Journal of the American College of Surgeons - Articles in Press

Perioperative Risk of Laparoscopic Fundoplication: Safer than Previously Reported—Analysis of the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program 2005 to 2009 - Corrected Proof

2012-05-11

Background: Several prospective randomized controlled trials show equal effectiveness of surgical fundoplication and proton pump inhibitor therapy for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Despite this compelling evidence of its efficacy, surgical antireflux therapy is underused, occurring in a very small proportion of patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease. An important reason for this is the perceived morbidity and mortality associated with surgical intervention. Published data report perioperative morbidity between 3% and 21% and mortality of 0.2% and 0.5%, and current data are uncommon, largely from previous decades, and almost exclusively single institutional. Study Design: The study population included all patients in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database from 2005 through 2009 who underwent laparoscopic fundoplication with or without related postoperative ICD-9 codes. Comorbidities, intraoperative occurrences, and 30-day postoperative outcomes were collected and logged into statistical software for appropriate analysis. Postoperative occurrences were divided into overall and serious morbidity. Results: A total of 7,531 fundoplications were identified. Thirty-five percent of patients were younger than 50 years old, 47.1% were 50 to 69 years old, and 16.8% were older than 69 years old. Overall, 30-day mortality was 0.19% and morbidity was 3.8%. Thirty-day mortality was rare in patients younger than age 70 years, occurring in 5 of 10,000 (0.05%). Mortality increased to 8 of 1,000 (0.8%) in patients older than 70 years (p < 0.0001). Complications occurred in 2.2% of patients younger than 50 years, 3.8% of those 50 to 69 years, and 7.3% of patients older than 69 years. Serious complications occurred in 8 of 1,000 (0.8%) patients younger than 50 years, 1.8% in patients 50 to 69 years, and 3.9% of those older than 69 years. Conclusions: Analysis of this large cohort demonstrates remarkably low 30-day morbidity and mortality of laparoscopic fundoplication. This is particularly true in patients younger than 70 years, who are likely undergoing fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease. These data suggest that surgical therapy carries an acceptable risk profile.

The First National Examination of Outcomes and Trends in Robotic Surgery in the United States - Corrected Proof

Jamie E. Anderson, David C. Chang, J. Kellogg Parsons, Mark A. Talamini — 2012-05-07

Background: There are few population-based data describing outcomes of robotic-assisted surgery. We compared outcomes of robotic-assisted, laparoscopic, and open surgery in a nationally representative population database. Study Design: A retrospective analysis of the Nationwide Inpatient Sample database from October 2008 to December 2009 was performed. We identified the most common robotic procedures by ICD-9 procedure codes and grouped them into categories by procedure type. Multivariate analyses examined mortality, length of stay (LOS), and total hospital charges, adjusting for age, race, sex, Charlson comorbidity index, and teaching hospital status. Results: A total of 368,239 patients were identified. On adjusted analysis, compared with open, robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery was associated with decreased odds of mortality (odds ratio = 0.1; 95% CI, 0.0–0.2; p < 0.001), decreased mean LOS (−2.4 days; 95% CI, −2.5 to 2.3; p < 0.001), and increased mean total charges in all procedures (range $3,852 to $15,329) except coronary artery bypass grafting (−$17,318; 95% CI, −34,492 to −143; p = 0.048) and valvuloplasty (not statistically significant). Compared with laparoscopic, robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery was associated with decreased odds of mortality (odds ratio = 0.1; 95% CI, 0.0−0.6; p = 0.008), decreased LOS overall (−0.6 days; 95% CI, −0.7 to −0.5; p < 0.001), but increased LOS in prostatectomy and other kidney/bladder procedures (0.3 days; 95% CI, 0.1–0.4; p = 0.006; 0.8 days; 95% CI, 0.0–1.6; p = 0.049), and increased total charges ($1,309; 95% CI, 519–2,099; p = 0.001). Conclusions: Data suggest that, compared with open surgery, robotic-assisted surgery results in decreased LOS and diminished likelihood of death. However, these benefits are not as apparent when comparing robotic-assisted laparoscopic with nonrobotic laparoscopic procedures.

Surgical Management of Inoperable Lymphedema: The Re-emergence of Abandoned Techniques - Corrected Proof

Matthew E. Doscher, Sean Herman, Evan S. Garfein — 2012-05-07

In the era of microsurgical lymph node transfer and lymphatic bypass, there are still a significant number of patients with debilitating lymphedema not amenable to these technically advanced procedures. Radical surgical management is often the only option for these patients, who are frequently counseled that they have inoperable problems. They often become medical nomads, wandering from physician to physician, while symptoms progress and treatment options become fewer and more radical. Unfortunately, the principles of reductive management for end-stage lymphedema have been largely abandoned over the last half-century. This report highlights 2 such cases and presents a review of both the history and literature on this topic.

