Surgical Site Infection Complications Research Articles

Reassessing Glycemic Control: A Novel Method for 90-Day Major Complication Stratification Based on Hemoglobin A1c and Same-Day Glucose Levels for Patients Undergoing Total Knee Arthroplasty

Glucose levels obtained on day of surgery may be predictive of complications following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Established glucose thresholds for TKA are either non-specific or have low predictive power. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to create data-driven hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and same-day glucose thresholds associated with varying risks of 90-day major and surgical site infection (SSI) complications following TKA. Stratum-specific likelihood ratio analysis was conducted to determine data-driven HbA1c and glucose strata associated with varying risks of 90-day major and SSI complications. Each strata was then propensity-score matched to the lowest strata based on age, sex, hypertension, heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, and obesity. The risk ratio (RR) for complications in each stratum with respect to the lowest matched stratum was analyzed. Four data-driven HbA1c (%) strata (4.5 to 5.9, 6.0 to 6.4, 6.5 to 7.9, and 8.0+) and two same-day glucose (mg/dl) strata (60 to 189 and 190+) were identified that predicted 90-day major complications. When compared to the propensity-matched lowest strata (4.5 to 5.9%), the risk of 90-day major complications sequentially increased as the HbA1c (%) strata increased: 6.0 to 6.4 (RR: 1.23; P = 0.024), 6.5 to 7.9 (RR 1.38; P < 0.001), 8.0+ (RR 2.0; P < 0.001). When compared to the propensity-matched lowest strata (60 to 189 mg/dl), the 190+ mg/dl strata had a higher risk of 90-day major complications (RR: 1.18; P = 0.016). No HbA1c or same-day glucose strata had significantly different risks of 90-day SSI. The multiple strata identified for HbA1c demonstrate that a single HbA1c cut-off as identified in prior literature may be missing a larger picture for risk stratification. The threshold identified for same-day glucose can be utilized in day-of-surgery glycemic control guidelines to further reduce the risk of 90-day major complications.

Screening and assessment of nutritional status and some related factors in patients who have laparoscopic surgery for colon cancer

Background: Preoperative malnutrition is a significant problem for cancer and colon cancer patients, so screening, monitoring, and supporting this condition becomes increasingly essential in the surgical field. In colorectal cancer, malnutrition is significantly associated with several consequences, including mortality and increasing the length of hospital stay after surgery. The NRS 2002 and SGA scores are practical malnutrition assessment tools widely used in clinical practice today. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was performed on 53 patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery due to colon cancer at Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital and Hue Central Hospital. The NRS-2002 tool was used for risk screening, and the SGA was used to assess the patient’s nutritional status. Information about the disease and related factors are referenced from medical records combined with asking the patient. Results: The average age was 61.5±14.5, of which 50.9% were male. ASA 1 accounted for the majority at 66.0%. Complications of surgical site infection accounted for 11.3%. Two patients with subcutaneous emphysema accounted for 3.8%, and one with urinary retention accounted for 1.9% were treated with conservative treatment. One patient had early postoperative small bowel obstruction due to abdominal drainage and was successfully treated medically, accounting for 1.9%. There were no major complications requiring reoperation and short-term mortality. The average hospital stay was 7.4 ± 2.1 days. According to the 2002 NRS score, there were 19 (35.8%) cases of nutritional at-risk; the SGA rating had 1.9% SGA-C and 15.1% SGA-B cases. There was a relationship between NRS-2002 and the patient’s blood albumin concentration. Conclusion: The prevalence of patients at nutritional risk and malnutrition is quite common. It is necessary to carry out routine screening and nutritional risk assessment to support colon cancer treatment. Key words: malnutrition, colorectal cancer, NRS 2002, SGA score.

Comparison of short- and long-term outcomes between laparoscopic and open multivisceral resection for clinical T4b colorectal cancer: A multicentre retrospective cohort study in China

