Efeitos de dexmedetomidina em conjunto com o pré‐condicionamento isquêmico remoto em lesão de isquemia‐reperfusão renal em ratos

Background and objectivesThe aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of remote ischemic preconditioning by brief ischemia of unilateral hind limb when combined with dexmedetomidine on renal ischemia–reperfusion injury by histopathology and active caspase‐3 immunoreactivity in rats.Methods28 Wistar albino male rats were divided into 4 groups. Group I (Sham, n = 7): Laparotomy and renal pedicle dissection were performed at 65th minute of anesthesia and the rats were observed under anesthesia for 130 min. Group II (ischemia–reperfusion, n = 7): At 65th minute of anesthesia bilateral renal pedicles were clamped. After 60 min ischemia 24 h of reperfusion was performed. Group III (ischemia–reperfusion + dexmedetomidine, n = 7): At the fifth minute of reperfusion (100 μg/kg intra‐peritoneal) dexmedetomidine was administered with ischemia–reperfusion group. Reperfusion lasted 24 h. Group IV (ischemia–reperfusion + remote ischemic preconditioning + dexmedetomidine, n = 7): After laparotomy, three cycles of ischemic preconditioning (10 min ischemia and 10 min reperfusion) were applied to the left hind limb and after 5 min with group III.ResultsHistopathological injury scores and active caspase‐3 immunoreactivity were significantly lower in the Sham group compared to the other groups. Histopathological injury scores in groups III and IV were significantly lower than group II (p = 0.03 and p = 0.05). Active caspase‐3 immunoreactivity was significantly lower in the group IV than group II (p = 0.01) and there was no significant difference between group II and group III (p = 0.06).ConclusionsPharmacologic conditioning with dexmedetomidine and remote ischemic preconditioning when combined with dexmedetomidine significantly decreases renal ischemia–reperfusion injury histomorphologically. Combined use of two methods prevents apoptosis via active caspase‐3.     

Presence or Absence of Skeletal Muscle Dysfunction in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is Associated With Distinct Phenotypes

IntroductionReduced skeletal muscle function and cognitive performance are common extrapulmonary features in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) but their connection remains unclear. Whether presence or absence of skeletal muscle dysfunction in COPD patients is linked to a specific phenotype consisting of reduced cognitive performance, comorbidities and nutritional and metabolic disturbances needs further investigation.MethodsThirty-seven patients with COPD (grade II–IV) were divided into two phenotypic cohorts based on the presence (COPD dysfunctional, n = 25) or absence (COPD functional, n = 12) of muscle dysfunction. These cohorts were compared to 28 healthy, age matched controls. Muscle strength (dynamometry), cognitive performance (Trail Making Test and STROOP Test), body composition (Dual-energy X-Ray Absorptiometry), habitual physical activity, comorbidities and mood status (questionnaires) were measured. Pulse administration of stable amino acid tracers was performed to measure whole body production rates.ResultsPresence of muscle dysfunction in COPD was independent of muscle mass or severity of airflow obstruction but associated with impaired STROOP Test performance (p = 0.04), reduced resting O₂ saturation (p = 0.003) and physical inactivity (p = 0.01), and specific amino acid metabolic disturbances (enhanced leucine (p = 0.02) and arginine (p = 0.06) production). In contrast, COPD patients with normal muscle function presented with anxiety, increased fat mass, plasma glucose concentration, and metabolic syndrome related comorbidities (hypertension and dyslipidemia).ConclusionCOPD patients with muscle dysfunction show characteristics of a cognitive – metabolic impairment phenotype, influenced by the presence of hypoxia, whereas those with normal muscle function present a phenotype of metabolic syndrome and mood disturbances.     

