Dyslipidemia,carotid intima-media thickness and endothelial dysfunction in children with chronic kidney disease

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) predisposes to accelerated atherosclerosis that is measured by carotid artery intima-media thickness (cIMT) and brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD). Information on the association of these parameters with dyslipidemia in pre-dialysis pediatric CKD is limited.

Methods

Eighty patients aged 9.9?±?3.2 years, with estimated glomerular filtration rate of 38.8?±?10.8 ml/1.73 m²/min, and 42 pediatric controls underwent cross-sectional analysis of lipid profile, cIMT, and brachial artery FMD. Significant differences in these parameters between patients and controls were analyzed using Student’s t test. Predictors of cIMT and dyslipidemia were assessed using linear and logistic regression respectively.

Results

Patients had elevated blood levels of triglyceride and of total and LDL cholesterol than controls (P?≤?0.001); 73.8 % were dyslipidemic. Mean cIMT was higher (0.421?±?0.054 mm vs 0.388?±?0.036 mm, P?=?0.001) and brachial artery FMD was reduced (10.6?±?4.9 % vs 18.9?±?4.1 %, P?<?0.0001) in patients compared with controls. On multivariate analysis, hypertension (OR 3.68, P?=?0.044) and male gender (OR 10.21, P?=?0.004) were associated with dyslipidemia; cIMT was significantly associated with LDL cholesterol (β?=?28.36, P?=?0.033).

Conclusion

Dyslipidemia was prevalent and cIMT significantly elevated in pre-dialysis pediatric CKD, indicating increased cardiovascular risk. Elevated LDL cholesterol predicted increased cIMT, strengthening the association between dyslipidemia and atherosclerosis in early CKD.

     

Effect of anesthesia type on perioperative outcomes with a midurethral sling

Introduction and hypothesis

There is no consensus on the most appropriate type of anesthesia for placement of a midurethral sling. Our objective was to compare intra- and perioperative outcomes for this procedure performed under general anesthesia versus monitored anesthesia care.

Methods

Retrospective cohort analysis of women undergoing outpatient placement of synthetic retropubic midurethral sling under general anesthesia (n?=?141) or monitored anesthesia care (n?=?84). Patients undergoing concomitant procedures were excluded. Primary outcome was operating room time. Secondary outcomes included surgical and recovery times, cost, discharge home with a catheter, and postoperative pain and/or nausea.

Results

In the general anesthesia group, both operating room time (mean?±?SD, 67.6?±?13.3 min vs 56.9?±?11.8 min, p?<?0.001) and recovery room time (240.0?±?69.8 min vs 190.1?±?78.3 min, p?<?0.001) were longer, whereas there was no difference in surgical time (30.0?±?8.9 min vs 29.0?±?9.7 min, p?=?0.43). Cost was significantly higher in the general anesthesia group ($4,095?±?715 vs $3,877?±?777, p?=?0.03). There was no difference in rates of bladder perforation (6.4 % vs 11.9 %, p?=?0.33). Patients who underwent general anesthesia had higher rates of discharge with a catheter (27.0 % vs 15.8 %, p?=?0.04).

Conclusion

Monitored anesthesia care may offer significant benefits over general anesthesia in women undergoing retropubic midurethral sling, including shorter operating room and recovery times, lower costs, and less voiding dysfunction in the immediate postoperative period.

     

Hyperfiltration and uricosuria in adolescents with type 1 diabetes

Background

Urine uric acid (UUA) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy via its effect on tubular cells. We hypothesized that the UUA level would be higher in adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D) than in those without T1D. We also hypothesized that UUA and fractional uric acid excretion (FeUA) would be higher in adolescents with T1D and hyperfiltration [estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥141 mL/min/1.73 m²] than in those without hyperfiltration.

Methods

The UUA concentration was determined and FeUA calculated in adolescents with (n?=?239) and without T1D (n?=?75). The eGFR was calculated using the Zappitelli equation based on serum creatinine and cystatin C concentrations.

