Obstetric outcomes after restrictive bariatric surgery: What happens after 2 consecutive pregnancies?

BackgroundThe objective of this study was to compare the outcomes of 2 consecutive pregnancies of the same women who conceived after restrictive bariatric surgeries.MethodsA retrospective study comparing consecutive pregnancy outcomes of the same women, who conceived before and twice after a restrictive bariatric surgery, was conducted.ResultsThis study included 109 women, and therefore, 327 paired pregnancies: 109 pregnancies preceded and 218 followed restrictive bariatric surgery (87% had laparoscopic banding, and 13% had silastic ring vertical gastroplasty). Both prepregnancy and predelivery body mass index were significantly lower after bariatric surgery (36.7±4.4 versus 31. 5±5.5, P<.001; 40.6±5.5 versus 35.3±6.1, P<.001; respectively). This effect was preserved at the subsequent pregnancy (31.5±5.5 versus 31.3±6.3, P = .609, and 35.3±6.1 versus 35.1±5.9, P = .706, respectively). The rates of hypertensive disorders and gestational diabetes mellitus were significantly lower after the bariatric operation, for the first and the second pregnancy (21% versus 7.4% and 4.7%, P = .009, and 19% versus 5.6% and. 6.6%, P = .007, respectively). The rate of macrosomic newborn was significant lower in the second postbariatric pregnancy (11.1% before versus 1.1% after second pregnancy, P = .02). Using multiple logistic regression models controlling for maternal age, prepregnancy body mass index, and the type of surgery, the reduction in hypertensive disorders (adjusted odds ratio (OR) .3, 95% confidence interval (CI) .12–.82; P = .018 for the first postoperative pregnancy and adjusted OR .2, 95% CI .06–.64; P = .007 for the second postoperative pregnancy), and gestational diabetes mellitus (adjusted OR .2, 95% CI .06–.48; P = .001 for the first postoperative pregnancy and adjusted OR .3, 95% CI .05–.51; P = .002 for the second postoperative pregnancy) remained significant.ConclusionsA significant decrease in pregnancy complications, such as hypertensive disorders and gestational diabetes mellitus, is achieved after a restrictive bariatric surgery. This improvement is maintained at the second subsequent pregnancy.     

Operative outcome of laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery in a regional hospital in a developing country: A propensity score-matched comparative analysis

ObjectiveLaparoscopic surgery is an alternative procedure for colorectal cancers. However, high-level supporting evidence has been derived from high-volume centers in developed countries. During the early phase of applying the laparoscopic approach, we evaluated the procedure’s short-term outcomes in our regional middle-volume hospital in a developing country.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed data for a cohort of 223 colorectal cancer patients who underwent elective surgery from October 2017 to September 2019. We compared 165 patients undergoing open surgery (OS group) with 58 undergoing laparoscopic surgery (LS group) using a propensity score-matched analysis.ResultsAfter matching, each group contained 58 patients for evaluating outcomes. The LS group had more harvested mesenteric lymph nodes (5.0 nodes, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.8–8.1; p-value: <0.01) with comparable blood loss (p-value: 0.54) and margin status (p-value: 0.66). However, LS was more time-consuming (68.8 min longer; 95% CI: 53.0–84.7; p-value: <0.01). Morbidity and mortality rates were equivalent (odds ratio (OR): 1.3, 95% CI: 0.25–2.73, p-value: 0.74, and OR: 2, 95% CI: 0.18–22.1, p-value: 0.57, respectively). The LS group experienced fewer days to begin normal eating (?0.5 days, 95% CI: ?0.9 to ?0.1, p-value: 0.04) and shorter hospital stay (?1.5 days, 95% CI: ?2.7 to ?0.4, p-value: <0.01). The conversion rate was 3.5%.ConclusionThe laparoscopic approach was applicable even in a regional middle-volume hospital in a developing country. However, longer surgical time was a drawback.     

