermediate and distal areas; SR was collected with the fat pad and cutis/subcutis. G1 was significantly thinner, with a lower score than G2 and a more elastic pattern. EI for G1 was significantly lower than G2 for the whole tendon and the single portions, and EI for the distal portion was significantly lower than the proximal and intermediate one in G2. SR was <1 in G1 and >1 in G2 for both the fat pad and cutis/subcutis. These data suggest that after surgery, the tendon may become non-uniformly stiffer. The cutis/subcutis appears to be a more reliable reference tissue than the infrapatellar fat pad.

Pseudophakic cystoid macular oedema and posterior capsular opacification rates after combined phaco-trabeculectomy vs. phaco alone.

To assess the risk for pseudophakic cystoid macular oedema (PCME) and posterior capsular opacification (PCO) associated with combined cataract surgery and trabeculectomy compared to cataract surgery alone. Data analysis of subjects who underwent routine cataract surgery without and with concomitant trabeculectomy at the Department of Ophthalmology, Bristol Eye Hospital, the UK, between January 2008 and December 2017. Odds ratios (ORs) for PCME between the types of surgeries were calculated using univariate and multivariate regression analysis. Multivariate Cox regression controlling for age and gender was used to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) for neodymium-doped yttrium aluminium garnet (Nd:YAG) laser capsulotomies. This study included 56 973 cataract surgeries without and 288 with concomitant trabeculectomy (phaco-trab) with a mean follow-up time of 6.9 ± 4.2 years. Baseline variables (age and gender, diabetes, pseudoexfoliation, use of pupil expansion device and postoperative follow-up time) were comparable between the groups. Postoperative rates of PCME remained non-significant between the cataract surgery and phaco-trabe groups both in uni- and multi-variate analysis (OR 0.347, 95%CI 0.049-2.477, p = 0.291). Furthermore, in Cox regression analysis adjusted for the patients' age and gender, Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy rates remained non-significant between the cataract surgery and phaco-trabe groups (HR 1.250, 95%CI 0.883-1.769, p = 0.209). In our large cohort study, combining trabeculectomy with cataract surgery did not predispose to an increased PCME or Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy rates.

Comprehensive analysis of strabismus reoperations: clinical insights and progression factors

BackgroundTo compare and analyze clinical characteristics of patients undergoing two surgeries and multiple surgeries and explore relevant factors to lay the foundation for clinical prediction.MethodsA retrospective analysis was conducted on clinical data from all patients who underwent twice and multiple strabismus surgeries at Tianjin Eye Hospital between October 2012 and September 2021. Patients were divided into Group A (two surgeries) and Group B (more than two surgeries) based on the cumulative number of surgeries performed. Clinical details at the first recurrence, including sex, age, native place, overall medical history, onset time, visual acuity, affected muscle(s), etc., were documented. Non-parametric tests and chi-square tests were used to analyze clinical characteristics in each group. Binary and ordered logistic regression analysis assessed parameters associated with multiple reoperations. A linear mixed-term model observed factors impacting affected muscle(s) during surgery. Researchers examined clinical traits related to secondary strabismus variables.ResultsAmong the 910 included patients, 840 required two surgeries (Group A) and 70 underwent more than two surgeries (Group B). Significant differences were found in age, onset time, interval time, and secondary factors. Regression analysis highlighted the significant impact of interval time on the reoperation rate, effectively predicting outcomes in patients with concomitant strabismus. Other ophthalmoplegia and secondary factors significantly influenced reoperation rates in patients with non-concomitant strabismus. Interval time, esotropia, and exotropia were linked to concomitant secondary strabismus patients, while the number of surgeries, DVD, esotropia, exotropia, and esotropia V-pattern were associated with non-concomitant secondary strabismus patients. In a longitudinal study, patients with multiple surgeries showed a correlation between the vertical deviation angle magnitude and the number of involved extraocular muscles. Regression analysis revealed that in patients with concomitant strabismus, interval time, exotropia, and esotropia influenced the total number of muscles during surgery. For patients with non-concomitant strabismus, interval time, secondary factors, and SOP impacted the total number of muscles during surgery.ConclusionsInterval time in patients with concomitant strabismus, as well as secondary and other ophthalmoplegia in non-concomitant strabismus, are the main factors for multiple reoperations.