Results

Compared to the non-diabetic adolescents enrolled in the study, those with T1D had a higher eGFR (mean?±?standard deviation: 120?±?22 vs. 112?±?16 mL/min/1.73 m²; p?=?0.0006), lower urine pH (6.2?±?0.8 vs. 6.5?±?1.0; p =?0.01), and higher UUA (37.7?±?18.6 vs. 32.8?±?18.1 mg/dL; p ?=?0.049) and FeUA (median [interquartile range]: 6.2 [4.3–8.7] vs. 5.2 [3.6–7.0] %; p?=?0.02). Among adolescents with T1D, those with hyperfiltration had higher median FeUA (8.6 [5.2–9.9] vs. 6.0 [4.2–8.3] %; p?=?0.02) than those without hyperfiltration.

Conclusions

The adolescents with T1D enrolled in the study had higher eGFR, higher UUA and more acidic urine than the non-diabetic controls, which may have increased their risk of UUA crystallization. Adolescents with T1D and hyperfiltration had higher FeUA than those without hyperfiltration. These hypothesis-generating observations may suggest a potential pathophysiologic association between uricosuria and hyperfiltration.

     

Risk factors for predicting increased surgical drain output in patients after anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion

Background

Although measures to reduce and treat the postoperative surgical drain output are discussed, along with the increased interest in causative factors related to the prevention and treatment reported by many studies, these are still controversial.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on a consecutive series of 217 patients who had underwent ACCF between January 2016 and March 2017. Patients were categorized based on normal or increased total drain output. These two groups were compared for demographic distribution and clinical data to investigate the predictive factors of increased drain output by multivariate analysis.

Results

The overall incidence rate of increased drain output after ACCF was 16.6%. There are no significant differences in sex, BMI, history of taking aspirin, and ASA classification between the two groups (P?>?0.05). Of the patients with increased drain output, a significantly higher proportion of patients have OPLL in the surgical level, 18 (50.0%) versus 33 (18.2%) (P?=?0.000). The mean age was 60.67?±?8.18 years versus 54.41?±?10.05 years (P?=?0.001). Number of discs involved was 2.42?±?0.50 versus 2.02?±?0.65 (P?=?0.001). Operation time was 112.22?±?16.49 min versus 105.21?±?17.89 min (P?=?0.031). Intraoperative blood loss was 109.86?±?62.02 mL versus 87.83?±?56.40 mL (P?=?0.036). Logistic regression analysis showed that age (OR, 1.075; p?=?0.003), history of smoking (OR, 2.792; p?=?0.021), OPLL in surgical level (OR, 2.107; p?=?0.001), and number of discs involved (OR, 2.764; p?=?0.003) maintained its significance in predicting likelihood of increased surgical drain output.

Conclusions

The occurrence of increased drain output after ACCF is most likely multifactorial and is related to age, history of smoking, OPLL in surgical level, and number of discs involved.

     

Impacts of Supervised Exercise Training in Addition to Interdisciplinary Lifestyle Management in Subjects Awaiting Bariatric Surgery: a Randomized Controlled Study

Background

Experts recommend physical activity (PA) to optimize bariatric surgery (BS) results. However, evidence on the effect of PA before BS is missing. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of adding a Pre-Surgical Exercise Training (PreSET) to an interdisciplinary lifestyle intervention on physical fitness, quality of life, PA barriers, and anthropometric parameters of subjects awaiting BS.

Methods

Thirty candidates for BS (43.2?±?9.2 years, 47.5?±?8.1 kg/m²) have been randomized in two groups: one group following the PreSET (endurance and strength training) and another receiving usual care. Before and after 12 weeks, we assessed physical fitness with a battery of tests (symptom-limited exercise test, 6-min walk test (6MWT), sit-to-stand test, half-squat test, and arm curl test), quality of life with the laval questionnaire, and PA barriers with the physical exercise belief questionnaire.

Results

One control group subject abandoned the study. Subjects in the PreSET group participated in 60.0 % of the supervised exercise sessions proposed. Results showed significant improvements in the 6MWT (17.4?±?27.2 vs. ?16.4?±?42.4 m; p?=?0.03), half-squat test (17.1?±?17.9 vs. ?0.9?±?14.5 s; p?=?0.05), arm curl repetitions (4.8?±?2.3 vs. 1.0?±?4.1; p?=?0.01), social interaction score (10.7?±?12.5 vs. ?2.1?±?11.0 %; p?=?0.02), and embarrassment (?15.6?±?10.2 vs. ?3.1?±?17.8 %; p?=?0.02) in completers (n?=?8) compared to the non-completers (n?=?21). No significant difference between groups in BMI and other outcomes studied was observed after the intervention.

