The efficacy of neuroprosthesis in young hemiplegic patients, measured by three different gait indices: early results

Purpose

To evaluate functional electrical stimulation (FES) neuroprothesis as a method to improve gait in hemiplegic patients, using three different gait scoring methods as measures.

Methods

Five hemiplegic patients (four with cerebral palsy at GMFCS I, one with diffuse pontine glioma) with a mean age of 16.5 years were given a FES neuroprosthesis (NESS^® L300™) that was applied and calibrated individually. After an adaptation period during which the participants increased their daily use of the neuroprosthesis, gait was assessed with the stimulation off and with the FES on. Kinematic, kinetic, and temporal spatial data were determined using motion analysis and summarized by three scoring methods: Gait Profile Score (GPS), Gait Deviation Index (GDI), and Gillette Gait Index (GGI). Indices were calculated using the Gaitabase program available online. Patients were followed for a minimum of 1 year.

Results

When comparing gait with and without stimulation, all scoring methods showed improvement. GPS and GDI of the affected leg were significantly improved: 12.23–10.23° (p = 0.017) and 72.36–78.08 (p = 0.002), respectively. By applying the movement analysis profile, the decomposed GPS score, we found that only the ankle dorsiflexion and the foot progression angle were significantly changed. GGI of the affected leg showed improvement, but without statistical significance: 168.88–131.64 (p = 0.221). Total GPS of legs and the GPS, GDI, and GGI of the nonaffected leg showed improvement without statistical significance. At the 1-year follow-up, all patients expressed high satisfaction and continued to use the device.

Conclusions

Dorsiflexion functional electrical stimulation improves gait in hemiplegic patients, as reflected by GPS, GDI, and GGI.     

Platelet Activity and Sensitivity to Agonists After Exhaustive Treadmill Exercise

The extent of platelet activation after exhaustive exercise remains under discussion. Previous studies have provided contrary data, probably due to differences in the methodologies and the enrolled subjects. In the present study a maximal treadmill exercise (TR) was used to test platelet activity and -reactivity in 13 healthy non-smoking men. Blood samples were taken after a 30min rest, immediately before and after exercise, and 1h after completion of exercise. Platelets were analysed by whole blood flow cytometry either directly or after in vitro stimulation by incubating the blood samples for 10min with TRAP-6 (10µM) or ADP (5µM or 2,5µM). Binding of an anti-CD62P antibody or a PAC1 antibody directed against the activated fibrinogen receptor GPIIb/IIIa were used as a measure of platelet activation. Immediately after TR the percent CD62P positive platelets (%PC) unstimulated increased (p<0.01) from 0.77±0.06 to 1.12± 0.09 %PC and in PAC1 (p<0.05) from 2.32 ±0.54 to 3.83±0.81 %PC (mean±SEM). After ADP-stimulation an increase from 4.18±1.02 to 5.69±1.40 %PC in CD62P (p<0.01) and from 45.7±3.4 to 57.9±6.6 %PC in PAC1 (p<0.05) after TR were detected. Using TRAP-6-stimulation only the increase of PAC1 (p<0.01) after TR was different in comparison with the control experiment without exercise. Soluble CD62P in plasma as a marker of platelet and endothelial cell activation was also enhanced (p<0.05) after TR. Although these results indicate that exhaustive exercise lead to a small platelet activation and an increase in platelet reactivity, it is rather doubtful that these changes alone implicate a prothrombotic situation in healthy young non-smokers.Key words: Platelet activation, CD62P, PAC1, sCD62P, physical activity     

Inflammation-Based Prognostic System Predicts Postoperative Survival of Colorectal Cancer Patients with a Normal Preoperative Serum Level of Carcinoembryonic Antigen

Background

Although carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a valuable indicator for estimating the progression of colorectal cancer (CRC), some patients with advanced CRC show no elevation of the CEA level. On the other hand, inflammation-based prognosis, assessed by the Glasgow Prognostic Score (GPS), has been established as one of the important prognostic factors of survival after surgery for several types of cancer. We estimated the postoperative survival of CRC patients with a normal preoperative serum level of CEA on the basis of the GPS.

Methods

Among 491 patients who had undergone elective CRC surgery, 271 with a normal preoperative serum CEA level (??5.0?ng/ml) were enrolled. Uni- and multivariate analyses were performed to evaluate the relationship to overall survival. Kaplan?CMeier analysis and log rank test were used to compare the survival curves between patients with GPS 0 (group A), and 1 or 2 (group B).