Factors associated with successful median arcuate ligament release in an international,multi-institutional cohort

ObjectivePrior research on median arcuate ligament syndrome has been limited to institutional case series, making the optimal approach to median arcuate ligament release (MALR) and resulting outcomes unclear. In the present study, we compared the outcomes of different approaches to MALR and determined the predictors of long-term treatment failure.MethodsThe Vascular Low Frequency Disease Consortium is an international, multi-institutional research consortium. Data on open, laparoscopic, and robotic MALR performed from 2000 to 2020 were gathered. The primary outcome was treatment failure, defined as no improvement in median arcuate ligament syndrome symptoms after MALR or symptom recurrence between MALR and the last clinical follow-up.ResultsFor 516 patients treated at 24 institutions, open, laparoscopic, and robotic MALR had been performed in 227 (44.0%), 235 (45.5%), and 54 (10.5%) patients, respectively. Perioperative complications (ileus, cardiac, and wound complications; readmissions; unplanned procedures) occurred in 19.2% (open, 30.0%; laparoscopic, 8.9%; robotic, 18.5%; P < .001). The median follow-up was 1.59 years (interquartile range, 0.38-4.35 years). For the 488 patients with follow-up data available, 287 (58.8%) had had full relief, 119 (24.4%) had had partial relief, and 82 (16.8%) had derived no benefit from MALR. The 1- and 3-year freedom from treatment failure for the overall cohort was 63.8% (95% confidence interval [CI], 59.0%-68.3%) and 51.9% (95% CI, 46.1%-57.3%), respectively. The factors associated with an increased hazard of treatment failure on multivariable analysis included robotic MALR (hazard ratio [HR], 1.73; 95% CI, 1.16-2.59; P = .007), a history of gastroparesis (HR, 1.83; 95% CI, 1.09-3.09; P = .023), abdominal cancer (HR, 10.3; 95% CI, 3.06-34.6; P < .001), dysphagia and/or odynophagia (HR, 2.44; 95% CI, 1.27-4.69; P = .008), no relief from a celiac plexus block (HR, 2.18; 95% CI, 1.00-4.72; P = .049), and an increasing number of preoperative pain locations (HR, 1.12 per location; 95% CI, 1.00-1.25; P = .042). The factors associated with a lower hazard included increasing age (HR, 0.99 per increasing year; 95% CI, 0.98-1.0; P = .012) and an increasing number of preoperative diagnostic gastrointestinal studies (HR, 0.84 per study; 95% CI, 0.74-0.96; P = .012) Open and laparoscopic MALR resulted in similar long-term freedom from treatment failure. No radiographic parameters were associated with differences in treatment failure.ConclusionsNo difference was found in long-term failure after open vs laparoscopic MALR; however, open release was associated with higher perioperative morbidity. These results support the use of a preoperative celiac plexus block to aid in patient selection. Operative candidates for MALR should be counseled regarding the factors associated with treatment failure and the relatively high overall rate of treatment failure.     

Understanding surgical decision-making in older adults with differentiated thyroid cancer: A discrete choice experiment

BackgroundPrior studies demonstrated that older adults tend to undergo less surgery for thyroid cancer. Our objective was to use a discrete choice experiment to identify factors influencing surgical decision-making for older adults with thyroid cancer.MethodsActive and candidate members of the American Association of Endocrine Surgeons were invited to participate in a web-based survey. Multinomial logistic regression was utilized to assess patient and surgeon factors associated with treatment choices.ResultsComplete survey response rate was 25.7%. Most respondents were high-volume surgeons (88.5%) at academic centers (76.9%). Multinomial logistic regression demonstrated that patient age was the strongest predictor of management. Increasing age and comorbidities were associated with the choice for active surveillance (P = .000), not performing a lymphadenectomy in patients with nodal metastases (relative-risk ratio: 2.5, 95% CI: 1.4–4.2, P = .002 and relative-risk ratio: 1.6, 95% CI: 1.2–2.1, P = .004, respectively), and recommending hemithyroidectomy versus total thyroidectomy for a cancer >4 cm (relative-risk ratio: 4.4, 95% CI: 2.5–7.9, P = .000 and relative-risk ratio: 3.4, 95% CI: 2.3–5.1, P = .000, respectively). Surgeons with ≥10 years of experience (relative-risk ratio: 3.3, 95% CI: 1.1–10.3, P = .039) favored total thyroidectomy for a cancer <4 cm, and nonfellowship trained surgeons (relative-risk ratio: 7.3, 95% CI: 1.3–42.2, P = .027) opted for thyroidectomy without lymphadenectomy for lateral neck nodal metastases.ConclusionThis study highlights the variation in surgical management of older adults with thyroid cancer and demonstrates the influence of patient age, comorbidities, surgeon experience, and fellowship training on management of this population.     

