Methylene blue reduces incidence of early postoperative cognitive disorders in elderly patients undergoing major non-cardiac surgery: An open–label randomized controlled clinical trial

Study objectiveThe purpose of the present study was to investigate whether methylene blue (MB) could reduce the incidences of postoperative delirium (POD) and early postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) in elderly patients undergoing major non-cardiac surgery.DesignProspective, randomized, open–label clinical trial.SettingUniversity-affiliated hospital.PatientsTwo hundred and forty-eight elderly patients scheduled for non-cardiac surgery.InterventionsElderly patients undergoing non-cardiac major surgery were randomly assigned to MB group (n = 124), who receiving intravenous infusion of 2 mg/kg MB within 60 min immediately after anesthetic induction, or control group (n = 124), who receiving equal volume saline in the same way.MeasurementsAll patients were evaluated with delirium and neuropsychological batteries before and after surgery, as well as perioperative adverse events. Two plasma biomarkers superoxide dismutase (SOD) and homocysteine (HCY) were measured pre- and post-operatively.Main resultsThere were total 39 cases(15.7%)experienced POD. The incidence of POD in MB group was significantly less than that in control group (7.3% vs. 24.2%, OR = 0.24, 95%CI: 0.11–0.53, p < 0.001). The incidence of early POCD at postoperative 7th day in MB group was also less than that in control group (16.1% vs. 40.2%, OR = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.16–0.57, p < 0.001). The adverse events were comparable in both groups. In addition, there was no significant correlation between POD/POCD and levels of SOD or HCY.ConclusionWe conclude that intraoperative intravenous 2 mg/kg MB could significantly reduce the incidences of POD and early POCD in elderly surgical patients, while not remarkably increase incidence of perioperative adverse events, suggesting MB may be clinically effective and safe for prevention of early postoperative neurocognitive disorders.     

Postoperative outcomes in older surgical patients with preoperative cognitive impairment: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Study objectiveTo determine the effect of cognitive impairment (CI) and dementia on adverse outcomes in older surgical patients.DesignA systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies and randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Various databases were searched from their inception dates to March 8, 2021.SettingPreoperative assessment.PatientsOlder patients (≥ 60 years) undergoing non-cardiac surgery.MeasurementsOutcomes included postoperative delirium, mortality, discharge to assisted care, 30-day readmissions, postoperative complications, and length of hospital stay. Effect sizes were calculated as Odds Ratio (OR) and Mean Difference (MD) based on random effect model analysis. The quality of included studies was assessed using the Cochrane Risk Bias Tool for RCTs and Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for observational cohort studies.ResultsFifty-three studies (196,491 patients) were included. Preoperative CI was associated with a significant risk of delirium in older patients after non-cardiac surgery (25.1% vs. 10.3%; OR: 3.84; 95%CI: 2.35, 6.26; I²: 76%; p < 0.00001). Cognitive impairment (26.2% vs. 13.2%; OR: 2.28; 95%CI: 1.39, 3.74; I²: 73%; p = 0.001) and dementia (41.6% vs. 25.5%; OR: 1.96; 95%CI: 1.34, 2.88; I²: 99%; p = 0.0006) significantly increased risk for 1-year mortality. In patients with CI, there was an increased risk of discharge to assisted care (44.7% vs. 38.3%; OR 1.74; 95%CI: 1.05, 2.89, p = 0.03), 30-day readmissions (14.3% vs. 10.8%; OR: 1.36; 95%CI: 1.00, 1.84, p = 0.05), and postoperative complications (40.7% vs. 18.8%; OR: 1.85; 95%CI: 1.37, 2.49; p < 0.0001).ConclusionsPreoperative CI in older surgical patients significantly increases risk of delirium, 1-year mortality, discharge to assisted care, 30-day readmission, and postoperative complications. Dementia increases the risk of 1-year mortality. Cognitive screening in the preoperative assessment for older surgical patients may be helpful for risk stratification so that appropriate management can be implemented to mitigate adverse postoperative outcomes.     