Results

Univariate analyses using clinical characteristics revealed that lymphatic invasion, lymph node metastasis, platelet count, the serum levels of CEA and C-reactive protein, tumor, node, metastasis staging system (stage 0, I, II/III, IV), and the GPS (0/1, 2) were associated with overall survival. Among these characteristics, multivariate analysis demonstrated that the GPS and platelet count were associated with overall survival. Kaplan?CMeier analysis and log rank test demonstrated a significant difference in overall survival between groups A and B (P?Conclusions Even if CRC patients have a normal preoperative serum level of CEA before surgery, the GPS is able to predict their postoperative survival.     

Chronic Subdural Hematoma in Elderly Patient with EDTA-dependent Pseudothrombocytopenia Recently Treated with Aspirin and Warfarin: Case Report

A 78-year-old man who had a history of myocardial and cerebral infarction and who was treated with aspirin and warfarin, presented with left chronic subdural hematoma. Cerebral computed tomography showed severe brain compression of hematoma with midline shift, indicating the need for emergent surgery. The hematology and clotting tests upon admission revealed severe thrombocytopenia (platelet count, 1.3 × 10⁴/μL) with normal clotting activity. Because platelet aggregation was evident in the smear, we re-examined the patient for hematology using tubes that contained heparin, showing also low platelet count (2.3 × 10⁴/μL). The day on admission, we performed irrigation and drainage of the chronic subdural hematoma through single burr-hole craniostomy. During surgery, we used 10 units of platelet concentrates (PCs) for the reason that the patient was taking aspirin and coagulopathy derived from low platelet count could not be excluded. After surgery, we re-evaluated the hematology of the blood stored in tubes that contained ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) with or without kanamycin (KM). Treatment with KM dissociated EDTA-induced platelet aggregation and revealed platelet counts with highest accuracy (no KM treatment, 1.3 × 10⁴/μL; KM treatment, 15.2 × 10⁴/μL). This phenomenon is called EDTA-Dependent Pseudothrombocytopenia (PTCP) defined as falsely low platelet counts reported by automated hematology analyzers due to platelet aggretgation. Awareness of the phenomenon will enable neurosurgeons to manage patients with PTCP appropriately and clinical laboratory especially in emergency hospital is recommended to prepare for the hematological tubes being added KM in routine analysis, resulting in preventing mistaken diagnosis.     

Shear-dependent platelet aggregation size

Nonsurgical bleeding is the most frequent complication of left ventricular assist device (LVAD) support. Supraphysiologic shear rates generated in LVAD causes impaired platelet aggregation, which increases the risk of bleeding. The effect of shear rate on the formation size of platelet aggregates has never been reported experimentally, although platelet aggregation size can be considered to be directly relevant to bleeding complications. Therefore, this study investigated the impact of shear rate and exposure time on the formation size of platelet aggregates, which is vital in predicting bleeding in patients with an LVAD. Human platelet-poor plasma (containing von Willebrand factor, vWF) and fluorochrome-labeled platelets were subjected to a range of shear rates (0-10 000 s⁻¹) for 0, 5, 10, and 15 minutes using a custom-built blood-shearing device. Formed sizes of platelet aggregates under a range of shear-controlled environment were visualized and measured using microscopy. The loss of high molecular weight (HMW) vWF multimers was quantified using gel electrophoresis and immunoblotting. An inhibition study was also performed to investigate the reduction in platelet aggregation size and HMW vWF multimers caused by either mechanical shear or enzymatic (a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with a thrombospondin type 1 motif, member 13—ADAMTS13, the von Willebrand factor protease) mechanism under low and high shear conditions (360 and 10 000 s⁻¹). We found that the average size of platelet aggregates formed under physiological shear rates of 360-3000 s⁻¹ (200-300 μm²) was significantly larger compared to those sheared at >6000 s⁻¹ (50-100 μm²). Furthermore, HMW vWF multimers were reduced with increased shear rates. The inhibition study revealed that the reduction in platelet aggregation size and HWM vWF multimers were mainly associated with ADAMTS13. In conclusion, the threshold of shear rate must not exceed >6000 s⁻¹ in order to maintain the optimal size of platelet aggregates to “plug off” the injury site and stop bleeding.     

