Off-pump versus on-pump coronary surgery in patients with chronic kidney disease: a meta-analysis

Background

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have worse adverse cardiovascular outcomes after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). However, the adverse cardiovascular outcomes between off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB) versus on-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (ONCAB) in these patients have been a subject of debate.

Methods

We undertook a comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library database to identify all relevant studies comparing techniques between OPCAB and ONCAB in CKD patients. We pooled the odds ratios (ORs) and hazard ratios (HRs) from individual studies and conducted heterogeneity, quality assessment, and publication bias analyses.

Results

This meta-analysis includes 17 studies with 201,889 patients. In CKD patients, OPCAB was associated with significantly lower early mortality as compared to ONCAB (OR 0.88; 95% CI 0.82–0.93; p < 0.0001). OPCAB was associated with decreased risk of atrial fibrillation (OR 0.57; 95% CI 0.34–0.97; p = 0.04), cerebrovascular accident (OR 0.46; 95% CI 0.22–0.95; p = 0.04), blood transfusion (OR 0.20; 95% CI 0.08–0.49; p = 0.0005), pneumonia, prolonged ventilation, and shorter hospital stays. No difference was found regarding long-term survival (HR 1.08; 95% CI 0.86–1.36; p = 0.51) or myocardial infarction (OR 0.65; 95% CI 0.30–1.38; p = 0.26).

Conclusions

Compared with ONCAB, OPCAB is associated with superior postoperative morbidity and the early mortality in CKD patients. Long-term survival is comparable between the two surgical revascularizations.

     

Prevalence of acute kidney injury during pediatric admissions for acute chest syndrome

Background

Patients with sickle cell disease are at risk for developing chronic kidney disease (CKD). Acute kidney injury (AKI) has been linked to progression to CKD, but limited data exist to determine its role in acute complications of sickle cell disease. We hypothesized that AKI occurs in pediatric patients admitted for acute chest syndrome (ACS) and prolongs hospitalization.

Methods

We conducted a 6-year retrospective review of pediatric patients with ACS admitted to a single medical institution.

Results

Of the 149 pediatric patients admitted for ACS during the 6-year study period, 12 (8 %) developed AKI. Comparison of patients with and without AKI revealed a significant association between AKI and a larger drop in hemoglobin value from baseline (2.7 vs. 1.4 g/dL; p?=?0.003), a lower hemoglobin value at admission (6.4 vs. 7.5 g/dL; p?=?0.03), and an increased white blood cell count at admission (33.1 vs. 19.8?×?10⁹/L; p?<?0.0001), respectively. AKI (p?<?0.0001) together with need for advanced respiratory support (biphasic positive airway pressure or mechanical ventilation) (p?<?0.0001) and need for exchange transfusion (p?<?0.0001) were associated with prolonged hospitalization.

Conclusions

Clinicians should monitor pediatric patients hospitalized for ACS for the development of AKI as a potentially modifiable risk factor for prolonged hospitalization.

     

Comparison of renal function detriments after local tumor ablation or partial nephrectomy for renal cell carcinoma

Purpose

Local tumor ablation (LTA) and partial nephrectomy (PN) represent treatment alternatives for patients diagnosed with small renal mass and both may result in renal function detriments. The aim of the study was to compare renal function detriments after LTA or PN.

Methods

A Surveillance epidemiology and End Results-Medicare-linked retrospective cohort of 2850 T1 kidney cancer patients who underwent LTA or PN was abstracted. Short-term outcomes consisted of 30-day acute kidney injury (AKI) and 30-day dialysis rates. Long-term outcomes consisted of episodes of AKI, mild and moderate–severe chronic kidney disease (CKD), end-stage renal disease, hemodialysis and anemia in CKD. Analyses consisted of propensity score matching, logistic and Cox regression.

Results

After propensity score matching, 1122 patients remained. The 30-day incidence of AKI was 4.6 % after LTA and 9.4 % after PN. In multivariable analyses (MVAs), LTA was associated with a lower AKI rate (OR 0.42; p = 0.001). The 30-day incidence of any dialysis was <2 % after either LTA or PN. In MVA, LTA was not associated with a lower rate of any dialysis (OR 0.43; p = 0.2). At long-term assessment, both the unadjusted and adjusted rates of all six examined end points were not different between LTA and PN (all p > 0.5).