Surgical Therapy of Extracranial Carotid Artery Aneurysms: Long-Term Results over a 24-Year Period

BackgroundTo evaluate long-term results of surgical therapy of extracranial carotid artery aneurysms (ECCA) and to provide a morphologic classification for individual surgical reconstruction techniques.Patient and methodsThis retrospective analysis includes 57 patients (43 male, mean age 61.9 years.) with 64 carotid reconstructions for ECCA between 1980 and 2004. In 29 (50.9%) of the patients there was found a cerebral ischemic event as an initial symptom (18 transient ischemic attacks, 11 strokes). In patients without cerebral events, the presenting symptom was pulsatile cervical mass in 19 and cranial nerve dysfunction in 3 cases. ECCA was morphologically stratified in Type I = isolated aneurysms of the internal carotid artery (n = 25), Type II = aneurysms of the complete internal carotid artery with involvement of the bifurcation (n = 8), Type III = aneurysms of the carotid bifurcation (n = 20), Type IV = combined aneurysm of the internal and common carotid artery (n = 5) and Type V = isolated aneurysm of the common carotid artery (n = 6).ResultsPerioperative stroke rate was 1.6%. 4 patients suffered from transient ischemic attacks (6.3%). Permanent and transient cranial nerve injury rate was 6.3% and 20.3% respectively. After 5, 10, 15 and 20 years the actuarial survival was 90%, 77%, 65% and 57%. The ipsilateral stroke-free time was 96%, 96%, 93% and 87%, respectively.ConclusionsSurgical reconstruction of extracranial carotid aneurysms is a safe procedure with good long-term results. The risk of a permanent, perioperative cerebral neurological deficit is low, but there is a considerable risk of cranial nerve injury.     

A prospective analysis of injury rates,patterns and causes in Cliff and Splash Diving

IntroductionInformation about injuries and its differences in Cliff Diving (CD) and Splash Diving (SD) are unknown. It was the aim to analyse (1) injury rates, patterns and causes; (2) differences (in injuries) between both disciplines; and to (3) identify targets for future injury prevention interventions.MethodsFrom April to November 2013, 81 cliff and 51 splash divers were prospectively surveyed with an encrypted, monthly e-mail-based questionnaire.ResultsDuring a total of 7857 h diving with an average diving height of 13 (±7) m, an overall injury rate of 7.9 injuries/1000 h of sport exposure was reported. Cliff divers most commonly suffered from injuries of the foot and ankle (18%; n = 24) and neck and cervical spine (14%; n = 19). In SD, the lower limb (52%; n = 43) and lower back (23%; n = 19) were most frequently involved. In 79% (n = 49) of the cases, the injury happened while entering the water. Cliff divers were in 52% (n = 15) of the injuries in a feet-first and in 14% (n = 4) in a head-first position. Splash divers were in 45% (n = 9) of the injuries in a back- or buttocks-first position. Most of the injuries were bruises (47%; n = 104) and muscle strains (13%; n = 28). The injury risk during practice was significantly higher than in competition (11.3 vs. 4.5 injuries/1000 h; OR 2.5; p = 0.001). The injury risk of experts (15.4/1000 h exposure) was significantly higher than in professionals (6.3/1000 h exposure; OR 2.4; 95% CI, 3.3–1.9; p < 0.001), although the average diving height was significantly higher in professionals (19 m ± 8 vs. 12 m ± 6; p < 0.001). Significantly more professionals performed dryland training compared to experts (p = 0.006).ConclusionMost of the injuries are related to the water entry. The entry position plays a key role in injury patterns with pursuant differences comparing CD with SD. Although most of the injuries involved soft-tissue only, severe injuries have been reported. Targets for future injury prevention strategies include protection for the increased impaction at entry; adaption of the diving conditions in practice to those in competition; dryland training courses; and instruction of non-professional divers to teach appropriate diving techniques.     

Single centre experience of combat-related vascular injury in victims of Syrian conflict: Retrospective evaluation of risk factors associated with amputation

