Unnecessary Treatment Research Articles

The Role of Plastic Stents in the Management of Pseudocysts: Cost-Effective Solutions and Clinical Advantages of Dual Stenting

Dear Editor, Pancreatic cysts represent a significant clinical entity in gastroenterology, frequently arising as sequelae of acute or chronic pancreatitis. These cysts are categorized based on the presence of necrotic material, which can be effectively identified through cross-sectional imaging techniques. Fluid-filled collections encapsulated by fibrous or granulation tissue are classified as pseudocysts, whereas collections with necrotic content are termed walled-off necrosis (WON). Clinical management becomes particularly critical when these cysts are symptomatic—manifesting as intractable pain, nausea, or vomiting—or when complications such as antimicrobial-resistant infections or mass effects on surrounding structures, including the biliary tract, are present. Endoscopic drainage is the cornerstone of treatment, with plastic and metallic stents serving as the primary tools. Economic constraints and clinical considerations often dictate the choice of stents, with plastic stents being the preferred option in resource-limited settings due to their cost-effectiveness and favorable clinical outcomes. Although metallic stents, such as lumen-apposing metal stents (LAMS), provide technical advantages—primarily their larger diameter for drainage—plastic stents have demonstrated comparable efficacy in many scenarios, particularly when the number of stents is optimized. Advantages of Dual Plastic Stenting Recent studies have underscored the advantages of dual plastic stent placement over single stenting for managing pancreatic pseudocysts [1]. Dual stenting offers several distinct benefits that enhance clinical outcomes and procedural safety. The primary advantage is the reduction of additional endoscopic interventions. When one stent becomes occluded by necrotic debris or viscous fluid, the second stent serves as a safeguard, maintaining drainage and reducing the need for repeated procedures [2]. A second notable benefit of dual stent placement is the stabilization of the newly formed fistulotomy tract in cases of stent migration. Larger pseudocysts, due to their size and intraluminal pressures, are particularly prone to this issue when managed with a single stent. If migration occurs, re-accessing the endoscopically created fistula tract for re-stenting can be challenging and may require a new puncture. Dual stent placement significantly reduces migration risk, enhances tract stability, and minimizes the need for unnecessary interventions [1]. Supporting Evidence Ghoneem et al. demonstrated the technical and clinical success of single wide-caliber plastic stents for pseudocyst drainage, albeit with stent occlusion as a potential limitation [2]. Similarly, Giri et al. reported superior drainage efficiency and a lower incidence of complications with dual stent placement [1]. Furthermore, a meta-analysis by Saunders et al. comparing plastic and metallic stents for pancreatic fluid collections revealed that while metallic stents offer certain advantages, plastic stents remain highly effective, especially in resource-constrained settings [3]. Although LAMS is gaining traction due to its ease of placement and larger luminal diameter, randomized trials have not consistently demonstrated its superiority over plastic stents [4]. These findings highlight the importance of cost-effectiveness and accessibility in stent selection, particularly in resource-limited environments where dual plastic stenting is a practical yet effective enhancement of standard techniques. Practical Considerations While dual stenting offers clear advantages, the procedure demands technical expertise. Ensuring proper positioning of the first stent before placing the second is crucial, as inadvertent migration during the procedure can complicate the intervention. This emphasizes the need for specialized training and experience among endoscopists managing pancreatic pseudocysts. CONCLUSION We advocate for the judicious use of plastic stents in managing pseudocysts, with dual stenting providing enhanced clinical outcomes and procedural safety. Further research comparing single and dual stenting strategies in diverse patient populations, along with randomized trials evaluating the long-term efficacy of plastic versus metallic stents, would offer invaluable insights.

Systematic Literature Review of Epaxial Paraspinal Schwannomas: Differential Diagnosis and Treatment Approaches