BackgroundLaparoscopic surgery is controversial for patients with clinical T4b colorectal cancer (CRC) who require multivisceral resection (MVR). This study aims to explore and compare the safety and long-term oncological outcomes of laparoscopic surgery and open surgery for patients with clinical T4b CRC. Materials and methodsThis study was a retrospective cohort study based on a multicentre database. According to the operation method, the patients were divided into a laparoscopic MVR group and an open MVR group. The short-term and long-term outcomes were compared. ResultsFrom January 2010 to December 2021, a total of 289 patients in the laparoscopic MVR group and 349 patients in the open MVR group were included. After propensity score matching, patients were stratified into a laparoscopic MVR group (n = 163) and an open MVR group (n = 163). Compared with the open MVR group, the laparoscopic MVR group had less blood loss (100 vs. 200, p < 0.001), a shorter time to first flatus (3 vs. 4, P < 0.001), a shorter postoperative hospital stay (10 vs. 12, P < 0.001), and a lower incidence of surgical site infection (2.5 % vs. 8.0 %, P = 0.043). The Kaplan–Meier curves showed that the two groups had similar overall survival (P = 0.283) and disease-free survival (P = 0.152). ConclusionCompared with open MVR, laparoscopic MVR had less blood loss, fewer surgical site infection complications, faster recovery and a shorter hospital stay. The long-term survival outcome of laparoscopic MVR was not inferior to that of open MVR.

Is it possible to predict Surgical Site Infection?

Surgical site infection (SSI) is a widely seen postoperative complication that causes a decrease in life quality and an economic burden. In this study, we aim to find the predictive values of preoperative and postoperative neutrophile lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet lymphocyte ratio (PLR) values for SSI. In this retrospective study, 698 patients who had total abdominal hysterectomy operations with benign indications and confirmed histopathological results were accessed. In this study, the correlation of preoperative NLR, preoperative PLR, postoperative NLR, and postoperative PLR, with the occurrence of postoperative surgical site infection complications were examined. The overall SSI rate was 9.46% (n = 66) with 30 days follow-up postoperatively. Preoperative NLR and PLR values of the patients who had SSIs were significantly lower than the control group (p < 0.05). Postoperative NLR and PLR values of the patients who had SSIs were significantly higher than control group (p < 0.05). In the patients who had postoperative SSIs, the increase of the values of postoperative NLR and PLR were significantly higher than the control group (p < 0.05). In our study, hematological markers of NLR and PLR were found to be independent and significant predictive markers for SSI.

Pattern, Management, and Outcomes of Chest Injury At Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre.

Chest trauma is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the region. Lacking data in our environment has been a challenging part of knowing the burden of the problem. Long hospital stays and associated injuries are an essential measure of morbidity. The study results will provide a basis for planning prevention strategies and establishment of treatment protocols. To determine the prevalence, pattern, and management outcomes of chest injury patients at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Center (KCMC), a Tertiary Hospital in Northern zone Tanzania from October 2021 to April 2022. A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among patients with chest injuries who were admitted and managed at Tertiary Hospital Northern Zone (Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Center-KCMC) in the Emergency medicine and General Surgery departments. Using a designated data collection tool, details of the mechanism of injury, radiological and laboratory investigations, management, and outcomes were recorded. A total of 114 chest injury patients were studied. Males outnumbered females by a ratio of 7.14:1. Their ages ranged from 2 to 83 years (mean = 36.18 years). The Majority of patients (95.58%) sustained blunt injuries. Road traffic crush was the most common cause of injuries affecting 65.79% of patients. Lung contusion, hemothorax, and rib fractures were the most common type of injuries accounting for 54.4%, 27.2%, and 21.1%, respectively. Associated injuries were noted in 85.7% of patients, and head injury (60.5%) was found in most patients. The Majority of patients (60.5%) were treated successfully with a non-operative approach. Underwater seal drainage was performed at (38.9%). One Patient (0.9%) underwent a thoracotomy. 14% of patients had complications of surgical site infection, and 69% were found in the Majority of patients. The median length of hospital stay was 4.5 days. The mortality rate was 21. Motor traffic crash was the principal cause of chest trauma. Young male patients were most affected by chest trauma and the majority of patients were treated conservatively. Chest X-ray remains to be the main imaging modality for diagnosing thoracic trauma lesions. Associated injuries such as head injuries, were found to contribute to a high mortality rate.

Preliminary results of laparoscopic complete mesocolic excision for colon cancer treatment