Conclusions

LTA offers short-term protective effect from AKI. The short-term rates of any dialysis treatment are similar after either LTA or PN. At long-term assessment, LTA and PN renal function detriment rates are not different. Concern for long-term functional outcomes should not be a barrier for PN.

     

Both insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome accelerate the progression of chronic kidney disease among Chinese adults: results from a 3-year follow-up study

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) has been found to be associated with an increased risk for chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, the relationship between insulin resistance (IR), which is believed to play a central role in the pathogenesis of MetS, and CKD is still unclear in Chinese adults and needs further investigation.

Methods

This 3-year follow-up study included 3237 middle-aged and elderly Chinese without CKD at baseline. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) 60–90 mL/min/1.73 m² was defined as the mildly reduced eGFR; CKD was defined as eGFR?<?60 mL/min/1.73 m². MetS was defined based on the China guideline for type 2 diabetes. IR was measured by the homeostatic model assessment of IR (HOMA-IR). Incidences of mildly reduced eGFR and CKD from normal eGFR were calculated. The roles of MetS and IR in predicting the progression of CKD were estimated using multiple logistic regression models.

Results

The incidences of CKD and mildly reduced eGFR for the entire cohort were 20.08 and 33.28 per 1000 person-years, respectively. A large proportion [13.1% (182/1394)] of patients with mildly reduced eGFR progressed to CKD in 3 years. After accounting for age, gender, five components of MetS and HOMA-IR in multiple logistic regression model, only IR presented increased OR (1.119, 95% CI 1.052–1.189, p?<?0.001) for CKD. When we included MetS instead of its five components in model, both MetS (OR 1.420, 95% CI 1.020–1.977, p?=?0.038) and HOMA-IR (OR 1.118, 95% CI 1.055–1.186, p?<?0.001) showed increased risk for CKD progression.

Conclusions

Both IR and MetS accelerate the progression of CKD among Chinese adults. Single metabolic abnormality did not have enough potency to induce the occurrence of CKD in 3 years.

     

Morbidity and Mortality After Gastrectomy: Identification of Modifiable Risk Factors

Background

Morbidity after gastrectomy remains high. The potentially modifiable risk factors have not been well described. This study considers a series of potentially modifiable patient-specific and perioperative characteristics that could be considered to reduce morbidity and mortality after gastrectomy.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study includes adults in the ACS NSQIP PUF dataset who underwent gastrectomy between 2011 and 2013. Sequential multivariable models were used to estimate effects of clinical covariates on study outcomes including morbidity, mortality, readmission, and reoperation.

Results

Three thousand six hundred and seventy-eight patients underwent gastrectomy. A majority of patients had distal gastrectomy (N?=?2,799, 76.1 %) and had resection for malignancy (N?=?2,316, 63.0 %). Seven hundred and ninety-eight patients (21.7 %) experienced a major complication. Reoperation was required in 290 patients (7.9 %). Thirty-day mortality was 5.2 %. Age (OR?=?1.01, 95 % CI?=?1.01–1.02, p?=?0.001), preoperative malnutrition (OR?=?1.65, 95 % CI?=?1.35–2.02, p?<?0.001), total gastrectomy (OR?=?1.63, 95 % CI?=?1.31–2.03, p?<?0.001), benign indication for resection (OR?=?1.60, 95 % CI?=?1.29–1.97, p?<?0.001), blood transfusion (OR?=?2.57, 95 % CI?=?2.10–3.13, p?<?0.001), and intraoperative placement of a feeding tubes (OR?=?1.28, 95 % CI?=?1.00–1.62, p?=?0.047) were independently associated with increased risk of morbidity. Association between tobacco use and morbidity was statistically marginal (OR?=?1.23, 95 % CI?=?0.99–1.53, p?=?0.064). All-cause postoperative morbidity had significant associations with reoperation, readmission, and mortality (all p?<?0.001).

Conclusions

Mitigation of perioperative risk factors including smoking and malnutrition as well as identified operative considerations may improve outcomes after gastrectomy. Postoperative morbidity has the strongest association with other measures of poor outcome: reoperation, readmission, and mortality.

     

Laparoscopic versus open ventral hernia repair: longitudinal outcomes and cost analysis using statewide claims data

Background

There is still considerable debate regarding the best operative approach to ventral hernia repair. Using two large statewide databases, this study sought to evaluate the longitudinal outcomes and associated costs of laparoscopic and open ventral hernia repair.