Comparative study of postoperative complications after open and laparoscopic surgery of the perforated peptic ulcer: Advantages of the laparoscopic approach

BackgroundDespite the acceptance of the laparoscopic approach for the treatment of perforated peptic ulcers, its definitive implantation is still a matter of discussion. We performed a comparative study between the open and laparoscopic approach focused on postoperative surgical complications.MethodsRetrospective observational study in which patients operated on for perforated peptic ulcus in our center between 2001 and 2017 were analyzed. Only those in whom suture and/or omentoplasty had been performed were selected, either for open or laparoscopic approach. Demographic, clinical, and intraoperative variables, complications, mortality and length of stay were collected. Both groups, open and laparoscopic surgery patients, were compared.ResultsThe final study sample was 250 patients, 190 (76%) men and 60 (24%) women, mean age 54 years (SD ± 16.7). In 129 cases (52%), the surgical approach was open, and in 121 (48%) it was laparoscopic. Grades III-V complications of the Clavien-Dindo Classification occurred in 23 cases (9%). Operative mortality was 1.2% (3 patients). Laparoscopically operated patients had significantly fewer complications (p = 0.001) and shorter hospital stay (p < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, laparoscopic approach (p = 0.025; OR:0.45–95%CI: 0.22–0.91), age (p = 0.003; OR:1.03–95%CI: 1.01–1.06), and Boey score (p = 0.024 – OR:1.71 – CI95%: 1.07–2.72), were independent prognostic factors for postoperative surgical complications.ConclusionLaparoscopic surgery should be considered the first-choice approach for patients with perforated peptic ulcer. It is significantly associated with fewer postoperative complications and a shorter hospital stay than the open approach.     

Analysis of the risk factors for perioperative morbidity after laparoscopic revisional bariatric procedures: results from the multicenter Polish Revision Obesity Surgery Study

BackgroundThe growing number of primary bariatric operations has led to an increase in demand for revision surgeries. Higher numbers of revisional operations are also observed in Poland, yet their safety and efficacy remain controversial because of a lack of current recommendations and guidelines.ObjectiveTo review risk factors influencing perioperative morbidity.MethodsA retrospective study was conducted to analyze the results of surgical treatment among 12 Polish bariatric centers. Inclusion criteria were laparoscopic revisional bariatric surgeries and patients ≥18 years of age. The study included 795 patients, of whom 621 were female; the mean age was 47 years (range: 40–55 years).ResultsPerioperative morbidity occurred in 92 patients (11.6%) enrolled in the study, including 76 women (82.6%). The median age was 45 years (range: 39–54 years). Statistically significant risk factors in univariate logistic regression models for perioperative complications were the duration of obesity, revisional surgery after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) or adjustable gastric band (AGB), difference in body mass index before revisional surgery and the lowest achieved after primary surgery, and postoperative morbidity of the primary surgery as the cause for revisional bariatric surgery. These factors were included in the multivariate regression model. Revisional surgery after AGB (odds ratio [OR] = 2.18; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.28–3.69; P = .004), revisional surgery performed after RYGB (OR = 6.52; 95% CI: 1.98–21.49; P = .002), and revisions due to complication of the primary surgery (OR = 1.89; 95% CI: 1.06–3.34; P = .030) remained independent risk factors for perioperative morbidity.ConclusionRevisional operations after RYGB or AGB and those performed because of postoperative morbidity after primary surgery as the main cause for revisional surgery were associated with a significantly increased risk of postoperative morbidity.     

Method of venous thromboembolism prophylaxis is not a predictor of pulmonary embolus following elective bariatric surgery: a retrospective cohort study of 135,409 patients

