Cologne burn centre experience with assault burn injuries

Objective

To evaluate demographic and socioeconomic factors associated with assault burn injuries.

Background

Assault by burning demonstrates a rare but severe public health issue and accounts for unique injury characteristics in the burn intensive care unit (BICU).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study involving patients with thermal injuries admitted to the BICU of a university hospital. The patient cohort was divided into two groups (ABI group: patients with assault burns, n = 41; Control group: population of all other burned patients admitted to the BICU, n = 1202). Bivariate and multivariate analyses including demographic and socioeconomic data were used to identify factors associated with assault burns.

Results

Forty-one assault-related burn victims were identified in the study period. This represents 3.3% of all significant burns admitted. Comparing battery victims with the control population, assault patients were more likely to be young (mean age 36.2 years vs. 42.2 years) and immigrants (41.5% vs. 15.1%). Furthermore, marital status (65.9% vs. 40.8% singles), employment status (36.6% vs. 9.7% unemployed) and insurance status (41.5% vs. 12.3% social insurance) were significantly different in the bivariate analysis. Logistic regression evaluation identified three variables that were independently associated with assault burns: younger age (≤25 years) (odds ratio, 2.54 [95% confidence interval, 1.29–5.02]; p = 0.007), ethnic minority (odds ratio, 3.71 [95% confidence interval, 1.91–7.20]; p < 0.001) and unemployment (odds ratio, 4.02 [95% confidence interval, 2.03–7.97]; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The high incidence of youngsters, unemployment and the great proportion of immigrants in victims of assault might provide several opportunities for community-based psychosocial and occupational programs. A multidisciplinary approach targeting issues specific to the violent nature of the injury and the socioeconomic background of the victims may be of benefit to improve their perspectives for rehabilitation.     

Incidence and treatment of burns: A twenty-year experience from a single center in Germany

Objective

To analyze trends in incidence and treatment of thermal injuries over the last two decades.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed our local single center database of patients with thermal injuries admitted to the burn intensive care unit (BICU) of the Cologne-Merheim Medical Center (University Hospital of Witten/Herdecke). The cohort was divided into two groups according to the decade of admission and the epidemiology and clinical course of the patient sample admitted during the period 1991–2000 (n = 911) was compared to that of 2001–2010 (n = 695).

Results

The following variables were significantly different in the bivariate analysis: mean age (39.8 years vs. 44.0 years), burn size of total body surface area (23.2% vs. 18.0%) and size of 3rd degree burns (9.6% vs. 14.9%). The incidence of inhalation injury was significantly lower in the last decade (33.3% vs. 13.7%) and was associated with a shorter duration of mechanical ventilation (10.8 days vs. 8.5 days). The ABSI-score as an indicator of burn severity declined in the second period (6.3 vs. 6.0) contributing partially to the decline of BICU length of stay (19.1 days vs. 18.8 days) and to the mortality rate decrease (18.6% vs. 15.0%).

Conclusion

The severity of burn injuries during the last two decades declined, probably reflecting the success of prevention campaigns. Concerning mortality, the chance of dying for a given severity of injury has decreased.     

Predicting Recurrence and Progression of Noninvasive Papillary Bladder Cancer at Initial Presentation Based on Quantitative Gene Expression Profiles

Background

Currently, tumor grade is the best predictor of outcome at first presentation of noninvasive papillary (Ta) bladder cancer. However, reliable predictors of Ta tumor recurrence and progression for individual patients, which could optimize treatment and follow-up schedules based on specific tumor biology, are yet to be identified.

Objective

To identify genes predictive for recurrence and progression in Ta bladder cancer at first presentation using a quantitative, pathway-specific approach.

Design, setting, and participants

Retrospective study of patients with Ta G2/3 bladder tumors at initial presentation with three distinct clinical outcomes: absence of recurrence (n = 16), recurrence without progression (n = 16), and progression to carcinoma in situ or invasive disease (n = 16).

Measurements

Expressions of 24 genes that feature in relevant pathways that are deregulated in bladder cancer were quantified by real-time polymerase chain reaction on tumor biopsies from the patients at initial presentation.