The effect of aortic stenosis on elderly hip fracture outcomes: A case control study

IntroductionAortic stenosis (AS) is an established predictor of perioperative complications following both cardiac and non-cardiac surgery. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the risk of mortality and perioperative complications among surgically treated hip fractures in elderly patients with moderate or severe AS compared to those without AS (negative controls).Materials and methodsA retrospective case-controlled review (1:2) of elderly (≥65 years) surgically treated hip fractures from 2011 to 2015 with moderate/severe AS (according to American Heart Association criteria) was conducted. Postoperative complication rates, 30 days and 1 year mortality were reviewed.ResultsModerate/severe AS was identified in 65 hip fracture cases and compared to 129 negative controls. AS cases were significantly older with higher rates of coronary artery disease and atrial fibrillation (p < 0.05). Rates of any 30-day perioperative complication (74% vs. 37%, p < 0.001) and severe non-cardiac 30-day perioperative complication (52% vs. 26%, p = 0.002) were significantly higher among AS cases compared to controls. Kaplan Meier estimates of 30-day mortality (14.7% vs. 4.2%, p < 0.001) and 1-year mortality (46.8% vs. 14.1%, p < 0.001) were significantly higher in AS cases compared to controls. Multivariate analysis of severe 30-day postoperative complications identified moderate/severe AS (OR 4.02, p = 0.001), pulmonary disease (OR 7.36, p = 0.002) and renal disease (OR 3.27, p = 0.04) as independent predictors. Moderate/severe AS (OR 3.38, p = 0.03), atrial fibrillation (OR 3.73, p = 0.03) and renal disease (OR 4.44, p = 0.02) were independent predictors of 30-day mortality. Moderate/severe AS (OR 5.79, p < 0.001) and renal disease (OR 3.39, p = 0.02) were independent predictors of 1-year mortality.ConclusionAortic stenosis is associated with a significantly increased risk of perioperative complications, 30-day mortality and 1-year mortality in elderly patients undergoing surgical treatment of hip fractures.     

The effectiveness of positive airway pressure therapy in reducing postoperative adverse outcomes in surgical patients with obstructive sleep apnea: A systematic review and meta-analysis

ImportanceObstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is prevalent in surgical patients and is associated with an increased risk of adverse perioperative events.Study objectiveTo determine the effectiveness of positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy in reducing the risk of postoperative complications in patients with OSA undergoing surgery.DesignSystematic review and meta-analysis searching Medline and other databases from inception to October 17, 2021. The search terms included: “positive airway pressure,” “surgery,” “post-operative,” and “obstructive sleep apnea.” The inclusion criteria were: 1) adult patients with OSA undergoing surgery; (2) patients using preoperative and/or postoperative PAP; (3) at least one postoperative outcome reported; (4) control group (patients with OSA undergoing surgery without preoperative and/or postoperative PAP therapy); and (5) English language articles.PatientsTwenty-seven studies included 30,514 OSA patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery and 837 OSA patients undergoing cardiac surgery.InterventionPAP therapyMain resultsIn patients with OSA undergoing non-cardiac surgery, PAP therapy was associated with a decreased risk of postoperative respiratory complications (2.3% vs 3.6%; RR: 0.72, 95% CI: 0.51–1.00, asymptotic P = 0.05) and unplanned ICU admission (0.12% vs 4.1%; RR: 0.44, 95% CI: 0.19–0.99, asymptotic P = 0.05). No significant differences were found for all-cause complications (11.6% vs 14.4%; RR: 0.89, 95% CI: 0.74–1.06, P = 0.18), postoperative cardiac and neurological complications, in-hospital length of stay, and in-hospital mortality between the two groups. In patients with OSA undergoing cardiac surgery, PAP therapy was associated with decreased postoperative cardiac complications (33.7% vs 50%; RR: 0.63, 95% CI: 0.51–0.77, P < 0.0001), and postoperative atrial fibrillation (40.1% vs 66.7%; RR: 0.59, 95% CI 0.45–0.77, P < 0.0001).ConclusionIn patients with OSA undergoing non-cardiac surgery, PAP therapy was associated with a 28% reduction in the risk of postoperative respiratory complications and 56% reduction in unplanned ICU admission. In patients with OSA undergoing cardiac surgery, PAP therapy decreased the risk of postoperative cardiac complications and atrial fibrillation by 37% and 41%, respectively.     

A população cirúrgica muito idosa em cuidados intensivos: características clínicas e desfechos

BackgroundThe elderly population is an especially heterogeneous group of patients with a rising number of surgical interventions being performed in the very elderly patient. The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation between different age strata and functional status with the surgical outcome of the elderly patient.MethodsRetrospective cohort study conducted in a Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU), between 2006 and 2013. A total of 2331 surgical patients ≥ 65 years old were included. Patients were grouped according to age: Older Elderly Group (OEG: 65‐85 years old); Very Elderly Group (VEG > 85 years old). Demographic and perioperative data were recorded. Revised Cardiac Risk Index, APACHE II and SAPS II scores were calculated and postoperative complications were documented. Variables were compared on univariate analysis.ResultsThe incidence of the VEG was 5.4%. This group had a higher proportion of non‐elective surgery (22.4% vs. 11.2%, p < 0.001), higher APACHE II (12.0 vs. 10.0, p < 0.001) and SAPS II (26.6 vs. 22.2, p < 0.001) scores, higher incidence of organ failure (24.6% vs. 17.6%, p = 0.048) and a higher mortality rate during SICU (14.0% vs. 5.2%, p = 0.026) and hospital stay (9.3% vs. 5.0%, p = 0.012).ConclusionWe found that very elderly patients represented a significant proportion of patients admitted to the SICU. They had higher severity scores with a higher prevalence of organ failure and were more likely to undergo non‐elective surgery. They had worse outcomes in regarding mortality during SICU and hospital stay.     