Methods

All patients undergoing elective ventral hernia repair from 2007–2011 were identified from inpatient discharge data from California and New York. In-hospital morbidity, in-hospital mortality, incidence of readmission, and incidence of revisional ventral hernia repair were evaluated as a function of surgical technique. The associated costs of medical care for laparoscopic versus open ventral hernia repair were evaluate for both the index procedure and all subsequent admissions and procedures within the study period.

Results

A total of 13,567 patients underwent elective ventral hernia repair with mesh; 9228 (69 %) underwent OVHR and 4339 (31 %) underwent LVHR. At time of the index procedure, LVHR was associated with a lower incidence of reoperation (OR 0.29, CI 0.12–0.58, p = 0.001), wound disruption (OR 0.35, CI 0.16–0.78, p = 0.01), wound infection (OR 0.50, CI 0.25–0.70, p < 0.001), blood transfusion (OR 0.47, CI 0.36–0.61, p < 0.001), ARDS (OR 0.74, CI 0.54–0.99, p < 0.05), and total index visit complications (OR 0.72, CI 0.64–0.80, p < 0.001). LVHR was associated with significantly fewer readmissions (OR 0.81, CI 0.75–0.88, p < 0.001) and a lower risk for revisional VHR (OR 0.75, CI 0.64–0.88, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Open ventral hernia repair was associated with a higher incidence of perioperative complications, postoperative readmissions and need for revisional hernia repair when compared to laparoscopic ventral hernia repair, even when controlling for patient sociodemographics. In congruence, open ventral hernia repair was associated with higher costs for both the index hernia repair and tallied over the length of follow-up for readmissions and revisional hernia repair.

     

Prognostic Significance of Acute Kidney Injury Following Emergency Laparotomy: A Prospective Observational Cohort Study

Aims

Post-operative acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common and independent mortality risk factor carrying high clinical and economic cost. This study aimed to establish the incidence of AKI in patients undergoing emergency laparotomy (EL), to determine patients’ risk profile and consequent mortality.

Methods

Consecutive 239 patients of median age 68 (IQR 51–76) years, undergoing EL in a UK tertiary hospital, were studied. Primary outcome measure was AKI and in-hospital operative mortality.

Results

Ninety-five patients (39.7%) developed AKI, which was associated with in-hospital mortality in 32 patients (33.7%) compared with 7 patients (4.9%) without AKI. AKI occurred in 81.1% of all mortalities, but none occurred when AKI resolved within 48 h of EL. AKI was associated with chronic kidney disease, age, serum lactate, white cell count, pre-EL systolic blood pressure and tachycardia (p?<?0.010). Median length of hospital stay in AKI survivors was 15 days compared with 11 days in the absence of AKI (p?<?0.001). On multivariable analysis, only AKI at 48 h post-EL was significantly and independently associated with mortality [HR 10.895, 95% CI 3.152–37.659, p?<?0.001].

Conclusion

Peri-operative AKI after EL was common and associated with a more than sixfold significant greater mortality. Pre-operative risk profile assessment and prompt protocol-driven intervention should minimise AKI and reduce EL mortality.

     

Predictors for persistent urodynamic stress incontinence following extensive pelvic reconstructive surgery with and without midurethral sling

Introduction and hypothesis

The objective of this study was to identify the predictors for persistent urodynamic stress incontinence (P-USI) in women following extensive pelvic reconstructive surgery (PRS) with and without midurethral sling (MUS).

Mmethods

A total of 1,017 women who underwent pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery from January 2005 to December 2013 in our institutions were analyzed. We included 349 USI women who had extensive PRS for POP stage III or more of whom 209 underwent concomitant MUS.

Results

Of the women who underwent extensive PRS without MUS, 64.3 % (90/140) developed P-USI compared to only 10.5 % (22/209) of those who had concomitant MUS. Those with concomitant MUS and PRS alone were at higher risk of developing P-USI if they had overt USI [odds ratio (OR) 2.2, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.3–4.0, p?=?0.014 and OR 4.7, 95 % CI 2.0–11.3, p?<?0.001, respectively], maximum urethral closure pressure (MUCP) of?<?60 cm H₂O (OR 5.0, 95 % CI 3.0–8.1, p?<?0.001 and OR 5.3, 95 % CI 2.7–10.4, p?<?0.001, respectively), and functional urethral length (FUL) of?<?2 cm (OR 5.4, 95 % CI 2.7–8.8, p?<?0.001 and OR 3.9, 95 % CI 2.4–6.9, p?<?0.001, respectively). Parity?≥?6 (OR 3.9, 95 % CI 1.7–5.2, p?<?0.001) and Prolift T (OR 3.1, 95 % CI 1.9–4, p?<?0.001) posed a higher risk of P-USI in those with concomitant surgery. Perigee and Avaulta A seemed to be protective against P-USI in those without MUS.

