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Lung cancer remains a major public health problem. There remain differences in mortality among socioeconomic and racial groups. Using The Society of Thoracic Surgeons General Thoracic Surgery database, we attempted to determine whether there were differences in treatment choices by thoracic surgeons based on patients' race or insurance. Using data from 2012 to 2017, we analyzed data from 75,774 patients with a diagnosis of lung cancer for whom complete information on race, insurance, or both was available, and who had undergone a pulmonary resection. We categorized 66,614 operations (87.9%) into standard (lobectomy, bilobectomy, or wedge excision) and 9160 (12.1%) into complex (pneumonectomy, sleeve or bronchoplastic resection, segmentectomy, or Pancoast resection) operations. Univariate and multiple variable logistic regression models were used to assess associations with receipt of a complex operation. Patients with private insurance had a higher incidence of complex operations (14.4%) compared with patients with government insurance (11.6%) (P <.0001). We also found a higher incidence of complex operations in White patients (12.2%) compared with Nonwhite patients (11.3%; P =.0054). On multivariate analysis, patients with private insurance were significantly more likely to have a complex operation (odds ratio = 1.08; P <.03) and Nonwhite patients were less likely to have a complex operation (odds ratio = 0.93; P =.04) respectively. In this cohort of patients from The Society of Thoracic Surgeons General Thoracic Surgery database, White patients and those with private insurance had a higher incidence of complex operations. Many factors affect the decision to proceed with a complex thoracic surgical operation; type of medical insurance and race may represent 2 of them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patient-reported reflux is among the most common symptoms after esophagectomy. This study aimed to determine predictors of patient-reported reflux and to ascertain whether a preserved pylorus would protect patients from symptomatic reflux. A prospective clinical study recorded patient-reported reflux after esophagectomy from August 2015 to July 2018. Eligible patients were at least 6 months from creation of a traditional posterior mediastinal gastric conduit, had completed at least 1 reflux questionnaire, and had the pylorus treated either temporarily (≥100 IU Botox [onabotulinumtoxinA]) or permanently (pyloromyotomy or pyloroplasty). Of the 110 patients meeting inclusion criteria, the median age was 65 years, and 88 of the 110 (80%) were male. Botox was used in 15 (14%) patients, pyloromyotomy in 88 (80%), and pyloroplasty in 7 (6%). A thoracic anastomosis was performed in 78 (71%) patients, and a cervical anastomosis was performed in 32 (29%). Esophagectomy was performed for malignant disease in 105 of 110 (95%), and 78 of 110 (71%) patients were treated with perioperative chemoradiation. Multivariable linear regression analysis revealed that patient-reported reflux was significantly worse in patients with shorter gastric conduit lengths (P =.02) and in patients who did not undergo perioperative chemoradiation (P =.01). No significant difference was found between patients treated with pyloric drainage and those treated with Botox. The absence of perioperative chemoradiation therapy and a shorter gastric conduit were predictors of patient-reported reflux after esophagectomy. Although few patients had Botox, preservation of the pylorus did not appear to affect patient-reported reflux. Further objective studies are needed to confirm these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this initiative was to perform a prospective, multicenter survey of patients after lung resection to assess the amount of opioid medication consumed and the disposition of unused opioids to inform the development of evidence-based prescribing guidelines. Adults undergoing lung resection with either minimally invasive surgery (MIS; n = 108) or thoracotomy (n = 45) were identified prospectively from 3 academic centers (from March 2017 to January 2018) to complete a 28-question telephone survey 21 to 35 days after discharge. Discharge opioids were converted into morphine milligram equivalents (MME) and were compared across patient and surgical details. Of the 153 patients who completed the survey, 89.5% (137) received opioids at discharge with a median prescription of 320 MME (interquartile range [IQR], 225, 450 MME) after MIS and 450 MME (IQR, 300, 600 MME) after thoracotomy (P =.001). Median opioid consumption varied by surgical approach: 90 MME (IQR, 0, 262.5) after MIS and 300 MME (IQR, 50, 382.5 MME) after thoracotomy (P <.001). The majority of patients (73.7%; 101) had residual opioid medication at the time of the survey, and patients after MIS had a relative increase in amount of remaining opioid medication: 58.3% vs 33.3% (P =.05) of the original prescription. Only 5.9% of patients with opioids remaining had properly disposed of them. Although patients undergoing MIS lung resection used significantly less opioid medication over a shorter duration of time than did patients after thoracotomy, they had relatively more excess opioid prescription. Evidence-based, procedure-specific guidelines with tailored pain regimens should be developed and implemented to reduce the amount of postoperative opioid medication remaining in the community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Morgagni hernias are rare congenital diaphragmatic hernias that often do not become clinically significant until adulthood. The purpose of this study was to characterize the preoperative findings and describe surgical outcomes of Morgagni hernia repair based on operative approach. Methods Charts of patients who underwent repair of a Morgagni hernia were retrospectively reviewed from 1987 to 2015. Medical records were reviewed for demographics, symptoms, comorbidities, surgical approach, hospital course, complications, and preoperative imaging. Results Forty-three cases were identified, 23 male and 20 female. Median age was 50.4 years, and median body mass index was 33.1 kg/m2. Most common presenting symptoms were respiratory (35.7%) and gastrointestinal (28.6%). Although 83.3% of cases were newly diagnosed, none required emergent repair. Preoperative imaging demonstrated an average hernia size of 8.2 cm. Surgical approaches included laparotomy (62.8%), laparoscopic (23.3%), and thoracotomy (14%). Primary hernia repair was most common (72%). Comparing laparotomy, thoracotomy, and laparoscopic approaches, mesh repair was more common with laparoscopy (p = 0.005), operative time was shortest with laparotomy (p = 0.029), and hospital length of stay was shortest with laparoscopy (p = 0.024). The most common complication was incisional/port site hernia, with no statistical significance between surgical approaches. There was one Morgagni hernia recurrence. Conclusions Morgagni hernias often present with respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms and require repair. All cases in our series were repaired electively. Regardless of approach recurrence rate was low (2.3%) and complication rate was similar between laparoscopic, laparotomy, and thoracotomy. Given the shorter length of stay with similar recurrence rates, a laparoscopic approach is a viable option for repair of Morgagni hernia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Persistent air leak can complicate pulmonary resection, and one management option is dismissal with a chest tube in place. This study evaluated the rate of empyema and readmission after dismissal with a chest tube. Methods A retrospective review of our prospective database from January 2004 to December 2013 identified 236 patients who were discharged from our institution with an indwelling chest tube and attached one-way valve for air leak. Empyema was defined by leukocytosis or fever and undrained effusion on chest roentgenogram or computed tomography. Readmission was defined as readmission for any reason. Logistic regression analyses were performed to identify risk factors for empyema or readmission. Results Median age was 67 years (range, 18 to 91 years). Median chest tube duration was 18 days (range, 6 to 90 days). Empyema occurred in 40 patients (16.9%), and 62 patients (26.3%) were readmitted. Treatment required included antibiotics alone in 45% (18 of 40), further drainage in 30% (12 of 40), fibrinolytic therapy in 12.5% (5 of 40), and operative decortication in 12.5% (5 of 40). Predictors of empyema included male sex, coronary artery disease, and peripheral vascular disease. A secondary analysis grouping patients into an earlier era (2004 to 2008) vs a later era (2009 to 2013) revealed that the use of thoracoscopy increased from 34% to 48% of lung resections and dismissal with a chest tube increased from 3.4% to 4.5% ( p = 0.03). Conclusions Dismissal with an indwelling chest tube is not without consequence, having significant risk for further complications and potential need for additional interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Postoperative chylothorax can be managed by any or all of observation, parenteral nutrition, surgical duct ligation, pleurodesis, or thoracic duct embolization. The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of standard therapies, such as surgical duct ligation and observation, compared with newer treatment methods (thoracic duct embolization). Methods A prospectively maintained database at a single institution was used to identify and review patients with postoperative chylothorax from 2008 to 2015. Results Postoperative chylothorax occurred in 97 patients, including 54 men (56%). The median age was 61 years (range, 24 to 87 years). Thoracic duct leak followed esophagectomy in 46 patients (47%), pulmonary resection in 30 (31%), mediastinal mass resection in 7 (8%), and after other procedures in 15. Of 28 medically observed patients achieving resolution without intervention, the median peak chest tube output in 24 hours was 725 mL compared with 1,910 mL in the group that required intervention ( p = 0.0001). Thoracic duct ligation was successful in 44 of 52 patients that proceeded to the operating room (85%). Of the 40 patients undergoing diagnostic lymphangiography, a leak was identified in 34 (85%), but the cisterna