Anesthetic implications of the grey platelet syndrome

PURPOSE: To describe the obstetrical anesthetic care provided to two sisters with a rare qualitative platelet disorder, the grey platelet syndrome (GPS). CLINICAL FEATURES: Both patients manifested thrombocytopenia prior to delivery without previous history of a bleeding diathesis or other abnormal laboratory tests of coagulation function. The first required emergency Cesarean section due to fetal bradycardia. Due to the thrombocytopenia and the emergency nature of the procedure, general anesthesia was used. During the C-section, 1.5-2 litres of old blood was noted in the abdominal cavity which was attributed to an old splenic capsular tear of unknown etiology. Work-up for the thrombocytopenia revealed large platelets on the peripheral smear with abnormal aggregation on platelet function studies. Electron microscopy of the platelets revealed absent alpha granules, diagnostic of GPS. The second patient, the sister of patient #1, presented in a similar fashion. However, at presentation, the platelet count was 112,000 x m(-3) and spinal anesthesia was provided without complication for Cesarean delivery. The same patient presented for a second delivery during which fetal bradycardia necessitated emergency C-section under general anesthesia. Despite administration of six units of platelets, blood loss was 5,200 mL. Her postpartum course was uncomplicated and she and the infant were discharged home on postoperative day #4. CONCLUSION: The primary concerns for the anesthesiologist looking after patients with qualitative platelet defects are related to defective coagulation which influences the need for perioperative replacement of blood products and limits the use of regional anesthesia.     

Platelet-rich Concentrates Differentially Release Growth Factors and Induce Cell Migration In Vitro

Background

Platelet-rich concentrates are used as a source of growth factors to improve the healing process. The diverse preparation protocols and the gaps in knowledge of their biological properties complicate the interpretation of clinical results.

Questions/purposes

In this study we aimed to (1) analyze the concentration and kinetics of growth factors released from leukocyte- and platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF), leukocyte- and platelet-rich plasma (L-PRP), and natural blood clot during in vitro culture; (2) investigate the migration of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) as a functional response to the factors released; and (3) uncover correlations between individual growth factors with the initial platelet/leukocyte counts or the induced cell migration.

Methods

L-PRF, L-PRP, and natural blood clot prepared from 11 donors were cultured in vitro for 28 days and media supernatants collected after 8 hours and 1, 3, 7, 14, and 28 days. Released transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), insulin growth factor (IGF-1), platelet-derived growth factor AB (PDGF-AB), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) were measured in the supernatants with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Migration of MSC and HUVEC induced by the supernatants was evaluated in Boyden chambers.

Results

More TGF-ß1 was released (mean ± SD in pg/mL of blood) from L-PRF (37,796 ± 5492) compared with L-PRP (23,738 ± 6848; p < 0.001) and blood clot (3739 ± 4690; p < 0.001), whereas more VEGF and IL-1ß were released from blood clot (1933 ± 704 and 2053 ± 908, respectively) compared with both L-PRP (642 ± 208; p < 0.001 and 273 ± 386; p < 0.001, respectively) and L-PRF (852 ± 376; p < 0.001 and 65 ± 56, p < 0.001, respectively). No differences were observed in IGF-1 and PDGF-AB released from any of the concentrates. TGF-β1 release peaked at Day 7 in L-PRF and at 8 hours and Day 7 in L-PRP and 8 hours and Day 14 in blood clot. In all concentrates, main release of VEGF occurred between 3 and 7 days and of IL-1β between Days 1 and 7. IGF-1 and PDGF-AB were released until Day 1 in L-PRP and blood clot, in contrast to sustained release over the first 3 days in L-PRF. The strongest migration of MSC occurred in response to L-PRF, and more HUVEC migration was seen in L-PRF and blood clot compared with L-PRP. TGF-β1 correlated with initial platelet counts in L-PRF (Pearson r = 0.66, p = 0.0273) and initial leukocyte counts in L-PRP (Pearson r = 0.83, p = 0.0016). A positive correlation of IL-1β on migration of MSC and HUVEC was revealed (Pearson r = 0.16, p = 0.0208; Pearson r = 0.31, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

In comparison to L-PRP, L-PRF had higher amounts of released TGF-β1, a long-term release of growth factors, and stronger induction of cell migration. Future preclinical studies should confirm these data in a defined injury model.