Conclusions

Adding a PreSET to an individual lifestyle counselling intervention improved physical fitness, social interactions, and embarrassment. Post-surgery data would be interesting to confirm these benefits on the long term.

     

FGF 19 and Bile Acids Increase Following Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass but Not After Medical Management in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

Background

This study aims to quantify changes in fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19) and bile acids (BAs) in patients with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes randomized to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) vs intensive medical management (IMM) and matched for similar reduction in HbA1c after 1 year of treatment.

Methods

Blood samples were drawn from patients who underwent a test meal challenge before and 1 year after IMM (n?=?15) or RYGB (n?=?15).

Results

Mean HbA1c decreased from 9.7 to 6.4 % after RYGB and from 9.1 to 6.1 % in the IMM group. At 12 months, the number of diabetes medications used per subject in the RYGB group (2.5?±?0.5) was less than in the IMM group (4.6?±?0.3). After RYGB, FGF19 increased in the fasted (93?±?15 to 152?±?19 pg/ml; P?=?0.008) and postprandial states (area under the curve (AUC), 10.8?±?1.9 to 23.4?±?4.1 pg?×?h/ml?×?10³; P?=?0.006) but remained unchanged following IMM. BAs increased after RYGB (AUC ×10³, 6.63?±?1.3 to 15.16?±?2.56 μM?×?h; P?=?0.003) and decreased after IMM (AUC ×10³, 8.22?±?1.24 to 5.70?±?0.70; P?=?0.01). No changes were observed in the ratio of 12α-hydroxylated/non-12α-hyroxylated BAs. Following RYGB, FGF19 AUC correlated with BAs (r?=?0.54, P?=?0.04) and trended negatively with HbA1c (r?=??0.44; P?=?0.09); these associations were not observed after IMM.

Conclusions

BA and FGF19 levels increased after RYGB but not after IMM in subjects who achieved similar improvement in glycemic control. Further studies are necessary to determine whether these hormonal changes facilitate improved glucose homeostasis.

     

Comparison of Vela and holmium laser enucleation of the prostate: a retrospective clinical trial with a 12-month follow-up

Purpose

This study aimed to estimate the validity and applicability of Vela laser enucleation of the prostate (VoLEP) in the management of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Methods

A retrospective chart review of 112 patients with BPH who underwent VoLEP (n?=?60) or holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) (n?=?56) was conducted at our institution from January 2015 to June 2015. The general and perioperative characteristics of the patients were collected. The 12-month follow-up data, including the lower urinary tract symptom (LUTS) indexes (International Prostate Symptom Score [I-PSS], quality-of-life [QoL] score and maximum flow rate [Qmax]), as well as rates of perioperative and late complications, were analyzed.

Results

No significant differences were observed in pre- and perioperative parameters, including operation time (58.05?±?10.14 vs. 60.14?±?12.30 min, P?=?0.44), serum sodium decrease (3.49?±?0.83 vs. 3.48?±?0.84 mmol/L, P?=?0.97), hemoglobin decrease (1.28?±?0.38 vs. 1.24?±?0.77 g/dL, P?=?0.71), catheterization time (3.63?±?1.10 vs. 3.89?±?1.11 days, P?=?0.21) and hospital stay (4.57?±?1.25 vs. 4.68?±?1.18 days, P?=?0.63) between the two groups of patients. Compared with the HoLEP group, the noise during operation was lower in VoLEP group (47.22?±?10.31 vs. 59.45?±?9.65 db, P?<?0.05). During 1, 6 and 12 months of follow-up visits, the LUTS indexes (I-PSS, QoL score and Qmax) were remarkably improved in both groups when comparing with the baseline values. Furthermore, LUTS indexes were comparable in both groups (P?>?0.05).

Conclusion

Similarly as the holmium laser, the Vela laser is a potent, safe, efficient durable and surgical treatment option for minimally invasive surgery in patients with BPH-induced LUTS.

     

Diagnosis and Management of Oesophageal Cancer in Bariatric Surgical Patients

Background

Oesophageal cancer following bariatric surgery adds significant complexity to an already challenging disease. There is limited data on the diagnosis, presentation and management in these complex cases.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study on prospectively collected data over 10 years was conducted. The oesophago-gastric cancer database was searched for patients with prior bariatric surgery. Data were retrieved on bariatric and cancer management.

