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The objective of this study was to determine the trends in benign surgery in GO practice across the United States. This was a retrospective cohort analysis of the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS NSQIP) database from 2015 to 2021. Subjects were selected by filtering for cases of hysterectomy using current procedural terminology (CPT codes). Trends over time were assessed using linear regression for continuous outcomes and logistic regression for categorical outcomes. From the 2015 to 2021, the dataset contained 246,743 hysterectomies that were performed across the United States. For all gynecologic specialties, 188,534 (76%) were performed for benign indications and 59,209 (24%) were gynecologic cancer cases. The proportion of hysterectomies done by all specialists for benign indications increased with increasing year. When looking at hysterectomy cases by surgeon's subspecialty, GOs performed 35,680 (23%) of all benign cases over the entire time period. Over our study time period, the proportion of benign hysterectomies performed by GOs increased with increasing year with the proportion of benign hysterectomies done by GO in 2016 was 37.8% and reached 45.2% in 202. The proportion of hysterectomies done by all sub-specialists for cancer indications decreased with increasing year including the proportion of cancer cases performed by GOs for cancer indications. The proportion of benign hysterectomies performed by GO consistently increased every year. This study corroborates existing survey data and hypothesizes that the practice of GO is increasingly being consumed by general gynecology. • The proportion of benign hysterectomies performed by GO consistently increased every year from 2015 to 2021. • Benign hysterectomies performed in 2016 was 37.8% and increased to 45.2% in 2021. • Out of all benign hysterectomies performed during the study period, 23% were performed by GOs [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physicians have gravitated toward larger group practice arrangements in recent years. However, consolidation trends in colorectal surgery have yet to be well described. Our objective was to assess current trends in practice consolidation within colorectal surgery and evaluate underlying demographic trends including age, gender, and geography. We performed a retrospective cross-sectional study using the Center for Medicare Services National Downloadable File from 2015 to 2022. Colorectal surgeons were categorized by practice size and by region, gender, and age. From 2015 to 2022, the number of colorectal surgeons in the United States increased from 1369 to 1621 (+18.4%), while the practices with which they were affiliated remained relatively stable (693-721, +4.0%). The proportion of colorectal surgeons in groups of 1-2 members fell from 18.9% to 10.7%. Conversely, those in groups of 500+ members grew from 26.5% to 45.2% (linear trend P < 0.001). The midwest region demonstrated the highest degree of consolidation. Affiliations with group practices of 500+ members saw large increases from both female and male surgeons (+148.9% and +86.9%, respectively). New surgeons joining the field since 2015 overwhelmingly practice in larger groups (5.3% in groups of 1-2, 50.1% in groups of 500+). Colorectal surgeons are shifting toward larger practice affiliations. Although this change is happening across all demographic groups, it appears unevenly distributed across geography, gender, and age. New surgeons are preferentially joining large group practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decision-making regarding definitive therapy for Graves' disease requires effective patient-provider communication. We investigated whether patients with limited English proficiency have differences in thyroidectomy outcomes or perioperative management when compared to English proficient (EP) patients at a safety net hospital with high-volume endocrine surgery practice. Retrospective study of patients who underwent thyroidectomy (2012-2021) for Graves' disease within a tertiary referral system. Demographics, preoperative factors, and postoperative outcomes were abstracted via chart review and compared between EP and limited English proficient (LEP) patients in univariate analyses. Odds of postoperative complications were assessed via multivariable logistic regression. Time metrics such as time from endocrinology consultation to surgery were compared via Kaplan–Meier analysis and adjusted Cox proportional regression models. Of 236 patients, 85 (36%) had LEP. Low and equivalent complication rates occurred across language groups (<1% permanent). LEP patients had similar odds of thyroidectomy-specific complications (odds ratio = 1.2; 95% confidence interval 0.6-2.4). Adjusted Cox proportional hazards ratios showed that LEP patients experienced significantly shorter time from endocrinology consultation to surgery compared to EP patients [hazard ratio = 0.7; 95% confidence interval 0.5-0.9]. Thyroidectomy-specific complication rate for patients with Graves' disease was low, and we detected no independent association between complications and English language proficiency. Non-English primary language was independently associated with reduced time from endocrinology consultation to surgery. This finding must be interpreted with nuance and is likely multifactorial. It may reflect a well-organized, efficient system for under-resourced patients, or it may derive from communication barriers that limit robust shared decision-making, thus accelerating time to surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) lobectomy has become a mainstay of modern thoracic surgery practice and the technique of choice for resection of early-stage lung cancers. However, the benefits of VATS following induction therapy are yet to be clarified. This study aims to assess whether VATS lobectomy achieves similar perioperative and oncologic outcomes compared to thoracotomy for nonsmall cell lung cancer after induction therapy. We retrospectively reviewed the outcomes of 72 patients who underwent lung lobectomy after induction therapy in our institution from January 2017 to January 2020. Subsequently, we carried out a comprehensive literature search and pooled our results with available data from previously published studies to perform a meta-analysis. VATS was associated with reduced intraoperative blood loss (P = 0.05) and less perioperative complications (P = 0.04) in our local institution. The meta-analysis comprised nine studies. A total of 943 patients underwent VATS and 2827 patients underwent open lobectomy. VATS was associated with significant shorter surgery duration (P < 0.0001), shorter chest-tube drainage duration (P < 0.0001), and shorter hospital stays (P < 0.0001). Furthermore, there was significantly less perioperative complications (P = 0.006) and less intraoperative blood loss (P = 0.036) in the VATS group. However, there were no significant differences in 3-y overall survival and 3-y disease-free survival rates. In some selected patients undergoing induction therapy, VATS lobectomy could achieve equivalent perioperative outcomes to thoracotomy but evidence is lacking on oncologic outcomes. Further trials with a focus on oncologic outcomes and longer follow-up are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the advent of lung cancer screening, lung nodules are being discovered at an increasing rate. With improvements in transbronchial biopsy technology, it is important for thoracic surgeons to be involved with diagnostic procedures. The aim of this project is to relate the thoracic surgeon experience in implementing an electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy (ENB) program at our institution and describe the factors that led to successful navigation (the ability to position a biopsy instrument in range for biopsy) and diagnostic biopsy of nodules. The thoracic surgery ENB program was initiated in 2014. A retrospective analysis of patients referred to thoracic surgery from 2014 to 2019 for lung nodule evaluation was performed. Patients who underwent ENB and biopsy were included. Recursive partitioning (CART) and multivariable regression analyses were used to identify predictors of successful navigation and biopsy. There were 73 patients who underwent ENB evaluation of 91 nodules from 2014 to 2019. There was successful navigation in 75.8% of nodules, and on multivariable analysis, bronchus