Clinical Relevance

By characterizing the biologic properties of different platelet concentrates in vitro, we may gain a better understanding of their clinical effects and develop guidelines for specific future applications.     

Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation and Portal Hypertension Following Pancreatic Islet Autotransplantation

A patient undergoing subtotal pancreatectomy and intraportal islet tissue autotransplantation for chronic pancreatitis developed severe portal hypertension (49 cm of H₂O) and acute disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). In an attempt to identify the cause of these problems, portal pressure and the activities of the coagulation and fibrinolytic systems were studied in dogs undergoing intraportal autotransplantation of islet tissue. Following intraportal injection of the pancreatic tissue in five control dogs, the portal pressure rose to a maximum of 43.2 cm of H₂O ± 2.4 and major coagulation abnormalities occurred. The mean hematocrit value fell to 18% ± 8.6, the mean platelet count to 218,000 ± 31,000, the mean plasma fibrinogen to 40 mg/dl ± 18, and the mean euglobulin clot lysis time (ECLT) to 25 min ± 4. Partial thromboplastin time (PTT) became prolonged (233 secs ± 30) and significant quantities of fibrinogen-fibrin degradation products (FDP-fdp) (1:128 ± 32) appeared. These changes indicate the development of DIC probably secondary to significant amounts of tissue thromboplastin detected in the tissue homogenate infused at time of autotransplantation. In a group of seven dogs in whom heparin and Trasylol (aprotinin) were added to the pancreatic tissue at the time of transplantation, portal pressure rose only to a peak of 28.3 cm of H₂O ± 3.6 and no significant abnormalities occurred in mean hematocrit value, plasma fibrinogen, platelet count or ECLT. Minor prolongation of PTT occurred secondary to the activity of heparin. FDP-fdp (1:16) were present transiently during tissue injection. Four patients in whom heparin and Trasylol were added to the pancreatic tissue at the time of autotransplantation developed only minor elevations of portal pressure (mean 15.5 cm of H₂O) without intravascular coagulopathy.     

Field-Based Pre-Cooling for On-Court Tennis Conditioning Training in the Heat

The present study investigated the effects of pre-cooling for on- court, tennis-specific conditioning training in the heat. Eight highly-trained tennis players performed two on-court conditioning sessions in 35°C, 55% Relative Humidity. Sessions were randomised, involved either a pre-cooling or control session, and consisted of 30-min of court- based, tennis movement drills. Pre-cooling involved 20-min of an ice-vest and cold towels to the head/neck and legs, followed by warm-up in a cold compression garment. On-court movement distance was recorded by 1Hz Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) devices, while core temperature, heart rate and perceptual exertion and thermal stress were also recorded throughout the session. Additionally, mass and lower-body peak power during repeated counter-movement jumps were measured before and after each session. No significant performance differences were evident between conditions, although a moderate-large effect (d = 0.7-1.0; p > 0.05) was evident for total (2989 ± 256 v 2870 ± 159m) and high-intensity (805 ± 340 v 629 ± 265m) distance covered following pre-cooling. Further, no significant differences were evident between conditions for rise in core temperature (1.9 ± 0.4 v 2. 2 ± 0.4°C; d > 0.9; p > 0.05), although a significantly smaller change in mass (0.9 ± 0.3 v 1. 3 ± 0.3kg; p < 0.05) was present following pre-cooling. Perceived thermal stress and exertion were significantly lower (d > 1.0; p < 0.05) during the cooling session. Finally, lower-body peak power did not differ between conditions before or after training (d < 0.3; p > 0.05). Conclusions: Despite trends for lowered physiological load and increased distances covered following cooling, the observed responses were not significantly different or as explicit as previously reported laboratory-based pre-cooling research.

Key points

• Pre-cooling did not significantly enhance training performance or reduce physiological load for tennis training in the heat, although trends indicate some benefits for both.
• Pre-cooling can reduce perceptual strain of on-court tennis training in the heat to improve perceptual load of training sessions.
• Court-side pre-cooling may not be of sufficient volume to invoke large physiological changes.