ObjectiveTo elucidate the risk factors associated with amputation in cases with combat-related vascular injury (CRVI).Material and methodsThis retrospective study included 90 cases with CRVI treated between May 2011 and July 2013. The patients were divided into group I (n = 69), in which the limb was salvaged and group II (n = 21), in which the patients received amputation.ResultsThe overall and the secondary amputation rates were 23% and 18%, respectively. There were no amputations with the MESS of nine or less, increasing proportions of amputations at 10 and 11, with a level of 12 leading to 100% amputation rate. The mortality rate was 2%. Among the 52 (58%) cases with the mangled extremity severity score (MESS) ≥ 7, the limb salvage rate was 60%. The patients in group II were more likely to have a combined artery and vein injury (p = 0.042). They were also more likely to be injured as a result of an explosion (p = 0.004). Along with the MESS (p < 0.001), the duration of ischemia (DoI) (p < 0.001) were higher in group II. The rate of bony fracture (p < 0.001) and wound infection (p = 0.011) were higher in group II. For the overall amputation, the odds ratio of the bony fracture (OR: 61.39, p = 0.011), nerve injury (OR: 136.23, p = 0.004), DoI (OR: 2.03, p = 0.003), vascular ligation (OR: 8.65, p = 0.040) and explosive device injury (OR: 10.8, p = 0.041) were significant. Although the DoI (p < 0.001) and the MESS (p = 0.004) were higher in whom a temporary vascular shunt (TVS) was applied, the utilisation of a TVS did not influence the amputation rate (p = 1.0).ConclusionsThe DoI and the variables indicating the extent of tissue disruption were the major determinants of amputation. While statistically non-significant, the benefit of the application of a TVS is non-negligible. MESS is a valid scoring system but should not be the sole foundation for deciding on amputation. Extremities which were doomed to amputation with the MESS >7 seem to benefit from revascularisation with initiation of reperfusion at once. The validity of MESS merits further investigation with regard to the determination of a new cut-off value under ever developing medical management strategies.     

Patient reported outcomes and ankle plantarflexor muscle performance following gastrocnemius recession for Achilles tendinopathy: A prospective case-control study

BackgroundProspective studies to guide the application of a gastrocnemius recession for Achilles tendinopathy are limited. Our aim was to prospectively evaluate patient reported outcomes and muscle performance.MethodsPatients with unilateral recalcitrant Achilles tendinopathy who received an isolated gastrocnemius recession (n = 8) and a healthy control group (n = 8) were included. Patient reported outcomes, ankle power during walking and stair ascent, and the heel rise limb symmetry index (total work) were collected.ResultsImprovements in pain and self-reported function were observed (six months and two years). Sport participation scores reached 92% by two years. Patients demonstrated lower ankle power during stair ascent and decreased limb symmetry during heel rise six months following treatment (p ≤ .02).ConclusionsStudy findings regarding long-term improvements in patient pain, self-reported function and sport participation, and early preservation of ankle function during walking, can help refine patient selection, anticipated outcomes, and rehabilitation strategies.     

Incidence rate of mild traumatic brain injury among patients who have suffered from an isolated limb fracture: Upper limb fracture patients are more at risk

ObjectivesThis study compares the incidence rate of mild traumatic brain injury (mild TBI) detected at follow-up visits (retrospective diagnosis) in patients suffering from an isolated limb trauma, with the incidence rate held by the hospital records (prospective diagnosis) of the sampled cohort. This study also seeks to determine which types of fractures present with the highest incidence of mild TBI.Patients and methodsRetrospective assessment of mild TBI among orthopaedic monotrauma patients, randomly selected for participation in an Orthopaedic clinic of a Level I Trauma Hospital. Patients in the remission phase of a limb fracture were recruited between August 2014 and May 2015. No intervention was done (observational study). Main outcome measurements: Standardized semi-structured interviews were conducted with all patients to retrospectively assess for mild TBI at the time of the fracture. Emergency room related medical records of all patients were carefully analyzed to determine whether a prospective mild TBI diagnosis was made following the accident.ResultsA total of 251 patients were recruited (54% females, Mean age = 49). Study interview revealed a 23.5% incidence rate of mild TBI compared to an incidence rate of 8.8% for prospective diagnosis (χ² = 78.47; p < 0.0001). Patients suffering from an upper limb monotrauma (29.6%; n = 42/142) are significantly more at risk of sustaining a mild TBI compared to lower limb fractures (15.6%; n = 17/109) (χ² = 6.70; p = 0.010). More specifically, patients with a proximal upper limb injury were significantly more at risk of sustaining concomitant mild TBI (40.6%; 26/64) compared to distal upper limb fractures (20.25%; 16/79) (χ² = 7.07; p = 0.008).ConclusionsResults suggest an important concomitance of mild TBI among orthopaedic trauma patients, the majority of which go undetected during acute care. Patients treated for an upper limb fracture are particularly at risk of sustaining concomitant mild TBI.     