Optimizing Clinical and Economic Outcomes of Surgical Therapy for Patients with Colorectal Cancer and Synchronous Liver Metastases - Corrected Proof

2012-05-07

Background: Traditionally, for patients with colorectal cancer with resectable synchronous liver metastases, resections were performed separately. However, the safety and efficacy of simultaneous resection have been demonstrated in selected patients. The purpose of this study was to evaluate outcomes and economic implications of simultaneous and staged resections. Study Design: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of consecutive colorectal cancer patients with resectable synchronous liver metastases treated between 1993 and 2010, constructing a decision tree comparing simultaneous and staged resections. For generalizability, the analysis was conducted from a payer perspective, using costs derived from 2010 Medicare reimbursement. Decision models incorporated the severity-refined DRG complications (complicating condition/major complicating condition) modifiers. Sensitivity analyses used alternative models of DRG reimbursement. Results: There were 144 patients analyzed. Sixty (41.7%) underwent simultaneous resection and 84 (58.3%) underwent staged resection. Median overall survival did not differ between the simultaneous and the staged cohorts (66.3 vs 65.6 months, respectively), nor did the overall complication rate (38.3% vs 40.5%, respectively). Median total length of hospitalization was significantly shorter in the simultaneous cohort (8 vs 14 days; p = 0.001). In the base model, the simultaneous strategy cost less than the staged strategy ($20,983 vs $25,298 per case)—a savings of 17.1%. Sensitivity analyses examining alternative severity-refined DRG reimbursements demonstrated potential cost savings, in all but 1 extreme sensitivity analysis, ranging from 9.8% to 27.3% favoring simultaneous resection. Conclusions: The simultaneous resection strategy was oncologically equivalent and more cost efficient for patients with primary colorectal cancer presenting with resectable liver metastases. A reduction in overall length of hospital stay was an associated benefit. Future studies should explore the feasibility and clinical implications of policies to maximize the potential for simultaneous resection in this cohort of patients.

Rib Fracture Fixation for Flail Chest: What Is the Benefit? - Corrected Proof

Akash Bhatnagar, John Mayberry, Ram Nirula — 2012-05-07

Background: Recently, rib fracture fixation for flail chest has been used increasingly at both academic and nonacademic trauma centers. Although a few small non-US studies have demonstrated a clinical benefit, it is unclear whether this benefit outweighs the added expense and potential perioperative complications related to the procedure. We therefore sought to determine if open reduction and internal fixation of ribs for flail chest (ORIF-FC) represents a cost-effective means for managing these patients. Study Design: A Markov transition state analysis was performed modeling the outcomes of the standard of care or ORIF-FC for flail chest. The incidences of ventilator-associated pneumonia, tracheostomy, sepsis, prolonged ventilation, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, wound infection, and postoperative hemorrhage were obtained based on literature review. Medicare 2010 reimbursement costs were used for diagnoses and procedures. A quality of life improvement factor ranging from 0 to 15% improvement was used to estimate the improvement in pain and functional outcomes related to ORIF-FC. The most cost-effective treatment was then determined, ranging the incidences of ventilator-associated pneumonia and quality of life improvement factor. Results: Cost effectiveness was $15,269 for ORIF-FC compared with $16,810 for standard of care. Even when the quality of life improvement factor was set to 0%, ORIF-FC remained the most cost-effective strategy. Similarly, ORIF-FC remained the most cost-effective strategy by $8,400 when the incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia after ORIF was as high as 22%. Conclusions: Despite the additional cost of surgery, rib fracture fixation dominates the standard of care and should be considered in the management of appropriate flail chest patients.

An LED Light Source and Novel Fluorophore Combinations Improve Fluorescence Laparoscopic Detection of Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer in Orthotopic Mouse Models - Corrected Proof

2012-04-27

Background: The aim of this study was to improve fluorescence laparoscopy of pancreatic cancer in an orthotopic mouse model with the use of a light-emitting diode (LED) light source and optimal fluorophore combinations. Study Design: Human pancreatic cancer models were established with fluorescent FG-RFP, MiaPaca2-GFP, BxPC-3-RFP, and BxPC-3 cancer cells implanted in 6-week-old female athymic mice. Two weeks postimplantation, diagnostic laparoscopy was performed with a Stryker L9000 LED light source or a Stryker X8000 xenon light source 24 hours after tail-vein injection of CEA antibodies conjugated with Alexa 488 or Alexa 555. Cancer lesions were detected and localized under each light mode. Intravital images were also obtained with the OV-100 Olympus and Maestro CRI Small Animal Imaging Systems, serving as a positive control. Tumors were collected for histologic analysis. Results: Fluorescence laparoscopy with a 495-nm emission filter and an LED light source enabled real-time visualization of the fluorescence-labeled tumor deposits in the peritoneal cavity. The simultaneous use of different fluorophores (Alexa 488 and Alexa 555), conjugated to antibodies, brightened the fluorescence signal, enhancing detection of submillimeter lesions without compromising background illumination. Adjustments to the LED light source permitted simultaneous detection of tumor lesions of different fluorescent colors and surrounding structures with minimal autofluorescence. Conclusions: Using an LED light source with adjustments to the red, blue, and green wavelengths, it is possible to simultaneously identify tumor metastases expressing fluorescent proteins of different wavelengths, which greatly enhanced the signal without compromising background illumination. Development of this fluorescence laparoscopy technology for clinical use can improve staging and resection of pancreatic cancer.