Background: Schwannomas, predominantly benign nerve sheath tumors, are typically found within the intradural extramedullary space of the spinal cord with potential extradural expansion. Other typical localizations are the upper limbs and neck area. Pure epaxial paraspinal schwannomas are very rare, often asymptomatic, and predominantly occur in the thoracic region, with only a handful of cases reported globally. The range of differential diagnoses for paraspinal lesions is extensive, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnosis to ensure optimal therapy and avoid unnecessary treatments. Method: We conducted a systematic literature review searching for published recommendations for paraspinal lesion management in addition to examining the case of a 49-year-old male patient who presented with a history of persistent back pain. A thorough medical history and physical examination were followed by ultrasound and MRI, revealing a well-defined paravertebral mass spanning from T7 to T9. A secure ultrasound-guided biopsy was performed, leading to a preliminary diagnosis of paraspinal schwannoma. Subsequently, complete surgical resection was performed. Results: pathological reports confirmed the initial diagnosis of paraspinal schwannoma. Further investigation using FMI and RNA sequencing did not detect any specific genetic anomalies aside from an NF2 gene mutation. A follow-up MRI conducted six months later showed no signs of recurrence. Conclusions: The broad spectrum of differential diagnoses for paraspinal lesions necessitates a multidisciplinary approach to ensure accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment. This approach involves meticulous imaging interpretation followed by a secure biopsy procedure to obtain preliminary pathology results, ultimately leading to the implementation of the most suitable surgical treatment.

The pattern of the distribution of incompetent segments within the great saphenous vein at C2 lower extremity: A report conforming to the 2024 IAC standards and guidelines.

To analyze the distribution of incompetent segments in the great saphenous vein (GSV) in Clinical, Etiological, Anatomical, Pathophysiological (CEAP) classification C2 limbs to provide a reference for appropriate diagnosis and treatment planning. We analyzed the distributions of incompetent segments in the GSVs of the C2 lower extremity undergoing duplex ultrasound from September 2017 to December 2023. The examined segments were the saphenofemoral junction (SFJ), GSV at the proximal thigh, GSV at the knee, and GSV below the knee. A total of 696 lower limbs from 540 patients (male 256, female 440) was analyzed. The mean age was 56 (ranging from 18 to 86), and the mean body mass index (BMI) was 24.0kg/m2. There were 15 types of distribution of incompetent segments within the GSV, with the most common type (32.6%) being reflux from the SFJ to the GSV below the knee. Among the lower limbs with reflux at the SFJ, GSV at the proximal thigh or knee was competent in 10% of lower limbs. In the lower limbs with reflux at the proximal thigh GSV, 26% did not have reflux at the SFJ. The presence of reflux in each segment did not differ by sex, but those with reflux in the below-knee segment were older than those without reflux(p = .003). In each of the three segments above the knee, limbs with reflux had a higher BMI than those without reflux. The most common distribution type was reflux from the SFJ to the below-knee segment, although this only accounted for about one-third of the cases. Various distribution types of incompetent segments within the GSV were identified, suggesting that reflux testing in multiple segments according to the latest guidelines for ultrasound examination of the lower extremity veins is necessary to avoid unnecessary treatment of segments without reflux.

Is it time to acknowledge intramucosal colorectal carcinoma?

The term 'intramucosal carcinoma' in the colorectum is controversial when used as a synonym for high-grade dysplasia. However, setting clear definitions for this diagnosis (i.e. unequivocal infiltrative growth in the lamina propria, which might be most easily recognized in cases with overt poor differentiation or formation of signet ring cells or tumour budding) allow us to investigate its relevance. We reviewed cases from our archive (1990-2024) and selected 14 true intramucosal carcinomas using our strict histological criteria, excluding high-grade dysplasia and invasive carcinomas. These occur primarily in conventional adenomas and are frequently associated with microsatellite instability (50%). Our study shows a low estimated incidence of intramucosal carcinoma (0.01%) in population screening and highlights the low lymph node risk and the good outcome of patients with intramucosal carcinoma. The rare diagnosis of intramucosal colorectal carcinoma aids in identifying patients at increased colorectal cancer risk, notably those with hereditary syndromes. Standardizing this diagnosis is critical to prevent overdiagnosis and unnecessary treatment.

Orthopaedic deception: when psychiatric disorders mimic musculoskeletal conditions.

Psychiatric disorders significantly impact orthopaedic practice, often manifesting in ways that can complicate diagnosis and treatment. This narrative review explores psychiatric conditions that mimic musculoskeletal disorders, including Conversion Disorder, Factitious Disorder, Somatic Symptom Disorder, and Malingering. These disorders present a range of challenges, from interfering with accurate diagnosis to contributing to suboptimal clinical outcomes and increased healthcare costs. Is fundamental the role of orthopaedic surgeons in recognizing these conditions, which can present as genuine musculoskeletal symptoms but have underlying psychiatric origins. It emphasizes the need for heightened awareness and proper training to avoid misdiagnosis and ensure timely, appropriate treatment. By examining current literature, the review provides a comprehensive overview of each disorder, detailing their clinical presentations, diagnostic criteria, and treatment strategies. The aim is to enhance orthopedic practitioners' ability to identify and manage these complex cases effectively, improving patient care and reducing the risk of unnecessary interventions.