Definition of early recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma based on the concordance index and optimal treatment strategy

BackgroundHepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has a high rate of recurrence and requires multiple treatment options. Early recurrence has been associated with poor prognosis; however, the timing of early recurrence varies in the literature. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to determine the timing of early recurrence with the best prognostic value and clarify the appropriate treatment strategy. MethodsThis retrospective study conducted to determine prognosis and treatments included 274 patients with HCC who underwent liver resection at the Saitama Cancer Center. The prognostic value of early recurrence at each surveillance period was calculated using Harrell's concordance index (C-index). ResultsThe C-index at 9 months postoperatively was 0.656, which was the highest cut-off value for early recurrence. Notably, 122 patients had no recurrence, 58 had early recurrence (<9 months), and 94 had late recurrence (≥9 months). The 5-year overall survival (OS) of patients with early recurrence was worse (16.5 %, p<0.001), whereas that of those with late and no recurrences were similar (79.2 % vs. 70.9 %, p=0.86). The 5-year OS rate of patients with late intrahepatic recurrence in the surgery group was 100 %. ConclusionThe optimal cutoff value for the timing of early recurrence was 9 months postoperatively. The early recurrence group had a high rate of extrahepatic recurrence and poor OS, whereas late recurrences were mostly intrahepatic, with no difference in prognosis between the late and no recurrence groups. Patients with intrahepatic recurrence after >9 months are considered for rehepatectomy because of its good outcomes. SynopsisThe C-index-based optimal cutoff for the timing of early HCC recurrence was 9 months postoperatively. The early recurrence group had a high rate of extrahepatic recurrence and poor OS, whereas late recurrences were mostly intrahepatic with a good prognosis.

Laparoscopic Access in Radical Surgical Treatment of Complicated Gastric Cancer: a Single-Center Experience

Over the past decades, there has been an active introduction of minimally invasive surgical technologies in the treatment of various diseases, including gastric cancer. In Asian countries and Europe, laparoscopic gastrectomy is an alternative to open gastrectomy for early gastric cancer, with a tendency to displace the latter. In the Russian Federation, laparoscopic gastrectomy is performed in a few specialized centers. From 2013 to 2022, the surgeons of our Center treated 141 patients diagnosed with gastric cancer at different stages (64 men, 39 women, mean age of 60.5±10 years). Of these, 52 patients (50.5%) underwent open surgeries (group I), 51 (49.5%) — laparoscopic surgeries (group II). The study included patients diagnosed with gastric cancer complicated by bleeding or gastric outlet/cardioesophageal junction obstruction, over 18 years of age, who signed consent for the processing of personal data and inclusion of their clinical data in the research and underwent surgical treatment. We analyzed such parameters as the duration of surgical intervention and the duration of hospital stay, the rates of hospital/relapse-free 2-year survival, and uncomplicated postoperative period. Laparoscopic-assisted surgeries lasted longer; however, due to more precise technique and better visualization of anatomical structures, there was a smaller volume of intraoperative blood loss. During laparoscopic-assisted radical gastrectomy, it is possible to perform more precise lymph node dissection, increase the number of harvested lymph nodes and, thus, increase the probability of detecting lymph nodes with metastases; which, in turn, has a direct impact on increasing the 2-year relapse-free and 2-year overall survival of patients. There was no significant difference in the incidence or severity of postoperative complications and mortality. These data are an important indicator of the effectiveness of the minimally invasive surgical method of treatment, which indicates greater safety of the laparoscopic method compared to intervention from laparotomy access.