Open Repair of Blunt Thoracic Aortic Injury Remains Relevant in the Endovascular Era - Corrected Proof

2012-04-27

Background: Thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair (TEVAR) has been a major advance in the treatment of blunt thoracic aortic injury (BTAI), although many patients still undergo open repair. This study was undertaken to evaluate outcomes with open repair and TEVAR for BTAI. Study Design: A retrospective review of all patients with BTAI at a single Level I trauma center from 2001 through 2009 was performed. Patients were grouped according to treatment modality, ie, open repair, TEVAR, or medical management. Direct comparison using standard statistical methods was made between patients undergoing open repair and TEVAR since late 2006 when TEVAR began at our institution using standard statistical methods. Outcomes variables included mortality, paraplegia, length of stay, ICU stay, and ventilator requirements. Results: There were 69 patients in the study, with 36 (52.2%) undergoing open repair, 10 receiving TEVAR (14.5%), 10 patients managed medically (14.5%), and 13 (18.8%) who died during triage. Overall mortality in the pre-TEVAR era was 29.6%. Since the introduction of TEVAR, there have been 8 open repairs. Patients undergoing open repair were significantly younger (32 vs. 58 years; p = 0.002) and had smaller aortic diameter (18 mm vs 24.5 mm; p < 0.001) than those undergoing TEVAR. Overall mortality since the introduction of TEVAR has dropped to 12.0% (p = 0.097). Conclusions: TEVAR and open repair should be viewed as complementary rather than competing modalities for the treatment of BTAI. Having both available allows selection of the most appropriate management technique for each patient, with subsequent improvement in outcomes.

Intraparenchymal Versus Extracranial Ventricular Drain Intracranial Pressure Monitors in Traumatic Brain Injury: Less Is More? - Corrected Proof

2012-04-27

Background: Management of severe traumatic brain injury has centered on continuous intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring with intraparenchymal ICP monitors (IPM) or extracranial ventricular drains (EVD). Our hypothesis was that neurologic outcomes are unaffected by the type of ICP monitoring device. Study Design: We reviewed 377 adult patients with traumatic brain injury requiring ICP monitoring. Primary outcome was Glasgow Outcome Score (GOS) 1 month after injury. Secondary outcomes included mortality, monitoring-related complications, and length of ICU and hospital stay. Results: There were 253 patients managed with an IPM and 124 with an EVD. There was no difference in Glasgow Outcome Score (2.7 ± 1.3 vs 2.5 ± 1.3, p = 0.45), mortality (30.9% vs 32.2%, p = 0.82), and hospital length of stay (LOS) (15.6 ± 12.4 days vs 16.4 ± 10.7 days, p = 0.57). Device-related complications (11.9% vs 31.1%, p < 0.001), duration of ICP monitoring (3.8 ± 2.6 days vs 7.3 ± 5.6 days, p < 0.001), and ICU LOS (7.6 ± 5.6 days vs 9.5 ± 6.2 days, p = 0.004) were longer in the EVD group. Age, opening ICP, and size of midline shift were independent predictors for neurologic outcomes and mortality, when type and severity of brain injury, as well as overall injury severity were controlled for. Duration of ICP monitoring and opening ICP were independent predictors for hospital LOS and the former predicted prolonged ICU stay. Device-related complications were affected by type of device. Conclusions: Use of EVDs in adult traumatic brain injury patients is associated with prolonged ICP monitoring, ICU LOS, and more frequent device-related complications.

Early Tracheostomy Is Associated With Improved Outcomes in Patients Who Require Prolonged Mechanical Ventilation after Cardiac Surgery - Corrected Proof