Background: Laparoscopic complete mesocolic excision (CME) has more lymph nodes resected than traditional laparoscopic colectomy. The laparoscopic CME has not been extensively described as a safe strategy. Objective: Evaluate clinical characteristics and preliminary results of laparoscopic CME in colon cancer. Methods: A prospective study included 22 patients at the Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital and Hue Central Hospital from May 2021 to May 2022. Results: Mean age was 63.6 ± 14.1, and males accounted for 54.5%. ASA 1 accounted for the majority, with a rate of 77.3%. 45.5% of patients with middle and high nutritional risk. The sigmoid colon accounts for the most with 40.9%. The prevalence of splenic flexure colon, the same transverse colon location was a minor proportion at 4.5%. The sigmoidectomy and sigmoidectomy + a part of upper third rectal resection accounted for 40.9%. The mean (range) of the length of hospital stay was 7.3 ± 1.5 days. The specimen length, mesentery width, and lymph nodes average were 31.2 ± 8.2 cm, 9.3 ± 1.7 cm, and 62.2 ± 18.6, respectively. The average tumor size was 4.9 ± 1.6 cm. The analytical plane achieved 86.4% of the complete mesenteric plane. AJCC 8th Stage I after surgery accounted for 40.9%, followed by stages IIIb, and IIa with 31.8% and 18.2%, respectively. Only three patients had complications of surgical site infection, accounting for 13.6%, and one patient with abdominal subcutaneous emphysema + urinary retention accounted for 4.5%. Conclusion: preliminary results of laparoscopic CME colectomy are feasible, safe, and reliable with maximal lymph node retrieval Key words: CME, laparoscopic, colon cancer, treatment, initial, preliminary

Propensity-matched analysis of the efficacy of olanexidine gluconate versus chlorhexidine-alcohol as an antiseptic agent in thoracic esophagectomy

BackgroundIn the present matched-cohort study, we investigated the efficacy of olanexidine gluconate in comparison with chlorhexidine-alcohol as an antiseptic agent in thoracic esophagectomy.MethodsA total of 372 patients with esophageal cancer who were scheduled to undergo thoracic esophagectomy between 2016 and 2018 were assigned to one of two groups based on the preoperative antiseptic agent used in thoracic esophagectomy. We investigated the incidence of surgical site infectious complications in the propensity-matched cohort.ResultsBased on the propensity score, 116 patients prepared with 1.5% olanexidine gluconate and 114 patients prepared with 1.0% chlorhexidine-alcohol as surgical skin antisepsis were selected. No significant intergroup differences were observed with respect to incisional surgical site infection (0.8% in the olanexidine group versus 0.8% in the chlorhexidine group) and deep fascial/organ space surgical site infection (1.7%/10.3% in the olanexidine group versus 3.5%/15.7% in the chlorhexidine group, p = 0.39/p = 0.03). Notably, the respective incidences of surgical site infection except anastomotic leakage were 1.7% and 7.0% in the olanexidine and chlorhexidine groups (p = 0.04).ConclusionsOlanexidine gluconate was well tolerated and significantly reduced incidence of surgical site infection except anastomotic leakage in comparison with chlorhexidine-alcohol as an antiseptic agent in thoracic esophagectomy with three-field lymph node dissection.

Incidence and Predictors of Surgical Site Infection Complications in Diabetic Patients Undergoing Lower Limb Amputation

Surgical site infections (SSIs) following lower extremity amputations (LEAs) are a major cause of patient morbidity and mortality. The objectives of this study are to investigate the annual incidence of SSI and risk factors associated with SSI after LEA in diabetic patients. LEAs performed on diabetic patients between 2005 and 2017 were retrospectively analyzed from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. Incidence rates were calculated and analyzed for temporal change. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted to identify the independent predictors of SSIs in LEA. In 21,449 diabetic patients, the incidence of SSIs was 6.8% after LEA, with an overall decreasing annual trend (P=0.013). Amputation location (below-knee in reference to above-knee) [OR (95% CI): 1.35 (1.20 - 1.53), P <0.001], smoking [OR (95% CI): 1.25 (1.11 - 1.41), P <0.001)], female sex [OR (95% CI): 1.16 (1.03 - 1.30)], preoperative sepsis [OR (95% CI): 1.24 (1.10 - 1.40), P <0.001], P=0.013], emergency status [OR (95% CI): 1.38 (1.17 - 1.63), P <0.001], and obesity [OR (95% CI): 1.59 (1.12 - 2.27), P=0.009] emerged as independent predictors of SSIs, while moderate/severe anemia emerged as a risk-adjusted protective factor [OR (95% CI): 0.75 (0.62 - 0.91), P=0.003]. Sensitivity analysis found that moderate/severe anemia, not body mass index (BMI) class, remained a significant risk factor in the development of SSIs in below-the-knee amputations; in contrast, higher BMI, not preoperative hematocrit, was significantly associated with an increased risk for SSI in above-the-knee amputations. The incidence of SSIs after LEA in diabetic patients is decreasing. Overall, below-knee amputation, smoking, emergency status, and preoperative sepsis appeared to be associated with SSIs. Obesity increased SSIs in above-the-knee amputations, while moderate/severe preoperative anemia appears to protect against below-the-knee SSIs. Surgeons should take predictors of SSI into consideration while optimizing care for their patients, and future studies should investigate the role of preoperative hematocrit correction and how it may influence outcomes positively or negatively.