Results

We identified nine patients with oesophageal or gastro-oesophageal junction adenocarcinoma after bariatric surgery. Mean age was 58.3?±?6.9 years, and duration from bariatric surgery was 13.2?±?9.4 years. Weight loss at diagnosis was 30.6?±?23.3 kg (excess weight loss 58.1 %?±?29.6). Modes of presentation were Barrett’s surveillance (n?=?3), reflux symptoms (n?=?4) and incidental (n?=?2). Management was surgical resection (n?=?4), endoscopic mucosal resection (n?=?2) and palliative (n?=?3). Surgical resections were challenging due to adhesions, obesity, luminal dilatation and scarring on the stomach. There were two substantial leaks following gastroplasty.

Conclusions

Oesophageal cancer following bariatric surgery is a challenging problem, and surgical resection carries high risk. A high index of suspicion is required and symptoms investigated precipitously. Technical challenges of operating on obese patients and the specific effects of previous bariatric procedures need to be understood, particularly the limitations on reconstructive options.

     

The utility of lumbar spine trabecular bone score and femoral neck bone mineral density for identifying asymptomatic vertebral fractures in well-compensated type 2 diabetic patients

Summary

The objective of the study was to evaluate the usefulness of trabecular bone score (TBS) and bone mineral density (BMD) for identifying vertebral fractures (VFx) in well-compensated type 2 diabetic (T2D) patients. TBS and femoral neck BMD below certain cutoffs may be useful for identifying VFx in well-compensated T2D patients.

Introduction

In T2D, the prevalence of VFx is increased, especially in poorly compensated and complicated diabetic patients. The possibility of predicting the fracture risk in T2D patients by measuring BMD and TBS, an indirect parameter of bone quality, is under debate. Therefore, the objective was to evaluate the usefulness of TBS and BMD for identifying VFx in well-compensated T2D patients.

Methods

Ninety-nine T2D postmenopausal women in good metabolic control (glycosylated haemoglobin 6.8?±?0.7 %) and 107 control subjects without T2D were evaluated. In all subjects, we evaluated the following: the BMD at the lumbar spine (LS) and the femoral neck (FN); the TBS by dual X-ray absorptiometry; and VFx by radiography. In T2D subjects, the presence of diabetic retinopathy, neuropathy, and nephropathy was evaluated.

Results

T2D subjects had increased VFx prevalence (34.3 %) as compared to controls (18.7 %) (p?=?0.01). T2D subjects presented higher BMD (LS ?0.8?±?1.44, FN ?1.06?±?1.08), as compared to controls (LS ?1.39?±?1.28, p?=?0.002; FN ?1.45?±?0.91, p?=?0.006, respectively). TBS was not different between diabetics and controls. In fractured T2D patients, LS-BMD, FN-BMD, and TBS were reduced (?1.2?±?1.44; ?1.44?±?1.04; 1.072?±?0.15) and the prevalence of retinopathy (15.4 %) was increased than in nonfractured T2D subjects (?0.59?±?1.4, p?=?0.035; ?0.87?±?1.05, p?=?0.005; 1.159?±?0.15, p?=?0.006; 1.8 %, p?=?0.04, respectively). The combination of TBS ≤1.130 and FN-BMD less than ?1.0 had the best diagnostic accuracy for detecting T2D fractured patients (SP 73.8 %, SN 63.6 %, NPV 78.9 %, PPV 56.8 %).

Conclusions

TBS and FN-BMD below certain cutoffs may be useful for identifying VFx in well-compensated T2D patients.

     

Comparative study of the treatment of 20–30 mm renal stones with miniaturized percutaneous nephrolithotomy and flexible ureterorenoscopy in obese patients

Purpose

To evaluate and compare flexible ureteroscopy (f-URS) and mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy (mPNL) for 20–30 mm renal stones in obese patients regarding efficacy and safety.

Methods

Between May 2011 and June 2017, 254 obese patients who had 20–30 mm kidney stone were consecutively included in the study; 106 patients underwent mPNL and 148 underwent f-URS by the same surgeon. The following parameters were retrospectively assessed: patient and stone characteristics, surgical details, perioperative outcomes, and stone-free rates (SFR).