Fibrinogen prophylaxis for reducing perioperative bleeding in patients undergoing radical cystectomy: A double-blind placebo-controlled randomized trial

ObjectiveExcessive bleeding is an important complication of radical cystectomy. We aimed to assess whether preoperative administration of fibrinogen decreases perioperative bleeding and improves the outcome of radical cystectomy.DesignDouble-blinded randomized trial with two parallel arms.SettingThe study was conducted in the department of surgery at a teaching hospital affiliated with a University of Medical Sciences.PatientsIn total, 70 men undergoing radical cystectomy were randomized to fibrinogen (n = 35) and placebo-control groups. Mean (SD) age was 64.7 (7.4) years.InterventionsThe intervention group received 2 g fibrinogen concentrate diluted in 100 ml distilled water, and the control group received 100 ml normal saline; both intravenously 15 ̶ 30 min before the start of the surgery.Outcome measuresThe primary outcome was the amount of perioperative blood loss. The secondary outcomes were hemodynamic features and vital signs.Main resultsFibrinogen significantly decreased the volume of blood loss (p < 0.001) and the total number of transfused packed-cell units per group (38 vs. 115 units); and compensated the decrease of HCO3 (p = 0.030), the mean arterial pressure (p < 0.001), hemoglobin O2 saturation (p = 0.001), heart rate (p < 0.001), and temperature (p < 0.001) throughout the surgery compared with the placebo. Patients in the fibrinogen group had shorter Intensive Care Unit (p = 0.001) and hospital (p < 0.001) stay. We did not find any adverse reaction in our patients receiving fibrinogen concentrate.ConclusionFibrinogen concentrate reduces perioperative bleeding and the need for blood transfusion in radical cystectomy. It improves the outcomes of the surgery and decreases patients' length of stay in the healthcare system following radical cystectomy.RegistrationIranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT) http://www.irct.ir/, reference number: IRCT20191013045091N1.Ethics codeShahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, reference number: IR.SBMU.RETECH.REC.1398.033.     

A comparative study of laparoscopic and robotic assisted radical prostatectomy performed by a single surgeon

ObjectiveTo present the transition from laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) to robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALP) over 10 years in a medium volume center by a single surgeon.Materials and methodsWe retrospectively reviewed 140 prostate cancer patients who underwent LRP (100 patients) or RALP (40 patients) between May 2005 and May 2015. Preoperative parameters included age, body mass index, and serum prostate specific antigen. Operative course parameters included operative time, estimated blood loss, intraoperative blood transfusion, conversion to open surgery, hospitalization days, duration of Foley catheterization, and complications. Pathological stage, surgical margin status, biochemical recurrence (BCR) rate, and continence rate at 12 months after surgery were reviewed and compared between the LRP and RALP groups.ResultThe operative outcomes revealed significantly less blood loss (143 mL vs. 306 mL, p < 0.001), shorter hospital stay (6.9 days vs. 8.7 days, p = 0.006), and shorter duration of Foley catheterization (9.3 days vs. 11.3 days, p < 0.001) in patients who underwent RALP. Major perioperative complications occurred in four LRP patients (4%), and none were observed in RALP patients. LRP and RALP had similar positive surgical margin rates (p = 0.285) and BCR rates (p = 0.88). RALP resulted in better continence recovery than LRP (55% vs. 82.5%, p = 0.003).ConclusionPatients who underwent RALP had better perioperative and functional outcomes. Oncologic outcomes were similar compared to patients who underwent LRP.     

