A look to the future: Pandemic-induced digital technologies in vascular surgery

Like many areas of medicine, vascular surgery has been transformed by the COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic. Public health precautions to minimize disease transmission have led to reduced attendance at hospitals and clinics in elective and emergency settings; fewer face-to-face and hands-on clinical interactions; and increased reliance on telemedicine, virtual attendance, investigations, and digital therapeutics. However, a “silver lining” to the COVID-19 pandemic may be the mainstream acceptance and acceleration of telemedicine, remote monitoring, digital health technology, and three-dimensional technologies, such as three-dimensional printing and virtual reality, by connecting health care providers to patients in a safe, reliable, and timely manner, and supplanting face-to-face surgical simulation and training. This review explores the impact of these changes in the delivery of vascular surgical care.     

三维超声技术及其在肝癌诊治中的应用

介绍三维超声成像技术的原理,讨论三维超声在肝癌的诊断性应用及在肝脏手术和介入中的治疗性应用。     

“High ankle block” for surgery at the ankle joint

BackgroundSurgery around the ankle is increasingly embedded in outpatient treatment concepts. Unfortunately, the classic “ankle block” as a concept of regional anesthesia is inappropriate for surgery around the ankle because the injection sites are too distal to block this specific region.MethodsThe “high ankle block” avoids this disadvantage by dislocating the injection points 15 cm proximal to the malleoli. Three of five peripheral nerves necessary to perform the block can be reached by a circumferential subcutaneous wall. The Posterior Tibial Nerve and the Deep Peroneal Nerve are addressed by an ultrasound guided approach.ResultsThe efficacy of the technique is highlighted by a case series (3 cases) in which the new blockade was used as a stand-alone procedure, i.e. without additional general anesthesia.ConclusionsThe “high ankle block” may serve as an ultrasound guided expansion to the classic techniques, extending the operative spectrum to the ankle region.     

Research relating to three-dimensional (3D) printing in spine surgery: a bibliometric analysis

Purpose

Although numerous publications on three-dimensional printing (3DP) in spine surgery have been published, bibliometric analysis studies are scarce. Thus, this study aimed to present a bibliometric analysis of the status, hot spots, and frontiers of 3DP in spine surgery and associated research disciplines.

Methods

All publications relating to the utilization of 3DP in spine surgery from 1999 to May 9, 2022, were retrieved from the Web of Science. The bibliometric analysis was performed using CiteSpace software, and information on the country, institution, author, journal, and keywords for each publication was collected.

Results

A total of 270 articles were identified. From 2016 onward, a significant increase in publications on spinal surgery was observed. China was the most productive and influential country (98 publications) and H-index (22), followed by the USA and Australia. The most productive institution was Capital Medical University (9 publications). P. S. D’urso (8 publications, 46 citations) and R. J. Mobbs (8 publications, 39 citations) were the most prolific authors. European Spine Journal contributed the highest number of publications. The eight main clusters were: “rapid prototyping” #0, “3D printed” #1, “spine fusion” #2, “scoliosis” #3, “spine surgery” #4, “patient-specific” #5, “nervous system” #6, and “neuronavigation” #7. The strongest keyword bursts in 3DP in spine surgery were “fixation,” “drill template,” “instrumentation,” “fusion,” “complication,” and “atlantoaxial instability.”

Conclusion

This analysis provides information on research trends and frontiers in the application of 3DP in spine surgery, as well as research and collaboration partners, institutions, and countries.

     

虚拟现实技术与新型整形外科教学

由于整形外科病种繁杂多样、临床患者特异性较高,其疾病治疗的学习缺乏可重复性。虚拟现实技术可提供三维、无风险的手术环境,使学习者可在正式手术前进行演练操作并尝试独立完成手术。但是,单纯应用虚拟现实技术进行教学仍有不足,该技术无法完全模拟临床复杂肠道、血流动力学等。若能在原本的学习循环中加入新型VR(Virtual reality)模拟技术,可借由模拟的手术环境弥补整形外科教学中存在的学习曲线长且复杂术式难以掌握的缺点,从而形成"Observation, thinking, experience, action and teaching",即"临床观摩、临床问题思考、手术操作演练、独立手术与教学"的新型循环学习模式。该模式有效突破了传统的由课堂到手术台的学习平台期,使整形外科领域能够快速且高质量地培养更多的专业医生。     