Results

F-URS group was similar to mPNL group in terms of the mean duration of surgery (92.8?±?26.1 vs 87.4?±?31.5 min, P?=?0.137) and the final SFR (89.1 vs 92.5%, P?=?0.381). The f-URS group had significantly shorter postoperative stay (1.0?±?0.8 vs 4.3?±?1.7 days, P?<?0.001) and lower postoperative complications (11.5 vs 26.4%, P?=?0.002). However, the f-URS group had a lower SFR after first session (67.2 vs 87.4%, P?<?0.001) and needed more number of procedures (1.5?±?0.4 vs 1.3?±?0.4, P?<?0.001) than the mPNL group.

Conclusions

MPNL has a higher efficacy (higher SFR after first session and lower number of procedures); however, f-URS offers advantages regarding safety (lower complication rate). Therefore, both options can be offered to obese patients with renal stones from 20 to 30 mm in size. Nevertheless, these results must be confirmed by further prospective randomized trials.

     

Robotic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass,is it Safer than Laparoscopic Bypass?

Background

Along with the development of technology, robotic approach is being performed for laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB). Some literatures reported same or better peri-operative outcomes with the robotic procedure. The aim of this study is to compare our experience in robot-assisted LRYGB (RA-LRYGB) with LRYGB in terms of peri-operative outcomes.

Methods

From January 1, 2012 to April 30, 2014, a total of 270 patients underwent LRYGB by one surgeon at a single institution. Of these, 64 cases were done robotically. A retrospective review was performed for these patients, noting the outcomes and complications of the procedure.

Results

The 64 RA-LRYGB patients had a mean age of 45.9?±?10.0 years (range, 23–67) and a mean preoperative body mass index (BMI) of 48.4?±?7.9 kg/m² (range, 33.8–76.4). The 207 LRYGB patients had a mean age of 45.0?±?10.7 years (range, 21–67) and a mean preoperative BMI of 48.4?±?8.1 kg/m² (range, 34.0–80.4). These two groups were clinically comparable. Mean length of hospital stay was 3.0?±?4.1 days (range, 1–19) in RA-LRYGB patients, significantly longer than 1.6?±?1.7 days (range, 1–17) in LRYGB patients (p?<?0.01). Thirty-day readmission rate was 9.3 % (n?=?6) in the RA-LRYGB group and 6.8 % (n?=?14) in the LRYGB group. Higher leak rate was noticed in RA-LRYGB patients at 7.8 % (n?=?5), compared to 0.5 % (n?=?1) in LRYGB patients (p?<?0.01). All the leaks occurred at the pouch level in the RA-LRYGB group, while one leak from the LRYGB group occurred at the gastrojejunal anastomosis site.

Conclusions

Robot-assisted Roux-en-Y gastric bypass may result in higher leak rate at the pouch level, when compared to that of laparoscopic procedures.

     

A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial of the Metabolic Effects of Sleeve Gastrectomy with Transit Bipartition

Purpose

To compare the effects of the sleeve gastrectomy with transit bipartition (SG?+?TB) procedure with standard medical therapy (SMT) in mildly obese patients with type II diabetes (T2D).

Methods

This is a prospective, randomized, controlled trial. Twenty male adults, ≤?65 years old, with T2D, body mass index (BMI)?>?28 kg/m² and <?35 kg/m², and HbA1c level?>?8% were randomized to SG?+?TB or to SMT. Outcomes were the remission in the metabolic and cardiovascular risk variables up to 24 months.

Results

At 24 months, SG?+?TB group showed a significant decrease in HbaA1c values (9.3?±?2.1 versus 5.5?±?1.1%, P?=?<?0.05) whereas SMT group maintained similar levels from baseline (8.0?±?1.5 versus 8.3?±?1.1%, P?=?NS). BMI values were lower in the SG?+?TB group (25.3?±?2.8 kg/m² versus 30.9?±?2.5 kg/m²; P?=?<?0.001). At 24 months, none patient in SG?+?TB group needed medications for hyperlipidemia/hypertension. HDL-cholesterol levels increased in the SG?+?TB group (33?±?8 to 45?±?15 mg/dL, P?<?0.001). After 24 months, the area under the curve (AUC) of GLP1 increased and in the SG?+?TB group and the AUC of the GIP concentrations was lower in the SG?+?TB group than in the SMT. At 3 months, SG?+?TB group showed a marked increase in FGF19 levels (74.1?±?45.8 to 237.3?±?234 pg/mL; P?=?0.001).

Conclusions

SG?+?TB is superior to SMT and was associated with a better metabolic and cardiovascular profile.