BackgroundPatients with obesity are at increased risk of pulmonary embolus (PE), a risk that increases perioperatively and is challenging to manage.ObjectiveAn analysis of the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) database was performed to determine predictors of PE in patients undergoing elective bariatric surgery.SettingNorth American accredited bariatric surgery institutions included in the MBSAQIP database from 2020–2021.MethodsWe extracted data from the MBSAQIP database (2020–2021) on patients who underwent elective Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) or sleeve gastrectomy (SG). Data were extracted on patient co-morbidities, race, prior history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and type of DVT prophylaxis. A multivariate logistic regression model was developed to determine predictors of PE and impact of PE on 30-day serious complications and mortality.ResultsIn the MBSAQIP database, a total of 135,409 patients underwent SG or RYGB from 2020 to 2021. PE was reported in 194 patients (.14%). Prior history of DVT (odds ratio [OR] = 3.28; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.85–5.83; P < .0001), Black race (OR = 3.03; 95% CI: 2.22–4.13; P < .0001), gastroesophageal reflux disease (OR = 1.51; 95% CI: 1.11–2.04; P = .008), higher body mass index (OR = 1.11; 95% CI: 1.01–1.20; P = .023), male sex (OR = 1.76; 95% CI: 1.26–2.45; P = .001), and older age (OR = 1.27; 95% CI: 1.10–1.46; P = .001) were associated with increased odds of PE. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, sleep apnea, and hypertension were not significant predictors of PE (P > .05). Neither combined mechanical and pharmacologic DVT prophylaxis nor pharmacologic prophylaxis alone was a significant predictor of PE (P > .05).ConclusionPrior history of DVT is the strongest predictor of PE after bariatric surgery. African American race, male sex, and gastroesophageal reflux disease are additional risk factors. Method of venous thromboembolism prophylaxis was not identified as significant predictor of PE. Further, studies on the evaluation and optimization of venous thromboembolism prophylaxis are required.     

Estudio prospectivo de los factores asociados al delirium en el postoperatorio de la cirugía abdominal urgente

IntroductionDelirium is a frequent complication in elderly patients after urgent abdominal surgery.MethodsProspective study of consecutive patients aged ≥ 65 years who had undergone urgent abdominal surgery from 2017-2019. The following variables were recorded: age, sex, ASA, physiological state, cognitive impairment, frailty (FRAIL Scale), functional dependence (Barthel Scale), quality of life (Euroqol-5D-VAS), nutritional status (MNA-SF), preoperative diagnosis, type of surgery (BUPA Classification), approach and diagnosis of postoperative delirium (Confusion Assessment Method). Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to analyze the correlation of these variables with delirium.ResultsThe study includes 446 patients with a median age of 78 years, 63.6% were ASA ≥ III and 8% had prior cognitive impairment. 13.2% were frail and 5.4% of the patients had a severe or total degree of dependence. 13.6% developed delirium in the postoperative period. In the univariate analysis, all the variables were statistically significant except for sex, type of surgery (BUPA) and duration. In the multivariate analysis the associated factors were: age (P < .001; OR: 1,08; 95% CI: 1,038-1,139), ASA (P = .026; OR: 3.15; 95% CI: 1.149-8.668), physiological state (P < .001; OR: 5.8; 95% CI: 2.176-15.457), diagnosis (P = .006) and cognitive impairment (P < .001; OR: 5.8; 95% CI: 2.391-14.069).ConclusionThe factors associated with delirium are age, ASA, physiological state in the emergency room, preoperative diagnosis and prior cognitive impairment.     

Factors influencing the application of transrectal natural orifice specimen extraction performed laparoscopically for colorectal cancer: A retrospective study

BackgroundA few factors influence the feasibility of transrectal natural orifice specimen extraction (NOSE) surgery for colorectal cancers. However, little is known about the underlying factors of NOSE surgery.MethodsConsecutive patients with rectal and sigmoid colon cancers treated laparoscopically between January 2014 and April 2017 were enrolled in this study. The transrectal NOSE performed laparoscopically was the first choice of all patients. When NOSE failed, the specimen was removed through a midline abdominal wall incision. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify challenging factors influencing the intraoperative specimen extraction.ResultsOverall, 412 consecutive patients were included. NOSE performed laparoscopically was successful in 278 patients (75.5%) and unsuccessful in 90 patients (24.5%). The multivariate analyses indicated that body mass index (BMI; odds ratio [OR] = 3.510, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.333–9.243, p = 0.011), mesenteric thickness (OR = 1.069, 95% CI: 1.032–1.107, p < 0.001), maximum tumor diameter (OR = 2.827, 95% CI: 1.094–7.302, p = 0.032), and tumor T stage (OR = 2.831, 95% CI: 1.258–6.369, p = 0.012) were the factors influencing the feasibility of NOSE surgery.ConclusionA successful transrectal NOSE surgery was associated with a lower BMI, thinner mesentery, lesser tumor diameter, and earlier tumor T stage.     