sign, lesion size, and pleural distance were significant predictors of successful navigation. Of the lesions that had successful navigation, 65.2% had a diagnostic biopsy. Based on CART analysis, positive bronchus sign and lesion size ≥ 1.3 cm were most predictive of obtaining a diagnostic biopsy with a probability of 0.75. Nodule size, distance to the pleura, and bronchus size are independent variables of successful navigation when using ENB. However, of the lesions that were successfully reached, combined lesion size >1.3 cm and a positive bronchus sign were most predictive of obtaining a diagnostic biopsy. These factors should be considered when implementing an ENB program in a thoracic surgery practice. • With electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy, successful navigation can be improved with the presence of a bronchus sign, a nodule >2 cm, and distance from the pleura >1.4 cm. • A nodule size >1.3 cm with a positive bronchus sign led to the best probability of diagnostic biopsy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surgeons make important contributions to basic science research and are in a unique position to innovate scientifically. The number of surgeons pursuing basic science research has been declining over the past two decades. We sought to describe perceived barriers to surgeons' pursuit of basic science research and identify interventions that mitigate these obstacles. An online survey was sent to chairs of academic surgery departments and practicing surgeons involved in basic science research. A subset of these participants were interviewed about their experiences. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and uploaded to NVivo. Two coders developed a codebook using inductive content analysis to identify relevant themes. 97 people responded to the survey, 27 (29%) were department chairs. Major barriers to basic science research for all respondents were lack of funding, clinical duties and lack of dedicated time for research. Nine surgeons and three departmental chairs were subsequently interviewed. The importance of having clear research goals and timetables with specific plans for attaining funding were mentioned by all. Chairs described the usefulness of embedding early surgeon scientists in their scientific mentors' labs in a post-doctoral model. Additionally, departmental leaders must actively work to protect surgeon scientists from encroaching clinical and administrative demands. While barriers to surgeons' pursuit of basic science research exist, the surgeon scientist is a phenotype that can be fostered with the dedication and commitment of surgeons to continue to pursue science research and active support of departmental leadership. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to describe the economic trends in adults who underwent elective thyroidectomy. We performed a population-based study utilizing the Premier Healthcare Database to examine adult patients who underwent elective thyroidectomy between January 2006 and December 2014. Time was divided into three equal time periods (2006-2008, 2009-2011, and 2012-2014). To examine trend in patient charges, we modeled patient charges using generalized linear regressions adjusting for key covariates with standard errors clustered at the hospital level. Our study cohort consisted of 52,012 adult patients who underwent a thyroid operation. During the study period, the most common procedure changed from a thyroid lobectomy to bilateral thyroidectomy. Over the study period, there was an increase in the proportion of completion thyroidectomies from 1.1% to 1.6% (P < 0.001), malignant diagnoses from 21.7% to 26.8% (P < 0.001), procedures performed at teaching hospitals from 27.7% to 32.9% (P < 0.001), and procedures performed on an outpatient basis from 93.85% to 97.55% (P < 0.001). The annual increase in median patient charge adjusted for inflation was $895 or 4.3% resulting in an increase of 38.8% over 9 y. Higher thyroidectomy charges were associated with male patients, malignant surgical pathology, patients undergoing limited or radical neck dissection, experiencing complications, those with managed health care insurance, and a prolonged length of stay. Despite recent changes in thyroid surgery practices to decrease the economic burden of hospitals, costs continue to rise 4.3% annually. Additional prospective studies are needed to identify factors associated with this increasing cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A majority of surgical patients are prescribed opioids for pain management. Many patients have pre-existing chronic pain managed with opioids and/or opioid use disorders (OUDs), which can complicate perioperative management. Patients who use opioids prior to surgery are at increased risk of developing OUD after surgery. To date, no studies have examined the prevalence of opioid screening and electronic medical record (EMR) documentation prior to surgery. A 40-item survey was administered to 268 patients at their first postoperative care visit at a single tertiary academic center from October 2017 to July 2018. A chart review of a random sample of 100 patients was performed to determine provider opioid screening prevalence in the presurgical setting. Log-binomial models were used to calculate prevalence ratios (PRs) to determine the provider role (surgeon, advanced practice clinicians [APC], surgical trainee) association with opioid screening documentation. Exploratory qualitative interviews were conducted with surgical providers to identify barriers to screening and screening documentation. Only 7% of patients were screened preoperatively for opioid use. A total of 38% of patients self-reported that they had used opioids in the past year. Of that group, only 3% had screening by a surgical provider prior to surgery documented in their EMR. Provider role was not associated with likelihood of opioid screening (surgeon versus trainee, PR = 1.2, 95% CI 0.2-8.5) (surgeons versus APCs, PR = 1.05, 95% CI 0.17-8.53). EMRs were discordant with patient survey results for patients with no ICD-10 codes for opioid use. The most common perceived barriers to preoperative screening were insufficient clinic time; logistics of who should screen/not required as part of their clinical workflow; not perceiving screening as a priority; and lack of expertise in the area of chronic opioid use and OUD. Preoperative screening for opioid use is uncommon, and EMRs are often discordant with patient self-reported use. Efforts to increase preoperative screening will need to address barriers screening practices and increasing health system support by incorporating screening into the clinical workflow and adding it to documentation templates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The French national rare gynecological tumor network has been established to improve the quality of care through offering expertise in double reading histological diagnosis, reviewing cases and guiding management of these tumors through specialized multidisciplinary tumor boards and online clinical guidelines (www.ovaire-rare.com). The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of the development and implementation of this network by assessing the conformity of medical practice with the guidelines concerning the granulosa cell tumors (GCTs). This is a French nationwide study, including 463 patients (out of the 639 identified patients) with a definitive diagnosis of GCT between 2011 and 2016. Surgical practices were analyzed for conformity with the current guidelines (www.ovaire-rare.org). Medical records, surgical and pathological reports were systematically analyzed. Total conformity was defined by a conservative (unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy) or radical surgery (hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy) including surgical staging (omentectomy, peritoneal biopsies and peritoneal cytology) according to the FIGO stage. Partial conformity referred to a conservative or radical surgery without surgical staging and non-conformity was defined as a non-optimal surgery as recommended by the guidelines. Median age at diagnosis was 49 years old (range 10–89). The median size of tumor was 94 mm (range 5–400). Radical surgery was performed in 240 patients (52%); while a fertility-sparing surgery was performed in 98 cases (21%). A surgical staging was performed in 76 cases (16%) and an evaluation of the endometrium in 289 cases (62%). Surgery was fully compliant with the guidelines in 65 patients (14%), partially compliant in 213 patients (46%), non-compliant in 137 patients (30%) and not assessable in 48 cases (10%). A statistically significant difference for compliance was observed in restaging surgery (p < 0,001), radical surgery (p = 0,017) and the period (before or after) of the implementation of the network (p < 0,001). Survival analyses did not allow us to demonstrate a significant difference in overall survival nor in PFS although there was a trend in favor of optimal surgery compared to incomplete/non optimal surgery. Surgical management's conformity to the guidelines increases over time from 2011 to 2016. According to this study, the implementation of a national network dedicated to rare gynecologic tumors seems to significantly improve the surgical management of the patients with ovarian granulosa cell tumors. • Surgical management of GCT is better since the creation of the national network dedicated to rare gynecological tumors. • Surgery is the gold standard treatment for GCT and includes complete surgery. • Better surgical management seems to improve the survival of patients with GCT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Transferred emergency general surgery (EGS) patients have increased morbidity, mortality, and costs, yet little is known about the characteristics of such transfers. Increasing specialization and a decreasing general surgery workforce have led to concerns about access to care, which may lead to increased transfers. We sought to evaluate the reasons for and timing of transfers for EGS diagnoses. Methods We performed a retrospective medical record review of patients transferred to a tertiary academic medical center between January 4, 2014 and March 31, 2016 who had an EGS diagnosis (bowel obstruction, appendicitis, cholecystitis/cholangitis/choledocholithiasis, diverticulitis, mesenteric ischemia, perforated viscus, or postoperative surgical complication). Results Three hundred thirty-four patients were transferred from 70 hospitals. Transfer reasons varied with the majority due to the need for specialized services (44.3%) or a surgeon (26.6%). Imaging was performed in 95.8% and 35.3% had surgeon contact before transfer. The percentage of patients who underwent procedures at referring facilities was 7.5% (n = 25), while 60.6% (n = 83) underwent procedures following transfer. Mean time between transfer request and arrival at the accepting hospital was lower for patients who subsequently underwent a procedure at the accepting hospital compared to those who did not for patients originating in emergency departments (2.6 versus 3.4 h, P < 0.05) and inpatient units (6.9 versus 14.3 h, P < 0.05). Conclusions Interhospital transfers for EGS conditions are frequently motivated by a need for a higher level of care or specialized services as well as a need for a general surgeon. Understanding reasons for transfers can inform decisions regarding the allocation and provision of care for this vulnerable population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Medical student evaluations of faculty are increasingly incorporated into promotion and tenure decisions, making it imperative to understand learner perceptions of quality teaching. Prior work has shown that students value faculty responsiveness in the form of feedback, but faculty and students differ in their perceptions of what constitutes sufficient feedback. The innovative minute feedback system (MFS) can quantify responsiveness to students' feedback requests. This study assessed how feedback provision via MFS impacts teaching quality scores. Materials and methods This retrospective observational study compared average faculty teaching quality scores with faculty's percentage response to student feedback requests via the MFS. The data were generated from the core surgical clerkship for third-year medical students at the University of Michigan Medical School. The relationship between average teaching quality scores and response percentage was assessed by weighted regression analysis. Results Two hundred thirty-seven medical students requested feedback via MFS, and 104 faculty were evaluated on teaching quality. The mean faculty feedback response percentage was 55.78%. The mean teaching quality score was 4.27 on a scale of 1 to 5. Teaching quality score was significantly correlated with response percentage ( P < 0.001); for every 10% increase in response percentage, average teaching quality score improved by 0.075. Average teaching quality score was not significantly associated with response time ( P = 0.158), gender ( P = 0.407), or surgical service ( P = 0.498). Conclusions Medical students consider responsiveness to feedback requests an important component of quality teaching. Furthermore, faculty development focused on efficient and practical feedback strategies may have the added benefit of improving their teaching quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The objective of this study is to identify risk factors associated with readmission after gastrectomy to potentially identify potential areas for targeted improvements. Hospital readmission after surgery is a topic of interest in health-care policy among hospitals, payers, and providers. Readmissions are associated with increased costs, morbidity, and mortality. Readmission rates have been proposed as a quality metric for hospitals and quality indicator of individual surgeon's performance. In addition, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has reduced payments to hospitals with excessive readmissions for certain diagnoses. Materials and methods All gastrectomy procedures for malignancy in patients aged ≥18 y from 2005 to 2011 were queried from the California State Inpatient Database. Patients who died during index admission were excluded. Descriptive statistics were examined between all baseline variables and readmission status. Logistic regression models were adjusted for age, race, sex, and insurance status. Results A total of 6985 patients underwent gastrectomy for malignancy; 16.5% of the patients were readmitted after postoperative discharge. Readmission rate did not change significantly over time. Multivariable analysis demonstrated that the occurrence of any postoperative complications, postoperative length of stay greater than 10 d, discharge to skilled nursing facility or home health care, combined resection with distal pancreatectomy and/or splenectomy, and patient comorbidities like diabetes mellitus and renal failure were independently associated with readmissions. Conclusions The findings suggest that focusing on quality improvement efforts by targeting reduction of postoperative complications may reduce readmission rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Prior interventions to address declining interest in surgical careers have focused on creating early exposure and fostering mentorship at the preclinical medical student level. Navigating the surgical environment can be challenging, however, and preclinical students may be more likely to pursue a surgical career if they are given the tools to function optimally. Materials and methods We designed a 10-wk technical and nontechnical skills curriculum to provide preclinical students with knowledge and skills necessary to successfully navigate the surgical learning environment, followed by placement in high-fidelity surgical simulations and scrubbing in on operative cases with attending surgeons. We administered pre-post surveys to assess student confidence levels in operative skills, self-perceptions of having a mentor, overall course efficacy, and interest in a career in surgery. Results The overall response rates presurvey and postsurvey were 100% (30 of 30) and 93.3% (28 of 30), respectively. Confidence levels across all operative skills increased significantly after completing the course. Faculty mentorship increased significantly from 30.0% before to 61.5% after the course. Overall effectiveness of the course was 4.00 of 5 (4 = “very effective”), and although insignificant, overall interest in a career in surgery increased at the completion of the course from 3.77 (standard deviation = 1.01) to 4.17 (standard deviation = 0.94). Conclusions Our curriculum was effective in teaching the skills necessary to enjoy positive experiences in planned early exposure and mentorship activities. Further study is warranted to determine if this intervention