The effects of recurrent Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection on pulmonary parenchyma and vasculature in rats fed on a cholesterol-rich diet

It has been demonstrated that both hypercholesterolemia and infectious agents are contributing factors in atherosclerosis but their combined effect on the pulmonary vascular bed is not known. To answer this question, the authors tried to demonstrate the effects of recurrent infection on pulmonary parenchyma and vascular system in cholesterol-fed rats. Sixty-six rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: Groups I (control), II (cholesterol-rich diet), III (recurrent pulmonary Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection), IV (cholesterol-rich diet + recurrent infection). After 6 months serum cholesterol levels didn't increase in any of the groups. Central pulmonary artery wall thickness was increased in group IV (P < .0001). Although not significant, peripheral pulmonary artery wall thickness was increased in group IV. In rats fed on a cholesterol-rich diet, recurrent infection caused a significant increase in atherosclerosis, although serum cholesterol levels didn't increase. Infection and cholesterol-rich diet have a synergistic effect on atherosclerosis in the pulmonary vascular system in rats even in the absence of hypercholesterolemia.     

Feasibility of single-stage resection and primary anastomosis in patients with acute noncomplicated sigmoid volvulus

BACKGROUND: The management of sigmoid volvulus remains controversial. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of treating sigmoid volvulus by using a single-stage resection and anastomosis versus a 2-stage approach. METHODS: A total of 136 patients with noncomplicated sigmoid volvulus who had undergone emergency surgery within the last 15 years were evaluated retrospectively. Sigmoid resection plus Hartmann colostomy was performed in 45 patients, and sigmoid resection plus primary anastomosis was performed in 91 patients. In 40 of the patients who underwent a Hartmann procedure, we performed a second operation for colostomy closure (HC&CC group). RESULTS: There were no significant differences among the groups with regard to age, sex, morbidity, reoperation because of complications, mortality rates, and duration of intensive care unit stay (P > .05). The duration of hospital stay was significantly longer in the HC&CC group than in the other groups (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: In cases without the complications of perforation or gangrene, sigmoid resection with immediate anastomosis was feasible. Single-stage operations did not increase morbidity or mortality rates, and patients required a shorter hospital stay than those who had undergone 2-stage operations.