chyli could only be cannulated in 19 (48%) and was subsequently successful in 15 (38%). Conclusions Patients with chylous chest tube outputs of 1,100 mL or more in 24 hours postoperatively should be considered for intervention. Intention-to-treat analysis shows surgical duct ligation is more effective than thoracic duct embolization, with the ability to cannulate the cisterna chyli being the limiting factor. Lymphangiography may help determine which patients are better treated with ligation or embolization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The outcomes research efforts based on The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) General Thoracic Surgery Database include two established research programs with dedicated task forces and with data analyses conducted at the STS data analytic center: (1) The STS-sponsored research by the Access and Publications program, and (2) grant and institutionally funded research by the Longitudinal Follow-Up and Linked Registries Task Force. Also, the STS recently introduced the research program enabling investigative teams to apply for access to deidentified patient-level General Thoracic Surgery Database data sets and conduct related analyses at their own institution. Last year’s General Thoracic Surgery Database–based research publications and the new Participant User File research program are reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The current national trends, practice patterns, and outcomes after sleeve resection compared with pneumonectomy in the United States are not known. In addition, whether hospital sleeve-to-pneumonectomy (S:P) ratios are a valid marker of hospital quality is unclear. We describe practice patterns and evaluate the utility of the S:P ratio. Methods We identified all patients (N = 23,964) undergoing sleeve resection (n = 1,713) or pneumonectomy (n = 22,251) in the National Cancer Data Base between 1998 and 2012 at 644 hospitals. We used propensity score matching to compare short-term outcomes and overall survival between pneumonectomy and sleeve resection. We grouped hospitals into S:P ratio quintiles and used multilevel modeling to analyze hospital-level outcomes. Results There has been a 1% yearly increase in sleeve resection rates, with wide variation in hospital S:P ratios (middle quintile, 1:12; range, 1:38 to 1:3). After propensity score matching, differences in age, clinical T and N stage, and the incidence of main bronchus tumors were negligible among other variables. Sleeve resections were associated with lower 30-day (1.6% vs 5.9%; p < 0.001) and 90-day mortality (4% vs 9.4%; p < 0.001) and improved overall survival. Hospitals with higher S:P ratios were not associated with better risk-adjusted 30-day (7.2% vs 7.4%; p = 0.244) or 90-day mortality (11.9% vs 12.2%; p = 0.308) or same-hospital readmission rates (3.7% vs 4.3%; p = 0.523). Conclusions Compared with pneumonectomy, sleeve resections are associated with improved short-term outcomes and improved overall survival. However, hospital S:P ratios were not associated with better risk-adjusted outcomes and thus may not be a valid quality measure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) surveyed cardiothoracic surgeon participants in its Adult Cardiac Surgery Database (ACSD) to learn the extent of surgeon involvement in transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) procedures. Methods An electronic survey was delivered to 2,594 surgeons in June 2016. When the survey closed 2 weeks later, 487 completed surveys had been submitted for a response rate of 18.8%. Results Among the 487 participants in the ACSD who responded to the survey, 410 (84.2%) reported that TAVR was performed at their institutions. Approximately three-quarters reported that they performed TAVR procedures as part of a heart team (77.5%; 313 of 404), cardiologists and cardiothoracic surgeons were jointly responsible for TAVR referrals (83.7%; 339 of 405), and TAVR programs were administered either jointly by the cardiology and cardiac surgery departments or exclusively by the cardiac surgery department (73.3%; 297 of 405). A majority were involved in the pre-, intra-, and postoperative care of patients undergoing TAVR, with 91.4% (370 of 405) reporting participation in multidisciplinary meetings, at least 50% regularly performing technical aspects in 10 of 11 conduct of operation categories, and 86.6% (266 of 307) caring for patients undergoing TAVR after the procedure. Conclusions Cardiac surgeons in the United States are active participants in the management of patients with aortic stenosis as part of the heart team. The STS survey found that not only were they actively involved in the treatment decision-making process but they also played a significant role in the valve procedure, including deployment and postprocedural care. The heart team model continues to evolve and should be expanded into other areas of structural heart disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Unplanned readmissions are adverse clinical events that negatively impact patients and affect the use of health care resources. Identifying risk factors that can predict readmissions might permit individualized patient management. We compiled a complete account of readmissions after all lung resections over a year to identify potentially modifiable risk factors. Methods All patients undergoing elective lung resection between August 1, 2013 and July 31, 2014 were contacted directly to determine whether they had been readmitted to any institution within 30 days of discharge from our service. Demographic data were supplemented from our prospectively maintained database. Follow-up was complete in 100% of patients. Results Over the 12-month study period, 582 lung resections were performed. Five hundred fifty-four resections in 532 patients were performed with the thoracic surgical service as the primary service. Of these patients, 505 undergoing 521 resections consented for their data to be included in the study, and they all survived to 30 days. Mean age was 62.3 years (standard deviation [SD], 13.8 years). The male to female ratio was 265:240. Fifteen pneumonectomies, 222 lesser anatomic resections in 215 patients, and 270 nonanatomic (wedge) resections in 261 patients were performed; 14 other miscellaneous resections were performed in 14 patients. Thirty-day mortality was 1% (5 of 510 patients). There were 4 in-hospital deaths and 1 additional mortality within 30 days. Unplanned readmissions occurred in 42 patients (42 of 505 patients [8.3%])—28 (67%) at our institution and 14 (33%) at other institutions. The median interval to readmission was 14 days. Readmissions occurred in 7.3% of patients discharged home, whereas 19.4% of patients discharged to a nursing home or other facility required readmission ( p = 0.041). The most common reason for readmission was respiratory complications (47%). Significant factors ( p < 0.05) associated with increased risk of readmission were lower percent predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV 1 ), longer operative time, perioperative furosemide administration, pain score of 6 or greater between 12 and 24 hours after the operation, prolonged air leakage (>5 days), blood transfusion, and discharge to a nursing home. Length of stay after lung resection was not a risk factor for unplanned readmission. Conclusions The unplanned readmission rate after lung resection for our cohort was 8.3%, with half resulting from respiratory issues. Risk factors in the preoperative, perioperative, and postoperative setting were identified that may provide opportunities for mitigating these adverse events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) and esophagectomy are treatment options for cT1 esophageal adenocarcinoma. Our aim was to study outcomes for patients undergoing EMR then esophagectomy. Methods We identified patients undergoing EMR and esophagectomy for cT1 esophageal adenocarcinoma over 10 years. EMR histology was used to predict nodal involvement with a risk-scoring tool. Patient demographics, surgical techniques, pathology, postoperative outcomes, and survival were recorded. Results Of 1,092 that esophagectomies were performed, 51 patients underwent EMR and esophagectomy for cT1 esophageal adenocarcinoma. The mean time between EMR and esophagectomy was 4 (SD,8.0) months. According to the risk-scoring tool based on EMR histology, 1 patient was low risk, 13 (25%) were at moderate risk, and 37 (73%) were at high risk for lymph node metastasis. The time between EMR and the surgical intervention was longer and more patients had multiple EMRs in the moderate-risk group (9 vs 1.4 months, p = 0.03) compared with the high-risk group (38% vs 11% patients, p = 0.04). Operative mortality was 4% and morbidity was 43%. Pneumonia occurred in 3 of 51 patients (6%), atrial fibrillation in 4 (8%), and clinical anastomotic leak in 6 (12%). Of the 51 patients, 14 (27%) were upstaged after esophagectomy. Nodal involvement was present in 3 of 13 moderate-risk patients (23%) and in 7 of 37 high-risk patients (19%). The 5-year survival was reduced in moderate-risk compared with high-risk patients (54% vs 84%, p = 0.04). Conclusions Studying outcomes for cT1 esophageal adenocarcinoma is important. These patients can be divided into those undergoing EMR for staging before esophagectomy and those in whom esophagectomy is a salvage procedure after therapeutic EMRs. Care should be taken to avoid upstaging of patients in the latter group, and we recommend frequent restaging and surveillance to prevent undetected progression of disease. A low threshold for esophagectomy when EMR fails to control disease should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background This study examined the variation in the adoption of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) for lobectomy across United States hospitals from a population-based national database. Methods We used the National Cancer Data Base to identify patients undergoing lobectomy between 2010 and 2012 and used hierarchical regression to estimate case-mix–adjusted VATS lobectomy rates using patient and tumor characteristics. We stratified hospitals into quintiles by adjusted VATS lobectomy rates. To account for lack of equipment to perform minimally invasive thoracoscopic operations, we also obtained data on VATS wedge