Results and limitations

CCND3 (p = 0.003) and HRAS (p = 0.01) were predictive for recurrence by univariate analysis. In a multivariable model based on CCND3 expression, sensitivity and specificity for recurrence were 97% and 63%, respectively. HRAS (p < 0.001), E2F1 (p = 0.017), BIRC5/Survivin (p = 0.038), and VEGFR2 (p = 0.047) were predictive for progression by univariate analysis. Multivariable analysis based on HRAS, VEGFR2, and VEGF identified progression with 81% sensitivity and 94% specificity. Since this is a small retrospective study using medium-throughput profiling, larger confirmatory studies are needed.

Conclusions

Gene expression profiling across relevant cancer pathways appears to be a promising approach for Ta bladder tumor outcome prediction at initial diagnosis. These results could help differentiate between patients who need aggressive versus expectant management.     

Robotic Partial Nephrectomy with Superselective Versus Main Artery Clamping: A Retrospective Comparison

Background

Concerns have been raised regarding partial nephrectomy (PN) techniques that do not occlude the main renal artery.

Objective

Compare the perioperative outcomes of superselective versus main renal artery control during robotic PN.

Design, setting, and participants

A retrospective analysis of 121 consecutive patients undergoing robotic PN using superselective control (group 1, n = 58) or main artery clamping (group 2, n = 63).

Intervention

Group 1 underwent tumor-specific devascularization, maintaining ongoing arterial perfusion to the renal remnant at all times. Group 2 underwent main renal artery clamping, creating global renal ischemia.

Outcome measurements and statistical analysis

Perioperative and functional data were evaluated. The Pearson chi-square or Fisher exact and Wilcoxon rank sum tests were used.

Results and limitations

All robotic procedures were successful, all surgical margins were negative, and no kidneys were lost. Compared with group 2 tumors, group 1 tumors were larger (3.4 vs 2.6 cm, p = 0.004), more commonly hilar (24% vs 6%, p = 0.009), and more complex (PADUA 10 vs 8, p = 0.009). Group 1 patients had longer median operative time (p < 0.001) and transfusion rates (24% vs 6%, p < 0.01) but similar estimated blood loss (200 vs 150 ml), perioperative complications (15% vs 13%), and hospital stay. Group 1 patients had less decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate at discharge (0% vs 11%, p = 0.01) and at last follow-up (11% vs 17%, p = 0.03). On computed tomography volumetrics, group 1 patients trended toward greater parenchymal preservation (95% vs 90%, p = 0.07) despite larger tumor size and volume (19 vs 8 ml, p = 0.002). Main limitations are the retrospective study design, small cohort, and short follow-up.

Conclusions

Robotic PN with superselective vascular control enables tumor excision without any global renal ischemia. Blood loss, complications, and positive margin rates were low and similar to main artery clamping. In this initial developmental phase, limitations included more perioperative transfusions and longer operative time. The advantage of superselective clamping for better renal function preservation requires validation by prospective randomized studies.

Patient summary

Preserving global blood flow to the kidney during robotic partial nephrectomy (PN) does not lead to a higher complication rate and may lead to better postoperative renal function compared with clamped PN techniques.     

Risk factors for hypotension in urgently intubated burn patients

Background

When urgently intubating patient in the burn intensive care unit (BICU), various induction agents, including propofol, are utilized that may induce hemodynamic instability.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed of consecutive critically ill burn patients who underwent urgent endotracheal intubation in BICU. Basic burn-related demographic data, indication for intubation, and induction agents utilized were recorded. The primary outcomes of interest were clinically significant hypotension requiring immediate fluid resuscitation, initiation or escalation of vasopressors immediately after intubation. Secondary outcomes included ventilator days, stay length, and in-hospital mortality.

Results

Between January 2003 and August 2010, we identified 279 urgent intubations in 204 patients. Of these, the criteria for presumed sepsis were met in 60% (n = 168) of the intubations. After intubation, 117 patients (42%) experienced clinically significant hypotension. Propofol (51%) was the most commonly utilized induction agent followed by etomidate (23%), ketamine (15%), and midazolam (11%). On multiple logistic regression, %TBSA (OR 1.016, 95% CI 1.004–1.027, p < 0.001) and presumed sepsis (OR 1.852, 95% CI 1.100–3.117, p = 0.02) were the only significant predictors of hypotension. None of the induction agents, including propofol, were significantly associated with hypotension in patients with or without presumed sepsis.

Conclusions

In critically ill burn patients undergoing urgent endotracheal intubation, specific induction agents, including propofol, were not associated with clinically significant hypotension. Presumed sepsis and %TBSA were the most important risk factors.     