2012-04-27

Background: The best time to perform a tracheostomy in cardiac surgery patients who require prolonged postoperative mechanical ventilation remains unknown. The primary aim of this investigation was to determine if tracheostomy performed before postoperative day 10 improves patient outcomes. Study Design: We conducted a retrospective review of prospectively collected patient information obtained from the Anesthesiology Institute Patient Registry on adult patients recovering from coronary artery bypass grafting and/or valve surgery. Demographic and comorbidity patient variables were obtained. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on the timing of their tracheostomy: early (less than 10 days) and late (14 to 28 days). The 2 patient groups were matched using propensity scores and compared on morbidity and in-hospital mortality outcomes. The primary outcomes measures were length of stay, morbidity, and in-hospital mortality. Results: After propensity matching (n = 114 patients/group), early tracheostomy was associated with decreased in-hospital mortality (21.1% vs 40.4%, p = 0.002) and cardiac morbidity (14.0% vs 33.3%, p < 0.001), along with decreased ICU (median difference 7.2 days, p < 0.001) and hospital (median difference 7.5 days, p = 0.010) durations. The occurrence of sternal wound infection (6.0% vs 19.5%, p = 0.009) was less in the early tracheostomy group, but mediastinitis did not differ significantly (3.5% vs 7.0%, p = 0.24). Conclusions: Tracheostomy within 10 postoperative days in cardiac surgery patients who require prolonged mechanical ventilation was associated with decreased length of stay, morbidity, and mortality.

Adoption of Laparoscopy for Elective Colorectal Resection: A Report from the Surgical Care and Outcomes Assessment Program - Corrected Proof

2012-04-25

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the adoption of laparoscopic colon surgery and assess its impact in the community at large. Study Design: The Surgical Care and Outcomes Assessment Program (SCOAP) is a quality improvement benchmarking initiative in the Northwest using medical record–based data. We evaluated the use of laparoscopy and a composite of adverse events (ie, death or clinical reintervention) for patients undergoing elective colorectal surgery at 48 hospitals from the 4th quarter of 2005 through 4th quarter of 2010. Results: Of the 9,705 patients undergoing elective colorectal operations (mean age 60.6 ± 15.6 years; 55.2% women), 38.0% were performed laparoscopically (17.8% laparoscopic procedures converted to open). The use of laparoscopic procedures increased from 23.3% in 4th quarter of 2005 to 41.6% in 4th quarter of 2010 (trend during study period, p < 0.001). After adjustment (for age, sex, albumin levels, diabetes, body mass index, comorbidity index, cancer diagnosis, year, hospital bed size, and urban vs rural location), the risk of transfusions (odds ratio [OR] = 0.52; 95% CI, 0.39−0.7), wound infections (OR = 0.45; 95% CI, 0.34−0.61), and composite of adverse events (OR = 0.58; 95% CI, 0.43−0.79) were all significantly lower with laparoscopy. Within those hospitals that had been in SCOAP since 2006, hospitals where laparoscopy was most commonly used also had a substantial increase in the volume of all types of colon surgery (202 cases per hospital in 2010 from 112 cases per hospital in 2006, an 80.4% increase) and, in particular, the number of resections for noncancer diagnoses and right-sided pathology. Conclusions: The use of laparoscopic colorectal resection increased in the Northwest. Increased adoption of laparoscopic colectomies was associated with greater use of all types of colorectal surgery.

Intraoperative Resident Education for Robotic Laparoscopic Gastric Banding Surgery: A Pilot Study on the Safety of Stepwise Education - Corrected Proof

2012-04-23

Background: Incorporation of robotic surgery into resident education poses questions regarding intraoperative teaching and patient care. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of gradually increasing resident console responsibility on resident competency and patient safety, in the presence of a proctor and bedside surgeon, for robotic laparoscopic-assisted gastric banding (R-LAGB) compared with the classical training model (CTM) of residents as first assistant. Study Design: Eight clinical year 4 (CY4) residents completed 60 R-LAGB using a one-to-one proctored training model (PTM). R-LAGB was distilled into 7 key steps: gastroesophageal-junction dissection, gastrohepatic ligament dissection, retrogastric space creation, band placement, band closure, gastrogastric suturing, and port placement. Residents performed more complex steps after each case to gain competency in all aspects of the operation. Patient demographics, comorbidities, operative complications, operating times, and clinical outcomes were compared with a control group of 287 R-LAGB cases completed using the CTM (n = 15 CY4 residents). Results: All residents using the PTM were able to successfully complete an R-LAGB as primary surgeon after a median of 8 operations (range 5 to 11); no residents in the CTM completed an R-LAGB as primary surgeon. Mean operative time was statistically greater in the PTM group (99.3 ± 22.1 minutes) vs CTM (91.5 ± 21.1 minutes) (p = 0.001). There were no intraoperative complications in either group; incidence of postoperative complications was similar between groups. Conclusions: All residents in the proctored setting claimed competence and have persistent console experience without significantly increasing procedure complications. PTM, otherwise known as stepwise education, is a safe, standardized method to train surgical residents in R-LAGB.