Intraoperative bile duct cultures in patients undergoing pancreatic head resection: Prospective comparison of bile duct swab versus bile duct aspiration

BackgroundPostoperative surgical site infection is a major source of morbidity after pancreatic head resections, and data suggest bacterobilia as a leading cause. Some centers use intraoperative bile duct cultures to guide postoperative antimicrobial prophylaxis. This prospective study evaluates culture differences between traditional bile duct swab versus bile duct aspiration intraoperative samples. MethodsProspective patients undergoing pancreatic head resection with both bile duct swab and bile duct aspiration were included. Cultures were reviewed for organism characteristics. Any growth of organisms was considered a positive culture. Bile duct swab yield and characteristics were compared with bile duct aspiration. Postoperative surgical site infection complications were compared to bile duct culture results. ResultsFifty patients were included. Bile duct aspiration resulted in a significantly higher median number of organisms compared to bile duct swab (6 vs 3; P < .001). There were no differences in the number of patients (37 vs 33) having positive bile duct aspiration and bile duct swab cultures (P = .385). Anaerobic cultures (not possible with bile duct swab) were positive in 21 patients with bile duct aspiration. A total of 37 (74%) patients had preoperative biliary stenting, which highly associated (P < .001) with positive cultures. Bile duct culture organisms correlated with postoperative surgical site infection in 12/17 (71%) patients. ConclusionUse of bile duct aspiration improves intraoperative bile duct culture organism yield over bile duct swab and may improve tailoring of antibiotics in patients undergoing pancreatic head resection.

PRONATOR QUADRATUS VASCULARIZED MUSCLE BONE PEDICLE GRAFT IN NONUNITED SCAPHOID FRACTURE WITH FIXATION

Background: Left untreated, scaphoid nonunion can progress to carpal collapse and a predictable pattern of radiocarpal arthrosis. The goals of surgery for scaphoid nonunion include uniting the fracture and restoring carpal alignment. Objective: To assess the effect of pronator quadratus vascularized muscle bone pedicle graft in scaphoid nonunion with fixation. Patients and Methods: The study was conducted on 20 patients with a history of scaphoid fracture since three months ago and no clinical or radiological signs of healing at Al-Azhar University Hospitals from January 2018 till February 2019. The patients underwent pronator quadratus vascularized muscle bone pedicle graft in scaphoid nonunion with fixation. Results: The mean age of the studied cases was 34.27 ± 11.74 years and male predominance with all of the studied patients noted no complications wither early or late and returned to their previous level of activity. All the cases achieved bony union (100%) in a mean of 12.5 weeks. There was improvement in mean radiolunate and scapholunate angles. Average range of motion and modified Mayo score. There were no early complications of surgical site infection or sensory disturbances in the area of the radial nerve. There were also none late septic complications. No radiographic progression of arthritis was noted in any patient within the available follow-up time. All patients returned to their previous level of activity and satisfied with the late clinical and functional results. Conclusion: Volar vascularized bone grafts is an easy method and provides excellent results while needing no special equipment. Bone grafting is the mainstay treatment for non-union scaphoid. Vascularized bone grafts using pronator quadratus osteomuscular flaps have proved to be more biological and more successful treatment option.

BIOLOGICS BEFORE SURGERY FOR IBD: ARE THEY ASSOCIATED WITH POST-OPERATIVE INFECTIOUS COMPLICATIONS? RESULTS FROM THE NATIONAL SURGICAL QUALITY IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE COLLABORATIVE IN &amp;gt;1500 PATIENTS