Effet d’une dose unique intramusculaire de déxaméthasone sur la douleur après circoncision. Étude randomisée contrôlée

Objective

To assess the effect of a preoperative single dose of dexamethasone associated with penile block on pain after circumcision.

Study design

Prospective randomized controlled study.

Patients and methods

Forty male children aged 2 to 5 years, scheduled for circumcision under general anaesthesia, combined with penile block, were randomized into two groups. The dexamethasone group received dexamethasone 0.4 mg/kg preoperatively. The control group received the same volume of normal saline. Data compared between two groups were: postoperative pain assessed by the Objective Pain Scale collected in the recovery room, at 8 and 24 hours postoperatively (h0, h8 and h24), time to first analgesic request and the quality of sleep on the first postoperative night.

Results

Pain scores at h0 were similar between the two groups. The dexamethasone group showed significantly lower pain scores at h8 [0 (0–1) vs. 2 (0–3); P = 0.04] and h24 [0 (0–0) vs. 0 (0–1); P = 0.02]. The time to first analgesic administration was also significantly delayed in the dexamethasone group compared to the control group (240 vs 180 min; P = 0.035). The quality of sleep was also better in children in the dexamethasone group (P = 0.018).

Conclusion

This study showed that the combination of a preoperative single dose of dexamethasone 0.4 mg/kg with penile block significantly improves the quality of analgesia after circumcision.     

Lower limb peripheral NIRS parameters during a vascular occlusion test: An experimental study in healthy volunteers

Objectives

The aim of the study was to compare NIRS parameters in combination with a vascular occlusion test (VOT) at a proximal (leg) and a distal (foot) site in male and female.

Study design

A prospective experimental study in healthy subjects.

Patients and methods

Twenty volunteers (10 male, 10 female, 28 ± 4 years) were investigated during 4 experimental steps: baseline, ischemia, reperfusion, and baseline. For each volunteer, 3 NIRS optodes were placed on right and left calves and the left arch of the foot. Blood pressure, heart rate and peripheral pulse oxymetry were monitored.

Results

Significant differences were observed at baseline between regional oxygen saturation (rSO₂) values according to the site of measurement (proximal rSO₂ 81 ± 9% vs distal rSO₂ 60 ± 5%, P < 0.001) but not according to gender. Both decreases in proximal and distal rSO₂ during ischemia and increases over baseline values during reperfusion depended on group membership (male or female). NIRS parameters during the VOT were significantly higher in male when compared with female at the proximal site: desaturation rate 5.6% (IQR: 5.5) vs 2.5% (IQR: 0.8), P = 0.001; resaturation rate 40.7% (IQR: 6.6) vs 21.7% (IQR: 5.4), P = 0.003; and ΔrSO₂ 10.0% (IQR: 7.0) vs 5.5% (IQR: 6.0), P = 0.041.

Conclusions

Values of rSO₂ at the lower limb varied according to the anatomical site of measurement. A VOT induced major changes in rSO₂ that differed between male and female. These results should be taken into account in further clinical studies.     

A novel rapid and selective enzymatic debridement agent for burn wound management: A multi-center RCT

Objectives

Excisional debridement followed by autografting is the standard of care (SOC) for deep burns, but is associated with serious potential complications. Conservative, non-surgical and current enzymatic debridement methods are inefficiently slow. We determined whether a non-surgical option of rapid enzymatic debridement with the debriding enzyme NexoBrid™ (NXB) would reduce need for surgery while achieving similar esthetic and functional outcomes as SOC.

Methods

We conducted a multi-center, open-label, randomized, controlled clinical trial including patients aged 4-55 years with deep partial and full thickness burns covering 5-30% of their total body surface area (TBSA). Patients were randomly assigned to burn debridement with NXB (applied for 4 h) or SOC, which included surgical excisional or non-surgical debridement.

Results

NXB significantly reduced the time from injury to complete débridement (2.2 vs. 8.7 days, P < 0.0001), need for surgery (24.5% vs. 70.0%, P < 0.0001), the area of burns excised (13.1% vs. 56.7%, P < 0.0001) and the need for autografting (17.9% vs. 34.1%, P = 0.01). Scar quality and quality of life scores were similar in both study groups as were the rates of adverse events.

Conclusions

Enzymatic débridement with NXB resulted in reduced need for and extent of surgery compared with SOC while achieving comparable long-term results in patients with deep burns.