resections. Results Of 55,972 cancer lobectomies performed at 905 hospitals, 17,072 (30.5%) were VATS. Crude hospital VATS use varied widely (mean was 25.5% of all lobectomies per hospital; interquartile range, 4.4% to 42.3%). Variation persisted after case-mix adjustment. For example, VATS rates at the highest and lowest quintiles were 76% vs 0.6%, respectively. Differences in patient and tumor characteristics across quintiles were negligible, and there was no indication that those hospitals lacked VATS equipment. The risk-adjusted same-hospital readmission (6.7% vs 7%; p > 0.2), 30-day mortality (1.5% vs 1.5%; p > 0.2), and 90-day mortality (2.9% vs 2.7%; p = 0.038) rates were similar between the highest and lowest quintiles. Length of stay was shorter at hospitals in the highest VATS quintile (6.6 vs 7.4 days; p < 0.001). Conclusions Adoption of VATS lobectomy varies widely across United States hospitals. This variation cannot be explained by patient or tumor characteristics or by a shortage of VATS equipment. Efforts to reduce this variation will require the dissemination and implementation of novel training techniques and learning opportunities for surgeons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Five-year survival of stage IV esophageal cancer is rare. The treatment of advanced esophageal cancer is typically palliative and the role of surgery remains controversial. We sought to understand the impact of curative surgery on survival and identify any favorable tumor or patient characteristics that might make surgical resection appropriate when treating stage IV esophageal cancer. Methods A retrospective review of 3,500 esophagectomies performed at our institution from 1985 to 2013 identified 52 (1.5%) patients with stage IV esophageal cancer who underwent surgical resection with intent for cure. In 46 (88.5%) patients, M1 disease was discovered at the time of surgery and 6 (11.5%) patients had known M1 disease prior to surgery. Results Median age at the time of surgery was 60 years (range, 31 to 81 years). The majority of patients were men (82.7%) with adenocarcinoma (88.5%). Neoadjuvant therapy was used in 18 (34.6%) patients; all patients operated on after 1999 received neoadjuvant therapy. An Ivor Lewis esophagectomy was performed in 39 (75%) patients. Follow-up was complete in all patients for a median of 324 days (range, 4 days to 8.5 years). Overall, 1-year survival was 29% and 5-year survival was 6%. There was no significant difference in survival between patients with known preoperative versus intraoperative discovery of M1 disease. Factors associated with improved survival included neoadjuvant treatment, low T stage, and lack of alcohol use. Conclusions Few patients with stage IV esophageal cancer survive long term after surgical resection, though 5-year survival can occur. Our current recommendation is that esophagectomy should not be performed for stage IV disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Society of Thoracic Surgeons General Thoracic Surgery Database has grown to more than 500,000 case records. Clinical research supported by the database is increasingly used to advance patient outcomes. This research review from the General Thoracic Surgery Database in 2014 and 2015 discusses 6 recent publications and an ongoing study on longitudinal outcomes in lung cancer surgery from The Society of Thoracic Surgeons Task Force for Linked Registries and Longitudinal Follow-up. A lack of database variables specific for certain uncommon procedures limits the ability to study these operations; inclusion of clinical descriptors for selected infrequent but clinically important thoracic disorders is suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The feasibility and efficacy of a web-based curriculum in supplementing thoracic surgical training was previously shown. However, the impact of curricular participation on validated knowledge tests remains unknown. We compared in-service training examination (ITE) results among trainees, stratified by curricular use. Methods The national online curriculum was implemented in August 2013. We retrospectively reviewed trainees who participated in thoracic surgical training programs in both 2012 to 2013 and 2013 to 2014. Scores from the 2013 and 2014 ITEs were obtained, and curricular usage data were collected from site analytics. Trainees were separated into three groups according to 2013 ITE scores; within each group, changes in score for high- versus low-volume users were compared. Results 187 trainees took the ITE both years, with exposure to the online curriculum during only the second year. High-volume users’ scores trended toward greater improvement than scores of low-volume users (+18.2% versus +13.0%, p = 0.199). When stratified by 2013 score, the lowest scoring quartile improved substantially, and the highest scoring quartile improved modestly, regardless of curricular use. However, for those individuals who achieved mid-range scores in 2013, there was a trend toward much greater improvement in score with heavier use of the curriculum (+17.0% versus +7.0%, p = 0.094). Conclusions Among trainees who had access to the novel online curriculum during the second of 2 consecutive years, we evaluated the impact of curricular participation on ITE scores. The effect appears to be most pronounced in individuals with mid-range scores, in whom high curricular use led to the greatest improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background There are very few randomized trials confirming the belief that prolonged urinary catheterization increases urinary tract infections, and none of these have included a comparative analysis of patients with an epidural catheter in place. The aim of this prospective randomized trial was to determine if removal of the urinary catheter within 48 hours after a thoracic operation, as required by the Surgical Care Improvement Project (SCIP) Measure 9, leads to increases in urinary tract reintervention and lower rates of urinary tract infections. Methods From February 2012 to August 2014, patients undergoing a general thoracic surgical procedure in whom an epidural catheter was placed for analgesia were eligible for inclusion in the trial. Patients were randomized to urinary catheter removal within 48 hours of the operation completion or 6 hours after epidural catheter removal. Results The study enrolled 374 patients, 217 men (58%) and 157 women (42%). The 247 eligible and evaluated patients, 141 (57.1%) men and 106 (42.9%) women, were a median age of 61.5 years (range, 21 to 87 years). There were no statistically significant differences in any of the preoperative or operative categories between the two groups. Median length of stay was 5 days (range, 2 to 42 days) for all patients, and there was no difference between the two groups. Postoperatively, 19 patients (7.7%) required urinary catheter reinsertion after it was removed. A significantly greater number of patients in the early removal group required reinsertion of the urinary catheter (15 [12.4%] vs 4 [3.2%]); p = 0.0065). Patients whose urinary catheter was removed within 48 hours of the operation had a much higher rate of bladder scans postoperatively (59.5% [n = 72]) and required more in-and-out catheterization than those whose urinary catheter was removed 6 hours after the epidural analgesia was discontinued (31.0% [n = 39]; p < 0.0001). The only documented urinary tract infection in the entire cohort occurred in a patient whose urinary catheter was removed within 48 hours after the operation. No urinary tract infections developed in the 126 patients whose urinary catheter remained in place until the epidural catheter was removed. Conclusions In a randomized control trial, patients with an epidural catheter in place after a general thoracic surgical operation have a higher rate of urinary problems when the urinary catheter is removed early, while the epidural catheter is still in place, compared with patients whose urinary catheter is removed after the epidural analgesia is discontinued. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Accurate pathologic nodal staging mandates effective collaboration between surgeons and pathologists. The American College of Surgeons Oncology Group Z0030 trial (ACOSOG Z0030) tightly controlled surgical lymphadenectomy practice but not pathologic examination practice. We tested the survival impact of the thoroughness of pathologic examination (using the number of examined lymph nodes as a surrogate). Methods We re-analyzed the mediastinal lymph node dissection arm of ACOSOG Z0030, using logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards models. Results Of 513 patients, 435 were pN0, 60 were pN1, and 17 were pN2. The mean number of mediastinal lymph nodes examined was 13.5, 13.1, and 17.1; station 10 lymph nodes were 2.4, 2.7, and 2.6; station 11 to 14 nodes were 4.6, 6.1, and 6.7; and total lymph nodes were 19.7, 21.3, and 25.4 respectively. The pN category and histologic evaluation were associated with increased number of examined intrapulmonary lymph nodes. Patients with pN1 had more non-hilar N1 nodes than patients with pN0, patients with N2 had more N2 nodes examined than patients with pN0 or pN1. Patients with pN0 had better survival with examination of more N1 nodes; patients with pN1 had better survival with increased mediastinal nodal examination; the likelihood of discovering N2 disease was significantly associated with increased examination of mediastinal and non-hilar N1 lymph nodes. Conclusions Despite rigorously standardized surgical hilar/mediastinal lymphadenectomy, the number of lymph nodes examined was associated with the likelihood of detecting nodal metastasis and survival. This may indicate an effect of incomplete pathologic examination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The purpose of this analysis was to revise the model for perioperative risk for esophagectomy for cancer utilizing The Society of Thoracic Surgeons General Thoracic Surgery Database to provide enhanced risk stratification and quality improvement measures for contributing centers. Methods The Society of Thoracic Surgeons General Thoracic Surgery Database was queried for all patients treated for esophageal cancer with esophagectomy between July 1, 2011, and June 30, 2014. Multivariable risk models for major morbidity, perioperative mortality, and