Cervical and Upper Mediastinal Lymph Node Metastasis from Gastrointestinal and Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors: True Incidence and Management - Corrected Proof

2012-04-23

Background: The incidence, clinical importance, and optimal management of cervical and upper mediastinal lymph node metastasis from gastrointestinal and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (NETS) are largely unknown. Historically, cervical nodes have been regarded as asymptomatic and ignored. We hypothesized that these lesions have clinical implications and should be removed surgically. Study Design: Consecutive 111In pentetreotide scans (OctreoScan) performed at our institution from May 2008 to October 2010 were reviewed to determine the incidence of cervical and upper mediastinal lymph node metastases among patients with gastrointestinal and pancreatic NETs. The charts of surgically treated patients were reviewed to evaluate the clinical importance of these metastases and the subsequent outcomes of their surgical treatment. Results: A total of 161 NET patients presented with positive OctreoScans. Fourteen patients (8.7%) scanned positive for cervical and upper mediastinal lymph node metastasis. Nine patients underwent surgical exploration; 8 had successful removal of their metastatic nodes. Seven had clinical symptoms that resolved after surgery. Conclusions: Cervical and upper mediastinal lymph node metastases from gastrointestinal and pancreatic NETs were seen in up to 8.7% of patients. In the past, these metastases were assumed to be insignificant and ignored. Our study clearly demonstrates that most, if not all, such metastases are symptomatic and their clinical implications should not be overlooked. Notably, these metastases can be easily and safely resected using radioguided surgery.

Development and Validation of a Bariatric Surgery Mortality Risk Calculator - Corrected Proof

Bala Ramanan, Prateek K. Gupta, Himani Gupta, Xiang Fang, R. Armour Forse — 2012-04-23

Background: While the epidemic of obesity continues to plague America, bariatric surgery is underused due to concerns for surgical risk among patients and referring physicians. A risk score estimating postoperative mortality (OS-MRS) exists, however, is limited by consideration of only 12 preoperative variables, failure to separate open and laparoscopic cases, a lack of robust statistical analyses, risk factors not being weighted, and being applicable to only gastric bypass surgery. The objective of this study was to develop a validated risk calculator for 30-day postoperative mortality after bariatric surgery. Study Design: The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) dataset (2006 to 2008) was used. Patients undergoing bariatric surgery for morbid obesity (n = 32,889) were divided into training (n = 21,891) and validation (n = 10,998) datasets. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed on the training dataset. The model fit from the training dataset was maintained and was used to estimate mortality probabilities for all patients in the validation dataset. Results: Thirty-day mortality was 0.14%. Seven independent predictors of mortality were identified: peripheral vascular disease, dyspnea, previous percutaneous coronary intervention, age, body mass index, chronic corticosteroid use, and type of bariatric surgery. This risk model was subsequently validated. The model performance was very similar between the training and the validation datasets (c-statistics, 0.80 and 0.82, respectively). The high c-statistics indicate excellent predictive performance. The risk model was used to develop an interactive risk calculator. Conclusions: This risk calculator has excellent predictive ability for mortality after bariatric procedures. It is anticipated that it will aid in surgical decision-making, informed patient consent, and in helping patients and referring physicians to assess the true bariatric surgical risk.

Routine Pedicular Lymphadenectomy for Colorectal Liver Metastases - Corrected Proof

David Moszkowicz, François Cauchy, Safi Dokmak, Jacques Belghiti — 2012-04-23

The metastatic status of regional lymph nodes (LNs) is a well recognized prognostic factor for numerous solid tumors, and the therapeutic benefit from a regional lymphadenectomy is still debated. The incidence of metastatic LNs in patients undergoing hepatectomy with curative intent for liver malignancy varies from 5% to 45% depending on the pathologic type of the tumor, and it has a major impact on survival. Associated lymphadenectomy for primary malignant tumors of the liver has become a routine procedure in patients presenting with hepatocellular carcinoma without underlying cirrhosis and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Even though the impact of extended LN dissection on survival remains unclear in hilar and gallbladder cholangiocarcinoma, the finding that long-term survival is achievable in patients with para-aortic or distant metastasis disease as well as the necessity to improve risk stratification led several authors to perform an aggressive surgical procedure with extended LN dissections. However, the indication, extent, technical modalities, and therapeutic role of lymphadenectomy for metastatic tumors of the liver of colorectal origin are presently the objects of ongoing interests.

En Bloc Stapling Division of the Gastroesophageal Vessels Controlling Portal Hemodynamic Status in Living Donor Liver Transplantation - Corrected Proof

2012-04-23

Gastroesophageal shunts are commonly seen in patients with terminal liver disease requiring liver transplantation. These shunts cause increased portal pressure in the gastroesophageal varices, increasing the risk of rupture and also allowing hepatofugal portal flow, which causes graft hypoperfusion and dysfunction after living donor liver transplantation (LDLT). However, isolation and division of the vessels is difficult to achieve because of their anatomic properties. Moreover, obstruction of the shunt vessels may cause excessively high portal pressure, resulting in small-for-size graft dysfunction. We describe a safe and rational technique for dividing the gastroesophageal hepatofugal shunts and left gastric arteries en bloc using end-stapling devices. Using this method, we can eradiate the shunts without increasing portal pressure.