Trial registration

: Clinical Trials.gov NCT00324311.     

Prognostic Significance of Bone Metastases and Bisphosphonate Therapy in Patients with Renal Cell Carcinoma

Background

Bone metastases (BMs) are frequently present in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) and cause significant morbidity.

Objective

The purpose of this analysis was to assess the impact of BMs and bisphosphonate therapy (BT) on outcomes in mRCC.

Design, setting, and participants

We conducted a pooled analysis of patients with mRCC treated from 2003 to 2011 in phase 2 and 3 trials.

Outcome measurements and statistical analysis

Statistical analyses were performed using Cox regression and the Kaplan-Meier method.

Results and limitations

We identified 2749 patients treated with sunitinib (n = 1059), sorafenib (n = 355), axitinib (n = 359), temsirolimus (n = 208), temsirolimus plus interferon-α (IFN-α) (n = 208), or IFN-α (n = 560), with 28% (n = 781) having BMs. A total of 285 patients (10.4%) received BT. The presence of BMs in patients was associated with shorter overall survival (OS) when compared with patients without BMs (13.2 vs 20.2 mo, respectively; p < 0.0001) and shorter progression-free survival (PFS) (5.1 vs 6.7 mo, respectively; p < 0.0008). When stratified by risk groups, the presence of BMs was associated with shorter OS in all risk groups. The use of BT in patients with BMs was not associated with improved OS compared with patients who did not receive BT (13.3 vs 13.1 mo, respectively; p = 0.3801) or improved PFS (5.1 vs 4.9 mo, respectively; p = 0.1785). Bisphosphonate users with BMs did not have a decreased rate of skeletal-related events (SREs) compared with nonusers (8.6% vs 5.8%, respectively; p = 0.191). In addition, BT was associated with increased rates of hypocalcemia, renal insufficiency, and osteonecrosis of the jaw (p < 0.0001). Data were analyzed retrospectively.

Conclusions

We confirm that the presence of BMs is associated with shorter survival in mRCC. BT did not affect survival or SRE prevention and was associated with increased toxicity.

Patient summary

In this analysis, we demonstrate that bone metastases are associated with shorter survival in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma. In addition, we call into question the utility of bisphosphonate therapy in this population.     

Laparoscopic versus open appendicectomy in children: A UK District General Hospital experience

Aims

The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential role of laparoscopic appendicectomy in reducing morbidity and length of stay in children compared to open procedures in a UK District General Hospital setting.

Methods

A three-year retrospective review of children ≤ 15 years with histologically confirmed appendicitis who underwent laparoscopic (LA) and/or open (OA) appendicectomy was performed. Choice of operation was based on individual surgeon’s preference and on patient’s body size. Data collected included rate of histologically complicated appendicitis, post-operative length of stay (LOS), and collective and differential morbidity rates, i.e., wound infection, intra-abdominal collection, and ileus. Chi-square and Mann–Whitney tests were used for statistical analysis. P < 0.05 was regarded as significant.

Results

Eighty children (70% male) were identified at median age 11 (3–15) years. They could be divided into complicated (n = 18, 22%) and simple appendicitis (n = 62, 78%). Appendicectomy was performed in all as an OPEN (n = 53, 66%) or LAPAROSCOPIC (n = 27, 34%) procedure. Both groups were comparable in gender distribution (P = 0.11) and rate of complicated appendicitis (30% vs. 19%, respectively; P = 0.27). Median age was significantly lower in the OPEN group [10 (3–15) vs. 12 (7–15) years; P < 0.004]. Laparoscopic appendicectomy had a significantly lower rate of collective morbidity (3.8% vs. 25.9%; P < 0.003), including lower rate of intra-abdominal collection (1.9% vs. 14.8%; P < 0.01). Median LOS was not significantly different (1 day vs. 2 days; P = 0.14).

Conclusion

Laparoscopic appendicectomy in children in a UK District General Hospital is safe and was associated with significantly less post-operative morbidity than the open technique.     

Prevention of drug delivery disturbances during continuous intravenous infusion: An in vitro study on a new multi-lumen infusion access device

Objective

Stopping and restarting carrier fluid flow and performing simultaneous drug infusions can lead to hazardous disturbances in drug delivery. The present study was designed to assess in vitro whether using a multi-lumen infusion access device could prevent noradrenaline disturbances.