Risk factors and effect of postoperative delirium on adverse surgical outcomes in older adults after elective abdominal cancer surgery in Taiwan

BackgroundPostoperative delirium (POD) is a common complication in older adults, with unknown epidemiology and effects on surgical outcomes in Asian geriatric cancer patients. This study evaluated incidence, risk factors, and association between adverse surgical outcomes and POD after intra-abdominal cancer surgery in Taiwan.MethodsOverall, 345 patients aged ≥65 years who underwent elective abdominal cancer surgery at a medical center in Taiwan were prospectively enrolled. Delirium was assessed daily using the Confusion Assessment Method. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses investigated risk factors for POD occurrence and estimated the association with adverse surgical outcomes.ResultsPOD occurred in 19 (5.5%) of the 345 patients. Age ≥73 years, Charlson comorbidity index ≥3, and operative time >428 min were independent predictors for POD occurrence. Patients presenting with one, two, and three risk factors had 4.1-fold (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.4–35.8, p = 0.20), 17.4-fold (95% CI, 2.2–138, p = 0.007), and 30.8-fold likelihood (95% CI, 2.9–321, p = 0.004) for POD occurrence, respectively. Patients with POD had a higher probability of prolonged hospital stay (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 2.8; 95% CI, 1.0–8.1; p = 0.037), intensive care stay (adjusted OR: 3.9; 95% CI, 1.5–10.5; p = 0.008), 30-day readmission (adjusted OR 3.1; 95% CI, 1.1–9.7; p = 0.039), and 90-day postoperative death (adjusted OR: 4.2; 95% CI, 1.0–17.7; p = 0.041).ConclusionPOD occurrence was significantly associated with adverse surgical outcomes in geriatric patients undergoing elective abdominal cancer surgery, highlighting the importance of early POD identification in geriatric patients to improve postoperative care quality.     

The effects of metabolic surgery on microvascular complications in obese patients with type 2 diabetes: a meta-analysis

BackgroundMetabolic surgery is a standard treatment for obesity with type 2 diabetes (T2D), although the effects of metabolic surgery on the incidence rate of microvascular complications remain controversial.ObjectivesWe aimed to evaluate the effect of metabolic surgery versus nonsurgical treatments on the incidence rate of microvascular complications in obesity with T2D.SettingA meta-analysis of published studies.MethodsWe searched PubMed, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library to identify clinical studies assessing the effect of metabolic surgery on the incidence rate of microvascular diabetic complications compared with that of nonsurgical treatments. We extracted the primary outcomes, including the incidence rate of microvascular complications after metabolic surgery.ResultsA total of 32,756 participants from 12 studies were identified. Metabolic surgery reduced the incidence rate of microvascular complications (odds ratios [OR], .34; 95% confidence intervals [CI], .30–.39; P < .001) compared with that of nonsurgical treatments in obesity with T2D. Moreover, metabolic surgery also reduced the incidence of diabetic nephropathy (OR, .39; 95% CI, .30–.50; P < .001), diabetic retinopathy (OR, .52; 95% CI, .42–.65; P < .001) and diabetic neuropathy (OR, .27; 95% CI, .22–.34; P < .001) compared with nonsurgical treatments in obesity with T2D.ConclusionMetabolic surgery was superior to nonsurgical treatments in reducing the incidence of microvascular complications in obesity with T2D. Prospective studies, preferably randomized controlled trials, with evaluations of different types of metabolic surgery are warranted to provide guidelines for treatment preferences in obesity with T2D.     

Hiperlactatemia en la ablación quirúrgica de la fibrilación auricular y cirugía cardiaca. ¿Es un factor predictivo de morbimortalidad posoperatoria?

IntroductionIncreased serum lactate in postoperative cardiac surgery is very common and its pathogenesis is due to multiple factors. The elevation of serum lactate is associated with tissue hypoxia (hyperlactatemia type A) and non-hypoxic (hyperlactatemia type B) metabolic disorders. The aim of the study was to assess the evolution of postoperative lactate in surgical atrial fibrillation ablation during cardiac surgery, and to determine whether lactate levels could be predictors of morbimortality.Material and methodsA case-control study was conducted on 32 patients undergoing surgical atrial fibrillation ablation and cardiac surgery (Maze group) and 32 matched patients (Control group), operated on between 2011 and 2012. An analysis was made of the levels of postoperative lactate, perioperative morbimortality and hospital length of stay. A univariate and multivariate study was performed for a composite endpoint of morbimortality, and prolonged length of stay.ResultsLactate levels were significantly higher at 6, 12 and 24 h in the Maze group. The univariate analysis showed that being in the Maze group (OR 3.88; 95% CI 1.3-11.1; P = .01) and an elevated lactate at 12 h (OR 1.33; 95% CI 1.01-1.7; P = .04) were significant predictors of major complications, mortality, and longer hospital stays. In the multivariate analysis, surgical atrial fibrillation ablation (Maze group) was an independent predictor of major complications (OR 4.13; 95% CI 1.312.9; P = .015) for the morbimortality composite endpoint (OR 3.9; 95% CI 1.3-11.6; P = .01), and prolonged length of stay in the Intensive Care Unit (OR 5.7; 95% CI 2.01-15.7; P = .01).ConclusionsThe atrial fibrillation surgical ablation may be a not-yet-described cause of type B hyperlactatemia, with serum peak values being reached between 4-24 h after cardiac surgery. The predictive value of this elevation, its correlation with morbimortality, its sensitivity and specificity to discriminate the significant thresholds needs to be defined.     