combined morbidity and mortality were created with the inclusion of surgical approach as a risk factor. Results In all, 4,321 esophagectomies were performed by 164 participating centers. The most common procedures included Ivor Lewis (32.5%), transhiatal (21.7%), minimally invasive esophagectomy, Ivor Lewis type (21.4%), and McKeown (10.0%). Sixty-nine percent of patients received induction therapy. Perioperative mortality (inpatient and 30-day) was 135 of 4,321 (3.4%). Major morbidity occurred in 1,429 patients (33.1%). Major morbidities include unexpected return to operating (15.6%), anastomotic leak (12.9%), reintubation (12.2%), initial ventilation beyond 48 hours (3.5%), pneumonia (12.2%), renal failure (2.0%), and recurrent laryngeal nerve paresis (2.0%). Statistically significant predictors of combined major morbidity or mortality included age more than 65 years, body mass index 35 kg/m 2 or greater, preoperative congestive heart failure, Zubrod score greater than 1, McKeown esophagectomy, current or former smoker, and squamous cell histology. Conclusion Thoracic surgeons participating in The Society of Thoracic Surgeons General Thoracic Surgery Database perform esophagectomy with low morbidity and mortality. McKeown esophagectomy is an independent predictor of combined postoperative morbidity or mortality. Revised predictors for perioperative outcome were identified to facilitate quality improvement processes and hospital comparisons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose Three-dimensional (3D) printing of anatomic models for complex surgical cases improves patient and resident education, operative team planning, and guides the operation. Our group describes two additional dimensions. Description The process of 5-dimensional (5D) printing was developed for surgical planning. Pretreatment computed tomography and positron emission tomography scans were reformatted and fused. Selected anatomy from these studies, along with posttreatment computed tomography and magnetic resonance images, were coregistered and segmented. This fused anatomy was converted into stereolithography files for 3D printing. Evaluation A patient presenting with a complex thoracic tumor was selected for 5D printing. 3D and 5D models were prepared to allow surgical teams to directly evaluate and compare the added benefits of information provided by printing in 5 dimensions. Conclusions Printing 5D models in patients with complex thoracic pathology facilitates surgical planning, selecting margins for resection, anticipating potential difficulties, teaching for learners, and education for patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The Joint Council on Thoracic Surgical Education was formed in 2008 to improve cardiothoracic education. Resident learning has been a concern as reflected in declining passing rates on the American Board of Thoracic Surgery examinations. The Joint Council on Thoracic Surgical Education piloted a program to determine whether early exposure to a cardiothoracic curriculum through participation in a board review course would improve learning. The purpose of this paper is to report the results of this project. Methods Residents from the incoming classes of traditional 5-2 or 5-3 cardiothoracic training programs were randomly selected to attend a 3-day board review course (University of Utah) in September of their first year. For the 2012 and 2013 classes of cardiothoracic residents, we asked all incoming residents to take the prior spring in-training examination in July of their first year and then take the in-training examination in the spring of their first year. We combined the results of the incoming class of 2012 and 2013 and analyzed the results. Results There were 171 residents who participated in either 2012 or 2013. There were 38 residents (78.9% were men) who attended the board review course and 133 (79.7% men) who did not. Questionnaires completed by the program directors and the residents who took the review course showed a favorable opinion of the program. The number of correct answers on the in-training examination, the percentage correct, and the percentile rank score increased more for the residents who took the review course, but was not statistically significant. When only the general thoracic surgery questions were analyzed, there was a statistically significant increase in the rank change between residents who attended the review course and residents who did not (8.4% increase versus 2.0% decrease, respectively; p = 0.042, Student t test). Conclusions This pilot study established for the first time the baseline level of knowledge of incoming residents assessed by the in-training examination. Participation in a board review type course early in the residency training program may increase learning by cardiothoracic residents, but there was not a clear statistical difference between the two groups. The program was viewed as favorable by both the participating residents and the program directors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Although surgical resection of adenocarcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus is standard practice, the treatment strategy for other malignant rare esophageal cancers is still under debate. The aim of this study was to examine the treatment of rare malignant esophageal cancers and to evaluate the survival of these patients. Methods A retrospective review of all esophagectomies performed at Mayo Clinic from 1980 to 2014 (approximately 4,000 cases) identified 24 patients with histologic features other than adenocarcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma. Their medical records were reviewed for demographics, presenting symptoms, evaluation, surgical management, pathologic features, and short-term and long-term outcome. Results Pathologic identifications included small cell carcinoma, lymphoma, and undifferentiated carcinoma in 4 (16.7%) patients each and neuroendocrine, melanoma, leiomyosarcoma, sarcomatoid, sarcoma, and gastrointestinal stromal tumor in 2 (8.3%) patients each. The most common presenting symptoms included dysphasia in 91.7% patients (22/24), pain in 75.0% (18/24), and weight loss in 62.5% (15/24). Preoperative evaluation included barium swallow in 91.7% (22/24), computed tomography in 91.7% (22/24), positron emission tomography in 54.2% (13/24), esophagogastroduodenoscopy in 100% (24/24), and endoscopic ultrasonography in 29.2% (7/24) patients. The location of the tumor was at the gastroesophageal junction in 41.7% (10/24). There was no operative mortality, and 13 patients (54.16%) had at least one postoperative adverse event. The 1-year survival after esophagectomy was 69.7%, the 5-year survival was 42.7%, and the 10-year survival was 37.4%. Conclusions Esophageal cancer with pathologic features other than squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma is rare. Esophagectomy for rare types of malignant esophageal cancers should be considered part of the effective treatment paradigm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Improving the quality of surgical care through accurate measurement of outcomes is an important endeavor. The purpose of this study was to compare data from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS NSQIP) and The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) general thoracic surgery database to determine if a sampling technique (ACS NSQIP) is as effective and accurate as the comprehensive technique (STS database). Methods A common data abstractor collected and recorded data for the ACS NSQIP and STS database from our institution for the year 2012. The data was completely deidentified and analyzed for demographics, preoperative risk factors, mortality, and morbidity. Results The STS database recorded 1,595 (100%) operations for the year 2012, whereas the ACS NSQIP by design collects a limited sample and recorded 308 (19.3%) operations. Postoperative events were recorded in 17.2% of ACS NSQIP operations and in 30.1% of operations reported in the STS database. As more specific operations are examined, errors in the NSQIP data increase significantly. For example, the ACS NSQIP underestimated the pneumonia rate for lobectomy (5.9% versus 10.9%) and overestimated the pneumonia rate for an Ivor Lewis esophagogastrectomy (23.8% vs 18.8%). When the ACS NSQIP was used to compare our institution to the ACS NSQIP national norms, our institution was ranked in the lowest eighth decile for 30-day operative mortality; however, we were better than average when using STS database data (1.2% [2 of 162 procedures] vs 1.4% [538 of 37,324 procedures]) for pulmonary resections and 3.0% (3 of 100 procedures) vs 3.6% [138 of 3,865 procedures] for esophagectomy). Conclusions Databases built on partial sampling that do not capture all patients, such as the ACS NSQIP, may be useful for global analyses, but fall short of providing a foundation for meaningful quality improvement initiatives when analyzing data for specific thoracic surgical operations. These results highlight the utility and importance of complete databases such as the STSDB. National comparisons of clinical outcomes for thoracic surgical procedures should be interpreted with caution when using partial databases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background We aimed to compare long-term survival and quality of life (QOL) outcomes after bilobectomy and lobectomy for non-small cell lung cancer patients. Methods A cohort of 951 consecutive patients was identified from a single treatment institution, of whom 128 underwent bilobectomy and 823, lobectomy. Propensity score matching (1:3) was applied to balance known confounders between the two surgical groups and resulted in 512 patients (matched cohort). Unmatched and matched analyses were performed to compare clinical outcomes between the two groups, including operative mortality rate, morbidity rate, long-term survival, overall QOL, and specific symptoms. Results Operative mortality was higher in the bilobectomy group than in the lobectomy group (2.3% versus 0.5%, p = 0.022). Morbidity rates did not differ significantly between the two groups in either unmatched or matched cohort. In the unmatched analysis, the overall survival (OS [ p = 0.003]) and disease-free survival (DFS [ p = 0.003]) were significantly lower in the bilobectomy group; whereas in the