Minimally Invasive Component Separation Results in Fewer Wound-Healing Complications than Open Component Separation for Large Ventral Hernia Repairs - Corrected Proof

Shadi Ghali, Kristin C. Turza, Donald P. Baumann, Charles E. Butler — 2012-04-23

Background: Minimally invasive component separation (CS) with inlay bioprosthetic mesh (MICSIB) is a recently developed technique for abdominal wall reconstruction that preserves the rectus abdominis perforators and minimizes subcutaneous dead space using limited-access tunneled incisions. We hypothesized that MICSIB would result in better surgical outcomes than conventional open CS. Study Design: All consecutive patients who underwent CS (open or minimally invasive) with inlay bioprosthetic mesh for ventral hernia repair from 2005 to 2010 were included in a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data. Surgical outcomes, including wound-healing complications, hernia recurrences, and abdominal bulge/laxity rates, were compared between patient groups based on the type of CS repair, either MICSIB or open. Results: Fifty-seven patients who underwent MICSIB and 50 who underwent open CS were included. Mean follow-ups were 15.2 ± 7.7 months and 20.7 ± 14.3 months, respectively. Mean fascial defect size was significantly larger in the MICSIB group (405.4 ± 193.6 cm2 vs 273.8 ± 186.8 cm2; p = 0.002). The incidences of skin dehiscence (11% vs 28%; p = 0.011), all wound-healing complications (14% vs 32%; p = 0.026), abdominal wall laxity/bulge (4% vs 14%; p = 0.056), and hernia recurrence (4% vs 8%; p = 0.3) were lower in the MICSIB group than in the open CS group. Conclusions: MICSIB resulted in fewer wound-healing complications than did open CS used for complex abdominal wall reconstructions. These findings are likely attributable to the preservation of paramedian skin vascularity and reduction in subcutaneous dead space with MICSIB. MICSIB should be considered for complex abdominal wall reconstructions, particularly in patients at increased risk of wound-healing complications.

Racial Disparities and Sex-Based Outcomes Differences after Severe Injury - Corrected Proof

2012-04-23

Background: Controversy exists about the mechanisms responsible for sex-based outcomes differences post-injury. X-chromosome–linked immune response pathway polymorphisms represent a potential mechanism resulting in sex-based outcomes differences post-injury. The prevalence of these variants is known to differ across race. We sought to characterize racial differences and the strength of any sex-based dimorphism post-injury. Study Design: A retrospective analysis was performed using data derived from the National Trauma Data Bank 7.1 (2002−2006). Blunt-injured adult (older than 15 years) patients, surviving >24 hours and with an Injury Severity Score >16 were analyzed (n = 244,371). Patients were stratified by race (Caucasian, black, Hispanic, Asian) and multivariable regression analysis was used to characterize the risk of mortality and the strength of protection associated with sex (female vs male). Results: When stratified by race, multivariable models demonstrated Caucasian females had an 8.5% lower adjusted risk of mortality (odds ratio [OR] = 0.91; 95% CI, 0.88−0.95; p < 0.001) relative to Caucasian males, with no significant association found for Hispanics or blacks. An exaggerated survival benefit was afforded to Asian females relative to Asian males, having a >40% lower adjusted risk of mortality (OR = 0.59; 95% CI, 0.44−78; p < 0.001). Asian males had a >75% higher adjusted risk of mortality relative to non-Asian males (OR = 1.77; 95% CI, 1.5−2.0; p < 0.001), and no significant difference in the mortality risk was found for Asian females relative to non-Asian females. Conclusions: These results suggest that Asian race is associated with sex-based outcomes differences that are exaggerated, resulting from worse outcomes for Asian males. These racial disparities suggest a negative male X-chromosome–linked effect as the mechanism responsible for these sex-based outcomes differences.

Laparoscopic Treatment for Choledochal Cysts with Stenosis of the Common Hepatic Duct - Corrected Proof

2012-04-23

Choledochal cyst is an important cause of surgically treated jaundice in infants and children. Although total cyst excision and biliary reconstruction remain the treatment of choice, novel approaches have been developed in the past 2 decades. Neither choledochal cyst duodenostomy nor Roux-en-Y cyst jejunostomy is currently preferred. In order to reduce the incidence of postoperative complications such as recurrent cholangitis, biliary cirrhosis, and chronic inflammation, choledochal cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy or hepaticodudenostomy are now commonly used.