Abstract Background We aimed to utilize the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Collaborative, which includes disease-specific variables, to assess the association between preoperative biologic exposure and post-operative infectious complications in the largest cohort reported to date. Methods Data was obtained from ten IBD centers from 2017 - 2018. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed, with any biologic use within 60-days of surgery as the primary predictor, adjusting for diagnosis, chronic steroid use, immunomodulator (IMM) use, ostomy construction, anemia, malnutrition, operative length, emergency surgery, and other variables with p&amp;lt;0.05 from the univariate analysis. The primary endpoint was any (composite) infectious complication, and the secondary endpoint was any (composite) surgical site infection. Results A total of 1,562 patients were included, of which 832 (53%) were not exposed to biologics, and 730 (47%) were exposed to biologics before surgery. The biologics group had more preoperative weight loss, lower albumin, more systemic sepsis, more IMM and steroid use, and more had Crohn’s disease (all p&amp;lt;0.001). The biologics group were also more likely to receive a new ostomy and to have a colectomy (vs. proctectomy or small bowel procedure), and fewer had elective surgery (all p&amp;lt;0.001). On univariate analysis (Table 1), compared with no biologic exposure, biologic exposure was not associated with any infectious complications, any surgical site infections, anastomotic leak after colectomy, or other post-operative outcomes, but was associated with increased rate of anastomotic leak after proctectomy (n=423), 6.7% vs. 1.9%, p=0.02. With respect to the primary and secondary outcomes, the results of the multivariate analyses are shown in Table 2. Biologics were shown not to be associated with any infectious complication (OR 0.88, 95%CI 0.54 – 1.42) or any surgical site infection (OR 0.77, 95% CI 0.46 – 1.28), while Crohn’s disease was associated with any infectious complications (OR 2.11 95% CI 1.12 – 4, p=0.02). Conclusions In the largest nationally representative retrospective cohort to date, we found that biologics exposure within 60-days of surgery for IBD, using well-validated methodology and after vigorous adjustment for disease- and surgery-specific covariates, was not associated with post-operative infectious or surgical site infectious complications.

Outcomes of Transcarotid Artery Revascularization and Carotid Endarterectomy at a Single Institution

Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and carotid artery stenting (CAS) are accepted revascularization modalities to treat carotid artery stenosis. Higher incidences of perioperative adverse neurological events and death have been reported in patients with transfemoral CAS. Transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR) is a newer operative technique that involves direct transcervical carotid access, mitigating aortic arch manipulation and minimizing the risk of embolic stroke via cerebral blood flow reversal. Perioperative stroke, myocardial infarction (MI), and death rates have been shown to be similar between TCAR and CEA, with TCAR having fewer complications. The objective of this study was to ascertain the safety and viability of TCAR by evaluating perioperative outcomes. We hypothesized that patients undergoing TCAR and CEA have equivalent outcomes. We performed a single-institution retrospective review of a prospectively maintained Vascular Quality Initiative database on patients who underwent TCAR or CEA between 2012 and 2019. A total of 66 TCAR cases from February 2018 to December 2019 and 501 CEA cases from January 2012 to December 2019 were reviewed. Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative characteristics as well as perioperative outcomes were captured for the statistical analyses. From 2012 to 2019, 567 patients underwent TCAR or CEA. Patients who underwent TCAR were found to have higher rates of comorbidities compared with CEA. There were no procedure-related strokes in patients who underwent TCAR. There was no statistically significant difference between TCAR and CEA procedure-related strokes (0% vs. 1.0%, P=0.42). There were 5 CEA procedure-related strokes because of technical problems resulting in thrombosis of the target vessels. Three patients who underwent CEA had strokes unrelated to the operations. Overall, there were no perioperative deaths, MI, cranial nerve injury (CNI), or hematoma in patients who underwent TCAR. There were no complications of surgical site infection, pseudoaneurysm, or arteriovenous fistula among patients who underwent TCAR or CEA. This single-center retrospective analysis of TCAR and CEA for the treatment of carotid artery disease suggests TCAR can result in equivalent perioperative procedure-related stroke as CEA as well as equivalent incidence of perioperative complications including MI, CNI, hematoma, and death in selected patients or patients with proper anatomy. TCAR may be considered a safe, feasible carotid revascularization option for carotid artery stenosis.

OP25 Biologics before surgery for IBD: Are they associated with post-operative infectious outcomes? Results from the national surgical quality improvement programme inflammatory bowel disease collaborative