matched analysis, no significant difference was found in either OS ( p = 0.473) or DFS ( p = 0.387). Using multivariate analysis, the operation type was not found to be a significant factor for either OS (hazard ratio 1.18; 95% confidence interval: 0.91 to 1.52; p = 0.22) or DFS (hazard ratio 1.22; 95% confidence interval: 0.95 to 1.58; p = 0.13). Patients who underwent bilobectomy appeared to have similar measures of QOL as lobectomy patients, except for coughing and dyspnea. Conclusions Our findings indicate that patients with non-small cell lung cancer treated with bilobectomy had similar morbidity, OS, DFS, and overall QOL as patients treated with lobectomy, but had higher mortality by matched analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Cardiothoracic surgical education faces numerous challenges, including reduced duty hours and diminishing prioritization of teaching, in the setting of rapidly advancing knowledge, skills, and case complexity. Pass rates on the American Board of Thoracic Surgery exam remain suboptimal, and new training formats are being evaluated. We hypothesize that Internet-based courses can be developed and implemented to supplement learning of basic topics in cardiothoracic surgery. Methods After a needs assessment, 4 online self-study courses were developed by content experts using a Moodle [modular object-oriented dynamic learning environment] platform. As a pilot cohort, students from 4 thoracic surgery training programs participated, accessing courses at their own pace. Each course included general and detailed readings, multimedia content, discussion forum, and a question-bank supported quiz (90% required to pass, multiple attempts allowed). Utilization and exam data were tracked electronically. The t tests were used to compare first versus final-year traditional track trainees. Post-course surveys collected data on trainee attitudes. Results Nineteen students completed 4 courses on tracheal disease. Mean time spent per course and quiz attempts to pass were 1.35 hours and 2.86, respectively. Scores improved with successive attempts. Senior trainees showed a trend toward less time per course and fewer quiz attempts. Post-course surveys uniformly demonstrated perceived benefits from the content and quizzes in an easy-to-navigate format. Conclusions Online courses can be developed and integrated within cardiothoracic training programs. This pilot demonstrates evidence of active learning as shown through the embedded assessments. Internet-based courses may serve as a means of supplementing modern thoracic surgical training. Further development and evaluation are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Chest wall herniation has been described after thoracotomy, trauma, and violent coughing episodes. Few studies have examined risk factors associated with chest wall herniation or predictors of complications after surgical repair. Methods A divisional database identified all patients who underwent chest wall herniorrhaphy between 1992 and 2011. Data were collected on patient age, sex, body mass index (BMI), cause and location of hernia, comorbidities, duration and technique of herniorrhaphy, postoperative complications, and hospital length of stay. Risk factors for chest wall herniation were then examined, and primary repair was compared with prosthetic repair for differences in postoperative morbidity. Results Twenty-seven consecutive patients underwent chest wall herniorrhaphy. Hernias most commonly occurred on the right side, in the fifth intercostal space, contained lung, and were chronic in nature. Pain was the presenting symptom in all but 4 patients. The most frequently observed comorbidities were obesity, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), oral steroid use, and diabetes mellitus. Primary repair was performed in 18 patients and mesh repair in 9 patients, with a median operative time of 116 minutes. Excluding the 4 acute hernias repaired during the same admission as the initial thoracotomy, postoperative complications occurred in 22% of patients who underwent prosthetic repair and 42% of patients who underwent primary repair (p = 0.4). Median hospital stay did not differ between herniorrhaphy techniques. Conclusions Previous thoracotomy, obesity, COPD, steroid use, and diabetes mellitus are common in patients in whom chest wall hernias develop. Prosthetic herniorrhaphy is not associated with an increased risk of postoperative complications relative to primary repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Postesophagectomy anastomotic leaks cause significant morbidity and mortality. Esophageal diversion is often required when extensive tissue loss precludes primary repair. We describe a technique in which human acellular dermis (AlloDerm) is used to repair the conduit, and report a series of 3 patients with significant anastomotic dehiscence whose conduits were salvaged using this technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Giant bullae of the lung are rare. Little is known about functional results after surgical treatment. Methods: This study retrospectively reviewed all patients who underwent surgical treatment for giant bullae between December 1988 and December 2010. Results: There were 63 patients (51 men, 12 women) with a median age of 56 years (range, 26 to 85 years). Bullae were a median size of 14 cm (range, 9 to 30 cm). Forty-five patients (71%) had underlying diffuse emphysema. The indication for surgical intervention was symptoms alone in 30 patients (48%) and associated complications in 33 (52%). The operation was a bullectomy in 54 patients, lobectomy in 6, plication in 2, and bilobectomy in 1. Complications occurred in 27 patients (43%), and 2 patients (3.0%) died. At the last follow-up, 19 had died and 44 were alive. Of the 43 patients with shortness of breath preoperatively, 29 (67.4%) were improved. Thirty patients (46.1%) had preoperative and postoperative pulmonary function tests with improvement from a median forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) of 1.0 L preoperatively to 1.4 L postoperatively (p = 0.002). Increasing bulla size (p = 0.02) and underlying emphysema (p = 0.01) were adversely associated with postoperative morbidity. Dyspnea improved in 21 of 33 patients (64%) with underlying diffuse emphysema compared with 5 of 7 patients (71%) without emphysema (p = 0.70). Conclusions: Bullectomy improved pulmonary function in most patients with a symptomatic or complicated giant bulla, or both. However, increasing bulla size and underlying emphysema resulted in increased treatment morbidity. Underlying diffuse emphysema is not a contraindication to bullectomy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: We reviewed our experience with ectopic mediastinal parathyroidectomy. Methods: Between March 1980 and September 2010, mediastinal parathyroidectomy was performed in 33 patients with hypercalcemia secondary to hyperparathyroidism. Results: Primary hyperparathyroidism was the main diagnosis in 32 patients (97%). Technetium-sestamibi scan was used in 23 (70%) for preoperative localization. Minimally invasive resections were performed in 18 patients (55%), and 15 (45%) underwent open surgery. The most common minimally invasive surgery approach was video-assisted thoracoscopy in 9 patients (27%); the most common open approach was median sternotomy in 11 (33%). Intraoperative parathyroid hormone monitoring was used in 22 patients (67%). The ectopic glands were intrathymic in 15 patients (45%), in the aortopulmonary window in 7 (21%), and in other intrathoracic locations in the remaining 11 (33%). Parathyroid adenomas were identified in 21 patients (64%); parathyroid hyperplasia and carcinoma were identified in 9 (27%) and 3 (9%), respectively. No early mortality occurred in either group. Reoperation was required in 1 patient in the minimally invasive surgery group because of hemothorax. Morbidity occurred in 8 patients (24%), the most common of which was hypocalcemia in 4 (12%). The mean length of stay was significantly shorter in the minimally invasive surgery group (2 versus 6 days; p < 0.001) but mortality and morbidity were not statistically different between the two groups (p = 0.05). Mean follow-up was 3 ± 3.7 years. Conclusions: Minimally invasive mediastinal parathyroidectomy has similar outcomes to open surgery, with significantly shorter length of hospital stay. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Although concurrent chemoradiation therapy can cure stage IIIA non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), studies have demonstrated that anatomic resection following high-dose or standard-dose chemoradiation may benefit selected patients. We examined morbidity and mortality associated with 3 multimodality treatment regimens for stage IIIA disease. Methods: Institutional databases identified patients with stage IIIA (N2) NSCLC who underwent concurrent platinum-based chemoradiotherapy with or without pulmonary resection between 1998 and 2011. Exclusion criteria included palliative regimens, sequential chemoradiotherapy, radiation-surgery interval greater than 12 weeks, superior sulcus tumors, or radiotherapy other than standard external beam radiation. Treatment-related morbidity and mortality were examined for the following treatment regimens: neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy with 45 Gy followed by surgery (trimodality-45); neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy with 60 Gy or more followed by surgery (trimodality-60); and definitive chemoradiotherapy with 60 Gy or more without surgery (D-CRT). Results: During the study period, 144 patients met eligibility criteria including 27 trimodality-45, 29 trimodality-60, and 88 D-CRT patients. Treatment-related morbidity and mortality rates for D-CRT were 74% [65 of 88] and 2.3% [2 of 88], respectively. Postoperative morbidity and mortality rates for patients who proceeded to surgery were 48% [27 of 56] and 1.8% [1 of 56], respectively, and did not differ based on dose of neoadjuvant radiation. Despite varied anatomic resections and methods of bronchial closure and coverage, no bronchopleural fistulae were observed. Conclusions: Chemoradiotherapy carries a significant morbidity profile. However, high-dose neoadjuvant radiation is not associated with increased postoperative morbidity or mortality relative