Effect of Repetitive Loading on the Mechanical Properties of Biological Scaffold Materials - Corrected Proof

2012-04-23

Background: Coughing, bending, and lifting raise the pressure inside the abdomen, repetitively increasing stresses on the abdominal wall and the associated scaffold. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of repetitive loading on biological scaffolds. It was hypothesized that exposure to repetitive loading would result in decreased tensile strength and that crosslinked scaffolds would resist these effects more effectively than non-crosslinked scaffolds. Study design: Nine materials were evaluated (porcine dermis: Permacol, CollaMend, Strattice, XenMatrix; human dermis: AlloMax, FlexHD; bovine pericardium: Veritas, PeriGuard; and porcine small intestine submucosa: Surgisis; in addition, Permacol, CollaMend, and PeriGuard are crosslinked). Ten specimens were hydrated and subjected to uniaxial tension to establish baseline properties. Thirty specimens were hydrated and subjected to 10, 100, or 1,000 loading cycles (n = 10 each). Results: Tensile strength remained unchanged for CollaMend, XenMatrix, Veritas, and Surgisis during all cycles (p > 0.05). However, Strattice and AlloMax exhibited reduced tensile strength, and Permacol, FlexHD, and PeriGuard exhibited a slight increase in tensile strength with increasing number of cycles. Crosslinked bovine pericardium (PeriGuard) displayed greater tensile strength than non-crosslinked bovine pericardium (Veritas) and crosslinked porcine dermis (Permacol) exhibited greater tensile strength than non-crosslinked porcine dermis (Strattice, XenMatrix) during all cycles (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Materials that rapidly lose strength after repetitive loading might not be appropriate in clinical scenarios involving elevated stresses, such as in patients with high body mass index or when replacing large areas of the abdominal wall without tissue reinforcement, although scaffolds that maintain initial tensile strength can be particularly advantageous.

Age Does Not Affect Outcomes of Nonoperative Management of Blunt Splenic Trauma - Corrected Proof

2012-04-23

Background: The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of age on the outcomes of nonoperative management (NOM) of blunt splenic trauma (BST). Study Design: The records of patients with BST, from July 2000 to December 2010 at a level I trauma center, were retrospectively reviewed using NTRACS (National Trauma Registry of the American College of Surgeons). Patients were divided into 2 age groups: 17 to 55 years and greater than 55 years. Stepwise logistic regression analysis was used to identify risk factors associated with failure of nonoperative management (FNOM). Results: There were 539 hemodynamically stable patients with BST who underwent NOM. Of these, 459 were age 55 or less, and 80 were greater than 55. Overall, there was no significant difference in FNOM rate for patients age 55 or less vs greater than 55 (4% vs 5%, p = 0.73). This also held true when FNOM was analyzed by each grade: I (1% vs 3%, p = 0.38), II (2% vs 0%, p = 1.0), III (4% vs 0%, p = 1.0), IV (8% vs 20%, p = 0.33), and V (21% vs 50%, p = 0.47). The addition of angioembolization (AE) to high grade IV to V injuries significantly lowered the FNOM rate: age 55 or less (6% AE vs 28% NO-AE, p = 0.02); with a trend toward significance for age greater than 55 (0% AE vs 60% NO-AE, p = 0.2). Age was not a statistically significant independent risk factor for FNOM (p = 0.37). Conclusions: Age does not affect outcomes of NOM of BST. High grade (IV to V) injuries are not a contraindication to NOM for patients older than 55. As experience with AE grows in patients with high grade injury and age greater than 55, it may prove to be a valuable adjunct to NOM in this group of patients.

Hospital Costs Associated with Smoking in Veterans Undergoing General Surgery - Corrected Proof

2012-04-12

Background: Approximately 30% of patients undergoing elective general surgery smoke cigarettes. The association between smoking status and hospital costs in general surgery patients is unknown. The objectives of this study were to compare total inpatient costs in current smokers, former smokers, and never smokers undergoing general surgical procedures in Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals; and to determine whether the relationship between smoking and cost is mediated by postoperative complications. Study Design: Patients undergoing general surgery during the period of October 1, 2005 to September 30, 2006 were identified in the VA Surgical Quality Improvement Program (VASQIP) data set. Inpatient costs were extracted from the VA Decision Support System (DSS). Relative surgical costs (incurred during index hospitalization and within 30 days of operation) for current and former smokers relative to never smokers, and possible mediators of the association between smoking status and cost were estimated using generalized linear regression models. Models were adjusted for preoperative and operative variables, accounting for clustering of costs at the hospital level. Results: Of the 14,853 general surgical patients, 34% were current smokers, 39% were former smokers, and 27% were never smokers. After controlling for patient covariates, current smokers had significantly higher costs compared with never smokers: relative cost was 1.04 (95% Cl 1.00 to 1.07; p = 0.04); relative costs for former smokers did not differ significantly from those of never smokers: 1.02 (95% Cl 0.99 to 1.06; p = 0.14). The relationship between smoking and hospital costs for current smokers was partially mediated by postoperative respiratory complications. Conclusions: These findings complement emerging evidence recommending effective smoking cessation programs in general surgical patients and provide an estimate of the potential savings that could be accrued during the preoperative period.