Abstract Background We aimed to utilise the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Collaborative, which includes disease-specific variables, to assess the association between preoperative biologic exposure and post-operative infectious complications in the largest cohort reported to date. Methods Were obtained from ten IBD centres from 2017 - 2018. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed, with any biologic use within 60-days of surgery as the primary predictor, adjusting for diagnosis, chronic steroid use, immunomodulator (IMM) use, ostomy construction, anaemia, malnutrition, operative length, emergency surgery, and other variables with p &amp;lt; 0.05 from the univariate analysis. The primary endpoint was any (composite) infectious complication, and the secondary endpoint was any (composite) surgical site infection. Results A total of 1,562 patients were included, of which 832 (53%) were not exposed to biologics, and 730 (47%) were exposed to biologics before surgery. The biologics group had more preoperative weight loss, lower albumin, more systemic sepsis, more IMM and steroid use, and more had Crohn’s disease (all p &amp;lt; 0.001). The biologics group were also more likely to receive a new ostomy and to have a colectomy (vs. proctectomy or small bowel procedure), and fewer had elective surgery (all p &amp;lt; 0.001). On univariate analysis (Table 1), compared with no biologic exposure, biologic exposure was not associated with any infectious complications, any surgical site infections, anastomotic leak after colectomy, or other post-operative outcomes, but was associated with increased rate of anastomotic leak after proctectomy (n = 423), 6.7% vs. 1.9%, p = 0.02. With respect to the primary and secondary outcomes, the results of the multivariate analyses are shown in Table 2. Biologics were shown not to be associated with any infectious complication (OR 0.88, 95% CI 0.54 – 1.42) or any surgical site infection (OR 0.77, 95% CI 0.46 – 1.28), while Crohn’s disease was associated with any infectious complications (OR 2.11 95% CI 1.12 – 4, p = 0.02). Conclusion In the largest retrospective cohort to date, we found that biologics exposure within 60 days of surgery for IBD, using a well-validated methodology and after vigorous adjustment for disease- and surgery-specific covariates, was not associated with post-operative infectious or surgical site infectious complications.

A comparison of readmission and complication rates and charges of inpatient and outpatient multiple-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion surgeries in the Medicare population.

This study aims to assess the relationship of comorbidities and postoperative complications to rates of readmission for geriatric patients undergoing anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) involving more than 2 levels on an inpatient or outpatient basis. With the rising costs of healthcare in the United States, understanding the safety and efficacy of performing common surgical interventions (including ACDF) as outpatient procedures could prove to be of great economic impact.Objective This study aims to assess the effect of comorbidities and postoperative complications on the rates of readmission of geriatric patients undergoing multilevel anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) procedures (i.e., ACDF involving 3 or more levels) on an inpatient or outpatient basis. Same-day surgery has been demonstrated to be a safe and cost-effective alternative to the traditional inpatient option for many surgical interventions. With the rising costs of healthcare, understanding the safety and efficacy of performing common surgical interventions as outpatient procedures could prove to be of great economic impact. The study population included total of 2492 patients: 2348 inpatients and 144 outpatients having ACDF procedures involving 3 or more levels in the Medicare Standard Analytical Files database. Age, sex, comorbidities, postoperative complications, readmission rates, and surgical procedure charges were compared between both cohorts. For selected variables, logistic regression was used to model odds ratios for various comorbidities against readmission rates for both inpatient and outpatient cohorts. Chi-square tests were also calculated to compare these comorbidities with readmission in each cohort. Overall complication rates within 30 postoperative days were greater for inpatients than for outpatients (44.2% vs 12.5%, p < 0.001). More inpatients developed postoperative urinary tract infection (7.9% vs 0%, p < 0.001), and the inpatient cohort had increased risk of readmission with comorbidities of anemia (OR 1.52, p < 0.001), smoking (OR 2.12, p < 0.001), and BMI ≥ 30 (OR 1.43, p < 0.001). Outpatients had increased risk of readmission with comorbidities of anemia (OR 2.78, p = 0.047), diabetes mellitus type 1 or 2 (OR 3.25, p = 0.033), and BMI ≥ 30 (OR 3.95, p = 0.008). Inpatients also had increased readmission risk with a postoperative complication of surgical site infection (OR 2.38, p < 0.001). The average charges for inpatient multilevel ACDF were significantly higher than for multilevel ACDF performed on an outpatient basis ($12,734.27 vs $12,152.18, p = 0.0019). This study suggests that ACDF surgery involving 3 or more levels performed as an outpatient procedure in the geriatric population may be associated with lower rates of readmissions, complications, and surgical charges.