Study design

In vitro laboratory work.

Methods

Two infusion devices were studied: a standard device with a four-port manifold and a 150 cm extension line and a nine-lumen infusion device (Edelvaiss-Multiline^®) with eight accesses connected to nine separate lumens in a single tube of 150 cm: seven accesses connected to seven peripheral lumens and one for the carrier fluid access connected to two lumens. Two experimental protocols of noradrenaline infusion were made: (a) drug flow rate change and (b) stop-and-go carrier fluid flows. Two parameters were studied: drug mass flow rate and flow change efficiency (FCE) calculated from the ratio of the area under the experimental mass flow rate curve to the area under the theoretical instantaneous mass flow rate curve.

Results

Variations in noradrenaline mass flow rate were more rapid with the Edelvaiss-Multiline^® when the noradrenaline infusion rate was increased or decreased. FCE was significantly different from one infusion device to the other during both noradrenaline flow rate increase (standard vs. nine-lumen: 58% vs. 84%; P = 0.008) and decrease (175% vs. 108%; P = 0.008). Decreased drug delivery after stopping carrier fluid flow (standard vs. nine-lumen: 21% vs. 98%; P = 0.008) and sudden temporary increases on resumption (253% vs. 103%; P = 0.008) were reduced in magnitude and duration when using the Edelvaiss-Multiline^® with a significant difference in FCE between the two infusion devices.

Conclusions

Using the nine-lumen infusion device reduces drug delivery disturbances during continuous intravenous infusion.     

Randomized Controlled Trial of Barbed Polyglyconate Versus Polyglactin Suture for Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy Anastomosis: Technique and Outcomes

Background

Transperitoneal robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP) urethrovesical anastomosis is a critical step. Although the prevalence of urine leaks ranges from 4.5% to 7.5% at high-volume RALP centers, urine leaks prolong catheterization and may lead to ileus, peritonitis, and require intervention. Barbed polyglyconate sutures maintain running suture line tension and may be advantageous in RALP anastomosis for reducing this complication.

Objective

To compare barbed polyglyconate and polyglactin 910 (Vicryl, Ethicon, Somerville, NJ, USA) running sutures for RALP anastomosis.

Design, setting, and participants

This was a prospective, randomized, controlled, single-surgeon study comparing RALP anastomosis using either barbed polyglyconate (n = 45) or polyglactin 910 (n = 36) sutures.

Surgical procedure

RALP anastomosis using either barbed polyglyconate or polyglactin 910 sutures was studied.

Measurements

Operative time, cost differential, perioperative complications, and cystogram contrast extravasation by anastomosis suture type were measured.

Results and limitations

Although baseline characteristics and overall operative times were similar, barbed polyglyconate sutures were associated with shorter mean anastomosis times of 9.7 min versus 9.8 min (p = 0.014). In addition, anastomosis with barbed polyglyconate rather than polyglactin 910 sutures was associated with more frequent cystogram extravasation 8 d postoperatively (20.0% vs 2.8%; p = 0.019), longer mean catheterization times (11.1 d vs 8.3 d; p = 0.048), and greater suture costs per case ($51.52 vs $8.44; p < 0.001). After 8 of 29 (27.6%) barbed polyglyconate anastomosis sites demonstrated postoperative day 8 cystogram extravasation, we modified our technique to avoid overtightening, reducing cystogram extravasation to 1 (6.3%) of 16 subsequent barbed polyglyconate anastomosis sites. Potential limitations include small sample size and the single-surgeon study design.

Conclusions

Compared to traditional sutures, barbed polyglyconate is more costly and requires technical modification to avoid overtightening, delayed healing, and longer catheterization time following RALP.     

Could Interferon Still Play a Role in Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma? A Randomized Study of Two Schedules of Sorafenib Plus Interferon-Alpha 2a (RAPSODY)

Background

Sorafenib has proven efficacy in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC). Interferon (IFN) has antiangiogenic activity that is thought to be both dose- and administration-schedule dependent.

Objective

To compare two different schedules of IFN combined with sorafenib.

Design, setting, and participants

Single-stage, prospective, noncomparative, randomized, open-label, multicenter, phase 2 study on previously untreated patients with mRCC and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status 0–2.

Intervention

Sorafenib 400 mg twice daily plus subcutaneous IFN, 9 million units (MU) three times a week (Arm A) or 3 MU five times a week (Arm B).