Review of Imaging Peritoneal Disease and Treatment.

Peritoneal disease can be classified as either benign or malignant in nature. Malignant peritoneal disease can be further considered as either primary or secondary in origin. Primary peritoneal malignancy includes peritoneal mesothelioma, serous carcinoma, and desmoplastic small round cell tumour. Peritoneal carcinomatosis is the most commonly encountered secondary malignant peritoneal disease, typically of ovarian, gastric, colorectal, pancreatic, small bowel neuroendocrine, or breast origin. Others include peritoneal lymphomatosis and sarcomatosis. Benign peritoneal pathology may mimic malignant disease. Differentiating benign from malignant peritoneal pathology can be challenging, but is critical to guide appropriate care and avoid unnecessary intervention. Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) offers potentially curative treatment for patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis, pseudomyxoma peritonei, and peritoneal mesothelioma. For such patients, the radiologist provides crucial pre-operative information highlighting sites of disease involvement, particularly for sites which are challenging to assess at laparotomy or laparoscopy, including the hepatic dome, subdiaphragmatic space and mesenteric root. The radiologist is also essential to identify potential contraindications to surgery, as well as interpreting normal post-operative appearances, complications and assessing for disease recurrence.

A Re-evaluation of Renal Biopsy-based Diagnoses Through a Genetic Analysis in Two Families with Alport Syndrome: Case Reports.

Alport syndrome is an inherited disorder characterized by progressive renal failure, sensorineural hearing loss, and ocular involvement due to pathogenic variants of genes encoding type IV collagen. A renal biopsy does not reveal specific findings in the early stages; thus, Alport syndrome may be diagnosed as another glomerular disease. We herein report two families that were previously diagnosed with other glomerular diseases based on renal biopsies and were then accurately diagnosed by genetic testing. An early diagnosis may lead to the avoidance of unnecessary biopsies and treatments, and appropriate management may improve the renal prognosis.

Low and High Birth Weight in a Hospital Population in Qassim, Saudi Arabia: An Analysis of Clinical Cutoff Values

Background: Establishing cutoff values for low birth weight (LBW) and high birth weight (HBW) is crucial for clinical practice. This study aimed to determine these values in Saudi Arabia. Method: A retrospective study in 2022 analyzed the birth weights of 1605 neonates. The 10th and 90th percentiles were calculated to define LBW and HBW. Results: LBW was defined as <2450 g (10th percentile), with an incidence of 10.5%. HBW was >3650 g (90th percentile), with a prevalence of 10.3%. Comparing the WHO’s LBW definition (<2500 g) revealed significant differences but high agreement (kappa = 0.962). HBW had a prevalence of 2.4% using a 4000 g cutoff, with low agreement (Kappa = 0.357). Conclusions: This study suggests an LBW cutoff at 2450 g and an HBW cutoff at 3650 g in Saudi Arabia. A birth weight range of 2450–3650 g is considered normal, reducing unnecessary healthcare interventions.

A young patient complaining of left scrotal pain diagnosed with testicular ischemia: a potentially fatal consequence of epididymitis

Rare complications of acute epididymitis include ischemia and infarction of the testicles. Both clinically and radiologically, it is challenging to distinguish testicular torsion. In this article we have tried to expand the library of digital images of radiological diagnostic methods used for fast and accurate differential diagnostics. This case emphasizes the significance of a comprehensive radiological assessment and how a multidisciplinary approach is necessary to guarantee an accurate diagnosis. A 24-year-old man experienced severe left testicular pain and came to the hospital 2 weeks later. At the radiology department, he reported that he had for some time painful ejaculations, pain during intercourse (dyspareunia), scrotal redness/swelling, genital inflammation, chills, swollen inguinal lymph nodes, dysuria, and scrotal pain. All diagnostic procedures were performed, first ultrasonography and then magnetic resonance imaging, as required by the urologist. The imaging studies revealed left testicular ischemia, and based on the referred clinical history, a chronic orchid-epididymitis was suspected. Thus, the condition was resolved, not with a left orchidectomy but with medical therapy because the ischemia area was not too large. The patient also had a left varicocele. Images acquired with different magnetic resonance imaging sequences were carefully examined. A rare instance of epididymal orchitis is described as a potentially dangerous complication of epididymitis and must be considered if sudden, severe scrotal pain is experienced to avoid severe consequences. This case can help with optimal patient management and prevent unnecessary interventions.