Long-term retreatment outcomes after definitive management of Graves’ disease with radioactive iodine versus surgery

BackgroundCommon treatments for Graves’ disease include antithyroid drugs (ATD), radioactive iodine (RAI), and surgery. RAI avoids surgical morbidity, but rate and durability of remission varies across studies. This study directly compared the long-term results of Graves’ disease treated by surgery versus RAI and hypothesized that RAI would be associated with lower rates of long-term biochemical remission and higher likelihood of retreatment. MethodsThis retrospective cohort study included individuals diagnosed with Graves’ disease who were treated surgically, with RAI, or both at a tertiary referral center. Definitive retreatment was defined as additional RAI or surgery after index treatment, and retreatment was defined as requiring ATD or a second definitive treatment after index treatment. Remission was defined by normalization of thyroid stimulating hormone without retreatment at 6 months. ResultsIndex definitive therapy was total thyroidectomy for 72 patients and RAI for 104 patients. The median follow-up time was 3.6 years. The rate of remission at 6 months in the RAI group (68.8%) was lower than that in the surgery group (98.6%) (odds ratio: 0.03, P < .001). Patients who underwent index RAI experienced a significantly higher cumulative incidence of any retreatment at all time points than those who underwent index surgery (P < .001). Among RAI patients who achieved euthyroidism within 6 months, 19% developed subsequent relapse requiring ATD therapy or retreatment. ConclusionThe need for retreatment after index therapy for Graves’ disease is significantly lower after thyroidectomy than after RAI.

Proposal of a revised 3-tier "2mm" risk classification model for postoperative pancreatic fistula in robotic pancreatoduodenectomy.

The recent International Study Group for Pancreatic Surgery (ISGPS) risk classification for postoperativepancreatic fistula (grade B/C) was developed based on data from open and mixed minimally invasive pancreatoduodenectomy. The ISGPS risk classification model has not been validated specifically for POPF after robotic pancreatoduodenectomy (RPD). We calculated the rate of POPF (ISGPS 2016 definition, grade B/C) by analyzing consecutive patients after RPD by surgeons after their learning curves (80 RPDs per surgeon). The validation of the ISGPS 4-tier and the simplified 3-tier risk classification was conducted using the area under the receiver operating curve (AUC). From 2019 to 2023, 187 patients after RPD were included. Neither the ISGPS 4-tier nor the simplified 3-tier classification model showed robust discrimination (AUC: 0.696 and 0.685, respectively). Moreover, both risk classifications failed to differentiate the rates of POPF and major complications among subgroups. Multivariate analysis suggested that soft pancreatic texture and pancreatic duct ≤ 2mm were independent risk factors for POPF after RPD. After adjusting the duct size's cutoff from 3 to 2mm, the revised 4-tier "2mm" classification model showed no significant difference between risk categories B and C (6.7% vs. 9.4%, P = 0.063). The revised 3-tier "2mm" classification model stratified patients into A (n = 54), B (n = 68), and C (n = 65) groups, with corresponding POPF rates of 0.0%, 8.8%, and 23.1% (P < 0.001), and major complication rates of 5.6, 14.7, and 24.6% (P = 0.014), respectively. Compared to the simplified 3-tier classification model, the revised 3-tier "2mm" classification model showed improved discrimination (AUC: 0.753 vs. 0.685, P = 0.034) and clinical utility. The current ISGPS 4-tier and the simplified 3-tier classification models lacked sufficient discrimination in patients after RPD. We propose a revised 3-tier "2mm" risk classification model for RPD with a robust discrimination, which requires further international validation with prospectively obtained data.

Current National Treatment Trends for Gastric Adenocarcinoma in the United States.