Protocolo de extubación ultra-fast track tras cirugía cardiovascular: predictores de fracaso y resultados

ObjectivesIdentifying independent predictor factors of failure of ultra-fast track (UFT) extubation and to compare in-hospital outcomes with UFT extubation versus fast track (FT) extubation after cardiovascular surgery in adults.Material and methodsRetrospective analysis of 1,498 consecutive patients aged over 18 years-old undergoing cardiovascular surgery at a single institution. Between December 2014 and December 2016, FT extubation was used (N = 713) while, between December 2016 and December 2018, all patients were preoperatively considered suitable for UFT extubation (N = 785). In this instance, a standardized anaesthetic protocol was applied in all cases. The decision to not extubate in the operating room (OR) was based on intraoperative haemodynamic and ventilation.ResultsExtubation in the OR was possible in 699 (89%) patients. Significant independent predictors factors of UFT extubation failure were: preoperative NYHA class III-IV, myocardial infarction within two days prior to surgery, preoperative intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation, urgent/emergent surgery, intraoperative transfusion of platelets and intraoperative inotropic and vasopressor support. UFT extubation was associated with lower rates of cardiovascular complications such as congestive cardiac insufficiency (OR: 1,57; 95% CI: 1,13-2,19; P = 0,008) and new-onset postoperatory atrial fibrillation (OR: 1,40; 95% CI: 1,06-1,86; P = 0,020). Patient extubated in the OR presented lower risk of overall complications, shorter intensive care unit stay and higher short-term survival, although, no statistically significance was found when performing the multivariate adjustment.ConclusionsA routine immediate extubation in the OR following adult cardiovascular surgery is a feasible and safe practice, associated with low cardiovascular morbidity.     

Systematic review and meta-analysis of sex differences in outcomes after endovascular aneurysm repair for infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm

ObjectiveWomen face distinctive challenges when they receive endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) treatment, and according to the previous studies, sex differences in outcomes after EVAR for infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) remains controversial. This study aimed to compare the short-term and long-term outcomes between women and men after EVAR for infrarenal AAA.MethodsWe conducted a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis of all available studies reporting sex differences after EVAR for infrarenal AAA, which were retrieved from the MEDICINE, Embase, and Cochrane Database. The pooled results were presented as odds ratios (ORs) for dichotomous data and hazard ratios for time-to-event data using a random effect model.ResultsThirty-six cohorts were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled results showed that women were associated with a significantly increased risk of 30-day mortality (crude OR, 1.67; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.50-1.87; P < .001; adjusted OR, 1.73; 95% CI, 1.32-2.26; P < .001), in-hospital mortality (OR, 1.90; 95% CI, 1.43-2.53; P < .001), limb ischemia (OR, 2.44; 95% CI, 1.73-2.43; P < .001), renal complications (OR, 1.73; 95% CI, 1.12-2.67; P = .028), cardiac complications (OR, 1.68; 95% CI, 1.01-2.80; P = .046), and long-term all-cause mortality (hazard ratio, 1.23; 95% CI, 1.09-1.38; P = .001) compared with men; however, no significant sex difference was observed for visceral/mesenteric ischemia (OR, 1.62; 95% CI, 0.91-2.88; P = .098), 30-day reinterventions (OR, 1.37; 95% CI, 0.95-1.98; P = .095), late endoleaks (OR, 1.18; 95% CI, 0.88-1.56; P = .264), and late reinterventions (OR, 1.05; 95% CI, 0.78-1.41; P = .741). In the intact AAA subgroup, women had a significantly increased risk of visceral/mesenteric ischemia (OR, 1.85; 95% CI, 1.01-3.39; P = .046) and an equivalent risk of cardiac complications (OR, 1.64; 95% CI, 0.85-3.17; P = .138) compared with men.ConclusionsCompared with male sex, female sex is associated with an increased risk of 30-day mortality, in-hospital mortality, limb ischemia, renal complications, cardiac complications, and long-term all-cause mortality after EVAR for infrarenal AAA. Women should be enrolled in a strict and regular long-term surveillance after EVAR.     