Type A Aortic Dissection Repair in Patients With Prior Cardiac Surgery

BackgroundEmergency surgery for acute type A aortic dissection in patients with previous cardiac surgery is controversial. This study aimed to evaluate the association between previous cardiac surgery and outcomes after surgery for acute type A aortic dissection, to appreciate whether emergency surgery can be offered with acceptable risks.MethodsAll patients operated on for acute type A aortic dissection between 2005 and 2014 from the Nordic Consortium for Acute Type A Aortic Dissection database were eligible. Patients with previous cardiac surgery were compared with patients without previous cardiac surgery. Univariable and multivariable statistical analyses were performed to identify predictors of 30-day mortality and early major adverse events (a secondary composite endpoint comprising 30-day mortality, perioperative stroke, postoperative cardiac arrest, or de novo dialysis).ResultsIn all, 1159 patients were included, 40 (3.5%) with previous cardiac surgery. Patients with previous cardiac surgery had higher 30-day mortality (30% vs 17.8%, P = .049), worse medium-term survival (51.7% vs 71.2% at 5 years, log rank P = .020), and higher unadjusted prevalence of major adverse events (52.5% vs 35.7%, P = .030). In multivariable analysis, previous cardiac surgery was not associated with 30-day mortality (odds ratio 0.78; 95% CI, 0.30-2.07; P = .624) or major adverse events (odds ratio 1.07; 95% CI, 0.45-2.55, P = .879).ConclusionsMajor adverse events after surgery for acute type A aortic dissection were more frequent in patients with previous cardiac surgery. Previous cardiac surgery itself was not an independent predictor for adverse events, although the small sample size precludes definite conclusions. Previous cardiac surgery should not deter from emergency surgery.     

Impact of Hepatitis B virus infection on postoperative complications and length of stay in elderly patients with hip fracture: A retrospective cohort study

BackgroundOsteoporosis and subsequent fractures are common in the chronic hepatitis B (CHB) population, especially in the elderly. This study investigated the effects of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection on postoperative outcomes following hip fracture surgery.MethodsThe study identified elderly patients who underwent hip fracture surgery at three academic tertiary care centres between January 2014 and December 2020. Propensity score matching was performed to compare the outcomes of 1,046 patients with HBV infection to 1,046 controls.ResultsThe seroprevalence of HBV among elderly patients undergoing hip surgery was 4.94%. The HBV cohort had significantly higher rates of medical complications (28.1 vs. 22.7%, p = 0.005), surgical complications (14.0 vs. 9.7%, p = 0.003), and unplanned readmissions (18.9 vs. 14.5%, p = 0.03) within 90 days of surgery. Patients with HBV infection were more likely to have increased length of stay (6.2 vs. 5.9 days, p = 0.009) and in-hospital charges (¥52,231 vs. ¥49,832, p < 0.00001). Multivariate logistic regression suggested that liver fibrosis and thrombocytopenia were independent risk factors for major complications and extended LOS.ConclusionPatients with HBV infection were at greater risk of adverse postoperative outcomes. We should pay more attention to the considerable burden of perioperative management of CHB patients. Due to the high proportion of undiagnosed patients in the Chinese elderly population, universal HBV screening should be considered preoperatively.     

Impact of perioperative chemotherapy on postoperative morbidity after gastrectomy for gastric cancer

IntroductionThe use of perioperative chemotherapy (CT) in patients with advanced gastric carcinoma increases their overall survival. This therapy may also increase the number of patients with R0 resection. Potential drawbacks of this therapy, besides its toxicity, include increased surgical morbidity.MethodsWe retrospectively evaluated the records of patients undergoing gastrectomy with curative intent, for carcinoma, at our institution between January 2009 and August 2018. They were divided into two groups: direct surgery (SURG) and perioperative CT (CHEMO). Patients with other neoadjuvant therapies and cardia Siewert I and II carcinomas were excluded.The primary objective was to evaluate the impact of perioperative CT on surgical morbidity. As secondary objectives, resection radicality and total lymph node count were compared between the two groups.ResultsA total of 307 patients (97 direct surgery and 210 perioperative CT) were evaluated. Median age was 67 years old.The overall major surgical morbidity (Clavien-Dindo 3–5) was 10.6% in the CHEMO group and 12.4 in the SURG group (p = 0.643).There was no statistically significant difference between the surgical radicality (R0 98% in the SURG group vs 97.5% CHEMO group (p = 0.865). There was an increase in the total number of lymph nodes retrieved in the specimen in the CHEMO group (25 vs 22, p = 0.001), a difference that was not maintained in the subgroup analysis as a function of the surgery performed.ConclusionsPerioperative CT in gastric carcinoma does not increase surgical morbidity, surgical radicality and total lymph node count.     