The influence of an orthopaedic walker boot on forefoot force

BackgroundIn the treatment of an Achilles tendon rupture the patients are commonly equipped with an orthopaedic walker boot with wedges. To what extent this influences the tensile force placed on the Achilles tendon is unclear.PurposeTo assess the forefoot force and describe changes in muscle activity of the medial gastrocnemius, soleus and tibialis anterior when using one or three wedges during ambulation in a weightbearing orthopaedic walker boot.MethodsThe force on the forefoot was measured with a force sensor insole and muscle activity of the medial gastrocnemius, soleus and tibialis anterior were measured using surface electromyography in 10 healthy participants. Three different types of ambulation were performed (walking without crutches (unass.), walking with crutches (+crutch) and walking with crutches and verbal instructions to place body weight on heel (heel + crutch) with one and three heel wedges respectively.FindingsThe total peak force displayed an interaction where forefoot force decreased when wearing three wedges only for the +crutch ambulation type (80 N, p = 0.001) although there was a trend to decrease with three wedges also for the heel + crutch ambulation type (48 N, p = 0.05). The relative peak force on the forefoot showed a main effect with a significant decrease when using three wedges compared to one wedge across all three ambulation types (19.1%, p = 0.009).InterpretationThe force on the forefoot and hereby the Achilles tendon significantly decreased when using three wedges compared to one wedge. These findings have important implications for the rehabilitation post Achilles tendon rupture.     

Evaluación del riesgo de invasión muscular,afectación perivesical y/o ganglionar mediante resonancia magnética nuclear balanceada con difusión en el paciente candidato a cistectomía radical

IntroductionPreoperative staging of bladder cancer using imaging methods has serious limitations. The accuracy of the abdominal diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance (DW-MRI) to predict residual muscle invasion, perivesical and/or lymph node affectation in the cystectomy specimen is evaluated.Material and methodsA prospective study was performed on 20 patients with high grade muscle invasive bladder cancer who received transurethral resection of the bladder (TURB) in a period of < 1 month. The DW-MRI was performed before the radical cystectomy and the radiologist predicted muscle invasion, extravesical affectation and lymph node affectation, being blind to the histopathological study. Sensitivity (S), specificity (sp), positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV) and accuracy (Ac) of the test were analyzed. The medians of the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) value (Mann-Whitney) were compared and the ROC curves study for DW-MRI and ADC was carried out.ResultsDistribution by categories was: pT0 1(5%), pT1 6(30%), pT2 2(10%), pT3 8(40%) and pT4 3(15%). There was agreement in the T-pT assignment in 17(85%). In 7(35%) there was lymph node affectation (pN1-2). Consistency of the DW-MRI for muscle affectation was k = .89 (CI .67-1; S = 1.0, Sp = ,86, PPV = .93, NPV = 1.0, Ac = .95), for perivesical fat affectation k = .6 (CI .25-.95; S = .8, Sp = .8, PPV = .8, NPV = .8, Ac = .8) and for lymph node affectation k = .89 (CI .67-1; S = .86, Sp = 1.0, PPV = 1.0, NPV = .93, Ac = .95). Mean value of ADC was greater in G2 tumors (OMS1987) compared to G3 (p = .08). Evaluation of DW-MRI imaging and ADC numerical value showed equivalent areas under the curve for muscle (.93 and .9; Z = .7), fat (.8 and .91; Z = .31) and lymph node (.93 and .97; Z = .36) affectation, respectively.ConclusionsDW-MRI allows for good pre-operative evaluation of the patient who is a candidate for cystectomy, especially for the prediction of muscle (< pT2 vs ≥ pT2) and/or lymph node (N0 vs N1-2) affectation. Both are key points to choice the therapeutic attitude after the bladder TURB. Furthermore, the ADC coefficient also predicts tumor differentiation grade.     