to standard-dose radiation in patients selected for anatomic resection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Little consensus exists and varying outcomes are reported when the 4 most common esophagogastric anastomotic techniques are compared: circular stapled (CS), hand sewn (HS), linear stapled (LS) (longitudinally stapled anastomosis), and modified Collard (MC) (combined linear and transverse stapled anastomosis). This report analyzes outcomes of these anastomotic techniques. Methods: From July 2004 through December 2008, all intrathoracic and cervical esophagogastric anastomoses at our institution were reviewed. Results: There were 432 patients (358 men, 74 women) who underwent primary esophagogastric operations. Median age was 64 years (range, 23–90 years). The approach was an Ivor Lewis esophagectomy in 254 patients (59%), transhiatal esophagectomy in 115 patients (27%), McKeown (3-hole) esophagectomy in 49 (11%) patients, minimally invasive esophagectomy in 9 (2.1%) patients, and thoracoabdominal esophagectomy in 6 (1.4%) patients. There were 268 intrathoracic (62%) and 164 cervical (38%) anastomoses. Anastomotic techniques included LS in 260 (60%) patients MC in 67 (16%) patients, HS in 57 (13%) patients, and CS in 48 (11%) patients. Operative mortality was 3.7%. Anastomotic leak occurred in 50 patients (11%). Grade III or IV leaks occurred in 21 patients (4.9%), including 13 in the chest (4.8%) and 8 in the neck (4.9%). Grade III or IV leaks occurred in 12 patients (4.6%) with LS anastomoses, in 4 (7.0%) patients with HS anastomoses, in 3 (6.2%) patients with CS anastomoses, and in 2 (3.0%) patients with MC anastomoses. HS anastomoses had the highest odds of leakage (p = 0.01) and LS anastomoses had the lowest risk of stricture (p = 0.006). Conclusions: When performing an esophagogastric anastomosis, clinically significant leaks occur with similar frequency in both cervical and intrathoracic locations. The HS technique has the highest leak rate and the LS technique had the lowest rate of stricture formation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

At the 25th Annual General Thoracic Surgical Club meeting in March 2012, the major cooperative groups presented updates on clinical trials at the Robert Ginsberg Clinical Trials Meeting. There were 57 members in attendance. Representatives from the Radiation Treatment Oncology Group (RTOG), American College of Surgeons Oncology Group (ACOSOG), Cancer and Leukemia Group B (CALGB), Southwest Oncology Group (SWOG), National Cancer Institute of Canada Clinical Trials Group (NCIC), and the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) presented an overview of trials currently accruing or in development. These include oncologic trials that thoracic surgeons are currently accruing patients to in North America. The purpose of this review is to centralize the information to assist surgeons enrolling patients into oncologic clinical trials in thoracic surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cancer of the cervical esophagus is uncommon and typically presents with locally advanced disease. Management is challenging and generally involves definitive chemoradiotherapy. A segment of patients will experience locoregional failure after chemoradiotherapy with either persistent or recurrent cancer. The benefit of so-called salvage surgical resection in this group of patients remains unclear and is the focus of this article. Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of all patients who underwent resection for recurrent or persistent squamous cell carcinoma of the proximal esophagus after chemoradiotherapy at the Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, between January 1, 1990 and December 31, 2005. Results: Twelve patients were studied: 5 (42%) with recurrent cancer and 7 (58%) with persistent cancer. The median age of the patients was 59 years (range, 42–73 years), and 8 patients were men (67%). Eight patients (67%) underwent pharyngolaryngectomy and 4 patients (33%) underwent McKeown''s esophagectomy. Two patients (17%) had positive margins at the time of resection. Five patients (42%) experienced 1 or more perioperative complications. Median length of hospitalization was 15 days (range, 9–29 days) and median follow-up was 22 months (range, 1–159 months). Overall 1, 3, 5, and 10-year survival rates were 75%, 33%, 17%, and 8%, respectively. Median survival was 21 months. Cause of death was recurrent cancer in 10 patients (83%) and perioperative death in 1 patient (8%). Conclusions: The opportunity for long-term survival after salvage resection for persistent or recurrent cancer of the proximal esophagus exists but is limited and must be thoughtfully balanced with the perioperative morbidity of such challenging resections by both patients and physicians. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: The aim of this study was to clarify the clinical outcome and significance of mediastinal lymph node dissection (LND) during pulmonary resection of metastases from colorectal adenocarcinoma. Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed. Between April 1985 and December 2009, 518 patients underwent 720 pulmonary metastasectomies for metastatic colorectal adenocarcinoma. Relevant factors were analyzed with the χ2 or Fisher exact test and the Mann-Whitney test. Survival and lymph node (LN) recurrence-free period after pulmonary metastasectomy were analyzed with Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazards methods. Results: The overall 5-year and 10-year survival rate after pulmonary metastasectomy were 47.1% and 27.7%, respectively. The only significant prognostic factor for survival after pulmonary metastasectomy was mediastinal LN metastasis (p = 0.047 in univariate and 0.0028 in multivariate analysis); 199 patients did not undergo LND, 279 patients underwent LND that were negative, and 40 patients underwent LND that contained 1 or more positive mediastinal LN for metastases. The sensitivity of positron emission tomographic scan for detecting mediastinal LN metastases was only 35%. Although long-term survivors were present, systematic LND was not a significant factor for prolonged survival (p = 0.26) in the positive LND group. Conclusions: Mediastinal LN metastases are a significant negative prognostic factor for survival after pulmonary metastasectomy for metastatic colorectal cancer. Computed tomography and positron emission tomography based imaging, as well as preoperative carcinoembryonic antigen levels have poor sensitivity for detecting malignant mediastinal LN in this setting. Systematic mediastinal LND should be performed for prognostic purposes during pulmonary metastasectomy for colorectal metastases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Our aim was to evaluate whether the workload of a surgeon, including number of operations, operative time, or number of rooms per day, influenced patient morbidity or mortality after pulmonary lobectomy. Methods: The records of all patients who underwent pulmonary lobectomy at our institution during 2 years (2007–2009) by 6 surgeons were retrospectively reviewed. Surgeon workload per day and individual patient variables were evaluated. Both univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify risk factors for patient morbidity and mortality. Results: We analyzed 481 patients (269 men, 112 women) whose median age was 68 years (range, 20 to 94 years). Operative mortality occurred in 6 patients (1.25%), and morbidity occurred in 198 patients (41%). On univariate analysis, the total number of hours a surgeon operated per day was a significant predictor of complications (odds ratio, 1.032; p = 0. 048) and length of stay (average increase of 0.17 days for each additional hour; p = 0.004). There were multiple patient variables that were significant predictors of outcome. On multivariate analysis, which adjusted for patient variables, the total number of hours a surgeon operated per day remained a significant predictor of complications (odds ratio, 1.036; p = 0.03) and increased length of stay (average increase of 0.16 days for each additional hour; p = 0.006). On multivariate analysis, patient variables of age, forced expiratory volume In 1 second, and renal failure were significant predictors of outcome. Conclusions: The total number of hours a surgeon operates per day is independently associated with an increased risk of complications when performing pulmonary lobectomies. This could be related to surgeon fatigue associated with longer operative days. However, other patient variables are also associated with outcome. The relationship among these factors needs to be better understood with larger-scale models on a multiinstitutional level. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: There are few data on outcomes after surgical treatment for recurrent thymic tumors. The aim of this study is to analyze and compare long-term outcomes of treatments for recurrent thymic tumors. Methods: Between January 1956 and December 2009, 344 thymic tumors were surgically resected (309 thymomas, 22 thymic carcinomas, 12 thymic carcinoids, and 1 thymolipoma). There were 48 recurrences (13.9%): 30 thymomas, 9 thymic carcinomas, and 9 thymic carcinoids. There were 27 men and 21 women with a median age of 51 years (range, 27 to 83). Retrospective chart review was performed. Relevant factors for recurrence as well as survival and progression-free interval were analyzed. Results: The median follow-up interval from the initial operation was 83 months (range, 9 to 515). Recurrence adversely affected overall survival in surgically resected thymic tumors (p = 0.0014). In multivariate analysis, the initial Masaoka stage, incomplete resection, and World Health Organization histology were significant risk factors for recurrence. In multivariate analysis, only surgical management was associated with prolonged survival p = 0.0038) and improved progression-free interval (p = 0.0378) in recurrent thymoma. Five-year survival after recurrent thymoma was 54%. For recurrent thymic carcinoma, surgery did not improve survival. For these patients, chemotherapy was associated with improved progression-free interval after recurrence (p = 0.0295). There were no 5-year survivors of recurrent thymic carcinoma. Conclusions: Our data suggest that surgical management is associated with better outcome