Association of operative approach with outcomes in neonates with esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula

Purpose: We sought to evaluate the impact of thoracoscopic repair on perioperative outcomes in infants with esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula (EA/TEF).Methods: The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program pediatric database from 2014 to 2018 was queried for all neonates who underwent operative repair of EA/TEF. Operative approach based on intention to treat was correlated with perioperative outcomes, including 30-day postoperative adverse events, in logistic regression models.Results: Among 855 neonates, initial thoracoscopic repair was performed in 133 (15.6%) cases. Seventy (53%) of these cases were converted to open. Those who underwent thoracoscopic repair were more likely to be full-term (p = 0.03) when compared to those in the open repair group. There were no significant differences in perioperative outcome measures based on surgical approach except for operative time (thoracoscopic: 217 min vs. open: 180 min, p<0.001). A major cardiac comorbidity (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.2–2.1; p = 0.003) and preoperative ventilator requirement (OR 1.4, 95% CI 1.0–1.9; p = 0.034) were the only risk factors associated with adverse events.Conclusions: Thoracoscopic neonatal repair of EA/TEF continues to be used sparingly, is associated with high conversion rates, and has similar perioperative outcomes when compared to open repair.Level of evidence: III     

Income Disparities in Nationwide Outcomes of Malrotation with Midgut Volvulus

BackgroundMalrotation with midgut volvulus is a surgical emergency commonly encountered in pediatric surgical practice. Outcomes are excellent with timely diagnosis and treatment, but the development of bowel ischemia is associated with many negative consequences.MethodsThe Nationwide Readmissions Database was used to identify patients 0–18 years (excluding newborns) with malrotation and midgut volvulus from 2010 to 2014. Demographics, procedures, and outcomes were compared by income group (highest quartile vs. lowest quartile) using standard statistical tests. Results were weighted for national estimates.ResultsEmergency surgery for midgut volvulus was performed in 572 patients. The majority (86%) underwent Ladd's procedure, while 14% required bowel resection and/or ostomy. Patients in the lowest income quartile were more likely to require bowel resection (18% vs. 8%, p = 0.03) or ostomy (9% vs. 2%, p = 0.015) compared to those in the highest income quartile. Low-income patients were more likely to experience prolonged hospital stay (8 [5-13] days vs. 6 [4-8] days, p<0.001) and experience complications including infections (19% vs. 5%, p = 0.002), endotracheal intubation (18% vs. 4%, p<0.001), and blood transfusions (13% vs. 3%, p = 0.003).ConclusionIncome disparity represents a major factor in surgical outcomes in children with midgut volvulus. A broad spectrum of clinical outcomes following surgery for midgut volvulus exists. Patients from lower-income communities are at significantly higher risk for numerous complications, negative outcomes, and higher resource utilization. These findings support additional investigations of practices to mitigate risk for low-income patients.Level of evidenceLevel III: Retrospective comparative study     

Perceptions and goals of preoperative planning conversations between anesthesiology residents and attending physicians

Study objectiveTo systematically evaluate anesthesiology resident and attending perceptions of preoperative planning conversations (POPCs) and to generate understanding for improving the educational and clinical value of this practice.Designcross-sectional study.Settingtwo large Northeastern US academic residency training programs.Participantsclinically practicing anesthesiology residents and attendings.InterventionsAn electronic survey was administered to 303 anesthesia attendings and 168 anesthesia residents across two academic institutions between June and July 2014.MeasurementsSurvey questions addressing phone call frequency and duration, clinical value, educational value and intended purpose of POPC were administered to both groups. Chi-squared tests were used to evaluate differences in responses between groups, with p < 0.05 as statistically significant.Main resultsResponses were collected from 93 attending physicians (31%) and 80 trainee physicians (48%) for an overall response rate of 37%. 99% of residents reported paging their attendings to engage in the POPC the evening prior to all operations and 95% of trainees reported almost always receiving a call back from the attending. Trainees overwhelmingly reported attendings would believe they were unprofessional or negligent if they did not initiate a POPC (73% vs 14%, chi-square = 60.9, p < 0.001). Attendings were much more likely to view the POPC as a very important tool to discuss perioperative events (60% vs 16%, chi-square = 37.3, p < 0.001) and necessary for the majority or every case (59% vs. 31%, chi-square = 13.5, p < 0.001). The majority of attendings and trainees did not find the POPC to be a very important educational tool in terms of assessing trainee knowledge base (14% vs. 6%, chi-square = 2.76, p = 0.097), discussing teaching opportunities (26% vs. 9%, chi-square = 8.5, p = 0.004), or establishing rapport (24% vs. 7% trainees, chi-square = 8.3, p = 0.004).ConclusionsSignificant discrepancies exist between how anesthesia attendings and residents perceive the purpose of the POPC, with trainees less likely to view the POPC as having clinical value and neither group perceiving the conversation as a very useful educational tool. The results highlight the need to reexamine the value of the daily POPC as a deliberate educational practice to meet expectations of both trainees and attendings.     