     

Coital incontinence: a factor for deteriorated health-related quality of life and sexual function in women with urodynamic stress urinary incontinence

Introduction and hypothesis

To assess the impact of coital incontinence (CI) on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and quality of sexual function (QSF) in women with urodynamic stress urinary incontinence (SUI).

Methods

Women were recruited for this cross-sectional study from among 289 patients with lower urinary tract symptoms, underwent clinical and urodynamic evaluation. Of these 289 women, 127 sexually active women with SUI completed the King’s Health Questionnaire (KHQ) and the Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire (PISQ), of whom 97 were enrolled for the study. The study group comprised 53 women with CI occurring ‘sometimes’, ‘usually’ or ‘always’, and the control group comprised 44 women without CI. Total and individual domain scores were evaluated.

Results

CI was reported by 65.35 % of the women. The frequency of CI was correlated with lower educational level and higher body mass index (r?=?0.22 and r?=?0.23, respectively; p?=?0.01). The KHQ results showed significantly lower HRQoL in women with CI in all domains (p?<?0.05) apart from Sleep/energy’ (p?=?0.054). PISQ revealed no significant differences in QSF in the Behavioral/emotive and Partner–related domains (34.3?±?10.0 vs. 33.0?±?12.2 and 18.0?±?2.9 vs. 18.2?±?3.6, respectively). Women with CI reported a significantly lower QSF in the Physical domain (29.1?±?6.6 vs. 35.0?±?4.6, p?=?0.001), and the total PISQ score was lower but the difference was not significant (81.4?±?14.3 vs. 86.2?±?16.5). Total PISQ score was correlated with age (r?=??0.28, p?=?0.001). Women with CI were significantly more likely to admit that fear of incontinence or fear of embarrassment restricted their sexual activity (p?<?0.001).

Conclusions

A large percentage (65.35 %) of women with SUI reported CI, which had a negative impact on HRQoL and QSF in the Physical domain, but no significant impact on overall QSF.

     

Accentuated hyperparathyroidism in type II Bartter syndrome

Background

Bartter syndrome (BS) may be associated with different degrees of hypercalciuria, but marked parathyroid hormone (PTH) abnormalities have not been described.

Methods

We compared clinical and laboratory data of patients with either ROMK-deficient type II BS (n?=?14) or Barttin-deficient type IV BS (n?=?20).

Results

Only BS-IV patients remained mildly hypokalemic in spite of a higher need for potassium supplementation. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was mildly decreased in only four BS-IV patients. Average PTH values were significantly higher in BS-II (160.6?±?85.8 vs. 92.5?±?48 pg/ml in BS-IV, p?=?0.006). In both groups, there was a positive correlation between age and log(PTH). Levels of 25(OH) vitamin D were not different. Total serum calcium was lower (within normal limits) and age-related serum phosphate (Pi)-SDS was increased in BS-II (1.19?±?0.71 vs. 0.01?±?1.04 in BS-IV, p?<?0.001). The GFR threshold for Pi reabsorption was higher in BS-II (5.63?±?1.25 vs. 4.36?±?0.98, p?=?0.002). Spot urine calcium/creatinine ratio and nephrocalcinosis rate (100 vs. 16 %) were higher in the BS-II group.

Conclusions

PTH, serum Pi levels, and urinary threshold for Pi reabsorption are significantly elevated in type II vs. type IV BS, suggesting a PTH resistance state. This may be a response to more severe long-standing hypercalciuria, leading to a higher rate of nephrocalcinosis in BS-II.

     

Total arch replacement versus debranching thoracic endovascular aortic repair for aortic arch aneurysm: what indicates a high-risk patient for arch repair in octogenarians?

Objectives

This study aimed to reveal the differences in intermediate outcomes between TAR and d-TEVAR in octogenarians and to identify risk factors for adverse events after aortic arch repair in octogenarians.

Methods

We reviewed medical records of 125 patients aged?>?80 years who underwent surgical intervention for aortic aneurysm between 2008 and 2016. Of these, 60 underwent conventional TAR (43 men; age, 82?±?2.2 years) and 65 underwent d-TEVAR (49 men; age, 84?±?3.4 years).