Conclusions

Overt USI with advanced POP together with low MUCP and FUL values have a higher risk of developing P-USI. Therefore, counseling these women is worthwhile while considering the type of mesh used.

     

Acute kidney injury after abdominal aortic aneurysm repair: current epidemiology and potential prevention

Purpose

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a severe complication after infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm (iAAA) repair. Little data are available whether endovascular aneurysm (EVAR) or open aortic repair (OAR) differs with respect to AKI frequency and severity, consecutive development of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and potentially preventable and modifiable risk factors of AKI.

Patients and methods

We assessed AKI rates, AKI stages and CKD applying current, complete definitions from the kidney disease improving global outcomes initiative in propensity-score-matched cohorts of all patients with elective and urgent iAAA repair at our institution from 2007 to 2011. Risk factors were analysed using multivariate logistic regression analyses.

Results

From 268 patients, we identified 91 matched pairs who had undergone either EVAR or OAR. The AKI rate was 13.2% with EVAR versus 41.8% with OAR (P < 0.001). AKI was significantly less severe in EVAR. OAR patients lost more glomerular filtration rate (? 11.3 vs. ? 6.5%; P = 0.02) and developed more frequently CKD (14.3 vs. 3.2%; P < 0.001) 3 months after iAAA repair. EVAR, circulatory shock, radiocontrast media, rhabdomyolysis and sepsis were identified as potentially preventable or modifiable risk factors of AKI.

Conclusions

AKI is significantly less frequent and severe in iAAA patients after EVAR as compared to OAR. Furthermore OAR patients demonstrate a higher CKD rate. The identified risk factors may be prevented or modified as a bundle of measures especially in patients with pre-existing CKD to reduce AKI and its severity after iAAA repair.

     

Systematic review and meta-analysis of minimally invasive versus open approach for pancreaticoduodenectomy

Backgrounds and objective

The technique of minimally invasive pancreatic surgeries has evolved rapidly, including minimally invasive pancreaticoduodenectomy (MIPD). However, controversy on safety and feasibility remains when comparing the MIPD with the open pancreaticoduodenectomy (OPD); therefore, we aimed to compare MIPD and OPD with a systemic review and meta-analysis.

Methods

Multiple electronic databases were systematically searched to identify studies (up to February 2016) comparing MIPD with OPD. Intra-operative outcomes, oncologic data, postoperative complications and postoperative recovery were evaluated.

Results

Twenty-two retrospective studies including 6120 patients (1018 MIPDs and 5102 OPDs) were included. MIPD was associated with a reduction in estimated blood loss (WMD ?312.00 ml, 95 % CI ?436.30 to ?187.70 ml, p < 0.001), transfusion rate (OR 0.41, 95 % CI 0.30–0.55, p < 0.001), wound infection (OR 0.37, 95 % CI 0.20–0.66, p < 0.001) and length of hospital stay (WMD ?3.57 days, 95 % CI ?5.17 to ?1.98 days, p < 0.001). Meanwhile, MIPD group has a higher R0 resection rate (OR 1.47, 95 % CI 1.18–1.82, p < 0.001) and more lymph nodes harvest (WMD 1.74, 95 % CI 1.03–2.45, p < 0.001). However, it had longer operation time (WMD 83.91 min, 95 % CI 36.60–131.21 min, p < 0.001). There were no significant differences between the two procedures in morbidities (p = 0.86), postoperative pancreatic fistula (p = 0.17), delayed gastric empting (p = 0.65), vascular resection (p = 0.68), reoperation (p = 0.33) and mortality (p = 0.90).

Conclusions

MIPD can be a reasonable alternative to OPD with potential advantages. However, further large-volume, well-designed RCTs with extensive follow-ups are suggested to confirm and update the findings of our analysis.