leads to an increase in students who formally commit to a career in surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• There is high variability of surgical procedures performed throughout Latin America. • Advanced surgical interventions are performed throughout Latin America. • Laser ablation procedures are not widely available. • There are areas to improve training and exposure in surgical epilepsy internationally. To describe the variety of surgical epilepsy procedures offered in Latin America and characterize the training in surgical management for epilepsy and neurophysiology fellows. A 15-question survey was sent to Spanish-speaking epilepsy specialists in Latin America (members of the International Consortium in Epilepsy Surgery Education) to characterize their epilepsy surgery practices and formal training programs when present, including fellowship program characteristics, trainee involvement, and assessment of trainee performance. Epilepsy surgery procedures included resective/ablative interventions and neuromodulation therapies approved for drug-resistant epilepsy. Associations between categorical variables were evaluated using the Fisher Exact test. There were 42 responses from a total of 57 survey recipients (73% response rate). Most surgical programs performed either 1 to 10 procedures (36%) or 11 to 30 procedures (31%) per year. Most centers (88%) performed resective procedures, while none of the surveyed institutions performed laser ablations. Most of the centers performing intracranial EEG (88%) and advanced neuromodulation (93%) were in South America. Centers with formal fellowship training programs were more likely to perform intracranial EEG procedures compared to centers without fellows (92% vs 48%, respectively, OR = 12.2 [95% CI 1.45–583], p = 0.007). There is significant variability in surgical procedures performed across epilepsy centers in a Latin American educational consortium. Advanced surgical diagnostic procedures and interventions are performed in a fair number of surveyed institutions. Strategies to enhance access to epilepsy surgery procedures and facilitate formal training in surgical management are necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This lecture reviews the progress of the Association for Academic Surgery during the 1990s, a decade of sweeping innovations in technology, communication, and biomedical sciences; a well as a decade of transition in the demographics of surgical trainees; and a decade of new and previously unimagined possibilities for new directions in academic surgical careers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Poor communication causes fragmented care. Studies of transitions of care within a hospital and on discharge suggest significant communication deficits. Communication during transfers between hospitals has not been well studied. We assessed the written communication provided during interhospital transfers of emergency general surgery patients. We hypothesized that patients are transferred with incomplete documentation from referring facilities. Methods We performed a retrospective review of written communication provided during interhospital transfers to our emergency department (ED) from referring EDs for emergency general surgical evaluation between January 1, 2014 and January 1, 2016. Elements of written communication were abstracted from referring facility documents scanned into the medical record using a standardized abstraction protocol. Descriptive statistics summarized the information communicated. Results A total of 129 patients met inclusion criteria. 87.6% ( n = 113) of charts contained referring hospital documents. 42.5% ( n = 48) were missing history and physicals. Diagnoses were missing in 9.7% ( n = 11). Ninety-one computed tomography scans were performed; among 70 with reads, final reads were absent for 70.0% ( n = 49). 45 ultrasounds and x-rays were performed; among 27 with reads, final reads were missing for 80.0% ( n = 36). Reasons for transfer were missing in 18.6% ( n = 21). Referring hospital physicians outside the ED were consulted in 32.7% ( n = 37); consultants' notes were absent in 89.2% ( n = 33). In 12.4% ( n = 14), referring documents arrived after the patient's ED arrival and were not part of the original documentation provided. Conclusions This study documents that information important to patient care is often missing in the written communication provided during interhospital transfers. This gap affords a foundation for standardizing provider communication during interhospital transfers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The number of cases required to overcome the learning curve (LC) for laparoscopic extra-peritoneal inguinal hernia repair (TEP) varies widely in the literature. Less is known about the LC for inexperienced surgeons performing this procedure early in their career. The present study describes the technical challenges of TEP repair and the LC from the perspective of a recently qualified general surgeon. Materials and methods Retrospective analysis of a single-surgeon experience of TEP repairs performed during the first 2 y of practice from 2011–2013. Patient demographics, hernia details, operative details, and postoperative outcome were all assessed. The CUSUM method was used to analyze the LC for operative time. Results There were 149 consecutive patients (mean age, 56 ± 17, 146 males, 24 bilateral, BMI 26 ± 4) followed for a median of 15 (4–26) mo. Direct herniae accounted for 61% of the cohort, and 16% were recurrent open presentations. The major complication and recurrence rate were <2%, and minor complications including urinary retention (15%) were reported. Re-admission rate was 6%. CUSUM analysis suggested an inflection point at 18 cases after which operative times were stabilized. Conclusions For less experienced surgeons, standard surgical training provides for TEP hernia repair with satisfactory major complication, conversion, and recurrence rates. Minor complication rates can still be reduced further with further training and supervision from experienced peers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Emergency general surgery is associated with high morbidity and mortality but has seldom been targeted for practice improvement. The goal of this study was to determine whether perioperative practices vary among surgeons for emergency Hartmann's procedures and whether perioperative care practices are associated with hospitals' complication rates. Materials and methods We conducted a survey of surgeons at 27 Michigan hospitals. Questionnaires focused on preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care practices. Hospitals were divided into quartiles of risk-adjusted complication rates. Responses of surgeons at hospitals with the lowest complication rates were compared to those with the highest, to determine whether there were systematic differences. Qualitative content analysis was performed for open-ended questions. Results A total of 106 surgeons returned questionnaires (response rate 49%). We identified variation in use of bowel preparation, ostomy site marking, rectal stump management, ostomy protrusion, skin closure method, antibiotics duration, and ambulation/physical therapy practices. Surgeons from hospitals with low complication rates were more likely to use a clean instrument tray during wound closure (61% versus 11%, P = 0.001) and reported greater use of laparoscopic lavage without resection for emergency diverticulitis cases (31% versus 6%, P = 0.05). Surgeons in the lower complication rate hospitals listed more modifiable care factors in their open-ended responses to questions about reasons for complications. Conclusions Surgeons' practices vary for emergency Hartmann's procedure. This study serves as a proof of concept that studying surgeons' practices is feasible within a quality collaborative setting. Such data can be used to generate testable hypotheses for performance improvement aimed in high-risk, emergency surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background There are gaps in understanding the challenges with the establishment of pediatric cardiac surgical practices in Nigeria. The aim of this study was to examine the prospects and challenges limiting the establishment of pediatric cardiac surgical practices in Nigeria from the perspectives of cardiothoracic surgeons and resident doctors. Methods A descriptive study was carried out to articulate the