Outcome measurements and statistical analysis

Primary end points were progression-free survival (PFS) for each arm and safety. Data were evaluated according to an intent-to-treat analysis.

Results and limitations

A total of 101 patients were evaluated. Median PFS was 7.9 mo in Arm A and 8.6 mo in Arm B (p = 0.049) and the median duration of response was 8.5 and 19.2 mo, respectively (p = 0.0013). Nine partial responses were observed in Arm A, and three complete and 14 partial responses were observed in Arm B (17.6% vs 34.0%; p = 0.058); 24 and 21 patients (47% and 42%), respectively, achieved stable disease. The most common grade 3–4 toxicities were fatigue plus asthenia (28% vs 16%; p = 0.32) and hand-foot skin reactions (20% vs 18%).

Conclusions

Sorafenib plus frequent low-dose IFN showed good efficacy and tolerability. Further investigations should be warranted to identify a possible positioning of this intriguing regimen (6% complete response rate) in the treatment scenario of mRCC.     

Tolterodine Treatment Improves Storage Symptoms Suggestive of Overactive Bladder in Men Treated With α-Blockers

Background

Some men receiving α-blocker therapy for lower urinary tract symptoms report persistent storage symptoms suggestive of overactive bladder (OAB).

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of tolterodine extended release (ER) in men on α-blocker therapy.

Design, setting, and participants

This double-blind trial included men aged ≥40 yr with frequency, urgency, and at least moderate problems reported on the Patient Perception of Bladder Condition (PPBC), despite being on a stable dose of α-blocker for ≥1 mo.

Interventions

Subjects were randomized to tolterodine ER 4 mg per day or placebo for 12 wk while continuing their prescribed α-blocker therapy.

Measurements

At baseline and week 12, subjects completed the PPBC, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), Overactive Bladder Questionnaire (OAB-q), and 5-d bladder diaries using the five-point Urinary Sensation Scale (USS). Frequency–urgency sum was defined as the sum of USS ratings for all micturitions.

Results and limitations

PPBC improvement from baseline to week 12 was reported by 63.6% and 61.6% of subjects receiving tolterodine ER plus α-blocker and placebo plus α-blocker, respectively; this treatment difference, which was the primary end point, was not statistically significant (p > 0.6699). At week 12, subjects receiving tolterodine ER plus α-blocker had significantly greater improvements versus placebo plus α-blocker in 24-h micturitions (−1.8 vs −1.2; p = 0.0079) and daytime micturitions (−1.3 vs −0.8; p = 0.0123); 24-h urgency episodes (−2.9 vs −1.8; p = 0.0010), daytime urgency episodes (−2.2 vs −1.4; p = 0.0017), and nocturnal urgency episodes (−0.5 vs −0.3; p = 0.0378); frequency–urgency sum (−7.8 vs −5.1; p = 0.0065); IPSS storage subscale (−2.6 vs −2.1; p = 0.0370); and OAB-q symptom bother scale (−17.9 vs −14.4; p = 0.0086) and coping domain (15.4 vs 12.4; p = 0.0491). Acute urinary retention requiring catheterization occurred in <1% of either group. There were no clinically meaningful changes in postvoid residual volume or maximum urinary flow rate.

Conclusions

Men with bothersome OAB symptoms despite continued α-blocker therapy showed significantly greater improvements in diary variables, IPSS Storage scores, and symptom bother when receiving additional tolterodine ER versus placebo plus α-blocker.     

Facteurs associés au burnout en anesthésie–réanimation. Enquête 2009 de la Société française d’anesthésie et de réanimation

Objective

To assess factors related to burnout in anesthesia and intensive care.

Design

National prospective observational study.

Materials and methods

Questionnaire posted on the French Society of anesthesia website from 3rd June 2009 to 27th August 2009: Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), Fast Alcohol Consumption Evaluation (FACE) and The Harvard National Depression Screening Day Scale (HANDS) scales and questions to assess health, work and personal life.