Unilateral Mandibular Torus in a Hypertensive and Alcoholic Patient: A Case Report

Objective: The objective of this case report is to report a case of unilateral mandibular torus in an adult patient with hypertension and alcoholism, highlighting the clinical characteristics, diagnosis, and management. Methodology: In the literature review, to obtain scientific articles, the main reference sources in articles, dissertations and abstracts published in congresses were searched in the databases, using the main portals in the health area such as PubMed, Scielo and Google Scholar, using the terms: Mandibular Torus, Dentistry, Surgery, in Portuguese and English as search words. After collecting the abstracts, the relevant articles were collected in full, read and used in the present study. The case report describes the clinical maneuvers performed on a 58-year-old male patient, hypertensive and alcoholic. Conclusion: Unilateral mandibular torus is a rare condition that is usually asymptomatic and can be managed conservatively. Correct diagnosis is essential to differentiate this condition from pathological lesions and avoid unnecessary interventions. This case highlights the importance of clinical examination and differential diagnosis of mandibular torus in patients with systemic risk factors, such as hypertension and alcoholism. Surgical management was sufficient in this case, but periodic follow-up is essential to monitor changes and prevent complications.

Living with Pyoderma Gangrenosum: A Qualitative Study.

Pyoderma gangrenosum is a rare, autoinflammatory disorder characterized by rapidly progressive painful ulcers that are challenging to diagnose and treat. This qualitative study aimed to explore the experiences of patients living with pyoderma gangrenosum. Using an inductive qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews were completed with a purposive sample of 21 patients with pyoderma gangrenosum recruited from a public dermatology outpatient clinic in Melbourne, Australia. A reflexive thematic analysis was performed, yielding 5 themes: pain, physical challenges, social functioning and relationships, mental health, and treatment. The impact of pyoderma gangrenosum on quality of life was multifaceted and varied throughout disease progression, remission, and recurrence. Experiences of delayed diagnosis and misdiagnosis were common, causing distress and resulting in unnecessary treatments including surgery. Severe pain disrupted sleep and limited daily activities, eroding patients' sense of self-control and perpetuating depressed mood and anxiety. Management should include early specialist referral, providing information sheets for managing pain and wound care, and communicating disease expectations. In conclusion, this study has deepened understanding and given personal perspectives on what it is like to live with a condition poorly understood by many health professionals. Increased efforts should be made to increase clinician awareness regarding pyoderma gangrenosum to facilitate early diagnosis.

Antibiotic Choice and Outcomes for Respiratory Infections in Children With Tracheostomies.

Respiratory infections are a major cause of hospitalization in children with tracheostomies, contributing significantly to hospital expenses. Limited data exist to describe optimal diagnostic strategies or management recommendations for these infections. This study aimed to explore factors associated with antibiotic therapy, including usage, administration route, duration, variables influencing the decision to prescribe antibiotics, and outcomes in children with tracheostomies experiencing episodes of respiratory infection other than pneumonia (tracheobronchitis and nonspecific respiratory episodes [NSRE]). We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the medical records of 83 children who underwent tracheostomy and received treatment at a tertiary hospital from 2010 to 2021. A total of 164 episodes of tracheobronchitis and 98 episodes of NSRE were analyzed. Children with tracheobronchitis were more frequently treated with antibiotics: 75% in nonhospitalized cases and 76% in hospitalized cases. In NSRE, antibiotic prescription dropped to 40% and 29%, respectively. Out of 51 tracheobronchitis and 15 NSRE initially treated with oral antibiotics, a switch to intravenous administration was deemed necessary in only 7 tracheobronchitis cases (14%). Fever was significantly associated with antibiotic prescription in tracheobronchitis and NSRE, regardless of hospitalization status. Two children died within the 28-day period following the onset of tracheobronchitis symptoms. Many cases identified as tracheobronchitis, along with a greater number of NSRE cases, resolved without requiring antibiotics. Although fever was associated with increased antibiotic prescription, it does not necessarily indicate severity. Therefore, careful consideration should be given before prescribing antibiotics, especially in febrile cases, to avoid unnecessary treatments.