The treatment of gastric adenocarcinoma (GA) continues to evolve. While neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) has demonstrated emerging benefit, the optimal treatment regimen, and sequence remain to be firmly established. Patients with nonmetastatic GA who underwent resection were identified within the 2020 National Cancer Database. Patients were compared between the mutually exclusive treatment groups of NAC, neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NCRT), adjuvant chemotherapy, adjuvant chemoradiotherapy (CRT), and surgery only. The primary endpoint was receipt of NAC or NCRT. Patients were 1-to-1 propensity score matched for receiving any neoadjuvant therapy. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify predictors of receipt of any neoadjuvant therapy and receipt of any adjuvant therapy. Twenty-five thousand and seventy-three patients were included in the analysis. Patients were treated with NAC (25.0%), NCRT (31.4%), adjuvant chemotherapy (6.5%), adjuvant CRT (12.6%), and surgery only (24.5%). Compared to 2006-2011, patients diagnosed between 2012 and 2017 experienced the greatest increases in NAC (18.6% vs. 29.0%; p < 0.001) and NCRT (25.0% vs. 35.5%; p < 0.001). Median OS was 44.9 months. OS was longest for patients who received any neoadjuvant therapy compared to those receiving adjuvant or surgery only (51.0 vs. 42.4 vs. 38.0 months, respectively; p < 0.001). Patients who were Black, in the lowest income quartile or treated at lower volume facilities were less likely to receive NAT (all p < 0.001). There has been significant acceleration in the use of neoadjuvant therapy for GA. Currently, NCRT followed by surgery are the most common treatment sequences in the United States. Additional trials are needed to further define the optimal treatment sequence.

Factors affecting unusual postoperative vertical downward movement of mandible after surgery-first approach using intraoral vertical ramus osteotomy

BackgroundIn very rare cases, patients who have undergone surgery-first approach with intraoral vertical ramus osteotomy (IVRO) exhibit unusual downward movements of mandible even up to 1-year post surgery, which makes it difficult for orthodontists to stabilize the occlusion during the postoperative orthodontic period. The aim of this study was to identify factors affecting the unusual downward movement of the mandible 1-year after the surgery-first approach using IVRO, while focusing on cephalometric values.MethodsThis retrospective cohort study sample was divided into two groups based on the amount of vertical movement of the B-point 1-year post surgery (Group S, predictable upward movement; Group U, unpredictable downward movement greater than 2 mm). To evaluate cephalometric changes between the two groups, cephalograms were obtained before surgery, 1 day after surgery, 1 month after surgery, and 1 year after surgery. The data were analyzed using the independent t-test, Mann–Whitney U test with Bonferroni correction, Pearson correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis.ResultsAt the initial examination, Group U showed a shallower anterior overbite. The vertical surgical change in the B-point was statistically different between the two groups (p < 0.001), indicating that group U exhibited more upward movement of the mandible during surgery. Group U showed significant downward movement of the mandible 1 month after surgery, and this finding persisted until 1 year postoperatively. Clockwise rotation of the mandible was also observed. Surgical vertical movement of the B-point showed a strong correlation with postoperative vertical movement of mandible (r = -0.674; p < 0.001) along a linear relationship, indicating that the amount of postoperative vertical downward movement of the mandible increased as the amount of surgical upward movement of the B-point increased (R2 = 0.449; p < 0.001).ConclusionsThis study revealed that unusual downward movement of the mandible after a surgery-first approach using IVRO is correlated with the amount of upward movement during the surgery. When planning surgery, in cases in which a significant upward movement of the mandible is anticipated, orthodontists should prepare for the possibility of subsequent unusual downward movement and a tendency for the anterior overjet to decrease during the postoperative orthodontic period.

Comparison of Postoperative Epidural Hematoma Formation Between Biportal Endoscopic Spine Surgery and Conventional Microscopic Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Biportal endoscopic spine surgery (BESS) has become widely recognized as a minimally invasive method for spinal decompression and discectomy. However, postoperative epidural hematoma (POEH) presents a significant risk in spinal surgery due to its potential to compress neural elements and lead to neurological deficits. This study compares the clinical and radiological outcomes of BESS with those of conventional microscopic surgery. In this single-center, single-blinded, actively controlled randomized clinical trial, 46 patients undergoing single-level posterior decompression or discectomy for spinal stenosis or herniated intervertebral discs were enrolled. Participants were randomly allocated to either the conventional microscopic surgery group or the BESS group. Experienced spine surgeons performed all procedures. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging assessments were conducted following the removal of the drain system. Outcome measures included the cross-sectional area (CSA) of the dura sac and POEH, as well as the incidence of neurological deficits. The demographic and baseline characteristics of the patients were similar across the 2 groups, with 24 in the conventional group and 22 in the BESS group. There were no significant differences in the preoperative and postoperative CSA of the dura sac between the groups. However, the BESS group exhibited a significantly larger CSA of POEH (0.36 ± 0.34 cm²) compared with the conventional group (0.17 ± 0.15 cm², P = 0.033). Despite this higher incidence of POEH, there was no corresponding increase in neurological deficits or revision surgeries. The findings indicate that while BESS achieves decompression comparable to that of conventional microscopic surgery, it is associated with a higher incidence of epidural hematomas. Importantly, these hematomas did not result in an increased rate of neurological deterioration or the need for surgical interventions. Further studies with larger sample sizes and extended follow-up are required to confirm these results and further refine the BESS technique. Despite a higher incidence of epidural hematomas, BESS offers comparable decompression to microscopic surgery without increased neurological risks, making it a viable, less invasive option for patient care.