Role of Computed tomography in predicting prognosis of Hepatic portal venous gas

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to report through 13 cases the particularities of abdominal computed tomography (CT) aspects of hepatic portal venous gas (HPVG) and its correlation with patient prognosis.MethodsWe analyzed abundance of HPVG and its association with pneumatosis intestinalis (PI) in correlation with fatal outcome using chi-square tests.ResultsEtiologies were mesenteric infarction (n = 5), sigmoid diverticulitis (n =  1), septic shock (n = 1), postoperative peritonitis (n = 1), acute pancreatitis (n = 1), iatrogenic cause (n = 3) and idiopathic after a laparotomy (n = 1). The outcome was fatal in for 6 patients. Abundance of HPV was expressed in total number of hepatic segments involved. The involvement of 3 or more segments was a sensitive sign for lethal outcome with high sensitivity (100%) but it was not specific (50%). Negative predictive value of this sign was 100% (p ≤ 0.005). Positive predictive value of PI for death was 100% (p ≤ 0.001).DiscussionAbundance of HPVG is correlated with prognosis. The presence of PI announces poor outcome Negative predictive value of presence of HPVG in 3 or more segments is interesting. Predicting prognosis with CT can help surgeons to assess the most adequate treatment. Iatrogenic causes are increasingly described after interventional radiology procedures with favorable course.ConclusionThe first etiology radiologists should look for in front of HPVG involving more than 3 hepatic segments and associated with PI is intestinal necrosis which announces a poor prognosis. This study shows that outside of shock situations, HPVG involving 2 or less hepatic segments without PI predicts a good outcome.     

When is Thrombolysis for Acute Lower Limb Ischemia Worthwhile?

ObjectivesTo find variables associated with outcome following thrombolytic treatment for acute lower limb ischemia.DesignRe-analysis of a prospective multicentre study.Material and methodsOne hundred and twenty-one patients with acute lower limb ischemia previously included in a randomised study comparing high- with low-dose thrombolysis were re-analysed ignoring the mode of lytic treatment. All possibly predictive variables were subjected to multivariate analyses to find associations with outcome.ResultsPrevious successful thrombolysis, ankle–brachial index over 0.33, absence of motor dysfunction, presence of cardiac arrhythmia, and lysis of a vascular graft were all associated with successful thrombolysis (p = 0.003). Previous thrombolysis, age less than 70 years, and ankle–brachial index over 0.33 were all perfect predictors of absence of life-threatening complications or death. Successful lysis, age < 70, and lysis of a native artery as opposed to a vascular graft were all associated with clinical success (preserved patency, limb, and life) after one year (p = 0.002).ConclusionsPrevious thrombolysis, age under 70 years, and non-severe ischemia predict successful thrombolysis free from severe complications. Successful thrombolysis is strongly predictive of amputation-free survival with vascular patency for at least one year. Occluded grafts could often be reopened, but long-term outcome is better after thrombolysis of native arteries.     

Programmed intermittent peripheral nerve local anesthetic bolus compared with continuous infusions for postoperative analgesia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Study objective and backgroundThe role of the programmed intermittent bolus (PIB) technique for infusion of local anesthetics in continuous peripheral nerve blockade (CPNB) remains to be elucidated. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on PIB versus continuous infusion for CPNB have demonstrated conflicting results and no systematic review or meta-analysis currently exists. We aimed to delineate via systematic review with meta-analysis if there is any analgesic benefit to performing PIB versus continuous infusion for CPNB.DesignWe conducted a systematic review and random-effects meta-analysis of RCTs.Data sourcesWe searched Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Library without language restriction from inception to 2-May-2017.Eligibility criteriaIncluded RCTs had to compare PIB to continuous infusion in adult surgical patients receiving any upper or lower limb CPNB for postoperative analgesia. VAS pain scores were the primary outcome. The Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool with GRADE methodology was utilized to assess evidence quality.ResultsNine RCTs (448 patients) met the inclusion criteria. Two studies performed upper limb blocks and the rest lower limb blocks. Five RCTs activated the CPNB with long-acting local anesthetic and only five used multi-modal analgesia. PIB modestly reduced VAS pain scores at 6 h (− 14.2 mm; 95%CI − 23.5 mm to − 5.0 mm; I² = 82.5%; p = 0.003) and 12 h (− 9.9 mm; 95%CI − 14.4 mm to − 5.4 mm; I² = 12.4%; p < 0.001), but not at later time points. There were no other meaningful differences in the rest of the outcomes, apart from more residual motor block with PIB (OR 4.27; 95% CI 1.08–16.9; p = 0.04; NNTH = 8). GRADE scoring ranged from low to very low.ConclusionsThe existing evidence demonstrates that PIB does not meaningfully reduce VAS pain scores in CPNB. This systematic review provides important information about the limitations of existing studies. Future studies should reflect contemporary practice and focus on more painful operations.     