T1 Colorectal Cancer: What Are the Barriers to Minimizing Unnecessary Surgical Interventions?

T1 Colorectal Cancer: What Are the Barriers to Minimizing Unnecessary Surgical Interventions?

The pitfalls and challenges in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with carotid near-occlusion: a narrative review.

Carotid near-occlusion (CNO) is defined as a severe stenosis of the internal carotid artery (ICA) resulting in a reduction in the distal diameter. It is a specific type of carotid stenosis accounting for 34% of the patients with symptomatic carotid stenosis ≥50%. The current guidelines recommend the best medical treatment (BMT) as the treatment of choice. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance to accurately diagnose CNO to avoid unnecessary surgical treatment. Although imaging can detect the majority of cases, there are still a few cases that remain unexplained. The purpose of this review is to discuss the mechanism of stroke, diagnostic imaging, and therapeutic approaches in patients with CNO and to examine the importance of diagnostic imaging in determining the treatment and prognosis of patients with CNO. The PubMed database was searched for clinical studies on CNO published in English from 1950 to 2024. The selected literature was screened for articles related to the formation mechanism of CNO, clinical diagnosis, and the latest developments in treatment methods. The primary mechanisms of stroke in CNO include embolism and hypoperfusion. Imaging techniques such as computed tomography angiography (CTA) and digital subtraction angiography (DSA) can identify most instances of CNO; however, anatomical variations may pose challenges in accurately diagnosing this condition. Currently, revascularization offers limited benefits for patients with CNO. According to the 2023 European Society for Vascular Surgery (ESVS) guideline update, BMT is the preferred treatment for CNO, and patients with CNO and distal vessel collapse with recurrent carotid territory symptoms may be considered for revascularization after multidisciplinary team discussion. The diagnosis of CNO based on feature interpretation necessitates a cautious approach. It is imperative to conduct large prospective clinical trials to identify the optimal treatment for patients with various types of CNO.

Predicting vulnerable coronary arteries: a combined radiomics-biomechanics approach

Background and ObjectiveNowadays, vulnerable coronary plaque detection from coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) is suboptimal, although being crucial for preventing major adverse cardiac events. Moreover, despite the suggestion of various vulnerability biomarkers, encompassing image and biomechanical factors, accurate patient stratification remains elusive, and a comprehensive approach integrating multiple markers is lacking. To this aim, this study introduces an innovative approach for assessing vulnerable coronary arteries and patients by integrating radiomics and biomechanical markers through machine learning methods. MethodsThe study included 40 patients (7 high-risk and 33 low-risk) who underwent both CCTA and coronary optical coherence tomography (OCT). The dataset comprised 49 arteries (with 167 plaques), 7 of which (with 28 plaques) identified as vulnerable by OCT. Following image preprocessing and segmentation, CCTA-based radiomic features were extracted and a finite element analysis was performed to compute the biomechanical features. A novel machine learning pipeline was implemented to stratify coronary arteries and patients. For each stratification task, three independent predictive models were developed: a radiomic, a biomechanical and a combined radiomic-biomechanical model. Both k-nearest neighbors (KNN) and decision tree (DT) classifiers were considered. ResultsThe best radiomic model (KNN) detected all 7 vulnerable arteries and patients and was associated with a balanced accuracy of 0.86 (sensitivity=1, specificity=0.71) for the artery model and of 0.83 (sensitivity=1, specificity=0.67) for the patient model. The best biomechanical model (DT) detected 6 over 7 vulnerable arteries and patients and remarkably increased the specificity, resulting in a balanced accuracy of 0.89 (sensitivity=0.86, specificity=0.93) for the artery model and of 0.88 (sensitivity=0.86, specificity=0.91) for the patient model. Notably, the combined approach optimized the performance, with an increase in the balance accuracy up to 0.94 for the artery model and up to 0.92 for the patient model, being associated with sensitivity=1 and high specificity (0.88 and 0.85 for artery and patient models, respectively). ConclusionThis investigation highlights the promise of radio-mechanical coronary artery phenotyping for patient stratification. If confirmed from larger studies, our approach enables a more personalized management of the disease, with the early identification of high-risk individuals and the reduction of unnecessary interventions for low-risk individuals.

Ultrasound Utilization in Hospitalized Kidney Transplant Recipients: Useful or Overused?