Key words: Cooling, heat, training, GPS, racquet sports     

羟乙基淀粉对血液流变学及凝血功能的影响

目的 观察输注6％羟乙基淀粉（HES200／0．5）对病人血液流变学及凝血功能的影响。方法 30例硬膜外阻滞下手术病人,在硬膜外阻滞前输注贺斯12ml/kg。输液前后分别抽取静脉血测定：（1）全血低切、中切、高切粘度,红细胞比容,全血低切、中切、高切还原粘度,血沉,红细胞聚集指数、刚性指数、变形指数。（2）血小板计数（PLC）,血小板粘附率（PAD）,血小板1分钟聚集率（PAG1）、3分钟聚集率（PAG3）和最大聚集率（PAGM）。（3）凝血酶原时间（PT）,凝血酶时间（TT）,部分凝血活酶时间（APTT）和纤维蛋白原浓度（Fib)。结果 输液后全血粘度高切变率、中切变率明显下降,全血还原粘度高切变率、血沉、红细胞刚性指数在输液后显著降低,血小板粘附及聚集功能、TT、APTT及Fib输液后差异无显著意义,只有PT显著延长。结论 静注500－1000ml6%HES,可改善血液流变性,对凝血功能无影响。     

Peripheral platelet count correlates with liver atrophy and predicts long‐term mortality on the liver transplant waiting list

Several studies have shown a direct role of liver atrophy in the pathogenesis of thrombocytopenia of cirrhosis via reduced production of thrombopoeitin. About 181 patients listed for liver transplantation at a single transplant center were evaluated at the time of listing with laboratory tests and volumetric liver measurements using computed tomography. Expected normal liver volume was calculated using the Heinemann formula. Liver volume ratio (LVR) was calculated as actual liver volume over expected liver volume. Patients were predominantly male (70.7%), with viral hepatitis (60.2%), had a mean age of 51.8 years (SD 8.7), model for end stage liver disease (MELD) of 14 (SD 6.4), LVR of 0.95 (SD 0.3), and platelet count of 105 000/mcL (SD 66 000). Platelet count (P < 0.0001) correlated more strongly with LVR than MELD, MELD components (P = 0.27) or serum albumin (P = 0.003). Platelet count (HR 0.987, 95% CI 0.979–0.994, P = 0.001) was a strong independent predictor of mortality. Patients with platelet count < 100 000/mcL had a shorter survival (935 vs. 1396 days, P = 0.002) and higher death rate (42.2% vs. 23.6%, P = 0.01), but no different transplantation rate (36.7% vs. 33.3%, P = 0.64) compared to those with platelet count ≥ 100 000/mcL. Low platelet count corresponds to higher waiting list mortality and is a sign of advanced liver atrophy.     

The Potential Value of Monocyte to Lymphocyte Ratio,Platelet to Mean Platelet Volume Ratio in the Diagnosis of Periprosthetic Joint Infections

ObjectiveTo explore the possibility of obtaining more accurate information from routine blood tests for the diagnosis of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI).MethodsThis is a retrospective study. Between 2017 and 2018, a total of 246 patients who underwent total hip or knee revision surgery were included in this study. There were 146 females and 100 males, and the mean age of the patients was 62.1 ± 12.75 years. Laboratory parameters erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C‐reactive protein (CRP), D‐dimer, plasma fibrinogen, serum white blood cell (WBC), and calculable ratio markers were collected. Based on leukocytes (monocyte count, neutrophil count, lymphocyte count), platelet count, and mean platelet volume Inflammation‐related ratio markers were calculated, which including monocyte to lymphocyte ratio (MLR), neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and platelet to mean platelet volume ratio (PMR). Follow‐up of all studied cases for at least 1 year. The diagnostic value of the markers based on the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. The most optimal combinations of blood markers were selected by the prediction models. Statistical analyses and prediction models were performed using R software.ResultsOf the 246 patients, 125 were diagnosed with PJI and 121 with aseptic loosening. A higher rate of patients underwent revision surgery due to hip prosthesis loosening in the aseptic loosening group (74.4%) compared to the PJI group (45.6%, P < 0.001). ROC curves showed that the area under the curve (AUC) for classical markers, fibrinogen was 0.853 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.805–0.901), ESR was 0.836 (95% CI, 0.785–0.887) and CRP was 0.825 (95% CI, 0.773–0.878). Followed by the PMR, PLR, NLR and MLR, which showed promising diagnostic performance with AUCs of 0.791, 0.785, 0.736, and 0.733. The AUCs of the ratio markers were higher than those of D‐dimer (0.691;95% CI, 0.6243–0.7584) and serum WBC (0.622; 95% CI, 0.552–0.691). After the predictive model calculation, AUC was up to 0.923 (95% CI, 0.891–0.951) when plasma fibrinogen combined with MLR and PMR and interpreted excellent discriminatory capacity with a sensitivity of 86.40% and a specificity of 84.17%. The new combination significantly increases the accuracy and reliability of the diagnosis of PJI (P < 0.001). The AUC increased to 0.899 (95% CI, 0.861–0.931; P = 0.007) and 0.916 (95% CI, 0.880–0.946; P < 0.001), followed by CRP and ESR, respectively. All plasma fibrinogen, ESR, and CRP combined with both PMR and MLR achieved the highest specificity (89.17%) and PPV (85.34%).ConclusionThe diagnostic performance greatly improved when plasma fibrinogen, ESR, and CRP combined with ratio markers.     