Splinting vs temporary external fixation in the initial treatment of ankle fracture-dislocations

BackgroundTo compare the efficacy, functional outcome, and complication frequency of splinting and external fixation in the initial treatment of ankle fracture-dislocations.MethodAnkles with poor soft tissue conditions who underwent temporary stabilization due to using a splint or external fixator due to an ankle fracture-dislocation between 2012 and 2019 were retrospectively evaluated. Ankles were divided into two groups as the splint (n = 69) and external fixator (n = 48). The time between the injury to definitive surgery, reduction loss, operation time, functional outcome, pain, and soft-tissue complication frequency before and after definitive surgery were compared.ResultsThe frequency of reduction loss (25% vs. 4%, p = 0.019) and skin necrosis (22% vs. 6%, p = 0.028) were significantly higher in the splint group. Posterior malleolar fracture fragment ratio was calculated by dividing the fracture fragment axial length by the total axial length of the articular surface on computed tomography. Posterior malleolar fracture fragment ratio was found to be significantly higher in ankles with reduction loss in both the splint (25% vs 75%, p = 0.032) and fixator groups (4% vs 96%, p = 0.021). The mean time period between injury and definitive surgery was significantly shorter in the external fixator group (11 ± 5 vs 7 ± 4 days, p = 0.033). Before definitive treatment, pin tract infection was observed in two ankles in the fixator group.ConclusionSplint immobilization of ankle fracture-dislocations may predispose to reduction loss, soft tissue complications, and a longer time period between injury and definitive fixation. The risk of these potential complications can be reduced with the use of an external fixator.     

Short-Term Results of A Randomized Trial Comparing Remote Endarterectomy and Supragenicular Bypass Surgery for Long Occlusions of the Superficial Femoral Artery [The REVAS Trial]

ObjectiveTechniques for surgical repair of Trans-Atlantic Inter-Society Consensus (TASC) C and D lesions of the superficial femoral artery (SFA) are supragenicular bypass grafting or the less invasive remote endarterectomy (RSFAE). This trial compares the patency rates of both techniques.DesignRandomized, multicenter trial.Materials and methods116 patients were randomized to RSFAE (n = 61) and supragenicular bypass surgery (n = 55). Indications for surgery were claudication (n = 77), rest pain (n = 21), or tissue loss (n = 18).ResultsMedian hospital stay was 4 days in the RSFAE group compared with 6 days in the bypass group (p = 0.004). Primary patency after 1-year follow-up was 61% for RSFAE and 73% for bypass (p = 0.094). Secondary patency was 79% for both groups. Subdividing between venous (n = 25) and prosthetic grafts (n = 30) shows a primary patency of 89% and 63% respectively at 1-year follow-up (p = 0.086).ConclusionRSFAE is a minimally invasive adjunct in the treatment of TASC C and D lesions of the SFA, with shorter admittance and a comparable secondary patency rate to bypass. The venous bypass is superior to both RSFAE and PTFE bypass surgery, but only 45% of patients had a sufficient saphenous vein available.This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT00566436.     

How many screws are necessary for subtalar fusion? A retrospective study

BackgroundBiomechanical studies have shown a higher compressive force and higher torsional stiffness for fixation with three screws compared to two screws. However, clinical data to compare these fixation techniques is still lacking.MethodsA retrospective analysis of 113 patients was performed, who underwent isolated subtalar fusion between January 2006 and April 2018.ResultsRevision arthrodesis was required in 8% (n = 6/36) for 3-screw-fixation and 38% (n = 35/77) for 2-screw-fixation. For 3-screw-fixation, non-union, was observed in 14% (n = 5/36) compared to 35% (n = 27/77) in 2-screw fixation. Non-union (p = .025) and revision arthrodesis (p = .034) were significantly more frequent in patients with 2 screws. A body mass index ≥30 kg/m² (p = .04, OR = 2.6,95%CI:1.1–6.3), prior ankle-fusion (p = .017,OR = 4.4,95%CI:1.3–14.5) and diabetes mellitus (p = .04,OR = 4.9,95%CI:1.1–17.8) were associated with a higher rate of revision arthrodesis.ConclusionsOur findings suggest that successful subtalar fusion is more reliably achieved with use of three screws. However, future prospective studies will be necessary to further specify this recommendation.     