Minimally invasive hallux valgus surgery: a critical review of the evidence

This systematic review aims to illustrate the published results of “minimally invasive” procedures for correction of hallux valgus. Based on former systematic reviews on that topic, the literature search was organised by two independent investigators. MEDLINE was systematically searched for available studies. The keywords used were “hallux valgus”, “bunion”, “percutaneous surgery”, “minimally invasive surgery”, “arthroscopy”, “Bosch” and “SERI”. Studies were assessed using the level of evidence rating. A total of 21 papers were included in this review. These studies described a total of 1,750 patients with 2,195 instances of percutaneous, minimally invasive or arthroscopic hallux valgus surgery. Clinical reports of results after minimally invasive hallux valgus surgery at meetings are common. Published results in peer-reviewed journals are less common and the majority of papers are level IV studies according to the level of evidence ratings. We found one level II and three level III studies. Reported complications seem to be less than one may see in one’s own clinical practice. This possible bias may be related to the fact that most studies are published by centres performing primarily minimally invasive hallux valgus surgery.     

Outcomes of Robotic-Assisted Colorectal Surgery Compared with Laparoscopic and Open Surgery: a Systematic Review

Background

Robotic technology has been applied to colorectal surgery over the last decade. The aim of this review is to analyze the outcomes of robotic colorectal surgery systematically and to provide objective information to surgeons.

Methods

Studies were searched and identified using PubMed and Google Scholar from Jan 2001 to Feb 2013 with the search terms “robot,” “robotic,” “colon,” “rectum,” “colorectal,” and “colectomy.” Appropriate data in the studies about the outcomes of robotic colorectal surgery were analyzed.

Results

Sixty-nine publications were included in this review and composed of 39 case series, 29 comparative studies, and 1 randomized controlled trial. Most of the studies reported that robotic surgery showed a longer operation time, less estimated blood loss, shorter length of hospital stay, lower complication and conversion rates, and comparable oncologic outcomes compared to laparoscopic or open surgery.

Conclusion

Robotic colorectal surgery is a safe and feasible option. Robotic surgery showed comparable short-term outcomes compared to laparoscopic surgery or open surgery. However, the long operation time and high cost are the limitations of robotic surgery.

     

Augmented reality in open surgery

Augmented reality (AR) has been successfully providing surgeons an extensive visual information of surgical anatomy to assist them throughout the procedure. AR allows surgeons to view surgical field through the superimposed 3D virtual model of anatomical details. However, open surgery presents new challenges. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the available literature regarding the use of AR in open surgery, both in clinical and simulated settings. In this way, we aim to analyze the current trends and solutions to help developers and end/users discuss and understand benefits and shortcomings of these systems in open surgery. We performed a PubMed search of the available literature updated to January 2018 using the terms (1) “augmented reality” AND “open surgery”, (2) “augmented reality” AND “surgery” NOT “laparoscopic” NOT “laparoscope” NOT “robotic”, (3) “mixed reality” AND “open surgery”, (4) “mixed reality” AND “surgery” NOT “laparoscopic” NOT “laparoscope” NOT “robotic”. The aspects evaluated were the following: real data source, virtual data source, visualization processing modality, tracking modality, registration technique, and AR display type. The initial search yielded 502 studies. After removing the duplicates and by reading abstracts, a total of 13 relevant studies were chosen. In 1 out of 13 studies, in vitro experiments were performed, while the rest of the studies were carried out in a clinical setting including pancreatic, hepatobiliary, and urogenital surgeries. AR system in open surgery appears as a versatile and reliable tool in the operating room. However, some technological limitations need to be addressed before implementing it into the routine practice.     