Results

Freedom from all causes of mortality at 2 and 4 years was similar (80 and 66% in TAR, 80 and 51% in d-TEVAR, p?=?0.17). Freedom from aortic death at 2 and 4 years was similar (88 and 88% in TAR, 87 and 76% in d-TEVAR, p?=?0.86). Using Cox regression analysis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) [hazard ratio (HR), 6.0; p?=?0.008], malignancy (HR, 8.8; p?=?0.004), previous cardiac and thoracic aortic surgery (required median sternotomy) (HR, 65.9; p?=?0.012), perioperative stroke (HR, 12.6; p?=?0.012), and postoperative pneumonia (HR, 5.8; p?=?0.026) were identified as independent positive predictors of overall postoperative mortality for TAR, whereas neurological dysfunction (HR, 3.0; p?=?0.016) and perioperative stroke (HR, 12.1; p?=?0.023) were identified for d-TEVAR.

Conclusions

TAR in octogenarians with COPD and/or malignancy showed higher mortality rates; d-TEVAR is more appropriate in these situations. The prevention of perioperative stroke, which is related with poor prognosis in both the groups, is critical.

     

Recovering sexual satisfaction after prolapse surgery: a secondary analysis of surgical recovery

Introduction and hypothesis

We compared pre- and postoperative sexual function scores in sexually active women undergoing pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery.

Methods

Planned secondary analysis of women enrolled in the Restricted Convalescence: Outcomes Following Urogynecologic Procedures study, a randomized trial of postoperative activity after POP surgery. All participants could return to sexual activity at 6 weeks. Participants completed the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI), the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) profile, and the Golombok Rust Inventory of Sexual Satisfaction (GRISS) questionnaires at baseline and 3 months. GRISS is a validated 28-item survey for heterosexual couples that contains seven subscales to assess sexual function. Higher scores represent worse sexual function.

Results

Thirty-seven sexually active women were assessed. Mean age?±? standard deviation (SD) was 56?±?11, most of whom (92%) were Caucasian; 78% had undergone minimally invasive sacrocolpopexy, and the remainder had native tissue vaginal repairs. GRISS scores improved 3 months after surgery [4.5?±?2.6 to 3.6?±?2.2, p <?0.001; mean decrease of 0.9, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.36–1.36]. PFDI scores improved from 122?±?53 at baseline to 28?±?31 at 3 months (p <?0.001). Higher GRISS scores were correlated with higher PFDI scores (Spearman’s rho?=?0.35, p =?0.03) at baseline and 3 months (Spearman’s rho?=?0.31, p?=?0.03). Several GRISS subscales improved after surgery: partner avoidance (p =?0.01), vaginismus (p =?0.02), noncommunication (p?=?0.01), dissatisfaction (p =?0.03), and anorgasmia (p =?0.001). However, sexual infrequency (p =?0.08) and nonsensuality (p =?0.4) did not change. Fifty-one percent had sexual dysfunction before surgery, which decreased to 32% after surgery (p =?0.04).

Conclusion

Sexual function and satisfaction are significantly improved 3 months following POP surgery. Improved sexual function is correlated with improved pelvic floor symptoms.

     

Renal tissue oxygenation in children with chronic kidney disease due to vesicoureteral reflux

Background

Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is a frequent cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in children. Using blood oxygenation level-dependent magnetic resonance imaging (BOLD-MRI), we measured cortical and medullary oxygenation in children with CKD due to VUR and compared the results to those obtained on healthy controls.

Method

The study population comprised 37 children (19 with CKD due to VUR and 18 healthy age-matched controls). BOLD-MRI was performed before and after furosemide treatment. MR images were analyzed with the region-of-interest (ROI) technique to assess the mean R2* values (=1/T2*) of the cortex and medulla of each kidney and with the concentric object (CO) technique that divides renal parenchyma in 12 equal layers.

Results

R2* values were significantly lower (corresponding to higher oxygenation) in the cortex and medulla of kidneys of children with CKD due to VUR than in those of the healthy controls (cortex 16.4?±?1.4 vs. 17.2?±?1.6 s^?1 , respectively; medulla 28.4?±?3.2 vs. 30.3?±?1.9 s^?1 , respectively; P?<?0.05), and furosemide-induced changes in medullary R2* were smaller in the former than in the latter (?5.7?±?3.0 vs. ?6.9?±?3.4 s^?1, respectively; P?<?0.05). Similar results were found with the CO technique. In children with a history of unilateral reflux (n?=?9), the non-affected contralateral kidneys presented similar R2* values as the diseased kidneys, but their response to furosemide was significantly larger (?7.4?±?3.2 vs. ?5.7?±?3.0, respectively; P?=?0.05).