Kidney transplant ultrasonography is an important diagnostic tool in the care of transplant recipients. This modality of nonradiation-based imaging allows for precise and expedient reporting of allograft architecture, which can inform clinical decision-making. However, as with any diagnostic tool, overuse may lead to unnecessary interventions and costs on the healthcare system. To better understand the use of ultrasonography in hospitalized kidney transplant recipients and outcomes of subsequent interventions, we conducted a single-center retrospective study at a large transplant program in Ontario, Canada. We noted that over 30% of admissions resulted in a ultrasonographic survey within the first 24 h of presentation; however, most of these did not change clinical management or lead to a subsequent procedural intervention. Using multivariable logistic regression, we identified predictors for receiving an ultrasound, including time from transplantation, elevated serum creatinine and infectious diagnosis. Procedural interventions (e.g., drain or biopsy) resulted from less than 20% of all ultrasound investigations, with patients closer to the time of index transplant or with elevated serum creatinine values more likely to receive an intervention. In conducting a cost analysis, we estimated that approximately $80000 CAD per year could be saved with more selective decisions on ultrasound requisitions. Overall, our results indicate that despite being an informative tool, the broad use of ultrasonography in the kidney transplant population may not yield significant changes to transplant care.

Aeromedical retrieval for suspected preterm labour or rupture of membranes in the Northern Territory, Australia: may some cases be safely not retrieved?

BackgroundSuspected preterm labour (PTL) and prelabour rupture of membranes (PPROM) are common indications for aeromedical retrieval in the Top End, Northern Territory, Australia, where many women reside remotely and preterm birth (< 37 completed weeks of gestation) is common. The primary objective of this study was to determine rate of delivery during the index admission following aeromedical transfers from remote clinics to Royal Darwin Hospital for suspected PTL/PPROM.MethodsA retrospective cohort study of aeromedical transfers for suspected PTL/PPROM from 1 January 2020 to 31 July 2022 was undertaken. Transfers were identified through CareFlight, the regional air ambulance service, and complemented with data from hospital records. Clinical and sociodemographic characteristics were compared by delivery status during the index (post-retrieval) admission using parametric and non-parametric tests and multivariable linear regression analysis.Results238 women with singleton pregnancies were retrieved for suspected PPROM (n = 77, 32.4%) or PTL (n = 161, 67.6%), together accounting for 49.2% of all obstetric transfers (n = 483). Of 77 patients transferred for suspected PPROM, 47 (61.0%) had ruptured membranes confirmed on arrival, and 45 (95.7%) of them delivered during the index admission. None of the 30 women transferred for suspected PPROM with intact membranes on arrival delivered during the index admission. Of 161 patients transferred for suspected PTL, 13 (8.1%) had ruptured membranes confirmed on arrival, and 12 (92.3%) of them delivered during the index admission. Amongst women transferred for suspected PTL with intact membranes confirmed on arrival, 14.9% (22/149) delivered during the index admission. Prior to arrival, 120 women (50.4%) had a documented speculum examination, and 15 (6.3%) and 9 (3.8%) had cervicovaginal swab tests to assess their risks of a PPROM and PTL, respectively. Half of women who did not deliver during the index admission had received antenatal corticosteroids (n = 76).ConclusionsMany aeromedical retrievals for suspected PTL/PPROM did not result in delivery during the index admission. Women retrieved for suspected PPROM with intact membranes on arrival were less likely to deliver. Upskilling remote clinic staff and better point-of-care testing may reduce retrievals and unnecessary interventions. Prospective cohort studies designed to enable accurate prediction of which cases can be safely not retrieved are required.Trial registrationNot applicable.

The risk of preterm delivery after appendectomy during pregnancy is higher in the face of a negative appendectomy