Results

One thousand six hundred and three questionnaires returned: 1091 anesthetists (67.6%), 241 intensivists (14.9%), 204 nurses (12.6%), emergency physicians (2.8%), supervisor nurses (0.9%). Seven hundred and sixty three in a university hospital (47.3%), 259 in a regional hospital (16.1%), 405 in a private structure (25.1%), 71 in a non-lucrative private structure (4.4%), 75 in a military hospital (4.6%). Rest of safety: 69.2% of institutions. Depression: 38.7%. Drug or chemicals addicted: 10.6%. Alcohol addicts: 10.6%. Among them, 62.3% of individuals were in burnout. Burnout was linked to fragmented sleep (P < 0.00001), interpersonal conflicts (P < 0.00001), perception of rest of safety (P < 0.02), mental history (P < 0.00001), suicidal ideations (P < 0.00001), depression (P = 0.00001), alcohol (P < 0.002), drug consumption (P < 0.00002), and accidents after a nightshift (P < 0.05). Subjects in burnout intended more frequently to leave the profession (P < 0.00001). Leaving in couple had a protective effect (P < 0.005). The logistic regression model retained seven covariates independently associated with burnout: quality of work, of personal life, of fatigue, depression, conflicts with colleagues and patients, regretting the choice of specialty.

Conclusion

This study of the largest cohort of anesthesia personnel performed in France detects a high proportion of burnout. It highlights links with tensors that may constitute possibilities of prevention of the burnout syndrome.     

Albumin reduces the antibacterial activity of polyhexanide-biguanide-based antiseptics against Staphylococcus aureus and MRSA

Background

Wound infection is one of the major complications in acute and chronic wound healing. Antiseptic solutions and wound irrigating agents are routinely used for therapy and prevention in healthcare today. Even if wound exudate contains total protein concentrations up to 9.3% and albumin concentrations up to 2.7% its influence to the antibacterial efficacy of these agents is barely investigated.

Materials and methods

This study analyzed the antibacterial effect of polyhexanide biguanide (PHMB) agents (PHMB-concentration 0.005–0.1%) against Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant-S. aureus (MRSA) after 2 min incubation in presents of albumin in different concentrations (0–3%) in a standardized quantitative suspension assay.

Results

A significant decrease of the antibacterial activity against S. aureus was shown for a PHMB-concentration of 0.005% from 0.3% albumin (p < 0.05), respectively highly significant from 0.75% (p < 0.01) on. Thereby the loss of antimicrobial effect was presented as a linear correlation to the rising concentration of albumin. Furthermore a reduction of the antibacterial activity against MRSA in comparison to S. aureus was presented, for albumin concentrations from 3% on highly significant (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

The study showed that albumin causes a significant decrease of the antibacterial potency of PHMB-based antiseptics. Furthermore a diminished potency of the investigated substances for MRSA-contaminated wounds must be taken in consideration. If in vitro experiments show a significant decrease of antibacterial efficacy in the presence of albumin a sufficient activity of PHMB-based agents in clinical practice, especially in cases of exuding wounds or dried-up exudates, cannot be expected.     

High incidence of catheter-associated venous thromboembolic events in patients with long gap esophageal atresia treated with the Foker process

Purpose

To determine the incidence of catheter-associated venous thromboembolic events (VTE) in long gap esophageal atresia (LGEA) patients treated at Boston Children's Hospital (BCH) and to identify possible risk factors associated with their development.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of LGEA patients from 2005 to 2012. Symptomatic VTEs with radiographic confirmation were defined as events. Potential risk factors were assessed by univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression. Covariates included age, weight, initial gap length, cumulative days of pharmacologic paralysis and paralytic episodes, number and type of central venous catheters (CVCs), and number of operations.

Results

Forty-four LGEA patients were identified. The incidence of CVC associated VTE was 34%. Univariate analysis identified age at Foker 1 (P = .03), paralysis duration (P = .01), episodes of paralysis (P = .001), cumulative number of CVC (P = .007) and length of stay (P = .03) as significant. Multivariate logistic regression identified the number of paralytic episodes as the only significant independent risk factor for VTE (P < .0001).

Conclusions

The incidence of symptomatic VTE was 34%, significantly higher than the VTE incidence of 4.5% reported for our other hospitalized children. These data have led to multidisciplinary discussions regarding thromboprophylaxis and development of a consensus-driven protocol. Since the initiation of this protocol, no VTEs have been identified.     

Acalculous cholecystitis in severely burned patients: incidence and predisposing factors

Objective

To investigate the incidence and predisposing factors of acalculous cholecystitis (AAC) in severely burned patients.