     

Fast GFR decline and progression to CKD among primary care patients with preserved GFR

Background

Fast glomerular filtration rate (GFR) decline is associated with adverse outcomes, but the associated risk factors among patients without chronic kidney disease (CKD) are not well defined.

Methods

From a primary care registry of 37,796, we identified 2219 (6%) adults with at least three estimated (e)GFR values and a baseline eGFR between 60 and 119 ml/min/1.73 m² during an observation period of 8 years. We defined fast GFR decline as > 5 ml/min/1.73 m² per year. The outcome measure was incident CKD (eGFR < 60 ml/min/1.73 m²). Clinical and demographic characteristics were compared using Chi-square and independent-samples t tests.

Results

Older age, African-American race, unmarried status, hypertension and type 2 diabetes were more common in both fast decliners and those who developed incident CKD (p < 0.0001 to < 0.05). Lower neighborhood socioeconomic status, current smoking and baseline eGFR 90–119 ml/min/1.73 m² were associated with fast decline (p < 0.01), while baseline eGFR 60–74 ml/min/1.73 m² with incident CKD (p < 0.05). In multivariate regression models, among fast decliners with mildly reduced baseline eGFR (60–89 ml/min/1.73 m²), older age was significantly associated with incident CKD [odds ratio (OR) 1.04; 95% CI 1.01–1.08], and among those with normal baseline eGFR (≥ 90–119 ml/min/1.73 m²), type 2 diabetes was significantly associated with incident CKD (OR 3.83; 95% CI 1.35–10.89).

Conclusions

Among primary care patients without CKD, GFR is checked infrequently. We have identified patients at high risk of progressive CKD, in whom we suggest a closer monitoring of renal function.

     

Effect of daprodustat on anemia in patients with chronic kidney disease: a meta-analysis

Background

The efficacy of daprodustat for the treatment of anemic patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains controversial. The aim of the study is to perform a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials to evaluate the efficacy and safety of daprodustat for anemic patients with chronic kidney disease.

Methods

We searched Medline, Embase, Science Citation Index, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Clinical Trial Registries for randomized controlled trials comparing daprodustat with placebo for anemic patients with CKD.

Results

Four studies were included. Compared with placebo groups, daprodustat groups significantly increased hemoglobin (WMD 1.29 g/dL; 95% CI 0.96–1.62, p?<?0.00001), transferrin (WMD 0.67 g/dL; 95% CI 0.45–0.89, p?<?0.00001), and total iron binding capacity (WMD 9.97 g/dL; 95% CI 6.07–13.8, p?<?0.00001). Daprodustat groups significantly decreased hepcidin (WMD ??76.1 μg/L; 95% CI ??91.8 to ??60.3, p?<?0.00001) and ferritin (WMD ??63.6 μg/L; 95% CI ??96.6 to ??30.7, p?=?0.0002) compared with that of placebo groups. In addition, there was no significant difference in adverse events between the two groups.

Conclusion

Daprodustat could improve hemoglobin without increasing adverse events in the short term. Daprodustat may be another valuable choice for anemic patients with chronic kidney disease in the future.

     

Trends in Procedures at Major Trauma Centres in New South Wales,Australia: An Analysis of State-Wide Trauma Data

Objectives

To describe the trend in major trauma surgical procedures and interventional radiology in major trauma patients in Australia over the past 6 years.

Methods

This was a retrospective review of adult major trauma (Injury Severity Score greater than 15) patients using the New South Wales Statewide Trauma Registry between 2009 and 2014. Major trauma surgical procedures were classified into abdominal, neurosurgery, cardiothoracic and interventional radiology. The proportion of patients undergoing such procedures per year was the outcome of interest.

Results

There were around ten thousand cases analysed. The proportion of cases undergoing interventional radiology procedures increased from 1% in 2009 to around 6% in 2014. Other major trauma surgical procedures remained stable. Only around 100 laparotomies were performed in 2014. The predictors of having an IR procedure performed were increasing from 2009 (OR 1.5 95% CI 1.4, 1.6 p < 0.001), hypotension (OR 1.5 95% CI 1.1, 2.1 n = 0.01), severe abdominal injury (OR 4.2 95% CI 3.2, 5.3 p < 0.001) and lower limb (including pelvic) injury (OR 3.8 95% CI 3.0, 4.7 p < 0.001).