Return to sport following Lisfranc injuries: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundInformation regarding return rates (RR) and mean return times (RT) to sport following Lisfranc injuries remains limited.MethodsA systematic search of nine major databases was performed to identify all studies which recorded RR or RT to sport following lisfranc injuries.ResultsSeventeen studies were included (n = 366).For undisplaced (Stage 1) injuries managed nonoperatively (n = 35), RR was 100% and RT was 4.0 (0–15) wks. For stable minimally-displaced (Stage 2) injuries managed nonoperatively (n = 16), RR was 100% and RT was 9.1 (4–14) wks.For the operatively-managed injuries, Percutaneous Reduction Internal Fixation (PRIF) (n = 42), showed significantly better RR and RT compared to both: Open Reduction Internal Fixation (ORIF) (n = 139) (RR — 98% vs 78%, p < 0.019; RT — 11.6 wks vs 19.6 wks, p < 0.001); and Primary Partial Arthrodesis (PPA) (n = 85) (RR — 98% vs 85%, p < 0.047; RT — 11.6 wks vs 22.0 wks, p < 0.002).ConclusionsStage 1 and stable Stage 2 Lisfranc injuries show good results with nonoperative management. PRIF offers the best RR and RT from the operative methods, though this may not be possible with high-energy injuries.Level of Evidence: IV. Systematic Review of Level I to Level IV Studies.     

A meta-analysis of the efficacy of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation for upper limb motor recovery in stroke survivors

Study DesignSystematic review and meta-analysis.IntroductionPrior reviews on the effects of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (a-tDCS) have shown the effectiveness of a-tDCS on corticomotor excitability and motor function in healthy individuals but nonsignificant effect in subjects with stroke.PurposeTo summarize and evaluate the evidence for the efficacy of a-tDCS in the treatment of upper limb motor impairment after stroke.MethodsA meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials that compared a-tDCS with placebo and change from baseline.ResultsA pooled analysis showed a significant increase in scores in favor of a-tDCS (standard mean difference [SMD] = 0.40, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.10–0.70, p = 0.010, compared with baseline). A similar effect was observed between a-tDCS and sham (SMD = 0.49, 95% CI = 0.18–0.81, p = 0.005).ConclusionThis meta-analysis of eight randomized placebo-controlled trials provides further evidence that a-tDCS may benefit motor function of the paretic upper limb in patients suffering from chronic stroke.Level of EvidenceLevel 1a.     

Comparação entre dois dispositivos supraglóticos de vias aéreas na dor de garganta pós‐operatória em crianças: estudo controlado prospectivo randomizado

Background and objectiveSore throat is well recognized complaint after receiving general anesthesia. This study is conducted to compare the severity and frequency of postoperative sore throat in children undergoing elective surgery – following the use of Ambu laryngeal mask airway) or I‐gel® – who are able to self‐report postoperative sore throat.MethodSeventy children, 6 to 16 years‐old, undergoing elective surgery randomly allocated to either Ambu laryngeal mask (Ambu Group) or I‐gel® (I‐gel Group). After the procedure, patients were interviewed in the recovery room immediately, after one hour, 6 and 24 hours postoperatively by an independent observer blinded to the device used intra‐operatively.ResultsOn arrival in the recovery room 17.1% (n = 6) of children of the Ambu Group complained of postoperative sore throat, against 5.7% in I‐gel Group (n = 2). After one hour, the results were similar. After 6 hours, postoperative sore throat was found in 8.6% (n = 3) of the children in Ambu group vs. 2.9% (n = 1) in I‐gel Group. After 24 hours, 2.9% (n = 1) of the kids in Ambu Group compared to none in I‐gel Group. There was no significant difference found in the incidence of postoperative sore throat in both devices on arrival (p = 0.28); after 1 hour (p = 0.28); after 6 hours (p = 0.30); and after 24 hours (p = 0.31). The duration of the insertion was shorter in Ambu Group and it was easier to insert the I‐gel® (p = 0.029). Oropharyngeal seal pressure of I‐gel® was higher than that of Ambu laryngeal mask (p = 0.001).ConclusionThe severity and frequency of postoperative sore throat in children is not statistically significant in the I‐gel Group compared to Ambu Group.     