Management of osteonecrosis of the femoral head: A novel technique

Background:Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is a debilitating disease in orthopedics, frequently progressing to femoral head collapse and osteoarthritis. It is thought to be a multifactorial disease. ONFH ultimately results in femoral head collapse in 75–85% of untreated patients. Total hip arthroplasty (THA) yields satisfactory results in the treatment of the end stage of the disease. However, disease typically affects males between the ages of 20 and 40 years and joint replacement is not the ideal option for younger patients. Recently, mesenchymal stem cells and platelet rich plasma (PRP) have been used as an adjunct to core decompression to improve clinical success in the treatment of precollapse hips.Results:The mean HHS improved from 46.0 ± 7.8 preoperatively to 90.28 ± 19 at the end of followup (P < 0.0001). The mean values of VAS were 78 ± 21 and 35 ± 19 at preoperatively period and final followup, respectively, with an average reduction of 43 points.Conclusion:We found that the use of PRP with collagen sheet can increase the reparable capacity after drilling of necrotic segment in stage IIb and III ONFH.     

Effects of Acute and Antecedent Hypoglycemia on Endothelial Function and Markers of Atherothrombotic Balance in Healthy Humans

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of single and repeated episodes of clamped hypoglycemia on fibrinolytic balance, proinflammatory biomarkers, proatherothrombotic mechanisms, and endothelial function. Twenty healthy individuals (12 male and 8 female) were studied during separate 2-day randomized protocols. Day 1 consisted of either two 2-h hyperinsulinemic (812 ± 50 pmol/L)-euglycemic (5 ± 0.1 mmol/L) or hyperinsulinemic (812 ± 50 pmol/L)-hypoglycemic (2.9 ± 0.1 mmol/L) clamps. Day 2 consisted of a single 2-h hyperinsulinemic-hypoglycemic clamp. Two-dimensional Doppler ultrasound was used to determine brachial arterial endothelial function. Plasminogen activator inhibitor 1, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, intracellular adhesion molecule-1, E-selectin, P-selectin, TAT (thrombin/antithrombin complex), tumor necrosis factor-α, and interleukin-6 responses were increased (P < 0.05) during single or repeated hypoglycemia compared with euglycemia. Endogenous and exogenous nitric oxide (NO)-mediated vasodilation were both impaired by repeated hypoglycemia. Neuroendocrine and autonomic nervous system (ANS) responses were also blunted by repeated hypoglycemia (P < 0.05). In summary, acute moderate hypoglycemia impairs fibrinolytic balance; increases proinflammatory responses, platelet activation, and coagulation biomarkers; and reduces NO-mediated endothelial function in healthy individuals. Repeated episodes of hypoglycemia further impair vascular function by additionally reducing exogenously NO-mediated endothelial function and increasing coagulation biomarkers. We conclude that despite reduced neuroendocrine and ANS responses, antecedent hypoglycemia results in greater endothelial dysfunction and an increased proatherothrombotic state compared with a single acute episode of hypoglycemia.     