BackgroundReported outcomes after appendectomy during pregnancy remain inconclusive, and the risk for preterm delivery is not necessarily procedure-related. MethodsThis retrospective cohort study included 185 pregnant women who underwent appendectomy during pregnancy and gave birth between 2005 and 2022, compared using a 3:1 ratio to 555 parturients who did not undergo surgery. clinical, obstetrical and neonatal outcomes were analyzed. ResultsLaparoscopic appendectomy was the most common procedure (117/185; 63.2 ​%) whereas 68/185 (36.8 ​%) had open appendectomy. Pathological findings revealed that 141/185 cases (76.2 ​%) had an inflamed appendix, while 44/185 (23.8 ​%) were classified as having a “white appendix” (negative appendectomy).Preterm delivery occurred more frequently in the appendectomy group [22/185 (11.9 ​%) vs 30/555 (5.4 ​%), p ​= ​0.003] with even higher incidence in negative appendectomies compared to inflamed appendix cases [9/44 (20.5 ​%) vs 13/141 (9.2 ​%), p ​= ​0.044]. Multivariate analysis identified appendectomy (but not an inflamed appendix) as the sole significant risk factor for preterm birth (odds ratio 2.3, CI 1.26–4.15, p ​= ​0.006). ConclusionPreterm delivery correlates with negative appendectomies. Careful assessment is essential to avoid unnecessary surgical interventions during pregnancy.

A 10-year retrospective study of 43 female patients presenting with idiopathic granulomatous mastitis

Background: Idiopathic Granulomatous Mastitis (IGM) is a rare inflammatory breast condition affecting middle aged women. IGM typically presents as a unilateral, painful and challenging-to-treat breast mass, with a high recurrence rate. Common treatments include corticosteroids and antibiotics, with surgical excision reserved for resistant cases. However, the absence of a standardized treatment protocol leads to variability in management across different settings and providers. Methods: We present a case series of 43 patients diagnosed with IGM at a community hospital in New York, aiming to facilitate early recognition and treatment of this rare condition. This study identifies risk factors and reviews best practices in imaging and treatment, emphasizing the importance of considering IGM in the differential diagnosis, particularly in cases of recurrent disease. Results: The sample comprised 43 patients with an average age of 34.65 years, 31 (72%) of whom were Hispanic. The most commonly reported symptoms were pain, mass, erythema, and swelling. In all cases, IGM was confirmed by histopathological examination. Treatment modalities included incision and drainage (I and D), corticosteroids, antibiotics, methotrexate and surgical intervention. Conclusions: IGM is a rare condition often mistaken for breast cellulitis, abscess or carcinoma. Maintaining a high index of suspicion is crucial, particularly in Hispanic women who may be at increased risk. Histopathological diagnosis is essential to prevent unnecessary surgical interventions and antibiotic use, thereby reducing recurrence rates. Early initiation of corticosteroids or alternatives like methotrexate can optimize patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.

COPD Risk Phenotypes in Older Smokers: Evaluation in GLI- and GOLD-Defined Respiratory Impairment

PurposeIn aging populations, the Global Initiative for Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) spirometry threshold may misclassify normal spirometry as airflow limitation. The Global Lung Initiative (GLI) method provides age-adjusted criteria. We investigated how the use of GOLD or GLI thresholds in an algorithm affects the classification of elderly smokers into COPD risk phenotypes.MethodsUsing a modified COPDGene algorithm, including exposure, symptoms, and abnormal spirometry, 200 smokers aged 60 years and older were classified into 4 mutually exclusive phenotypes: Phenotype A (no symptoms, normal spirometry; reference), Phenotype B (symptoms, normal spirometry; possible COPD), Phenotype C (no symptoms, abnormal spirometry; possible COPD), and Phenotype D (symptoms, abnormal spirometry; probable COPD). Abnormal spirometry was defined according to the GOLD or GLI criteria. A comparison was made between the GOLD- and GLI-defined phenotypes.ResultsUsing GLI criteria/cut-offs, 18.5% (n = 37) had phenotype A (no COPD), 42% (n = 84) had phenotype B (possible COPD), 7.5% (n = 15) had phenotype C (possible COPD), and 32% (n = 64) had phenotype D (probable COPD). Using GOLD criteria cut-offs, 14.5% (n-29) had phenotype A (no COPD); 31% (n = 62) had phenotype B, 11.5% (n = 23) had phenotype C (probable COPD), and 43% (n = 86) had phenotype D (probable COPD). Eight smokers with GOLD phenotype C were reclassified as GLI phenotype A, while 22 with GOLD phenotype D were reclassified as GLI phenotype B. Smokers identified as ‟probable COPD” by GOLD alone (potential false positives) had better spirometry results than those identified as ‟probable COPD” by both GOLD and GLI.ConclusionThe use of the GOLD threshold in an algorithm resulted in older smokers being classified into more severe COPD risk phenotypes compared to the GLI threshold. This suggests that GOLD may misclassify smokers with less affected phenotypes as having respiratory impairment, potentially leading to unnecessary and harmful treatments.