Preliminary effectiveness of laminated bevel suturing technique for treating acute closed Achilles tendon rupture

To introduce a modified technique for treating acute closed Achilles tendon rupture and evaluate the preliminary effectiveness. Between March 2011 and September 2015, 8 cases (8 sides) with acute closed Achilles tendon rupture were repaired with the laminated bevel suturing technique. All of the patients were male with an average age of 39.3 years (range, 22-58 years), injured in nonprofessional sports. The diagnosis was confirmed by typical signs of positive heel-lift test and Thompson test; the complete rupture of Achilles tendon was determined by color Doppler ultrasound or MRI, and the distance between the stump and calcaneus was 2-5 cm (mean, 3.3 cm). The time from injury to operation was 2-12 days (mean, 4.1 days). With the patient in prone position, a posterior longitudinal incision medial to the tendon was made, the broken stumps of Achilles tendon were divided into 3 layers on the coronal plane, fibers made into strips. The strips were staggered and stacked, stitched side to side with absorbable suture. The ankle joint at the plantar flexion position was fixed with plaster, and early rehabilitation exercise was carried out. The operation time was 70-135 minutes (mean, 99 minutes); the intraoperative blood loss was 5-30 mL (mean, 15.6 mL). All the incisions healed by first intention without infection, except for 1 case who need dressing exchange because of partial delayed healing. All the patients were followed up 6-50 months (mean, 30.5 months). There was no complication of surgical site infection, sural nerve injury, or deep vein thrombosis. The patients could walk normally with powerful raising heels and return to previous sports, without complication of re-rupture. Compared with the contralateral side, the activity of ankle joint dorsiflexion reduced 0-6° (mean, 3°); plantar flexion reduced 1-5° (mean, 2°). At last follow-up, according to Arner-Lindholm score, the surgical results were excellent in 7 cases and good in 1 case, with an excellent and good rate of 100%. Laminated bevel suturing technique is simple for repairing acute closed Achilles tendon rupture without the need of special surgical instruments. It provides enough tensile strength for early rehabilitation exercise to rapid and good recovery.

Is a Drain Tip Culture Required After Spinal Surgery?

The efficacy of use of a drain tip culture for early detection of surgical-site infection (SSI) was investigated in 329 patients after spinal surgery. To examine the efficacy of a wound drain tip culture for detection of SSI in spinal surgery. A complication of SSI after spinal surgery has high associated morbidity and mortality, and is often difficult to treat. The subjects were patients who underwent spinal surgery at our institution between January 2010 and March 2013. All subjects were treated with antimicrobial prophylaxis based on evidence-based guidelines and were followed for at least 6 months after surgery. Data from culture studies using the distal tip of the wound drain were used for analysis. Drain tip cultures were positive in 34 cases and there were 19 SSIs. Ten of the 34-tip culture-positive wounds developed SSI. Drain tip cultures had a sensitivity of 52%, specificity of 92%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 29%, and negative predictive value of 97% for predicting a wound infection. The association between a positive suction tip culture and wound infection was significant (P<0.05). The PPV for SSI was 60% in cases in which methicillin-resistant bacteria were detected in a drain tip, and the SSI rate in these cases differed significantly compared with those with non-methicillin-resistant bacteria (P=0.01). A drain tip culture is useful for early detection of SSI caused by methicillin-resistant bacteria.

Skin closure at cesarean delivery, glue vs subcuticular sutures: a randomized controlled trial

The optimal choice of skin closure at cesarean delivery has not yet been determined. This study compared wound complications and scar healing following cesarean delivery between 2 methods of skin closure: glue (Dermabond; Ethicon, Somerville, NJ) and monofilament (Monocryl; Ethicon) epidermal sutures. We conducted a randomized controlled trial in which pregnant women undergoing a scheduled cesarean delivery were randomly assigned to skin (epidermis) closure with glue or with a monofilament synthetic suture. The subcutaneous tissue was sutured for all patients. Outcome assessors were blinded to group allocation. Scars were evaluated >8 weeks. Primary outcome measures were Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale scores. Secondary outcome measures were surgeon satisfaction, duration of surgery, duration of hospitalization after the cesarean delivery, and complications of surgical site infection or wound disruption (hematoma or seroma). A sample of 104 women was needed to achieve a clinically significant effect with a power of 80%. Demographic characteristics, patients' clinical background, prepregnancy body mass index, and subcutaneous thickness were similar in both groups. Length of surgery between the groups (37 ± 10 minutes for glue vs 39 ± 13 minutes for sutures, P= .515) was similar. Scores immediately after the wound closure were similar for both groups regarding surgeons' time estimate of closure (P= .181) and closure appearance (P= .082). Surgeons' satisfaction with the technique was significantly higher in the suture group (P= .003). No significant differences were found between the groups in blood loss, surgical site infection, length of postpartum hospitalization, or wound disruption. Glue and suture skin closure scores using Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale were similar 8 weeks after surgery, at P= .710 for patients and P= .568 for a physician observer. Skin closure using glue or a monofilament synthetic suture had similar results. Both methods were shown to be safe and successful for skin closure after a scheduled cesarean delivery and, therefore, can be used based on surgeon and patient preferences.