Bariatric surgery interest around the world: What Google Trends can teach us

BackgroundBariatric surgery may prove an effective weight loss option for those struggling with severe obesity, but it is difficult to determine levels of interest in such procedures at the population level through traditional approaches. Analysis of Google Trend information may give providers and healthcare systems useful information regarding Internet users’ interest in bariatric procedures. The objective of this study was to gather Google Trend information on worldwide Internet searches for “bariatric surgery”, “gastric bypass”, “gastric sleeve”, “gastric plication”, and “lap band” from 2004–2012 and to explore temporal relationships with relevant media events, economic variations, and policy modifications.MethodsData were collected using Google Trends. Trend analyses were performed using Microsoft Excel Version 14.3.5 and Minitab V.16.0.ResultsTrend analyses showed that total search volume for the term “bariatric surgery” has declined roughly 25% since January 2004, although interest increased approximately 5% from 2011 to 2012. Interest in lap band procedures declined 30% over the past 5 years, while “gastric sleeve” has increased 15%. Spikes in search numbers show an association with events such as changing policy and insurance guidelines and media coverage for bariatric procedures.ConclusionThis report illustrates that variations in Internet search volume for terms related to bariatric surgery are multifactorial in origin. Although it is impossible to ascertain if reported Internet search volume is based on interest in potentially undergoing bariatric surgery or simply general interest, this analysis reveals that search volume appears to mirror real world events. Therefore, Google Trends could be a way to supplement understanding about interest in bariatric procedures.     

Proteomic analysis in cardiovascular research

Advances in mass spectrometry technology and bioinformatics using clinical human samples have expanded quantitative proteomics in cardiovascular research. There are two major proteomic strategies: namely, “gel-based” or “gel-free” proteomics coupled with either “top-down” or “bottom-up” mass spectrometry. Both are introduced into the proteomic analysis using plasma or serum sample targeting ‘biomarker” searches of aortic aneurysm and tissue samples, such as from the aneurysmal wall, calcific aortic valve, or myocardial tissue, investigating pathophysiological protein interactions and post-translational modifications. We summarize the proteomic studies that analyzed human samples taken during cardiovascular surgery to investigate disease processes, in order to better understand the system-wide changes behind known molecular factors and specific signaling pathways.     

Bad Aorta

As its outcomes improve, cardiac surgery has been performed on more and more cases which were previously considered to be difficult to deal with. However, there are still a number of problems to be solved regarding surgery on patients with severe sclerotic lesions in the ascending aorta, which we collectively call “bad aorta”. Concerning a preoperative assessment of the ascending aorta, our report revealed no relationship between the severity of calcification detected with a preoperative non-enhanced CT and the aortic lesion found during the surgery. Meanwhile, an intraoperative epiaortic ultrasound enables us to make high-quality evaluations of the aorta without imposing much burden on the patient. This modality may be essential for cardiac surgery. As for surgical management for bad aorta, quite a few methods have been reported to this point, but the overall operative mortality rate and cerebrovascular accident rate are relatively high, at a little <10 %, respectively. With the recent cross-clamping method under short-term total circulatory arrest (TCA), however, the results are much better; these rates total around 5 %. Further improvement is expected in the outcome of cardiac surgery on bad aorta cases by establishing a modality to evaluate sclerotic lesions in the ascending aorta with epiaortic ultrasound and by selecting a proper procedure for each case.     

A “zero tolerance for overtime” increases surgical per case costs

Purpose

One technique which some hospitals have used in an attempt to control Operating Room costs is a “zero tolerance for overtime” policy. We used a case cost analysis to determine if this policy was always cost effective.

Method

A case cost analysis was designed based on a “test case” which would start late in the day. The case would last for three hours of which 1 1/2 hr would be during regular hours, and 1 1/2 hr would incur overtime. Costs were analysed using a “patient pays,” “society pays,” and “hospital pays” analysis. Costs were based on figures determined from the SMBD-Jewish General Hospital budget, Québec Health Insurance fees, and Government of Canada statistics.

Results

Regardless of who pays, in this case scenario it was more cost effective to proceed than to postpone surgery. Costs of proceeding with the surgery in the “patient pays,” “society pays,” and “hospital pays” models were $1,832.00, $1,227.40, and $1,215.00 respectively. The costs of postponing the surgery in the same three models were $1,937.00, $1,336.80, and $1,436.00.