Usefulness of Intraoperative Continuous Infusion of Tranexamic Acid during Emergency Surgery for Type A Acute Aortic Dissection

Purpose: We investigated the influence of intraoperative continuous tranexamic acid (TA) infusion on the amount of blood transfusion required in emergency surgery for type A acute aortic dissection.Methods: The study was based on the data of 55 consecutive patients who underwent surgery for type A acute aortic dissection. The patients were divided into 2 groups for comparison: Group T, consisting of 26 patients who received intraoperative continuous infusion of TA, and Group N, consisting of 29 patients who did not receive TA infusion during the surgery.Results: The mean amounts of blood transfusion required during and after surgery were compared between the 2 groups: they were 10.5 ± 8.7 and 16.2 ± 10.0 units of mannitol-adenine-phosphate-added red cell concentrate, 9.3 ± 8.6 and 17.1 ± 10.0 units of fresh frozen plasma, and 20.4 ± 12.2 and 29.7 ± 14.9 units of platelet concentrate, respectively, in Groups T and N. Thus, the amount of each of these blood products required was significantly reduced in Group T.Conclusions: During emergency surgery for type A acute aortic dissection, continuous infusion of TA resulted in a significant reduction in the amount of blood transfusion required.     

Comparison of methods for point of care preparation of autologous platelet gel

A platelet gel (PG) is produced by the addition of calcium chloride and thrombin to a platelet concentrate (PC). PG releases multiple growth factors, which have the ability to initiate and stimulate one growth factor's function in the presence of others. This finding has resulted in the use of PG in orthopedic, plastic, and reconstructive surgery. The study compared the commercial systems available for the preparation of PG. All procedures were performed according to the manufacturers directions. The devices were evaluated with respect to ease of use, collection efficiency, platelet quality, and growth factor release. The SmartPReP requires only four processing steps compared to 12 to 24 required by other devices. The SmartPReP and the CATS were the most reproducible, as evidenced by their low coefficient of variation of 13% and 16%. The mean platelet yield was 72% for the SmartPReP, 58% for the 3iPCCS, 54% for the Sequestra, 31% for the Secquire, 31% for the CATS, 27% for the Interpore Cross, and 42.6% for the Biomet GPS. The mean total amount of PDGF-AB and TGF-B1 obtained from the SmartPReP is greater than other systems evaluated. The SmartPReP produced a consistent PC with a yield that was four times baseline range with the lowest coefficient of variation.     

Comparison of 4 % Icodextrin and Omega 3 Fatty Acids in Prevention of Peritoneal Adhesions

Postoperative peritoneal adhesions are major concerns in abdominal surgery. In this experimental study, the effects of 4 % icodextrin and omega-3 fatty acids (ω-3 FA) on prevention of postoperative peritoneal adhesions were evaluated. Twenty-four Wistar albino rats were divided into three groups. After laparotomy, serosal abrasion was carried out by cecal brushing. Intraperitoneally 3 cm³ 0.9 % NaCl, 3 cm³ 4 % icodextrin, and 200 mg/kg ω-3 FAs for each group were applied, and then the abdomen was closed. All subjects sacrificed 10 days postoperatively. Macroscopic and histopathological cellular reactions as a function of giant cell, lymphocyte/plasmocyte, neutrophil, histiocyte, intracellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), and platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (PECAM-1) were assessed and hydroxyproline levels were measured in all three groups and compared using Kruskal–Wallis and ANOVA tests when appropriate. Macroscopically, both ω-3 FAs and 4 % icodextrin reduced adhesion formation but the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.253). Histopathological examination revealed that there was no statistical significance in terms of giant cell, lymphocyte/plasmocyte, neutrophil, ICAM-1, and PECAM-1 scores; however, both ω-3 FAs and 4 % icodextrin were found to be prone to reduce fibrosis (P = 0.047), whereas in the ω-3 FA group, histiocytic reaction was significantly increased (P = 0.001), and hydroxyproline levels were significantly lower than other groups (P = 0.044). In this study, ω-3 FAs were found to be superior to 4 % icodextrin with the lower hydroxyproline level and greater histiocytic reaction. Considering these results, ω-3 FAs can be a promising agent in the prevention of adhesion formation.     