Conclusion

There has been a rapid increase in the use of interventional radiology over the past few years which will need to be addressed in future trauma service planning and models of care.

     

The Inequity of Bariatric Surgery: Publicly Insured Patients Undergo Lower Rates of Bariatric Surgery with Worse Outcomes

Objective

Bariatric surgery has been shown to be the most effective method of achieving weight loss and alleviating obesity-related comorbidities. Yet, it is not being used equitably. This study seeks to identify if there is a disparity in payer status of patients undergoing bariatric surgery and what factors are associated with this disparity.

Methods

We performed a case-control analysis of National Inpatient Sample. We identified adults with body mass index (BMI) greater than or equal to 25 kg/m² who underwent bariatric surgery and matched them with overweight inpatient adult controls not undergoing surgery. The sample was analyzed using multivariate logistic regression.

Results

We identified 132,342 cases, in which the majority had private insurance (72.8%). Bariatric patients were significantly more likely to be privately insured than any other payer status; Medicare- and Medicaid-covered patients accounted for a low percentage of cases (Medicare 5.1%, OR 0.33, 95% CI 0.29–0.37, p < 0.001; Medicaid 8.7%, OR 0.21, 95% CI 0.18–0.25, p < 0.001). Medicare (OR 1.54, 95% CI 1.33–1.78, p < 0.001) and Medicaid (OR 1.31, 95% CI 1.08–1.60, p = 0.007) patients undergoing bariatric surgery had an increased risk of complications compared to privately insured patients.

Conclusions

Publicly insured patients are significantly less likely to undergo bariatric surgery. As a group, these patients experience higher rates of obesity and related complications and thus are most in need of bariatric surgery.

     

Plasma <Emphasis Type="Italic">p</Emphasis>-cresol lowering effect of sevelamer in non-dialysis CKD patients: evidence from a randomized controlled trial

Background

The accumulation of p-cresol, a metabolic product of aromatic amino acids generated by intestinal microbiome, increases the cardiovascular risk in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. Therefore, therapeutic strategies to reduce plasma p-cresol levels are highly demanded. It has been reported that the phosphate binder sevelamer (SEV) sequesters p-cresol in vitro, while in vivo studies on dialysis patients showed controversial results. Aim of our study was to evaluate the effect of SEV on p-cresol levels in non-dialysis CKD patients.

Methods

This was a single-blind, randomized placebo-controlled trial (Registration number NCT02199444) carried on 69 CKD patients (stage 3–5, not on dialysis), randomly assigned (1:1) to receive either SEV or placebo for 3 months. Total p-cresol serum levels were evaluated at baseline (T0), and 1 (T1) and 3 months (T3) after treatment start. The primary end-point was to evaluate the effect of SEV on p-cresol levels.

Results

Compared to baseline (T0, 7.4 ± 2.7 mg/mL), p-cresol mean concentration was significantly reduced in SEV patients after one (? 2.06 mg/mL, 95% CI ? 2.62 to ? 1.50 mg/mL; p < 0.001) and 3 months of treatment (? 3.97 mg/mL, 95% CI ? 4.53 to ? 3.41 mg/mL; p < 0.001); no change of plasma p-cresol concentration was recorded in placebo-treated patients. Moreover, P and LDL values were reduced after 3 months of treatment by SEV but not placebo.

Conclusions

In conclusion, our study represents the first evidence that SEV is effective in reducing p-cresol levels in CKD patients in conservative treatment, and confirms its beneficial effects on inflammation and lipid pattern.

     

Serum NGAL and copeptin levels as predictors of acute kidney injury in asphyxiated neonates

Background

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is the most common complication of perinatal asphyxia. Recent research indicates that serum neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) is an early marker for AKI, but there are the lacks of data about its use in term neonates with perinatal asphyxia.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted on 43 term neonates. Umbilical cord blood and 24 h after birth serum NGAL, copeptin, creatinine, and molality were measured in all asphyxiated and controls neonates.