Conclusion

A “zero tolerance for overtime” policy may be too rigid to be consistently cost effective.     

SonoWand, an ultrasound-based neuronavigation system

OBJECTIVE: We have integrated a neuronavigation system into an ultrasound scanner and developed a single-rack system that enables the surgeon to perform frameless and armless stereotactic neuronavigation using intraoperative three-dimensional ultrasound data as well as preoperative magnetic resonance or computed tomographic images. The purpose of this article is to describe our two-rack prototype and present the results of our work on image quality enhancement. DESCRIPTION OF INSTRUMENTATION: The system consists of a high-end ultrasound scanner, a modest-cost computer, and an optical positioning/digitizer system. Special technical and clinical efforts have been made to achieve high image quality. A special interface between the ultrasound instrument and the navigation computer ensures rapid transfer of digital three-dimensional data with no loss of image quality. OPERATIVE TECHNIQUE: The positioning system tracks the position and orientation of the patient, the ultrasound probe, the pointer, and various surgical instruments. This makes it possible to update the three-dimensional map during surgery and navigate by ultrasound data in a similar manner as with magnetic resonance data. METHODS: The two-rack prototype has been used for clinical testing since November 1997 at the University Hospital in Trondheim. EXPERIENCE AND RESULTS: The image quality improvements have enabled us, in most cases, to extract information from ultrasound with clinical value similar to that of preoperative magnetic resonance imaging. The overall clinical accuracy of the ultrasound-based navigation system is expected to be comparable to or better than that of a magnetic resonance imaging-based system. CONCLUSION: The SonoWand system enables neuronavigation through direct use of intraoperative three-dimensional ultrasound. Further research will be necessary to explore the potential clinical value and the limitations of this technology.     

Systematic review: Outcomes of bariatric surgery in patients with inflammatory bowel disease and de-novo IBD development after bariatric surgery

A large proportion of patients diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease are obese. Outcomes of bariatric surgery in patients with IBD and on IBD disease course itself is not clear. Furthermore, there is some evidence that bariatric surgery can precipitate the development of de-novo IBD. Thus, the aim of this systematic review was to summarise the evidence from the literature surrounding these questions. A comprehensive literature review was conducted based on the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis guidelines (PRISMA). PUBMED, and MEDLINE databases was searched using a combination of keywords and MeSH terms including “gastric bypass”, “sleeve gastrectomy”, “Roux-en-Y”, “Duodenal switch”, “RYGB”, “bariatric surgery” and “inflammatory bowel disease”, “Crohn’s disease” ,“Ulcerative colitis”. Studies published up to March 2020 were included in this analysis. 22 studies met the inclusion criteria. Studies revealed that bariatric surgery is safe and effective for patients with IBD and resulted in significant weight loss at both the 6-month and 12-month time points. Furthermore, multiple studies reported de-novo IBD development following bariatric surgery in a selection of patients.     

Nipple discharge: The role of imaging

Nipple discharge is a common symptom in breast medicine. It is usually benign in origin (papillomas and galactophore duct ectasia) although it is essential not to miss the risk of an underlying malignant lesion (5%) mostly due to in situ carcinomas. Clinical examination is essential in the management, distinguishing benign “physiological” discharge from discharge suspected of being “pathological” in which further investigations with mammography and ultrasound are required. When the conventional imaging assessment for pathological nipple discharge is normal, breast MRI is gradually replacing galactography although this is still an emerging and invalidated indication. In this context and if the whole imaging assessment is normal, surgery is no longer the only solution for patients, who can now be offered regular monitoring.     

Advances in Spinal Fusion Strategies in Adult Deformity Surgery

Background

As the frequency of adult deformity surgery (ADS) continues to increase, our understanding of techniques that enhance fusion must continue to evolve because pseudarthrosis can be a serious and costly event.

Purposes/Questions

We sought to conduct a review of the literature investigating techniques that can enhance outcomes of ADS.