Perioperative dexmedetomidine administration to prevent delirium in adults after non-cardiac surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Study objectiveTo evaluate the efficacy of perioperative dexmedetomidine (DEX) administration for preventing delirium in adults after non-cardiac surgery.DesignSystematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).InterventionsPerioperative administration of DEX to prevent delirium in adults following non-cardiac surgery.MeasurementsThe incidence of postoperative delirium (POD).MethodsThe databases of PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Central Register were searched from inception to Mar 4, 2021 for all available RCTs that assessed DEX for POD in adults after non-cardiac surgery. Risk ratio (RR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated for dichotomous data. Standardized mean difference (SMD) was calculated for continuous data. Risk of bias was assessed using the second version of the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for RCTs (RoB 2.0), and the level of certainty for main outcomes were assessed by the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology.Main resultsThirteen studies, including the meta-analysis with a total of 4015 patients (DEX group: 2050 patients; placebo group: 1965 patients), showed that DEX significantly reduced the incidence of POD in adults after non-cardiac surgery compared with control group (RR: 0.60; 95%CI: 0.46 to 0.77, P = 0.0001, I² = 55%, GRADE = moderate). Meanwhile, there was a statistical difference by the subgroup analysis between the mean age ≥ 65 years group and the mean age<65 years group. There were no statistical differences in length of hospital stay following surgery (SMD: -0.36; 95%CI: −0.80 to 0.07, P = 0.1, I² = 97%, GRADE = low) and all-cause mortality rate (RR:0.57; 95%CI: 0.25 to 1.28, P < 0.17, I² = 0%, GRADE = moderate) compared with placebo group. However, Meta-analysis showed that DEX administration significantly resulted in intraoperative bradycardia when compared with placebo group (RR: 1.39; 95%CI: 1.14 to 1.69, P = 0.0009, I² = 0%, GRADE = high), and as well as intraoperative hypotension (RR: 1.25; 95%CI: 1.11 to 1.42, P = 0.0004, I² = 0%, GRADE = high).ConclusionThis systematic review and meta-analysis suggests that perioperative administration of DEX could significantly reduce the incidence of POD in patients elder than 65 years following non-cardiac surgery. However, there was no definite evidence that perioperative DEX could reduce the incidence of POD in patients younger than 65 years of age after non-cardiac surgery. In addition, perioperative DEX administration was associated with an elevated risk of bradycardia and hypotension.     

Hip arthroplasty for acute hip fracture in patients with neurological disorders: A report Of 9,702 cases from the Swedish arthroplasty register

IntroductionThe purpose of this study was to investigate neurological disorder as a risk factor for dislocation following arthroplasty for acute hip fractures. We also analysed medical and surgical adverse events (AE), readmission, reoperation, revision, and mortality as secondary outcomes.MethodsA longitudinal cohort study using prospectively collected and aggregated data from the Swedish Hip Arthroplasty Register (SHAR) and the Swedish national patient register. All patients presenting with an acute hip fracture and treated with an arthroplasty in the period from 2005 to 2014 from the SHAR were identified. Patients in receipt of bilateral arthroplasties were excluded. Patients with a relevant pre-existing and diagnosed neurological disorder, as defined by ICD-10 codes, were identified (n = 9,702). All other cases (n = 29,411) were available for logistic regression propensity score matching. Patients were 1:1 matched on age, sex, Charlson comorbidity index, total versus hemiarthroplasty, head size, surgical approach, and year of surgery. Dislocations, adverse events, readmission, reoperation, revision, and mortality were studied using Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox regression.ResultsThe risk of dislocations was higher for patients with neurological disorder (HR=1.19, CI 1.03- 1.39, p<0.05). Neurological disorder was associated with increased risk of encountering an adverse event (p<0.001 at 90-days); these patients were at higher risk of dying (HR=1.51, CI 1.47–1.56, p<0.001) however they were less likely to be readmitted (HR=0.73, CI 0.70- 0.76, p<0.001). No excess risks of reoperation (HR=1.02, CI 0.90–1.17; p = 0.73) or revision (HR=1.00, CI 0.86–1.17; p = 0.99) were identified in the study group.DiscussionCompared to matched controls, individuals with a preoperatively identified neurological diagnosis had higher rates of mortality, dislocations, and adverse events, but this cohort was not at increased risk of reoperation or revision. This study highlights an area of focus for future research to improve the long-term outcomes in patients with neurological disease undergoing arthroplasty for an acute hip fracture.     