Results

During the study period, 8 of asphyxiated nenates (18.6 %) suffered from AKI, while 35 newborns have no signs of AKI and 30 healthy infants. We did not observe any differences in creatinine and copeptin levels, as well as serum osmolality in all three investigated groups (AKI, no-AKI, and controls) in cord blood, and 24 h after birth. Serum NGAL levels in umbilical cord blood were significantly higher in the AKI group (174.3 ng/mL) compared with no-AKI (88.5 ng/mL, p = 0.01) and control groups (28.5 ng/mL, p < 0.001), and 24 h after birth (respectively, AKI 152.5 ng/mL vs no-AKI 74.9 ng/mL, p = 0.02 vs controls 39.1 ng/mL, p < 0.001). NGAL concentration showed a strong negative correlation to umbilical artery pH (Rho = ?0.42, p = 0.04), base excess (Rho = ?0.31, p = 0.03), and Apgar score in 1st min (Rho = ?0.41, p = 0.02) and 5th min of life (Rho = ?0.20, p = 0.001). ROC curve analysis demonstrated a good predictive value for NGAL levels (>140.7 ng/mL) which allows to diagnose AKI in asphyxiated patients with 88.9 % sensitivity (95 % CI 75–95 %) and 95.0 % specificity (95 % CI 76–99 %).

Conclusion

NGAL seems to be a promising marker, even in subclinical AKI in neonates, due to its high specificity, but copeptin did not meet expectations.

     

Prevalence of CMMSE defined cognitive impairment among peritoneal dialysis patients and its impact on peritonitis

Background

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) exchange procedure is complex. Patients with cognitive impairment (CI) may require assistance. We studied the prevalence of CI among PD patients, its impact on PD-related peritonitis and the outcome of assisted PD.

Methods

Cantonese version of Mini-Mental State examination (CMMSE) was performed in 151 patients newly started on PD. Data on patient characteristics including demographics, co-morbidities, blood parameters, medications, and number of PD-related peritonitis in the first 6 months were collected.

Results

151 subjects were recruited. The age of studied patients was 60 ± 15.0 years, and 45 % were female. The prevalence of CI was 13.9 % using education-adjusted cut-off of CMMSE. Patients older than 65-year-old, female, and lower education level were independent risk factors for CI (OR 9.27 p = 0.001, OR 14.84 p = 0.005, and OR 6.10 p = 0.009, respectively). Age greater than 65-year old is an independent risk factor for PD-related peritonitis but CI was not. Patients requiring assisted PD were of older age (p < 0.001), lower CMMSE (p < 0.001), and scored higher for age-adjusted Charlson Co-morbidity index (p < 0.001). Compared with self-care PD patients, assisted PD patients did not have higher rates exit site infection (p = 0.30) but had a trend of higher PD peritonitis (p = 0.07).

Conclusion

CI is common among local PD patients. Overall, CI could not be identified as an independent risk factor for PD peritonitis. There is a higher prevalence of CI among assisted PD patients but helpers may not completely eliminate the risk of PD-related peritonitis.

     

Incidence and risk factors for proximal junctional kyphosis: a meta-analysis

Purpose

To analyse the incidence and risk factors associated with proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) following spinal fusion, we collect relative statistics from the articles on PJK and perform a meta-analysis.

Methods

An extensive search of literature was performed in PubMed, Embase, and The Cochrane Library (up to April 2015). The following risk factors were extracted: age at surgery, gender, combined anterior-posterior surgery, use of pedicle screw at top of construct, hybrid instrumentation, thoracoplasty, fusion to sacrum (S1), preoperative thoracic kyphosis angle (T5–T12) >40°, bone mineral density (BMD) and preoperative to postoperative sagittal vertical axis (SVA difference) >5 cm. Data analysis was conducted with RevMan 5.3 and STATA 12.0.

Results

A total of 14 unique studies including 2215 patients were included in the final analyses. The pooled analysis showed that there were significant difference in age at surgery >55 years old (OR 2.19, 95 % CI 1.36–3.53, p = 0.001), fusion to S1 (OR 2.12, 95 % CI 1.57–2.87, p < 0.001), T5–T12 >40° (OR 2.68, 95 % CI 1.73–4.13, p < 0.001), low BMD (OR 2.37, 95 % CI 1.45–3.87, p < 0.001) and SVA difference >5 cm (OR 2.53, 95 % CI 1.24–5.18, p = 0.01). However, there was no significant difference in gender (OR 0.98, 95 % CI 0.74–1.30, p = 0.87), combined anterior-posterior surgery (OR 1.55, 95 % CI 0.98–2.46, p = 0.06), use of pedicle screw at top of construct (OR 1.55, 95 % CI 0.67–3.59, p = 0.30), hybrid instrumentation (OR 1.31, 95 % CI 0.92–1.87, p = 0.13) and thoracoplasty (OR 1.55, 95 % CI 0.89–2.72, p = 0.13). The incidence of PJK following spinal fusion was 30 % (ranged from 17 to 62 %) based on the 14 studies.