Computer-Assisted Surgery in Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty: Early Experience

BackgroundIn the last decade, new technologies have been applied to shoulder arthroplasty. The aim of this work was to show that navigated RSA allows the surgeon to reach the planned version/inclination in all cases. In this article are shown preliminary data, advantages, disadvantages and limits of the technique.MethodsEighteen computer-assisted reverse shoulder arthroplasty were performed. Preoperative glenoid version and inclination were evaluated with preoperative CT scan using Orthoblue^® (Exactech, Gainesville, FL,USA) software, as well as baseplate type, planned glenoid component seating, planned postoperative version, planned postoperative inclination, intraoperative glenoid version/inclination, screw length and surgical time. A senior shoulder surgeon has analyzed the advantages, disadvantages and limitation of this kind of surgery.ResultsMean surgical time of the primary implants was 92 ± 12 min (min 75–max 110). Mean preoperative inclination was + 2.6° ± 6.4, mean preoperative version was − 7.6° ± 8.4. Mean planned postoperative inclination was − 2.7° ± 2.3, mean planned postoperative version was − 1.6° ± 2.9 and mean planned glenoid seating was 89% ± 8%. Planned settings were reached in all cases during surgery. Baseplate implanted were in nine cases 8° posterior augmented, in six cases standard and in three cases 10° superior augmented. Mean screw length was 33.5 mm ± 4.2 mm. No GPS system failure has been recorded. One coracoid fracture occurred during the first case.DiscussionIntraoperative navigation system is a reliable and user-friendly technology that allows the surgeon to reach planned glenoid positioning during surgery. Furthermore, this technology will allow the surgeon to compare clinical outcomes to component positioning data. The lack of humeral implant navigation is the main limit of this technique.     

Inflammation-based prognostic score is a novel predictor of postoperative outcome in patients with colorectal cancer

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the significance of preoperative Glasgow prognostic score (GPS) for postoperative prognostication of patients with colorectal cancer. BACKGROUND: Recent studies have revealed that the GPS, an inflammation-based prognostic score that includes only C-reactive protein (CRP) and albumin, is a useful tool for predicting postoperative outcome in cancer patients. However, few studies have investigated the GPS in the field of colorectal surgery. METHODS: The GPS was calculated on the basis of admission data as follows: patients with an elevated level of both CRP (>10 mg/L) and hypoalbuminemia (Alb <35 g/L) were allocated a score of 2, and patients showing 1 or none of these blood chemistry abnormalities were allocated a score of 1 or 0, respectively. Prognostic significance was analyzed by univariate and multivariate analyses. RESULTS: A total of 315 patients were evaluated. Kaplan-Meier analysis and log-rank test revealed that a higher GPS predicted a higher risk of postoperative mortality (P < 0.01). Univariate analyses revealed that postoperative TNM was the most sensitive predictor of postoperative mortality (odds ratio, 0.148; 95% confidence interval, 0.072-0.304; P < 0.0001). Multivariate analyses using factors such as age, sex, tumor site, serum carcinoembryonic antigen, CA19-9, CA72-4, CRP, albumin, and GPS revealed that GPS (odds ratio, 0.165; 95% confidence interval, 0.037-0.732; P = 0.0177) was associated with postoperative mortality. CONCLUSIONS: Preoperative GPS is considered to be a useful predictor of postoperative mortality in patients with colorectal cancer.     

Strategies for transfusion therapy

Transfusion of allogeneic red blood cells (RBCs), fresh frozen plasma (FFP) and platelets is associated with risks, and outcome studies comparing liberal and restrictive transfusion regimens are lacking in surgical patients. Therefore, guidelines have been established. They recommend first maintaining normovolaemia by the use of crystalloids and colloids. RBC transfusions are recommended for haemoglobin levels <6 g/dl and for physiological signs of inadequate oxygenation such as haemodynamic instability, oxygen extraction>50% and myocardial ischaemia (new ST-segment depressions >0.1 mV, new ST-segment elevations >0.2 mV or new wall motion abnormalities in transoesophageal echocardiography). FFP transfusions are recommended for urgent reversal of anticoagulation, known coagulation factor deficiencies, microvascular bleeding in the presence of elevated (>1.5 times normal) prothrombin time (PT) or partial thromboplastin time (PTT) and microvascular bleeding after the replacement of more than one blood volume when PT or PTT cannot be obtained. Platelet transfusions are recommended prior to major operations in patients with platelet counts <50 000/μl, intraoperatively with microvascular bleeding at platelet counts <50 000/μl and in the range of 50 000–100 000/μl following cardiopulmonary bypass and in patients undergoing surgery where already minimal bleeding may cause major damage such as in neurosurgery.