Reverse less invasive stabilization system for treatment of femoral intertrochanteric fracture

Objective To evaluate the clinic effect of reverse less invasive stabilization system (LISS) in treatment of femoral intertrochanteric fracture.Methods The study enrolled 22 cases of femoral intertrochanteric fractures treated with reverse LISS from January 2007 to January 2011.Twelve out of the cases were males and 10 were females,with age ranging from 44 to 86 years (mean,72.5 years).Left fracture occurred in 8 cases and right in 14 cases.Causes of injury included fall on the ground in 15 cases,vehicle accidents in 4 cases,and fall from height in 3 cases.There were 15 cases of type Ⅲ and 9 of type Ⅳ according to Evans-Jensen classification and all fractures were closed injuries.Time from injury to operation was 3-14 days (mean,5.3 days).Results Intraoperative hemorrhage was (130.5 ± 60) ml and operation time was (55 ± 15) min.All cases were followed up for 12-30 months (mean,14.8 months).Fracture healing time was 10-27 weeks (mean,13.4 weeks).Harris hip score was excellent in 11 cases,good in 8,fair in 2,and poor in 1,with excellent and good rate of 86％.Two cases felt greater trochanter pain at follow-up ; one presented with plate breakage and malunion at 6 months postoperatively,but may need no further treatment; the rest healed without complications of surgical site infection,varus deformity of the hip,implant breakage,fracture redisplacement,screw drawing pullout or cutout.Conclusion Reverse LISS plating is an effective treatment for femoral intertrochanteric fractures,but the procedure can not assure 100％ success. Key words: Femoral fractures; Fracture fixation,internal; Surgical procedures, minimally invasive

Toward Prospective Identification of High-Risk Surgical Patients

The purpose of this study was to explore the feasibility of prospectively identifying patients at high risk for surgical complications using automatable methods focused on patient characteristics. We used data from the Michigan Surgical Quality Collaborative (60,411 elective surgeries) performed between 2003 and 2008. Regression models for postoperative mortality, overall morbidity, cardiac, thromboembolic, pulmonary, renal, and surgical site infection complications were developed using preoperative patient and planned procedure data. Risk was categorized by quartiles of predicted probability: "low" risk corresponding to the bottom quartile, "average" to the middle two quartiles, and "high" to the top quartile. C-indices were calculated to measure discrimination; model validity was assessed by cross-validation. Models were repeated using only patient characteristics. Risk category was closely related to event rates; 80 to 90 per cent of mortality and cardiac, renal, and pulmonary complications occurred among the 25 per cent of "high-risk" patients. Although thromboembolisms and surgical site infections were less predictable, 60 to 70 per cent of events occurred among high-risk patients. Cross-validation results were consistent and only slightly attenuated when predictors were restricted to patient characteristics alone. Adverse postoperative events are concentrated among patients identifiable preoperatively as high risk. Preoperative risk assessment could allow for efficient interventions targeted to high-risk patients.

What Is the Infection Rate of the Posterior Approach to Type C Pelvic Injuries?

Pelvic ring injuries with complete disruption of the posterior pelvis (AO/OTA Type C) benefit from reduction and stabilization. Open reduction in early reports had high infectious complications and many surgeons began using closed reduction and percutaneous fixation. Multiple smaller studies have reported low infection rates after a posterior approach, but these rates are not confirmed in larger series of diverse fractures. We therefore determined (1) the incidence of surgical site infectious complications after a posterior approach to the pelvis; and (2) whether secondary procedures other than surgical débridement are necessary as a result of the approach-related complications. We retrospectively reviewed all 236 patients (268 surgical approaches) with C type injuries treated with a posterior approach at six institutions before 1998 and at one institution from 1998 to 2005. Posterior injuries were classified anatomically as described by Letournel and the AO/OTA system. We recorded wound complications after surgery. Surgical site infection occurred in eight of the 236 patients (3.4%) in the multicenter analysis. Treatment consisted of surgical débridement, wound closure, and antibiotics. No patients required soft tissue reconstruction as a result of the approach or infection. Our data suggest with proper patient selection and the described surgical technique, there should be minimal risk for catastrophic wound complications or high infection rates as reported by others. Level IV, therapeutic study. See Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.