Prior Nonarthroplasty Surgery Increases Risk of Complication in Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty

BackgroundPrior ipsilateral knee surgery may increase the risk for complications after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). It remains unclear if the extent of previous surgery affects those risks disparately. The purpose of this study is to evaluate prior nonarthroplasty bony procedure (BP) and soft tissue only procedure (STP) as a potential risk factor for complications after TKA and determine the association with charges or reimbursement of the primary TKA.MethodsPatients who underwent primary TKA with previous knee surgery were identified using a national Medicare database and matched 1:5 to controls without prior knee surgery. Rates of postoperative medical and surgical complications were calculated in addition to hospital-associated charges and reimbursements. Logistic regression analysis was used to control for confounding factors.ResultsPatients who underwent BP (n = 835) had increased risk of readmission (58.6% vs 45.3%, odds ratio (OR) 1.72, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.59-1.85, P < .001) and emergency room visits (14.5% vs 10.4%, OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.29-1.61, P = .001). Patients who underwent STP (n = 6766) had increased risk of readmission (58.1% vs 45.2%, OR 1.69, 95% CI 1.64-1.73, P < .001), emergency room visits (12.6% vs 0.7%, OR 1.33, 1.28-1.39, P < .001), revision (1.8% vs 1.4%, OR 1.33, 95% CI 1.21-1.47, P = .006), cerebrovascular accident (2.3% vs 1.7%, OR 1.33, 95% CI 1.22-1.46, P = .002), and venous thromboembolism (3.8% vs 3.2%, OR 1.21, 95% CI 1.13-1.29, P = .009). Prior surgery was associated with increased charges and reimbursements.ConclusionPrior ipsilateral knee surgery is associated with significantly increased risks of postoperative complications after primary TKA. Interestingly, previous STP but not BP increased the risk of short-term revision and venous thromboembolism.     

Is laparoscopic approach for pancreatic insulinomas safe? Results of a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

No consensus exists as to whether laparoscopic treatment for pancreatic insulinomas (PIs) is safe and feasible. The aim of this meta-analysis was to assess the feasibility, safety, and potential benefits of laparoscopic approach (LA) for PIs. The abovementioned approach is also compared with open surgery.

Methods

A systematic literature search (MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Science Citation Index, and Ovid journals) was performed to identify relevant articles. Articles that compare the use of LA and open approach to treat PI published on or before April 30, 2013, were included in the meta-analysis. The evaluated end points were operative outcomes, postoperative recovery, and postoperative complications.

Results

Seven observational clinical studies that recruited a total of 452 patients were included. The rates of conversion from LA to open surgery ranged from 0%–41.3%. The meta-analysis revealed that LA for PIs is associated with reduced length of hospital stay (weighted mean difference, −5.64; 95% confidence interval [CI], −7.11 to −4.16; P < 0.00001). No significant difference was observed between LA and open surgery in terms of operation time (weighted mean difference, 2.57; 95% CI, −10.91 to 16.05; P = 0.71), postoperative mortality, overall morbidity (odds ratio [OR], 0.64; 95% CI, 0.35–1.17; P = 0.14], incidence of pancreatic fistula (OR, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.51–1.44; P = 0.56), and recurrence of hyperglycemia (OR, 1.81; 95% CI, 0.41–7.95; P = 0.43).

Conclusions

Laparoscopic treatment for PIs is a safe and feasible approach associated with reduction in length of hospital stay and comparable rates of postoperative complications in relation with open surgery.     