Conclusions

The results of our meta-analysis suggest that age at surgery >55 years, fusion to S1, T5–T12 >40°, low BMD and SVA difference >5 cm are risk factors for PJK. However, gender, combined anterior–posterior surgery, use of pedicle screw at top of construct, hybrid instrumentation and thoracoplasty are not associated with PJK.

     

Clinical characteristics,risk factors and outcomes of asymptomatic rectal neuroendocrine tumors

Background

Rectal neuroendocrine tumors (NET) are often asymptomatic and frequently discovered during health examinations. However, data on the risk factors of asymptomatic rectal NETs are lacking. We investigated the risk factors, clinical characteristics and outcomes of asymptomatic rectal NETs discovered during health screening.

Materials and methods

Asymptomatic subjects who underwent colonoscopy during routine health screening at a tertiary hospital from March 2009 to July 2014 were reviewed. Subjects with histologically confirmed rectal NETs were compared with healthy controls from the same population. Risk factors for rectal NETs were analyzed by multivariable analysis. Clinical outcomes of the resected NETs were also analyzed.

Results

A total of 21,706 Subjects underwent screening colonoscopy during the study period. 3417 were excluded from the study, and 180 rectal NET subjects were compared with 18,109 controls. Multivariable analysis showed that a previous history of malignancy (OR 2.960, 95% CI 1.673–5.237, p < 0.001), hypertriglyceridemia (OR 1.482, 95% CI 1.046–2.100, p = 0.027), higher fasting plasma glucose levels (OR 1.008, 95% CI 1.003–1.014, p = 0.001) and higher carcinoembryonic antigen levels (OR 1.019, 95% CI 1.003–1.035, p = 0.021) were significant risk factors while older age (OR 0.964, 95% CI 0.951–0.977, p < 0.001) was a preventive factor. One hundred and sixty nine subjects had endoscopic resection, five were treated by local surgery and six by radical surgery. Complete resection was achieved in 152 subjects. There were three cases of positive lymph nodes and one metastasis. Histology revealed four lymphatic, five vascular and two cases of perineural invasion. One hundred and fifty seven subjects were followed up for at least 1 year (median 38.6 months, 12–84 months). There were no recurrences during the follow-up period.

Conclusions

Younger age, previous history of malignancy, higher fasting plasma glucose levels and hypertriglyceridemia are significantly associated with rectal NET risk.

     

Outpatient groin hernia repair: assessment of 9330 patients from the French “Club Hernie” database

Background

Groin hernia repair (GHR) is one of the most frequent surgical interventions practiced worldwide. Outpatient surgery for GHR is known to be safe and effective.

Aim

To assess the outpatient practice for GHR in France and identify predictive factors of failure.

Method

Forty one surgeons of the French “Club Hernie” prospectively gathered data concerning successive GHR over a period of 4 years within a multicenter database.

Results

A total of 9330 patients were operated on during the period of the study. Mean age was 61.8 (1–100) years old and 8245 patients (88.4%) were males. 6974 GHR (74.7%) were performed as outpatient procedures. In 262 patients (3.6%), the outpatient setting, previously selected, did not succeed. Upon multivariate analysis, predictive factors of ambulatory failure were ASA grade ≥ III (OR 0.42, p < 0.001), bilateral GHR (OR 0.47, p < 0.001), emergency surgery for incarcerated hernia (OR 0.10, p < 0.001), spinal anesthesia (OR 0.27, p < 0.001) and occurrence of an early post-operative complication (OR 0.07, p < 0.001). The more frequent complications were acute urinary retention and surgical site collections. 2094 patients (21.5%) were not selected preoperatively for 1-day surgery.

Conclusion

More than 74% of the patients benefited from outpatient surgery for GHR with a poor failure rate. Predictive factors of outpatient GHR failure were ASA grade ≥ III, bilateral GHR, emergency surgery for incarcerated hernia, spinal anesthesia and occurrence of an early post-operative complication. Ambulatory failures were often related to social issues or medical complications. Outpatient surgery criteria could become less restrictive in the future.