Predictors of New Findings on Repeat Head CT Scan in Blunt Trauma Patients with an Initially Negative Head CT Scan - Corrected Proof

2012-04-12

Background: Our goal was to determine the need for a repeat head CT scan when the initial CT was negative. Study Design: Data were collected from January 1, 2002 to December 31, 2008. There were 281 patients admitted to the trauma center with an initial negative head CT, who had a repeat CT during the same hospitalization. Repeat CTs were categorized into negative/negative (NNG) and negative/positive (NPG) groups. Results: There were 281 patients who underwent a repeat head CT for changes in neurologic status, persistent symptoms, follow-up, decreased mental status, or suspected bleed. Of these, 241 patients remained negative (NNG) and new abnormal findings were noted in 40 patients (NPG). There were no differences in sex (NNG, 63% males vs NPG, 75% females; p = 0.14) or average age (NNG, 51.6 ± 22.5 years vs NPG, 45.2 ± 24.6 years; p = 0.07). There was no difference in positive toxicology (NNG, 29% vs NPG, 30%; p = 0.94) or mechanism of injury (NNG, 51% motor vehicle crash [MVC] vs NPG, 62% MVC; p = 0.18). There was a significant difference in Injury Severity Score (ISS) (NNG, 10.7 ± 8.1 vs NPG, 17.9 ± 11.0; p = 0.0002) and initial Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) (NNG, 12.7 ± 3.5 vs NPG, 10.9 ± 4.2; p = 0.006). Patients with an ISS > 15 and who were intubated were associated with an increased odds of having a positive repeat CT scan (odds ratio [OR] 2.6; 95%CI 1.2, 5.5 and OR 3.5; 95% CI, 1.7, 7.3, respectively). Conclusions: Patients with a high ISS score and/or those who are intubated have significantly higher odds of having a positive repeat head CT when repeated for follow-up or when clinically warranted.

A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Early vs Late Reconstruction of Iatrogenic Bile Duct Injuries - Corrected Proof

2012-04-11

Background: Controversy exists regarding the optimal timing of repair after iatrogenic bile duct injuries (BDI). Several studies advocate late repair (≥6 weeks after injury) with mandatory drainage and resolution of inflammation. Others indicate that early repair (<6 weeks after injury) produces comparable or superior clinical outcomes. Additionally, although most studies have reported inferior outcomes with primary surgeon repair, this practice continues. With disparate published recommendations and rising health care costs, decision analysis was used to examine the cost-effectiveness of BDI repair. Study Design: A Markov model was developed to evaluate primary surgeon repair (PSR), late repair by a hepatobiliary surgeon (LHBS), and early repair by a hepatobiliary surgeon (EHBS). Baseline values and ranges were collected from the literature. Sensitivity analsyses were conducted to test the strength of the model and variability of parameters. Results: The model demonstrated that EHBS was associated with lower costs, earlier return to normal activity, and better quality of life. Specifically, 1 year after repair, PSR yielded 0.53 quality adjusted life years (QALYs) ($120,000/QALY) and LHBS yielded 0.74 QALYs ($74,000/QALY); EHBS yielded 0.82 QALYs ($48,000/QALY). Sensitivity analyses supported these findings at clinically meaningful probabilities. Conclusions: This cost-effectiveness model demonstrates that early repair by a hepatobiliary surgeon is the superior strategy for the treatment of BDI in properly selected patients. Although there is little clinical difference between early and late repair, there is a great difference in cost and quality of life. Ideally, costs and quality of life should be considered in decisions regarding strategies of repair of injured bile ducts.

Application of Total Care Time and Payment per Unit Time Model for Physician Reimbursement for Common General Surgery Operations - Corrected Proof

2012-04-09

Background: The relative value unit system relies on subjective measures of physician input in the care of patients. A payment per unit time model incorporates surgeon reimbursement to the total care time spent in the operating room, postoperative in-house, and clinic time to define payment per unit time. We aimed to compare common general surgery operations by using the total care time and payment per unit time method in order to demonstrate a more objective measurement for physician reimbursement. Study Design: Average total physician payment per case was obtained for 5 outpatient operations and 4 inpatient operations in general surgery. Total care time was defined as the sum of operative time, 30 minutes per hospital day, and 30 minutes per office visit for each operation. Payment per unit time was calculated by dividing the physician reimbursement per case by the total care time. Results: Total care time, physician payment per case, and payment per unit time for each type of operation demonstrated that an average payment per time spent for inpatient operations was $455.73 and slightly more at $467.51 for outpatient operations. Partial colectomy with primary anastomosis had the longest total care time (8.98 hours) and the least payment per unit time ($188.52). Laparoscopic gastric bypass had the highest payment per time ($707.30). Conclusions: The total care time and payment per unit time method can be used as an adjunct to compare reimbursement among different operations on an institutional level as well as on a national level. Although many operations have similar payment trends based on time spent by the surgeon, payment differences using this methodology are seen and may be in need of further review.