Loss to follow-up after laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery – a post hoc analysis of a randomized clinical trial

BackgroundFollow-up after bariatric surgery is important if we are to identify long-term complications at an early stage and thereby improve long-term outcome. Despite great efforts, many patients are lost to follow-up. Definition of characteristics of patients failing to attend follow-up could help in defining a specific group for whom extra resources may be applied to improve the situation.ObjectivesTo identify characteristics of patients failing to attend follow-up 2 years after laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery.SettingMulticenter study, Sweden.MethodsPost hoc analysis of a randomized clinical trial in which preoperative patient characteristics and postoperative outcome measures were compared between patients who attended or did not attend a 2-year follow-up visit after laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery.ResultsOf the 2495 patients included, 260 did not attend a 2-year follow-up visit. Factors associated with higher risk for failure to attend were younger age (adjusted odds ratio [OR] .96, 95% confidence interval [CI] .94–.98/yr, P < .001); male sex (adjusted OR 2.34, 95% CI 1.51–3.63, P < .001); depression (adjusted OR 1.61, 95% CI 1.05–2.47, P = .029); history of smoking (adjusted OR 1.78, 95% CI 1.26–2.51, P = .001); being single (adjusted OR 1.47, 95% CI 1.03–2.11, P = .036); and being first-generation immigrant (adjusted OR 1.74, 95% CI 1.05–2.88; P = .032). Elementary occupation (adjusted OR .42, 95% CI .18–.99, P = .047) was associated with lower risk.ConclusionThese findings indicate that there are preoperative characteristics that may help in identifying patients likely to fail to attend follow-up visits after laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery. Special effort should be made to inform these patients of the importance of follow-up and to encourage them to attend.     

Metaanálisis sobre el protocolo de recuperación acelerada tras la cistectomía radical

IntroductionWe performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the effect of enhanced pharmaceutical recovery as postoperative standard care after radical cystectomy.MethodsA systematic literature search up to April 2021 was done and 33 studies included 6596 subjects submitted to surgery for radical cystectomy at the start of the study; 3143 of them received enhanced pharmaceutical recovery after surgery and 3453 were controls. The studies reported relationships about the effects of enhanced pharmaceutical recovery as postoperative standard care after radical cystectomy. We calculated the odds ratio (OR) and mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to assess the effects of enhanced pharmaceutical recovery as postoperative standard care after radical cystectomy using the dichotomous and continuous methods with a random or fixed-effect model.ResultsEnhanced pharmaceutical recovery after surgery had significantly lower length of hospital stay (MD: ?2.78; 95% CI: ?3.59 to ?1.97, P < .001), complications (OR: 0.75; 95% CI: 0.60 to 0.94, P = .01), readmission within 30 days (OR: 0.80; 95% CI: 0.69 to 0.94, P = .007), and time to defecation (MD: ?1.30; 95% CI: ?2.22 to ?0.37, P = .006) compared to control in subjects submitted to radical cystectomy.ConclusionsEnhanced pharmaceutical recovery after surgery may reduce the length of hospital stay, complications, readmission within 30 days, and time to first bowel movement compared to control in subjects with surgery for radical cystectomy. Furthers studies are required to validate these findings.     

Predictors of response to anti-TNF therapy in RA patients with moderate or high DAS28 scores

ObjectivesTo identify the clinical factors predicting a good clinical response to anti-TNF therapy in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients entered in the LORHEN registry after 5 years of treatment with anti-TNF agents and divided into two groups on the basis of their baseline DAS28 scores (moderate > 3.2–5.1 [MDA] and high > 5.1 [HDA]).MethodsDisease activity at baseline and after 12 months was assessed using the DAS28, and response was evaluated using the EULAR improvement criteria.ResultsThe study involved 1300 patients with established RA: 975 with HDA and 325 with MDA. After a mean 36-month, 29.6% of the patients had a DAS28 score of less or equal to 2.6 (HDA 25.8% vs. MDA 43.0%; P < 0.001) and were considered to be in remission. A higher probability of a good EULAR response in patients with HDA was associated with male gender (F vs. M – OR 0.45, 95% CI 0.26–0.78; P: 0.004), lower age at the start of treatment (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.96–0.99; P: 0.002), the absence of comorbidities (OR 0.18, 95% CI 0.06–0.52; P: 0.002) or no previous use of corticosteroids (OR 1.92, 95% CI 1.14–3.22; P: 0.015) and the use of adalimumab vs. infliximab (OR 2.21, 95% CI 1.37–3.57; P 0.001); in patients with MDA, the probability of a good EULAR response was associated with male gender (F vs. M – OR 0.39, 95% CI 0.17–0.90; P: 0.027).ConclusionsWith the exception of male gender, the factors predicting a good EULAR response are different in patients with MDA and those with HDA.