Thoracic paravertebral block versus pectoral nerve block for analgesia after breast surgery

BackgroundPectoral nerve block (Pecs) is a novel interfascial plane block which can provide analgesia after breast surgery while paravertebral block (PVB) is widely used for this purpose. We evaluated the difference between the two techniques in regard to morphine consumption and analgesic efficacy after modified radical mastectomy (MRM).MethodsSixty patients undergoing elective MRM were randomly allocated into either PVB with 15–20 ml of levobupivacaine 0.25% at the level of fourth thoracic vertebra or Pecs block with 10 ml of levobupivacaine 0.25% injected inbetween pectoralis major and pectoralis minor muscle and another 20 ml levobubivacaine 0.25% inbetween pectorlis minor and serratus anterior muscle. Primary outcome measure was morphine consumption in the first 24 h while secondary outcome measures included pain scores, intraoperative fentanyl consumption as well as postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV).ResultsPostoperative morphine consumed at 24 h was significantly lower in Pecs group [21 (20–25) mg] than in PVB group [28 (22–31) mg], (p = 0.002). Time for first request of morphine was longer in Pecs group [175 (155–220) min] than in PVB group [137.5 (115–165) min], (p < 0.001). Numerical rating score (NRS) at rest was lower in Pecs group compared with PVB group at 1 h, 6 h and 12 h (p < 0.001) but at 18 h and 24 h it was lower in PVB group compared with Pecs group (p = 0.008 and <0.001 respectively). During movement, NRS was significantly lower at 1st hour in Pecs group (p < 0.001) while at 18 h and 24 h it was significantly lower in PVB group (p < 0.001). PONV was comparable between both groups.ConclusionPecs block reduced postoperative morphine consumption in the first 24 and pain scores in the first 12 h in comparison with PVB after mastectomy.     

Endovascular management for peripheral arterial trauma: The new norm?

BackgroundEndovascular therapy is well studied in atraumatic conditions; and there appears to be a growing interest in its application to traumatic injuries. The objective of this study is to compare open and endovascular techniques in the management of peripheral arterial trauma.MethodsThis is a retrospective review of patients admitted to a Level I Trauma Center sustaining injuries to the subclavian, axillary, superficial femoral, and popliteal arteries. Demographics, surgical interventions, complications, and clinical outcomes were evaluated in patients requiring open or endovascular repair between 2009 and 2015.ResultsSixty-eight patients with 70 total arterial injuries were identified. There were 10 subclavian, 14 axillary, 15 superficial femoral, and 31 popliteal artery injuries.Endovascular (n = 20) compared to open repairs (n = 50) were more commonly performed: by vascular surgeons (90% vs. 54%, p = 0.01); in older patients (median age: 38 years vs. 25, p = 0.01); primarily involving upper extremity injuries (60% vs. 24%, p = 0.01). Furthermore, endovascular repairs less commonly required fasciotomy (15% vs. 46%, p = 0.03) and trended towards lower transfusion requirements (50% vs. 77%, p = 0.06). Patients undergoing open repair had lower pre-hospital systolic blood pressures (110 vs. 120, p = 0.03) and lower initial hematocrit (31.5 vs. 36.2, p = 0.02).However, outcomes between groups were trending higher in the endovascular group with respect to limb salvage rates at discharge (94% vs. 89%), median length of stay (14 days vs. 9), and median follow-up (288 days vs. 92) compared to the open group, but the data were not statistically significant. There was increasing utilization of endovascular repair over time (7% of total procedures in 2009; 50% in 2014).ConclusionsOverall, endovascular and open techniques were not statistically different in early outcomes. Endovascular therapy appears to provide some advantage when it comes to: challenging anatomy, decreasing blood product utilization, and minimizing physiologic derangement. However, patients with injuries resulting in free hemorrhage or significant external blood loss may still be best served with open repair. Despite this, given the increasing use of endovascular techniques, close collaboration is needed between trauma and endovascular specialists to properly select the optimal management for patients with peripheral arterial trauma.