Thoracoscopy versus thoracotomy for esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula: Outcomes from the Midwest Pediatric Surgery Consortium

Background/purposeControversy persists regarding the ideal surgical approach for repair of esophageal atresia with tracheoesophageal fistula (EA/TEF). We examined complications and outcomes of infants undergoing thoracoscopy and thoracotomy for repair of Type C EA/TEF using propensity score-based overlap weights to minimize the effects of selection bias.MethodsSecondary analysis of two databases from multicenter retrospective and prospective studies examining outcomes of infants with proximal EA and distal TEF who underwent repair at 11 institutions was performed based on surgical approach. Regression analysis using propensity score-based overlap weights was utilized to evaluate outcomes of patients undergoing thoracotomy or thoracoscopy for Type C EA/TEF repair.ResultsOf 504 patients included, 448 (89%) underwent thoracotomy and 56 (11%) thoracoscopy. Patients undergoing thoracoscopy were more likely to be full term (37.9 vs. 36.3 weeks estimated gestational age, p < 0.001), have a higher weight at operative repair (2.9 vs. 2.6 kg, p < 0.001), and less likely to have congenital heart disease (16% vs. 39%, p < 0.001). Postoperative stricture rate did not differ by approach, 29 (52%) thoracoscopy and 198 (44%) thoracotomy (p = 0.42). Similarly, there was no significant difference in time from surgery to stricture formation (p > 0.26). Regression analysis using propensity score-based overlap weighting found no significant difference in the odds of vocal cord paresis or paralysis (OR 1.087 p = 0.885), odds of anastomotic leak (OR 1.683 p = 0.123), the hazard of time to anastomotic stricture (HR 1.204 p = 0.378), or the number of dilations (IRR 1.182 p = 0.519) between thoracoscopy and thoracotomy.ConclusionInfants undergoing thoracoscopic repair of Type C EA/TEF are more commonly full term, with higher weight at repair, and without congenital heart disease as compared to infants repaired via thoracotomy. Utilizing propensity score-based overlap weighting to minimize the effects of selection bias, we found no significant difference in complications based on surgical approach. However, our study may be underpowered to detect such outcome differences owing to the small number of infants undergoing thoracoscopic repair.Level of evidenceLevel III.     

Perioperative Red Blood Cell Transfusion and Outcome in Stable Patients after Elective Major Vascular Surgery

ObjectivesDefinitive evidence that red blood cell transfusion improves outcome after vascular surgery is lacking. The aims of the study were to determine, among stable consecutive patients who underwent elective major vascular surgery, (1) the association between postoperative transfusion and 30-day death, myocardial infarction, and both, and (2) and if this association differs according to the presence of postoperative anaemia (haemoglobin value less than 9.0 g/dL within 7 days after surgery).MethodsA retrospective observational study was conducted on 359 patients prospectively screened according to the ACC/AHA guidelines for preoperative risk in non-cardiac surgery. Main outcome was 30-day death; secondary outcomes 30-day myocardial infarction, and composite of 30-day myocardial infarction or death.ResultsOf the patients included, 95 (26.5%) received at least one unit of red blood cells. Patients who received transfusion had a significantly increased hazard of 30-day death (hazard ratio [HR] 11.72, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.92–35.10; p < 0.0001), myocardial infarction (HR 3.3, 95% CI 1.7–6.1; p = 0.0003), and both (HR 4.0 95% CI 2.2–7.3; p < 0.0001). Such associations held even after adjusting for baseline characteristics, surgical risk, bleeding, and propensity to receive transfusion. There was a significant interaction between transfusion and postoperative anaemia (p = 0.012). In patients without anaemia, transfusion was associated with higher risk of 30-day death (HR 19.20, 95% CI 3.99–92.45; p = 0.007), myocardial infarction (HR 5.05, 95% CI 2.23–11.44; p = 0.0001), and both. Conversely, in patients with anaemia this association was not significant.ConclusionsIn patients who underwent elective major vascular surgery, perioperative transfusion was associated with a significantly increased risk of 30-day events which was more attributable to patients with lesser degree of anaemia. Our data caution against the use of liberal transfusion in stable vascular surgery patients.     