views of the cardiothoracic surgeons and cardiothoracic resident doctors in Nigeria. A self-administered questionnaire was used to generate information from the participants between December 2014 and January 2015. Data were analyzed using the SPSS version 21 statistical software package. Result Thirty-one of the 51 eligible participants (60.7%) took part in the survey. Twenty-one (67.7%) were specialists/consultants, and 10 (32.3%) were resident doctors in cardiothoracic surgical units. Most of the respondents, 26 (83.9%) acknowledged the enormity of pediatric patients with cardiac problems in Nigeria; however, nearly all such children were referred outside Nigeria for treatment. The dearth of pediatric cardiac surgical centers in Nigeria was attributed to weak health system, absence of skilled manpower, funds, and equipment. Although there was a general consensus on the need for the establishment of open pediatric cardiac surgical centers in the country, their set up mechanisms were not explicit. Conclusions The obvious necessity and huge potentials for the establishment of pediatric cardiac centers in Nigeria cannot be overemphasized. Nevertheless, weakness of the national health system, including human resources remains a daunting challenge. Therefore, local and international partnerships and collaborations with country leadership are strongly advocated to pioneer this noble service. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Three-dimensional printing (3DP) is gaining increasing recognition as a technique that will transform the landscape of surgical practice. It allows for the rapid conversion of anatomic images into physical objects, which are being used across a variety of surgical specialties. It has been unclear which groups are leading the way in coming up with novel ways of using the technology and what specifically the technology is being used for. The aim of this article was to review the current applications of 3DP in modern surgical practice. Materials and methods An electronic search was carried out in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PsycINFO for terms related to 3DP. These were then screened for relevance and practical applications of the technology in surgery. Results Four hundred eighty-eight articles were initially found, and these were eventually narrowed down to 93 full-text articles. It was determined that there were three main areas in which the technology is being used to print: (1) anatomic models, (2) surgical instruments, and (3) implants and prostheses. Conclusions Different specialties are at different stages in the use of the technology. The costs involved with implementing the technology and time taken for printing are important factors to consider before widespread use. For the foreseeable future, this is an exciting and interesting technology with the capacity to radically change health care and revolutionize modern surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: A 2005 survey reported 87% of surgery program directors believed practice management training should occur during residency. However, only 8% of program directors believed residents received adequate training in practice management [1]. In addition to the gap in practice financial management knowledge, we recognized the need for training in personal finance among residents. A literature review and needs assessment led to the development of a novel curriculum for surgery residents combining principles of practice management and personal finance. METHODS: An 18-h curriculum was administered over the 2012 academic year to 28 post graduate year 1-5 surgery residents and faculty. A self-assessment survey was given at the onset and conclusion of the curriculum [2]. Pre-tests and post-tests were given to objectively evaluate each twice monthly session's content. Self-perception of learning, interest, and acquired knowledge were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed ranks test. RESULTS: Initial self-assessment data revealed high interest in practice management and personal finance principles but a deficiency in knowledge of and exposure to these topics. Throughout the curriculum, interest increased. Residents believed their knowledge of these topics increased after completing the curriculum, and objective data revealed various impacts on knowledge. CONCLUSIONS: Although surgery residents receive less exposure to these topics than residents in other specialties, their need to know is no less. We developed, implemented, and evaluated a curriculum that bridged this gap in surgery education. After the curriculum, residents reported an increase in interest, knowledge, and responsible behavior relating to personal and practice financial management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This reflection retraces the evolution of early followers and leaders. Social change and early contributions set the stage for the current Association for Academic Surgery. Perhaps the most important contribution was Dr. George Zuidema's theme of inclusiveness. AAS was a decade ahead of its time in that regard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Despite increasing awareness of physical strain to surgeons associated with minimally invasive surgery (MIS), its use continues to expand. We sought to gather information from gynecologic oncologists regarding physical discomfort due to MIS. Methods Anonymous surveys were e-mailed to 1279 Society of Gynecologic Oncology (SGO) members. Physical symptoms (numbness, pain, stiffness, and fatigue) and surgical and demographic factors were assessed. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine risk factors for physical symptoms. Results We analyzed responses of 350 SGO members who completed the survey and currently performed > 50% of procedures robotically (n = 122), laparoscopically (n = 67), or abdominally (n = 61). Sixty-one percent of members reported physical symptoms related to MIS. The rate of symptoms was higher in the robotic group (72%) than the laparoscopic (57%) or abdominal groups (49%) (p = 0.0052). Stiffness (p = 0.0373) and fatigue (p = 0.0125) were more common in the robotic group. Female sex (p < 0.0001), higher caseload (p = 0.0007), and academic practice (p = 0.0186) were associated with increased symptoms. On multivariate analysis, robotic surgery (odds ratio [OR] 2.38, 95% CI 1.20-4.69) and female sex (OR 4.20, 95% CI 2.13-8.29) were significant predictors of symptoms. There was no correlation between seeking treatment and surgical modality (laparotomy 11%, robotic 20%, laparoscopy 25%, p = 0.12). Conclusions Gynecologic oncologists report physical symptoms due to MIS at an alarming rate. Robotic surgery and female sex appear to be risk factors for physical discomfort. As we strive to improve patient outcomes and decrease patient morbidity with MIS, we must also work to improve the ergonomics of MIS for surgeons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: The field of global health is rapidly expanding in many medical centers across the US. As a result, medical students have increasing opportunities to incorporate global health experiences (GHEs) into their medical education. Ethics is a critical component of global health curricula, yet little literature exists to direct the further development of didactic training. Therefore, we sought to define ethical encounters experienced by medical students participating in short-term surgical GHEs and create a framework for the design of ethics curriculum specific to global surgery. Materials and methods: Emory University Departments of Surgery, Urology, and Anesthesia, in partnership with the non-profit organization Project Medishare, have taken annual humanitarian surgical trips to Hinche, Haiti. All medical students returning from the trips in 2011 and 2012 received a 35-question survey to assess demographic data, extent of prior ethics education, frequency of exposure and situational confidence to ethical subject matter, as well as ethical conflicts involved in surgical GHEs. The same comparative data were also collected for domestic clinical clerkships. Results: Seventeen out of 21 medical students completed the survey. Nearly all (88.3%) students had previous formal ethics training as an undergraduate or in medical school. Ethical issues were commonly encountered during domestic clinical encounters and volunteerism. However, students reported enhanced exposure to the professional obligation of surgeons (P = 0.025) and truth-telling/surgeon–patient relationships (P = 0.044) during surgical volunteerism. Despite increased exposure, situational confidence did not change. Conclusions: Ethical issues are commonly confronted during GHEs in surgery and differ from domestic clinical encounters. Healthcare ethics curriculum should be designed to meet the needs of medical students involved in global health. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Objective: To assess the routine surgical practices of consultant gynaecological oncologists (CGOs) in the United Kingdom in their management of primary advanced (FIGO stages III and IV) epithelial ovarian cancer (PAEOC). Methods: The same anonymised questionnaire was sent twice to all consultant gynaecological oncologists (CGOs) working in the UK. The questions enquired about surgical practice of the previous calendar year and the respondents were asked to describe their usual or typical management of patients with PAEOC. Results: 45 of 85 CGOs responded (53%). The mean number of ovarian cancer cases operated on by an individual surgeon was 47 (range 6–100). 6% of the surgeons never perform pelvic lymphadenectomy, and 22% of the surgeons never perform para-aortic lymphadenectomy in the primary surgery (PS) group, compared to 8% and 30% in the neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) group. In the PS group 17% of the respondents perform pelvic lymphadenectomy routinely (80% or more of patients) compared to 11% of the respondents in the NAC group. The rates of bowel surgery and surgery for upper abdominal disease were highly variable. The average operating time per case was less than 3h in 78% of the respondents. Conclusions: The mean operating times, caseload, and types of procedure undertaken in the management of advanced ovarian cancer provide compelling evidence that in many UK cancer centres the surgical goal has not been complete cytoreduction. These data have implications for the centralisation of surgical services, subspecialty training, and the lower survival of UK patients compared to other comparable countries. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Esophageal diverticulum is rare in the United States. The mainstay treatment of symptomatic esophageal diverticulum is surgical correction. Much of the available information regarding esophageal diverticulum and its surgical management has been derived from small studies and institutional reviews. Our study objective was to investigate the demographics, perioperative conditions, and predictors of outcomes after surgical treatment of acquired esophageal diverticulum using a nationally representative database. Methods: A retrospective review using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample database from 2000–2009 was performed for patients with acquired esophageal diverticulum. The patients were stratified into Zenker's diverticulum (ZD) or non-Zenker’s diverticulum (NZD) subgroups. The covariates retrieved included age, gender, ethnicity, insurance type, and Charlson comorbidity index. A multivariate analysis was performed to determine the predictors of postoperative morbidity. Discharge-level weights were applied. Results: Overall, a total of 4253 patients met our inclusion criteria, 3197 (75%) with ZD and 1056 (25%) with NZD. In the ZD group, the mean age was 73 ± 12.3 y, and most were men (55%) and white (67%). The mean length of stay was 5.82 ± 8.08 d, and the mortality rate was 1.2%. The most common complication was septicemia or sepsis (2.0%). The black patients had higher odds of postoperative morbidity than the white patients (odds ratio [OR] 2.29, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.02–5.17). The risk of overall postoperative morbidity was 52% greater for women (OR 1.52, 95% CI 1.01–2.29). An increasing Charlson comorbidity index was an independent predictor of morbidity. In the NZD group, the mean age was 69 ± 13.9 y, and most were also men (51%) and white (63%). The mean length of stay was 8.13 ± 10.56 d, and the mortality rate was 1.6%. The most common complication was air leak (3.1%). The black and Hispanic patients had higher odds of postoperative morbidity than the white patients (OR 1.97, 95% CI 1.05–3.72 and OR 2.37, 95% CI 1.06–5.30, respectively). An increasing Charlson comorbidity index was an independent predictor of morbidity. Compared with laparoscopy, the risk of developing postoperative morbidity was higher with the thoracotomy procedure (OR 7.45, 95% CI 1.11–50.18). Conclusions: Using a nationally representative database, our study found that female gender, black race, and the presence of comorbidities were associated with increased postoperative morbidity among patients with ZD. Among the patients with NZD, black and Hispanic patients had worse postoperative morbidity than the white patients, and the presence of comorbidities was associated with increased postoperative morbidity. Thoracotomy for the correction of NZD was associated with increased postoperative morbidity compared with the laparoscopic approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: The American Osteopathic Board of Surgery In-Training Examination (AOBSITE) is administered to general surgery residency training programs. Based on findings in allopathic training, we hypothesize that larger programs will outperform smaller programs and that Southern programs will perform lower than other geographic regions. Materials and Methods: In this retrospective study, the performance on the AOBSITE was obtained for all of the osteopathic general surgery programs from 2008 to 2012. To test if program size was related to AOBSITE performance, simple linear regression was performed. Geographic differences in median performance between states and US Census Bureau regions were evaluated using Kruskal–Wallis tests. Nonparametric statistics were performed using an α = 0.05. Results: From 2008 to 2012, there were 49 general surgery residency training programs and 2278 examinees evaluated. The median raw performance by general surgery residency training program was 168.0 (IQR [161.8–177.7]). The weighted median standardized performance by general surgery residency training program was 487.8 (IQR [462.8–528.0]). Simple linear regression analyses showed that the slope of the least-square regression line was greater than zero for raw performance (P = 0.048) and standardized performance (P = 0.005). A Kruskal–Wallis test showed that there were no differences in raw performance or standardized performance by US Census Bureau Region or by state (all P > 0.05). Conclusions: Overall, larger general surgery residency training programs outperform smaller programs on the AOBSITE and that there are no geographical differences in performance by state or region. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Introduction: As a consequence of surgical resident duty hour restrictions, there is a need for faculty to utilize novel teaching methods to convey information in a more efficient manner. The current paradigm of surgical training, which has not changed significantly since the time of Halsted, assumes that all residents assimilate information in a similar fashion. However, recent data has shown that learners have preferences for the ways in which they receive and process information. The VARK model categorizes learners as visual (V), aural (A), read/write (R), and kinesthetic (K). The VARK learning style preferences of surgical residents have not been previously evaluated. In this study, the preferred learning styles of general surgery residents were determined, along with faculty and resident perception of resident learning styles. In addition, we hypothesized that American Board of Surgery In-Training Exam (ABSITE) scores are associated with preference for a read/write (R) learning style. Methods: The Fleming VARK learning styles inventory was administered to all general surgery residents at a university hospital–based program. Responses on the inventory were scored to determine the preferred learning style for each resident. Faculty members were surveyed to determine their accuracy in identifying the preferred learning style of each resident. All residents were also surveyed to determine their accuracy in identifying their peers' VARK preferences. Resident ABSITE scores were examined for association with preferred learning styles. Results: Twenty-nine residents completed the inventory. Most (18 of 29, 62%) had a multimodal preference, although more than a third (11 of 29, 38%) demonstrated a single-modality preference. Seventy-six percent of all residents (22 of 29) had some degree of kinesthetic (K) learning, while under 50% (14 of 29) were aural (A) learners. Although not significant, dominant (R) learners had the highest mean ABSITE scores. Faculty identified residents' learning styles accurately 41% of the time; more experienced faculty were better than less experienced ones (R 2 = 0.703, P = 0.018). Residents had similar accuracy to faculty in identifying their peers' learning styles. Chief residents were more accurate than junior residents (44% versus 28%, P = 0.009). Conclusions: Most general surgery residents have a multimodal learning preference. Faculty members are relatively inaccurate at identifying residents' preferred learning styles; however, there is a strong correlation between years of faculty experience and accuracy. Chief residents are more accurate than junior residents at learning style identification. Higher mean ABSITE scores may be a reflection of a dominant read/write learning style. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Introduction: Night-float work schedules were designed to address growing concerns of the affect of fatigue on resident psychomotor and cognitive skills after traditional 24-h call work schedules. Whether this transition has achieved these results is debatable. This study was designed to compare the psychomotor performance of general surgery residents on both work schedule types. We hypothesized that when measured with novel laparoscopic simulator tasks, residents on a 24-h call schedule would exhibit worse psychomotor performance compared with those on a night-float work schedule. Methods: Nine general surgery residents at the post-graduate year (PGY) 2, 3, and 5 levels were recruited and trained on the Simbionix LAP Mentor Simulator (Simbionix, Cleveland, OH). Performance on two tasks was tested before and after a 24-h call work shift and a night-float shift. A survey assessing levels of work shift activity and fatigue were administered after all work shifts. Results: There was no statistically significant difference in resident accuracy, speed of movement, economy of movement, and time to completion of the two simulation tasks. The only measures of work shift activity achieving statistically significant difference were number of patients seen and numbers of steps walked on call. There was no statistically significant difference in subjective evaluation of fatigue. Conclusions: In this study of general surgery residents, a statistically significant difference in psychomotor performance between residents working 24-h call shift versus a 12-h night-float shift could not be found. Psychomotor performance does not appear to suffer after a work shift. Additionally, post-shift subjective evaluations of fatigue are comparable regardless of shift type. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Background: Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) is considered the diagnostic test of choice in the evaluation of thyroid nodules. Some practice recommendations, however, suggest surgical resection of larger thyroid nodules due to concerns of FNA unreliability in the diagnosis of thyroid malignancy. The purpose of this study was to determine the reliability of FNA in thyroid nodules ≥4 cm. Methods: Retrospective review of prospectively collected data of 1068 consecutive patients who underwent FNA and thyroidectomy at a single tertiary medical center from 2003 to 2010 was performed. Patients were divided into two groups: those patients with a dominant thyroid nodule ≥4 cm (n = 212) and those patients with a dominant thyroid nodule <4 cm (n = 856). Sensitivity, specificity, and negative and positive predictive values were calculated for FNA results and final histopathology after thyroidectomy. Results: Of 212 patients with lesions ≥4 cm, 35% had thyroid malignancy on final pathology. Conversely, 54% of 856 patients with dominant thyroid nodules <4 cm had a final diagnosis of thyroid cancer after thyroidectomy. FNA demonstrated similar test characteristics among patients with lesions ≥4 cm and <4 cm, with a specificity of 99% (CI: 96%–100%) and 98% (CI: 96%–99.0%), respectively, and a sensitivity of 35% (CI: 23%–49%) and 42% (CI: 37%–46%), respectively. The positive predictive value of FNA was 82% (CI: 75%–100%) for nodules ≥4 cm and 96% (CI: 92%–98%) for nodules <4 cm. Negative predictive value was significantly different, with a value of 82% (CI: 75%–87%) for lesions ≥4 cm and only 59% (CI: 55%–63%) for lesions <4 cm. Conclusions: The reliability of FNA as a diagnostic test is not affected by the size of thyroid nodules. Routine surgical resection for all thyroid nodules ≥4 cm should not be used as the only independent factor in determining need for surgical resection. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Our appreciation for the increased role of simulation in surgical education has led us to develop a simulator for effective training of fundamental invasive thoracic skills. Materials and Methods: Study subjects were fourth year medical students (MS-4, n = 6) rotating on a surgery clerkship, and surgical interns (PGY-1, n = 6). All subjects completed demographic surveys and rated their comfort level performing the thoracic skills. A computerized instructional module was given to all participants. Additionally, interns attended a boot camp with didactics, live demonstrations, and supervised practice sessions. Subjects were asked to perform a thoracentesis and insert a chest tube on the models, repetitively, during three sessions, and their skills were rated. Participants were asked to rate their comfort levels performing the procedure before and after the sessions. Results: Interns reported a greater exposure to surgery (9.7 ± 3.2 wk versus 6 ± 1.8 wk; P = 0.03). Although interns were initially faster, operative times were comparable by the third session. Initially, technical skill ratings for thoracentesis were significantly lower in the MS-4 group (P < 0.03). The scores significantly increased by the final simulation (P ≤ 0.04), and were similar to the PGY-1 skill ratings. Significant improvement with chest tube placement each week (P ≤ 0.05), resulted in scores comparable to the intern group as well. Both groups reported higher comfort levels after the simulation sessions. Conclusions: Our simulation trainers were effective educational tools for fundamental thoracic procedures. Our study demonstrates improved technical skill and higher comfort levels with the simulated procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Technical skills are an important part of any general surgery residency curriculum. With the demands of limited work weeks, it is imperative that educators create novel methods of teaching technical skills to their residents. Our program utilizes a dedicated month to help accomplish this. This study hypothesized that general surgery residents would report a positive effect of a dedicated technical skills rotation. Methods: Residents who had undergone a 1 mo rotation in technical skills during their first year were asked to fill out a survey concerning their experience. During the 1-mo rotation, the residents had almost no clinical responsibilities. Teaching of technical skills was performed with various activities, including video content (VC), virtual reality simulators (VR), open foam procedures (OF), laparoscopic box trainers (BT), surgical equipment in-service (SE), and animate sessions (AS). Responses were given on a Likert scale (1–10) with higher numbers being more positive responses. Results: There were seven residents in this study. The residents gave a very positive response to the overall rotation (9.4) and exposure to laparoscopic procedures (9.6). The other responses were enthusiastic as well: exposure to open procedures (8.9) and preparation for operative room (9.4). After their rotation, the residents were comfortable performing a laparoscopic cholecystectomy (9.2), a hand-sewn anastomosis (8.7), and a stapled anastomosis (9.4). The residents found theses activities helpful in increasing order: VC (7.8), VR (8.0), BT (9.0), ES (9.7), OF (9.8), and AS (9.8). Conclusions: A 1-mo dedicated technical skills rotations was perceived to be extremely positive by the residents. The residents felt very comfortable performing a laparoscopic cholecystectomy, a hand-sewn anastomosis, and a stapled anastomosis. With the 80-h work week, alternatives to learning technical skills in the operating room are essential. Further studies need to be performed to determine if this rotation aids in accomplishing this goal. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Thyroid nodules are found in 12–52% of patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (pHPT). With the increasing use of minimally invasive parathyroidectomy (MIP), there is no standard approach for the management of incidental thyroid nodules in pHPT patients. Methods: A survey was conducted of the American Association of Endocrine Surgeons. Information was obtained regarding parathyroidectomy practice patterns, including surgical technique, preoperative localization procedures, and algorithms used in the diagnosis/treatment of incidental thyroid nodules. Results: The survey response rate was 74%. Sixty-seven percent were high-volume parathyroid surgeons (>5/mo); the majority performed MIP. High-volume surgeons were more likely to use Sestamibi/single photon emitted computed tomography for preoperative localization (40% versus 24%; P = 0.011) and to disregard incidentally discovered thyroid nodules <1 cm (41% versus 22%; P = 0.023). They were less likely to evaluate nodules discovered intraoperatively by frozen section (28% versus 41%; P = 0.081), fine-needle aspiration (13% versus 24%; P = 0.078), or thyroidectomy (24% versus 40%; P = 0.03). Surgeons performing open parathyroidectomy were more likely than those who use MIP to biopsy nodules intraoperatively (32% versus 20%; P < 0.05) and perform simultaneous thyroidectomy (30% versus 10%; P < 0.001). Conclusions: Experienced endocrine surgeons disagree about the optimal management of incidental thyroid nodules encountered during parathyroidectomy. Our data suggest that high-volume parathyroid surgeons are less aggressive in their evaluation of thyroid pathology in patients with pHPT. Variation in practice among this experienced group implies even greater variation in the broader surgical community, and in the quality and cost of care for patients with pHPT. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Research has demonstrated that practice in surgical simulators leads to improved performance in that simulator. Our hypothesis is that skills acquired in simulators are transferable to the operating room. Materials and methods: Twenty-three laparoscopically naïve surgical interns performed two standardized tasks in a simulator: pegboard transfer and intracorporeal knot tying. Performance was measured using a validated scoring system. On the same day as this initial assessment, subjects were videotaped performing two tasks in a live porcine model: running the small bowel and intracorporeal knot tying. Performance in the porcine model was measured using a modified version of a validated skills assessment tool by two blinded experts. Following a 6-wk proficiency-based dry lab laparoscopic training course, task performance was re-evaluated. No interval live operative laparoscopic experience occurred between the first and second assessment. Results: After training, mean pegboard transfer scores increased from 118.7 to 181.8 (theoretical maximum = 300; P < 0.01). Dry lab knot tying scores increased from 294.7 to 459.0 (theoretical maximum = 600, P < 0.01). In the porcine model, scores for the bowel running task increased from 8.5 to 13.5 (maximum score = 20 for both porcine tasks, P < 0.01). Knot tying scores increased from 7.3 to 14.3 (P < 0.01). Conclusion: Practice in a simulator leads to improved performance in that simulator and in a live operative model. We believe that this is evidence that laparoscopic skills developed in a dry laboratory setting are transferable to the operating room. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

What a great time to practice Surgery! Things we only dreamed about 20 years ago are finding their way into clinical care and greater advances are around the corner. As practicing surgeons, we have prospered by being raised on the shoulders of giants in Surgery that trained and inspired us. Dr. David B. Skinner was such a giant. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Social media, Twitter in particular, has emerged as an essential tool for surgeons. In the realm of academic surgery, it enables surgeons to advance the core values of academic surgery, as outlined by the Association for Academic Surgery: inclusion, leadership, innovation, scholarship, and mentorship. This article details the ways in which surgeons are using Twitter to embody these values and how the Twitter account for the Association of Academic Surgeons accomplishes its goal of inspiring and developing young academic surgeons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Despite evidence demonstrating the advantages of simulation training in general surgery, it is not widely integrated into surgical training programs worldwide. The aim of this study was to identify barriers and facilitators to the implementation and uptake of surgical simulation training programs. Methods A multinational qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews of general surgical residents and experts. Each interview was audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and underwent emergent theme analysis. All data were anonymized and results pooled. Results A total of 37 individuals participated in the study. Seventeen experts (Program Directors and Surgical Attendings with an interest in surgical education) and 20 residents drawn from the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, France, and Japan were interviewed. Barriers to simulation-based training were identified based on key themes including financial cost, access, and translational benefit. Participants described cost (89%) and access (76%) as principal barriers to uptake. Common facilitators included a mandatory requirement to complete simulation training (78%) and on-going assessment of skills (78%). Participants felt that simulation training could improve patient outcomes (76%) but identified a lack of evidence to demonstrate benefit (38%). There was a consensus that simulation training has not been widely implemented (70%). Conclusions There are multiple barriers to the implementation of surgical simulation training programs, however, there is agreement that these programs could potentially improve patient outcomes. Identifying these barriers enable the targeted use of facilitators to deliver simulation training programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: It is believed that many postoperative patient readmissions can be curbed via optimization of a patient's discharge from hospital, but little is known about how surgeons make the decision to discharge a patient. This study explored the criteria that surgeons preferentially value in their discharge decision-making process. Materials and methods: All surgical faculty and residents at a U.S. academic medical center were surveyed about the relative importance of specific criteria regularly used to make a discharge decision. Demographic and professional information was collected about each surgeon as well. A Kruskal–Wallis and Fisher's exact test were used to describe one-way analysis of variance between groupings of surgeons. Ordered logit regressions were used to analyze variations across multiple subgroups. Factor analysis was used to further characterize statistically relevant groupings of criteria. Results: In total, 88 (49%) of the invited surgeons responded to the survey. Respondents reported statistically less reliance on common Laboratory tests and Patient demographics when making discharge decisions preferring Vital signs, Perioperative factors, and Functional criteria. Surgeon-specific factors that influenced discharge criteria preferences included years of clinical education and gender. Factor analysis further identified subtle variations in preferences for specific criteria groupings based on clinical education, gender, and race. Conclusions: Surgeons use a wide range of clinical data when making discharge decisions. Typical measures of patient condition also appear to be used heterogeneously with a preference for binary rather than continuous measures. Further understanding the nature of these preferences may suggest novel ways of presenting discharge-relevant information to clinical decision makers to optimize discharge outcomes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]