Background data

Although some studies report on AAC in critically ill patients, very little is known about AAC after severe burns.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study involving patients with burns admitted to the burn intensive care unit (BICU) of a university hospital. The patient cohort was divided into two groups (AAC group: burned patients with histological proven acalculous cholecystitis, n = 15; Control group: population of all other burned patients admitted to the BICU, n = 1225). Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to identify predisposing factors for the development of AAC.

Results

Fifteen patients with acalculous cholecystitis were identified in the study period. This represents 1.2% of all significant burns admitted. Comparing the AAC group with the Control population the following patients’ characteristics, therapeutic measures and outcome parameters were significantly different in the univariate analysis: mean age (54.0 years vs. 42.0 years), BMI (28.9 kg/m² vs. 25.6 kg/m²), abbreviated burn severity index (8.3 vs. 6.4), total body surface area burn deep partial thickness (12.0% vs. 6.2%) and full thickness (10.2% vs. 6.8%), concomitant inhalation injury (80.0% vs. 28.9%), sepsis (46.7% vs. 14.9%), catecholamine (100% vs. 30.4%) and antibiotic requirement (100% vs. 58.2%), non-biliary tract operations (4.9 vs. 1.5), BICU length of stay (63.4 days vs. 21.0 days), ventilator days (50.3 vs. 11.9), packed red blood cells (PRBCs) administration (70.0 units vs.13.0 units) and mortality (53.3% vs. 19.7%). In the multivariate analysis however, only age, the number of administered units of PRBCs and the duration of mechanical ventilation turned out to be independent predictors for the occurrence of AAC.

Conclusion

AAC is a rare complication of severely burned patients and may reflect the severity of the patient’s general conditions. Predisposing factors for AAC are advanced age, the need of blood transfusions and prolonged mechanical ventilation. In the presence of these predisposing factors, early monitoring may help to detect AAC earlier and to initiate appropriate intervention.     

Surgical complications after immediate nephrectomy versus preoperative chemotherapy in non-metastatic Wilms' tumour: Findings from the 1991–2001 United Kingdom Children's Cancer Study Group UKW3 Trial

Purpose

To compare surgical complication rates after immediate nephrectomy versus delayed nephrectomy following preoperative chemotherapy in children with non-metastatic Wilms’ tumour enrolled in UKW3, both in randomised patients and in those for whom the treatment approach was defined by parental or physician choice.

Methods

Records for all patients enrolled into UKW3 were reviewed. Any record of tumour rupture or surgical complication was extracted and comparisons made between the two treatment strategies in both populations of randomised and non-randomised patients.

Results

Of 525 children enrolled, 205 patients were randomised to either immediate nephrectomy (n = 103) or pre-operative chemotherapy followed by delayed nephrectomy (n = 102). Of the 320 children not randomised, data were available on 189 cases treated with immediate nephrectomy and 103 treated with pre-operative chemotherapy. There were significantly fewer surgical complications in randomised children given pre-operative chemotherapy before surgery compared to children undergoing immediate nephrectomy (1% vs. 20.4%, P < 0.001); this difference was most marked for tumour rupture (0% vs. 14.6%, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Delayed nephrectomy for Wilms’ tumour, preceded by pre-operative chemotherapy was associated with fewer surgical complications compared with immediate nephrectomy.     

The development and preliminary validation of the Taiwanese Manual Ability Measure for Burns

Objective

To develop and validate the Taiwanese Manual Ability Measure for Burns (T-MAM for Burns), a task-oriented functional evaluation tool to assess self-reported manual ability in burn patients.

Design

A longitudinal study.

Participants

A sample of 45 burn patients from burn rehabilitation centers with varying degrees of hand involvement.

Methods

The preliminary testing version was formed by adding burn specific items to the Taiwanese version of the Manual Ability Measure. A field test was then conducted for item reduction and psychometric properties testing.

Results

Out of 55 initial items, 20 were selected into the final version of the T-MAM for Burns. Psychometric analyses indicated that it was reliable (test–retest ICC = .99), with adequate concurrent validity with various other hand function tests (r = −.79 with the short form Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand, or, the QuickDASH) and discriminative validity (significant difference (t = 2.99, P = .005) between groups with unilateral vs. bilateral hand burns), and responsive (ES = .24 and .44 at one- and 3-month evaluations).

Conclusion

This study shows that the T-MAM for Burns has great potential to be a functional outcome measure for burn rehabilitation. Additional research with a larger sample should be conducted to further confirm its validity and reliability.