Incidence of and risk factors for perioperative blood transfusion in infants undergoing index pediatric surgery procedures

BackgroundThere is a paucity of data on the frequency of transfusion during pediatric surgery index cases and guidelines for pretransfusion testing, defined as type and screen and crossmatch testing, prior to operation are not standardized. This study aimed to determine the incidence of perioperative blood transfusions during index neonatal operations and identify risk factors associated with perioperative blood transfusion to determine which patients benefit from pretransfusion testing.MethodsA retrospective review of infants who underwent index neonatal cases between 2013 and 2019 was performed. Data were collected for patients who underwent operations for Hirschsprung's disease, esophageal atresia/tracheoesophageal fistula (EA/TEF), biliary atresia, anorectal malformation, omphalocele, gastroschisis, duodenal atresia, congenital diaphragmatic hernia (non-ECMO) or pulmonary lobectomy. Infants under 6 months were included except in the case of lobectomy where infants up to 12 months were included.ResultsAnalysis was performed on 420 patients. Twenty-five (6.0%) patients received perioperative blood transfusion. Patients who received perioperative transfusion most commonly underwent EA/TEF repair. Patients who received perioperative transfusion had higher rates of structural heart disease (52.0% vs 17.7%, p<0.001), preoperative transfusion (48.0% vs 8.9%, p<0.001), and prematurity (52.0% vs 25.6%, p = 0.005). Presence of all three risk factors resulted in a 48% probability of requiring perioperative transfusion.ConclusionsBlood transfusion during the perioperative period of neonatal index operations is rare. Factors associated with increased risk of perioperative transfusion include prematurity, structural heart disease, and history of previous blood transfusion.Level of EvidenceIII     

Postoperative complications in pediatric patients with cerebral palsy

Background/PurposeTo assess surgical outcomes of patients with cerebral palsy (CP) and if they differ from patients without CP.MethodsThe NSQIP-Pediatric database from 2012 to 2019 was used to compare differences in presenting characteristics and outcomes between patients with and without CP. Chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression analysis were used to determine significance.Results119,712 patients, 433 (0.4%) with CP, 119,279 (99.6%) without, were identified. Patients with CP had more postoperative complications (19.4% vs. 6.9%, p < 0.001) with an OR of 3.2, (95%CI 2.5–4.1, p < 0.001) on univariable analysis. They underwent fewer laparoscopic procedures (79.1% vs. 90.8%, p < 0.001), had more readmissions (10.2% vs. 3.8%, p < 0.001), reoperations (5.1% vs. 1.2%, p < 0.001), and longer length of stays (LOS) (median 3 versus 1 day, p < 0.001). On multivariable analysis, having CP did not increase the odds of postoperative morbidity (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.7–1.3), but higher ASA class, congenital lung malformation, gastrointestinal disease, coagulopathy, preoperative inotropic support, oxygen use, nutritional support, and steroid use significantly increase the odds of morbidity, all of which were more common in patients with CP.ConclusionPatients with CP have more postoperative complications, open procedures, and longer LOS. Patient complexity may account for these differences and risk-directed perioperative planning may improve outcomes.Level of EvidenceLevel IV.     

Poor glycemic control is a strong predictor of postoperative morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing vascular surgery

ObjectiveHyperglycemia is a common occurrence in patients undergoing cardiovascular surgery. It has been identified in several surgical cohorts that improved perioperative glycemic control reduced postoperative morbidity and mortality. A significant portion of the population with peripheral arterial disease suffers from the sequelae of diabetes or metabolic syndrome. A paucity of data exists regarding the relationship between perioperative glycemic control and postoperative outcomes in vascular surgery patients. The objective of this study was to better understand this relationship and to determine which negative perioperative outcomes could be abated with improved glycemic control.MethodsThis is a retrospective review of a vascular patient database at a large academic center from 2009 to 2013. Eligible procedures included carotid endarterectomy and stenting, endovascular and open aortic aneurysm repair, and all open bypass revascularization procedures. Data collected included standard demographics, outcome parameters, and glucose levels in the perioperative period. Perioperative hyperglycemia was defined as at least one glucose value >180 mg/dL within 72 hours of surgery. The primary outcome was 30-day mortality, with secondary outcomes of complications, need to return to the operating room, and readmission.ResultsOf the total 1051 patients reviewed, 366 (34.8%) were found to have perioperative hyperglycemia. Hyperglycemic patients had a higher 30-day mortality (5.7% vs 0.7%; P < .01) and increased rates of acute renal failure (4.9% vs 0.9%; P < .01), postoperative stroke (3.0% vs 0.7%; P < .01), and surgical site infections (5.7% vs 2.6%; P = .01). In addition, these patients were also more likely to undergo readmission (12.3% vs 7.9%; P = .02) and reoperation (6.3% vs 1.8%; P < .01). Furthermore, multivariable logistic regression demonstrated that perioperative hyperglycemia had a strong association with increased 30-day mortality and multiple negative postoperative outcomes, including myocardial infarction, stroke, renal failure, and wound complications.ConclusionsThis study demonstrates a strong association between perioperative glucose control and 30-day mortality in addition to multiple other postoperative outcomes after vascular surgery.