Patient satisfaction and operator proficiency in gasless transaxillary endoscopic thyroidectomy under IONM: a retrospective cohort study.

This study aims to evaluate the surgical safety and effectiveness of gasless transaxillary endoscopic thyroidectomy (GTET), assess patients' short-term perceptions and long-term outcomes, and delineate the learning curve and key surgical techniques of the operators. Clinicopathological and postoperative follow-up data from patients with unilateral thyroid cancer in the same period were collected. These patients were divided into the GTET group and the traditional open surgery group to compare and analyze the differences and explore the factors affecting the learning curve of GTET. Patients who chose GTET had better general health and thyroid conditions than those in the open group, and the quality of postoperative life was better in the GTET group than in the open group, with the main differences between the two groups being appearance and neck and shoulder function. The GTET learning curve in this study peaked at 19 cases, with slight differences between left and right, and a larger sample size is still needed to explore the factors affecting the learning curve. GTET has a reliable safety and efficacy profile for patients with unilateral thyroid cancer. Intraoperative nerve monitoring (IONM) techniques require some adaptation in GTET. In some respects, patients' postoperative experience and quality of life are superior to those of conventional open surgery. There is a learning curve for GTET, but large samples are still needed to explore its true significance.

Clinical Outcomes Between Completion and Abandonment of Radical Hysterectomy in Early-Stage Cervical Cancer Patients with Lymph Nodal Involvement Identified During Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

This study aimed to summarize the clinical outcomes of early-stage cervical cancer patients with lymph node metastasis found during surgery who completed radical hysterectomy, or abandoned surgery and switched to chemoradiotherapy, in hopes of providing evidence for clinical treatment. The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP), and ClinicalTrials.gov databases were searched from inception to 20 November 2023. The analysis was conducted using STATA 16.0. A total of eight studies with 2105 early-stage cervical cancer patients were included in this review. Meta-analysis found no significant difference between the completing radical hysterectomy surgery (CRS) group and the abandoning radical surgery (ARS) group regarding overall survival (OS; hazard ratio [HR] 1.35, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.93-1.97; I2 = 27.2%, p = 0.221), progression-free survival (PFS; HR 0.39, 95% CI 0.14-1.07; I2 = 0.0%, p = 0.625) and disease-free survival (DFS; HR 0.61, 95% CI 0.13-2.84; I2 = 0.0%, p = 0.574). Meta-analysis found the total recurrence (risk ratio [RR] 0.49, 95% CI 0.30-0.79; I2 = 0.0%, p = 0.810) and pelvic recurrence (RR 0.39, 95% CI 0.17-0.91; I2 = 12.4%, p = 0.320) in the CRS group were less than those in the ARS group. Meta-analysis found that compared with the ARS group, the CRS group had fewer grade 3/4 adverse effects (RR 0.58, 95% CI 0.41-0.82; I2 = 0.0%, p = 0.591). Current evidence suggests that for early-stage cervical cancer patients with positive lymph nodes detected during surgery, CRS and ARS have similar survival outcomes, but completing radical surgery results in a lower incidence of pelvic recurrence. CRD42023480118.