Methods

Two databases were searched for keywords such as “advances in spinal fusion,” “new technology in adult spinal deformity,” “interbody devices for adult spinal deformity,” “adult spinal deformity rods,” and “screw design in adult spinal deformity” to examine recent literature and trends in ADS.

Results

We identified 45 articles for our review. Topics studied include the use of multiple rods, interbody fusion, distal fixation techniques, and bone morphogenetic protein or iliac crest bone graft.

Conclusions

Many recent innovations in treatments to enhance fusion in ADS have been studied, some more controversial than others. Further research into the efficacy of these techniques may increase fusion rates in ADS.

     

三维可视化技术结合术中超声在可切除肝癌腹腔镜手术的应用

目的探讨术前应用三维可视化技术结合术中超声实时引导在可切除原发性肝癌腹腔镜手术中应用的近期效果及价值。 方法回顾性分析蚌埠医学院第一附属医院2021年1月至2022年3月行腹腔镜肝切除术的68例原发性肝癌患者资料,根据术前是否行肝脏三维重建及术中超声引导,将患者分为对照组和观察组,各34例。对照组术前增强CT检查后行手术规划,观察组术前在增强CT的基础上采用三维可视化技术进行肝脏三维重建,拟定手术方案,术中行超声实时引导。对比两组患者的手术方式、术中出血量、术中输血比例、肝门阻断时间、手术时间、术后并发症发生率及术后住院时间。 结果与对照组相比,观察组患者术中出血量更少,术中输血比例更低,术中肝门阻断时间、手术时间及术后住院时间更短（均P<0.05）。对照组6例患者中转开腹,两组手术方式比较差异有统计学意义（χ²=4.570,P=0.033）。观察组术后总并发症发生率显著低于对照组（11.8% vs 35.3%,χ²=5.231,P=0.022）。 结论术前三维可视化技术结合术中超声引导在可切除原发性肝癌腹腔镜手术中的应用,有助于制定个体化手术策略,提升临床治疗效果,减少术中出血和肝门阻断时间,降低术后并发症的发生率,对腹腔镜肝切除手术的发展有重要指导意义。     

Implantatrevisionen am Hüftgelenk

Hip revision surgery may lead to unexpected complications, with a negative impact on the treatment outcome. To refer to possible difficulties as“mistakes” is less helpful than defining ways to foresee such difficulties and developing possible strategies to avoid them. This approach requires a comprehensive amount of personal experience, which may follow consideration of some basic“rules” and possible surgical scenarios before an intervention. The author presents an individual risk management approach that includes hints on how to foresee the occurrence of certain intraoperative difficulties and how to help avoid errors by incorporating forward-thinking strategies into hip revision surgery.     

Public Interest in Knee Replacement Fell During the Onset of the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Google Trends Analysis

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly altered medical practice and public behavior in the USA. In spring of 2020, elective surgery including most joint replacement was suspended and much of the public asked to stay at home. As elective surgery resumes, it is unknown how the public will respond.

Questions/Purposes

We sought to describe public interest in knee replacement during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Google Trends was used to obtain the daily number of searches for “knee replacement,” “coronavirus,” and “knee pain” from December 19, 2019, to May 14, 2020. The number is on a term-specific scale weighted to the highest number of daily searches for that term. Seven-day weighted averages were used to smooth the data.

Results

The number of daily searches for “knee replacement” was stable until around March 8, 2020, after which it decreased through late March, plateauing at less than half the number of searches. At the same time, searches for “coronavirus” spiked. By early May, searches for “knee replacement” had not meaningfully increased, though at the end of the search period the slope turned positive and coronavirus searches decreased. Searches for “knee pain” initially followed a similar pattern to “knee replacement,” though the decline was not as steep, and by late April searches for “knee pain” had meaningfully increased.

Conclusion

Public interest in knee replacement, assessed through internet search queries, decreased during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. While interest in pain has returned, the continued decreased level of interest in surgery may represent a fear of surgery among the general public in the setting of COVID-19. Surgeons may wish to focus outreach and education efforts on the safety and efficacy of knee replacement.