Conclusions

Chronic kidney disease due to VUR is not associated with kidney tissue hypoxia in children. The significantly larger furosemide-induced decrease in medullary R2* levels in the healthy group and unaffected contralateral kidneys of the VUR group points towards more intense renal sodium transport in these kidneys.

     

Minimally invasive repair of pectus carinatum: a retrospective analysis based on a single surgeon’s 10 years of experience

Objectives

Over the past decade, minimal invasive surgery for correction of pectus carinatum has gained worldwide acceptance. This study reviews our clinical experience with minimally invasive repair of pectus carinatum (MIRPC) since 2008.

Methods

Between 2008 and 2018, 101 patients (77 male, 24 female) underwent correction of pectus carinatum with the MIRPC technique. The mean age of the patients was 14.7?±?4.8 (3–38) years. Over an 8 years’ experience we slightly modified the original Abramson technique. All patients presented with cosmetic complaints and all had a flexible chest wall on “compression test”. Early follow-up was on postoperative day 15 and 30.

Results

The mean operative time was 42.1?±?16.9 min. The mean hospital stay was 4.2?±?0.9 days. Postoperative complications included pneumothorax (n?=?2, 1.9%), wound infection (n?=?2, 1.9%), skin perforation (n?=?2, 1.9%), intolerable pain (n?=?1, 0.9%), skin hyperpigmentation (n?=?1, 0.9%), and overcorrection (n?=?1, 0.9%). Initial postoperative results were excellent in all patients. The bars were removed at a median of 24.8?±?4.5 months in 44 of 101 patients. 43 of 44 (97.7%) patients whose bar were removed reported excellent results.

Conclusions

MIRPC is a feasible procedure with low morbidity and excellent cosmetic results in the treatment of pectus carinatum deformities in selected patients.

     

Serum endocan and circadian heart rate variability in non-dialysis stage 5 chronic kidney disease patients

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is very common now and is associated with high overall and cardiovascular mortality. Numerous studies have reported that elevated heart rate (HR) is a risk factor for cardiovascular mortality. We investigated the link between serum endocan and circadian heart rate variability in non-dialysis stage 5 CKD patients.

Methods

In a cross-sectional study, we enrolled 54 prevalent n non-dialysis stage 5 CKD patients (32 males, aged 48.2?±?14.92 years). HR was measured with an automatic system. Serum endocan level was analyzed by ELISA.

Results

Night/day HR ratio was independently predicted by serum endocan level (P?<?0.01) and hypertension history (P?<?0.05). Adjusted R² of the model was 0.222.

Conclusion

Increased serum endocan is significantly associated with circadian heart rate variability in non-dialysis stage 5 CKD patients. Further investigation is needed to explore the potential benefits of serum endocan lowering therapy in this patient group.

     

Sleeve Gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Lead to Comparable Changes in Body Composition after Adjustment for Initial Body Mass Index

Background

Bariatric surgery is a safe and established treatment option of morbid obesity. Mere percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL) should not be the only goal of treatment.

Methods

One hundred seventy-three obese patients were included in the study. They underwent either Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB; n?=?127, mean body mass index (BMI) 45.7?±?5.7 kg/m²) or sleeve gastrectomy (SG; n?=?46, mean BMI 55.9?±?7.8 kg/m²) for weight reduction. Body weight and body composition were assessed periodically by bioelectrical impedance analysis.

Results

After 1 year of observation, %EWL was 62.9?±?18.0 % in RYGB and 52.3?±?15.0 % in SG (p?=?0.0024). Body fat was reduced in both procedures with a slight preference for SG, and lean body mass was better preserved in the RYGB group. Due to significant differences in the initial BMI between the two groups, an analysis of covariance was performed, which demonstrated no significant differences in the %EWL as well as in the other parameters of body composition 1 year after surgery. Using percentage of total weight loss to evaluate the outcomes between the two procedures, no significant difference was found (31.7?±?8.4 % in RYGB and 30.5?±?7.6 % in SG patients, p?>?0.4).

Conclusions

Excess weight loss is highly influenced by the initial BMI. Total weight loss seems to be a better measurement tool abolishing initial weight differences. SG and RYGB do not differ in terms of body composition and weight loss 1 year after surgery.