and is the treatment of choice for recurrent thymoma. For recurrent thymic carcinoma, surgical management has a very limited role, and chemotherapy appears to be a more effective treatment modality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pain after thoracotomy is common. The objective of this study was to assess whether pain 3 months postthoracotomy negatively impacts quality of life. Methods: One hundred ten patients were prospectively assessed using the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form Health Survey before and 3 months after elective thoracotomy. Pain and medication use were evaluated by questionnaire. Patients experiencing pain at 3 months were compared with patients who did not have postthoracotomy pain. Results: Seventy-five patients (68%) had pain 3 months postthoracotomy; 12 patients (11%) rated their average pain greater than 3 (out of 10). Eighteen (16%) patients required opioid analgesics. The pain group reported lower SF-36 scores in physical functioning (p = 0.049), bodily pain (p = 0.0002), and vitality (p = 0.044). There were no other significant differences in any SF-36 scale between the pain and non-pain groups. Conclusions: Pain is commonly reported at 3 months after elective thoracotomy but is generally mild, shows improvement with time, and does not usually require opioid analgesics. Patients who experience postthoracotomy pain at 3 months are at risk for significantly decreased physical functioning and vitality, but are not at risk for significantly decreased social, emotional, or mental health functioning compared with patients who do not experience postthoracotomy pain at 3 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Segmentectomy provides an anatomic, parenchymal-sparing strategy for patients with limited lung function. Recently, interest has been renewed in segmentectomy for the treatment of early stage lung cancer. Methods: We reviewed the medical records of all patients undergoing segmentectomy from January 1999 through December 2004. Survival curves were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Results: There were 113 consecutive patients (58 men, 55 women); median age was 72.5 years (range, 30 to 94 years). Median forced expiratory volume in 1 second was 1.53 L (range, 0.5 L to 3.27 L). Median diffusion capacity of lung for carbon monoxide was 69% predicted (range, 23% to 129%). Significant comorbidities were present in 62 patients (55%). There was no perioperative mortality. Major morbidity occurred in 28 patients (25%). Mean tumor size was 2.1 cm. Resection margins were negative in all cases. Ninety-two patients (81%) were stage I. Overall 5-year survival was 79% for stage IA patients. Current smoking, diffusion capacity of lung for carbon monoxide less than 69%, tumor size greater than 2 cm, N2 disease, and advanced histology grade were associated with decreased survival by univariate analysis. In a multivariate model, only tumor size greater than 2 cm remained significant. Tumor recurrence was observed in 39 patients (35%): local in 17 patients (15%) and distant only in 22 (20%). For stage IA patients with T1a lesions, local recurrence was 5% and distant recurrence was 13%. Five-year recurrence-free survival of these patients was 69%. Conclusions: Pulmonary segmentectomy can be performed safely in selected patients with preoperative reduced lung function and comorbidities. For stage IA disease, survival approximates that seen after lobectomy, with similar local recurrence rates for patients with T1a tumors. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Esophageal resection is a complex operation often associated with morbidity. Hiatal hernia after esophagectomy is an unusual complication. We reviewed our experience with this complication. Methods: From February 1988 through February 2009 we performed 2,182 esophagectomies. Fifteen (0.69%) patients experienced a hiatal hernia. We reviewed our prospective database for demographics, presentation, operative approaches, and outcomes. Results: There were 14 men and 1 woman with a mean age of 59 years. Hernia developed after Ivor Lewis approach in 9, transhiatal in 5, and substernal colon interposition in 1. Presenting symptoms included pain in 7 patients, obstructive symptoms in 5, high chest tube output in 2, shortness of breath in 2, diarrhea in 1, and cough with dysphagia in 1. Two patients were asymptomatic. Radiographic studies revealed bowel in the left chest in 11 patients, right chest in 2, bilaterally in 1, and posterior mediastinum in 1. Hernia repair was through the abdomen in 14 patients and left chest in 1. All had reduction of the herniated contents and closure of the defect; 2 required mesh. There was no early mortality. Complications included wound infection, deep venous thrombosis, chylothorax, urinary retention, sacral decubiti, atrial arrhythmias, respiratory failure, and empyema. Mean follow-up was 34 months. Ten patients are still alive. There have been two hernia recurrences. Conclusions: Hiatal hernia after esophagectomy is rare. Repair can be accomplished with low mortality; however, there is substantial morbidity. Because of the increased risk of incarceration or strangulation, these herniae should be repaired. Long-term outcome is usually excellent. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Current guidelines suggest anticoagulation for patients with new-onset atrial fibrillation (AF). Little evidence exists for the risk/benefit ratio in postoperative general thoracic surgical patients. We analyzed new-onset AF in patients after a general thoracic operation to determine the benefit of anticoagulation on prevention of stroke and its impact on postoperative outcome. Methods: New-onset postoperative AF developed in 759 patients (527 men, 237 women) who underwent thoracic surgical procedures between 1994 and 2009. Demographic data, clinical presentation, operative findings, and postoperative outcomes were analyzed. Results: The median age was 71 years (range, 31 to 92 years). We compared 228 patients anticoagulated for new-onset postoperative AF with 531 non-anticoagulated patients. The anticoagulated group had a higher incidence of male sex, pulmonary hypertension, congestive heart failure, and peripheral vascular disease. Median postoperative hospitalization was 9 days(range, 1 to 306 days) in those not anticoagulated and 11 days (range, 1 to 97 days) in those anticoagulated for AF (p = 0.704). Stroke occurred in 0.56% of the non-anticoagulated patients vs 2.2% of the anticoagulated patients (p = 0.057). Bleeding occurred in 22 patients (9.7%) who were anticoagulated and in 27 (5.1%) who were not (p = 0.009). Anticoagulated patients had a higher incidence of at least one complication other than stroke or bleeding (43.4%) vs non-anticoagulated patients (30.9%; p = 0.001). Operative mortality in anticoagulated patients was 3.1% vs 6.6% in patients not anticoagulated (p = 0.057). Conclusions: Anticoagulation did not lower the risk of stroke or transient ischemic attacks in postoperative general thoracic surgery patients with new-onset AF but did increase the incidence of postoperative bleeding and other complications. Patients with new-onset AF after a general thoracic surgical procedure should not be routinely anticoagulated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The recalibrated thoracic revised cardiac risk index (ThRCRI) has been recently proposed as a specific tool for cardiac risk stratification before lung resection. However, the ThRCRI has never been externally validated in a population other than the one from which it was derived. The objective of this study was to validate the ThRCRI in an external population of candidates having undergone major lung resections to assess its reliability for cardiac risk stratification across different samples. Methods: We analyzed 2,621 patients undergoing lobectomy (2,431) or pneumonectomy (190) in a single center from 2000 to 2009. Patients were grouped into four classes of risk (A, B, C, and D) according to the recalibrated ThRCRI. The outcome variable measured was the occurrence of major cardiac complications (cardiac arrest, complete heart block, acute myocardial infarction, pulmonary edema, cardiac death during admission). Incidence of major cardiac events was assessed in the four risk class groupings to assess the discriminative ability of the index score. Results: The incidence of major cardiac morbidity was 2.2% (59 cases). Patients were grouped into four risk classes according to their recalibrated ThRCRI. Incidence of major cardiac morbidity in risk classes A, B, C, and D were 0.9%, 4.2%, 8%, and 18%, respectively (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: The recalibrated ThRCRI is a reliable instrument that can be used during preoperative workup to differentiate patients needing further cardiologic testing from those who can proceed without any further cardiac testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Congenital cystic malformations of the lung often go unrecognized in childhood. It is controversial whether surgical management in older patients requires more extensive lung resection. The aim of our study was to analyze the outcomes of surgical management in older patients. Methods: A retrospective review was made of all patients treated surgically for congenital cystic lung lesion between 1994 and 2009. Results: One hundred two patients (65 women, 37 men) underwent surgery for a congenital cystic lung lesion. Median age was 47 years (range, 4 to 80 years). Surgical approach was through a thoracotomy in 70 patients, thoracoscopy in 21, sternotomy in 5, mediastinoscopy in 4, and laparoscopy and cervical in 1 each. Simple enucleation of the cyst was done in 67 patients, but 35 required more extensive pulmonary resection: lobectomy in 20, segmentectomy in 8, wedge in 6, and bilobectomy in 1. There was no significant difference between these groups with respect to age, sex, or postoperative outcomes. Univariate analysis revealed pneumonia, complex cysts, male sex, left-sided lesions, and bronchogenic cysts as predictors of a concomitant pulmonary resection being necessary during removal of the lesions. In a multivariable model, pneumonia and bronchogenic cysts persisted as predictors of the need for a more extensive pulmonary resection. Conclusions: A cystic malformation can be resected by simple resection, but in approximately one third of cases, a more extensive pulmonary resection is required. Patients with bronchogenic cysts who present with recurrent pneumonia are more likely to require a more extensive pulmonary resection. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Endobronchial ultrasound with transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) has been proposed as a safe, less-invasive alternative to mediastinoscopy to stage mediastinal lymph nodes in patients with lung cancer. We evaluated the negative predictive value of EBUS-TBNA in lung cancer patients suspected of having N2 nodal metastases. Methods: This study is a single-institution retrospective review of cases with suspected or confirmed lung cancer undergoing mediastinoscopy after a negative EBUS-TBNA between June 2006 and February 2008. Results: A total of 494 patients underwent EBUS-TBNA during the study period. Twenty-nine patients with suspected or confirmed lung cancer had a negative EBUS-TBNA and underwent subsequent mediastinoscopy. Mediastinoscopy was performed for findings suspicious of N2 disease based on noninvasive imaging. Mediastinoscopy found metastatic nodes in eight of 29 patients (28%) for a patient-specific negative predictive value of EBUS-TBNA of 72% (95% CI, 56% to 89%). Mediastinal lymph node dissection found four further patients with positive N2 nodes (19%). The EBUS-TBNA and mediastinoscopy sampled the same lymph node station on 36 occasions in the 29 patients. The average lymph node size was 10 mm. Mediastinoscopy was positive in 5 of 36 stations, for a nodal-specific negative predictive value of EBUS-TBNA of 86% (95% CI, 75% to 97%). Conclusions: Endobronchial ultrasound with transbronchial needle aspiration can effectively sample mediastinal lymph node stations in patients with lung cancer. However, in this early experience, 28% of patients with high clinical suspicion of nodal disease had N2 mediastinal nodal metastases confirmed by mediastinoscopy despite negative EBUS-TBNA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acquired nonmalignant fistulae between the airway and esophagus (tracheoesophageal fistulae [TEF]) are rare life-threatening conditions. Several management approaches have been proposed, while the optimal strategy remains controversial. Methods: This study is a retrospective review of all patients with TEF treated at our institution from 1978 through 2007. Results: Thirty-five patients (22 men, 13 women) underwent surgical repair of acquired nonmalignant TEF. Median age was 55 years (range, 5 to 78). Most common causes were the following: complications of esophageal surgery (11), trauma (6), granulomatous infection (5), stent erosion (4), and prolonged mechanical ventilation (2). Location was proximal trachea in 7, mid-trachea in 5, and distal trachea or bronchus in 23. Fifty-six operations were performed. Six patients had staged repair, with 1 patient requiring 4 operations for recurrent TEF. TEF division and primary repair was performed in 18 patients, esophageal resection with reconstruction in 4, and esophageal diversion in 6. Four patients had suture closure of the esophageal or tracheal defect only, and 3 required segmental tracheal or bronchial resection. Four patients were ventilator dependent at the time of repair. Pedicled tissue flaps were used in 28 patients (80%). Operative mortality was 5.7% (2 of 35). Nineteen patients (54.3%) had complications. Median hospital stay was 14 days (range, 4 to 209). Median follow-up was 30.4 months (range, 0.5 to 233) and complete in 34 (97.1%). Three patients (8.6%) developed recurrent TEF. Twenty-nine patients resumed oral intake. One patient required a permanent tracheal T tube. Conclusions: Single-stage primary repair of both airway and esophageal defects with tissue flap interposition can safely be performed successfully in the majority of patients with acquired nonmalignant TEF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The purpose of this study was to determine (1) the role of emergency cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) after prolonged cardiac arrest and failed cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and (2) the use of systemic hyperkalemia during CPB to convert intractable ventricular fibrillation (VF). Methods: Thirty-one pigs (34 ± 2 kg) underwent 15 minutes of cardiac arrest after induced VF, followed by 10 minutes of cardiopulmonary resuscitation–advanced life support. Peripheral CPB was used if cardiopulmonary resuscitation failed to restore stable circulation. Damage was assessed by evaluating hemodynamics, biochemical variables (creatine kinase-MB, neuron-specific enolase), neurologic deficit score, and brain magnetic resonance imaging. Results: Cardiopulmonary resuscitation alone was successful in only 19% (6 of 31 pigs). Cardiopulmonary bypass was initiated in 81% of animals (25 of 31 pigs) either for hypotension (5 of 25 pigs) or intractable VF (20 of 25 pigs). Defibrillation was successful in 7 of 20 animals during the first 10 minutes after initiating CPB. Ventricular fibrillation persisted more than 10 minutes in 13 of 20 pigs, and animals were treated either with repeated defibrillation (6 of 13 pigs) or with a potassium bolus (7 of 13 pigs) to induce transient cardiac arrest. Overall survival at 24 hours was 84% with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (100% of pigs with hypotension; 71% in CPB-VF < 10 minutes). Despite CPB, fatal myocardial failure occurred after VF duration of more than 10 minutes in all pigs treated with electrical defibrillation, whereas hyperkalemia allowed 100% cardioversion and 86% survival. Biochemical variables remained elevated in all groups. Similarly, severe brain injury was present in all animals as confirmed by neurologic deficit score (197 ± 10) and magnetic resonance imaging. Conclusions: Emergency CPB after prolonged cardiac arrest improves survival and allows systemic hyperkalemia to convert intractable VF, but fails to reduce neurologic damage. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Optimal management of pain after thoracotomy can be challenging. Continuous infusion of local anesthetic into the incision may help reduce the amount of narcotics required to control postoperative pain. To address this issue, we performed a randomized, double-blinded, controlled trial of infusion of bupivacaine versus placebo through intercostal and subcutaneous catheters after thoracotomy. Methods: From April 2006 to June 2007, 124 patients had intercostal catheters placed at thoracotomy and connected to continuous infusion pain pumps. Each patient had catheters placed in the intercostal space near the head of the rib and subcutaneously beneath the incision; both were connected to an infusion pump through a Y connector. Patients were randomly assigned to receive placebo (normal saline solution) or 0.25% bupivacaine as a 4 cc per hour infusion for 100 hours after thoracotomy. All personnel caring for the patients were blinded to the content of the infusion. Demographic information, visual analog pain scores, and oral morphine equivalent usage was recorded for each patient. In addition to the infusion catheters, all patients had epidural analgesia that remained in place until postoperative day 3. Results: There were 60 patients in the bupivacaine arm and 64 in the placebo group. Overall mean age was 64.7 years and 65 (52.4%) were men. Mean body mass index was 28.8 kg/m2. There were no statistical differences in any demographic parameter except that there were more men in the placebo group. Pulmonary resection was performed in 100 patients, an antireflux procedure in 16, and other miscellaneous procedures in 8. There was no statistical difference in the morphine equivalent usage between the two groups. There was also no difference between the average daily pain scores between the two groups. Length of stay was not significantly different between groups: mean (SD) of 6.2 (3.4) and 6.7 (5.0) for placebo and bupivacaine, respectively (p = 0.51). There was no operative mortality, and complications occurred in 28% of patients (placebo group, 25%; bupivacaine group, 32%; p = 0.41). Conclusions: This randomized, double-blinded, controlled trial demonstrated that the infusion of local anesthetic into the subcutaneous area and around the rib fracture site in addition to epidural analgesia did not reduce the amount of narcotic usage after a thoracotomy, nor did it affect visual analog pain scores. Pain control with intercostal catheters infusing local anesthetics did not produce a measurable pain relief beyond that provided by epidural analgesia. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: The optimal management strategy for mediastinal staging in early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is not clearly defined. The true prevalence of mediastinal lymph node metastases (N2 disease) in resected pathologic T1 (pT1) NSCLC must be known to define the role of invasive mediastinal staging in these patients. Methods: Data of patients with pT1 lesions resected at Mayo Clinic between 1998 and 2006 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients with N2 disease were identified from pathology and operative reports. We reviewed demographics, radiologic data, and surgical procedures for those with pathologic T1 N2 NSCLC. Results: We identified 968 cases of pT1 lesions, 59 with pN2 disease (6.1%). For those with T1 N2 disease, the primary lung lesion was peripheral in 18 (31%) and central in 41 (69%). Of these, 36 had negative non-invasive mediastinal staging (3.7%) and were incidentally discovered. The most frequently affected lymph node station was 7 in 22 patients (37%), followed by 5,6 in 18 (31%). Mediastinoscopy found positive lymph nodes in 3 of 16 patients (19%) in which it was performed. Overall 5-year survival for pT1 N2 incidentally discovered during mediastinal lymph node dissection at the time of lung resection was 46% (95% confidence interval, 31% to 68%). Conclusions: True pT1 NSCLC harbors a relatively low rate of N2 disease. The rate of occult N2 disease not observed on noninvasive preoperative mediastinal staging is even lower. For patients with T1 NSCLC and negative mediastinal imaging, routine mediastinoscopy results in a low yield of occult N2 disease discovery. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]