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Background With increasing age, the processes of functional decline in the immune system that are collectively termed immunosenescence result in an imbalance between inflammatory and anti-inflammatory pathways. The resulting low grade chronic proinflammatory state is associated with the development of age related conditions including Alzheimer’s and cardiovascular disease. The primary aim of the study was to investigate cytokine concentrations change with age in healthy individuals without chronic disease. Methods Plasma samples were examined for cytokines IL-1ra, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12(p70), eotaxin-1, GM-CSF, IP-10 and TNF-α. This information was used to compare cytokine levels with average polyphenol intake and increase in age. Results 63 healthy participants aged 20–84 years were divided into young and old groups. IL4 and IL8 exhibited statistically significant declines in plasma concentrations with age. When comparing cytokine levels between females and males the two anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-4 and IL-10 were higher in women than men and all pro-inflammatory cytokines were decreased. Links between diet, exercise, BMI and plasma cytokine levels were assessed and this identified two associations as significant in young people only: IL-1ra vs. fruit and IP-10 vs. dairy. Discussion the results of this study indicate a signal of healthy ageing which differs between genders, with a less inflammatory cytokine milieu observed in females and more substantial proinflammatory changes in men., Introduction The potential anti-cancer effect of statins in colon cancer may be restricted to certain molecular subgroups. Aims To assess the interaction between p53 and HMGCR expression, KRAS mutations, and the association between statin use and colon cancer survival. Methods 740 stage II/III colon cancer patients were identified using population-based methods (2004-2008). Medication data at diagnosis was available. Tissue blocks were retrieved to determine immunohistochemical expression of p53 and HMGCR and the presence of KRAS mutations. Cox proportional hazards models were used to calculate cancer-specific and overall survival. Results Statin use was not associated with improved cancer-specific survival compared to non-use (HR=0.82, 95% CI 0.59-1.15). However, there was some evidence of a difference in the association between statins and survival by HMGCR status (P for interaction=0.07) and by KRAS status (P for interaction=0.04). The associations were attenuated for overall survival. No interaction was observed between statin use and p53 expression. Discussion There was evidence of improved survival amongst statin users but only amongst individuals with KRAS-wild-type tumours or tumours that overexpress HMGCR. Further investigation is warranted to determine if trials assessing adjuvant statin therapy in specific molecular subgroups are justified., Introduction Developing empathy is crucial in medical education. Studies have suggested that theroetical learning of empathy is less effective than experiential learning. So is there a way for students to have a learning experience to develop their empathy? Aims To use novel melanoma tattoos to see if students learn anything about the lived experience of a cancer diagnosis. Methods As a phenomenological study, we recruited 10 4th year medical students. Participants had a melanoma transfer tattoo applied to their forearm and listened to an audio narrative of a patient who had been diagnosed with melanoma. Participants were then asked to go about their typical day and make audiodiary recordings. Following this they were interviewed. Template Analysis was used to qualitatively analyse the data. Results Four main themes were derived: (1) Cancer simulation: opening up new experiences; (2) Drawing upon past experiences; (3) A transformative induction into patient-hood; (4) Doctors in the making: seeing cancer patients in a new light. Discussion This study provides insights into medical students’ experiences of ‘living’ with a simulated cancer diagnosis. The simulation technique used in this study appears to facilitate a realistic and embodied learning experience which may affect future practice., Case Study We present the case of a 44 year-old lady who sustained bilateral simultaneous subtrochanteric femoral fractures following a fall from standing height. The patient had a history of bronchiectasis and allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillus. She had been commenced on the oral bisphosphonate, Alendronic Acid, 7 years previous due to osteopenia. She reported a 3-month history of bilateral thigh and hip pain preceding her fractures. Sciatica was suspected and investigated with a lumbar-spine x-ray. The patient underwent bilateral femoral intramedullary nailing and has made a good recovery to date. The bisphosphonate was discontinued. Discussion This case highlights an important differential diagnosis of stress fracture in an at-risk patient that initially presented with thigh pain. Bisphosphonate use is common in patients with, and at risk of, osteoporosis1. Evidence from observational studies suggests an increased relative risk of atypical femur fractures in long-term users of bisphosphonates2. All patients commenced on a bisphosphonate should be warned regarding this risk. Symptoms of thigh/hip pain should prompt consideration of developing femoral stress fracture and may be investigated with plain x-ray of the femur in the first instance. Treatment options include protected weightbearing and prophylactic nailing., Introduction The Strategy for Tackling Antimicrobial Resistance (STAR 2012-2017) was launched by the Department of Health to promote optimal prescribing through professional education and monitoring antimicrobial usage, which were examined in this audit. Aims Ensuring adherence to antimicrobial guidelines, review of antibiotic choice and timely switch or discontinuation of IV antibiotics. Methods An audit tool was developed in partnership with the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust (BHSCT) Antimicrobial Stewardship Committee. All inpatients receiving antibiotics were included. Data collection took place on three separate occasions over three months; 62 inpatients were included. Sepsis screening, antibiotic choice, documentation and stewardship were assessed. An antimicrobial stewardship poster was created, and discussion of antibiotics was embedded in to daily handover and ward rounds. Second and third audits were completed after each intervention. Results Audit CycleAudit ResultAntimicrobial Adherence178%Antimicrobial Adherence283%Antimicrobial Adherence396% Discussion Following this project, communication on antimicrobial stewardship occurs daily; documentation and practice is reviewed, and this area has vastly improved. In order to make this change sustainable, an antimicrobial information pack was developed for junior doctors in the Trauma Centre., Introduction Lymph node harvest is important for staging colorectal cancer, determining the requirement for adjuvant chemotherapy, and predicts survival. Aims To investigate lymph node harvest in colorectal cancer resections, comparing laparoscopic and open approaches. Methods Data were obtained from a prospective database of patients with colorectal adenocarcinoma over a 4-year period (2011-2015). Resections were grouped: right-sided (right hemicolectomy; extended-right hemicolectomy); left-sided (left hemicolectomy; sigmoid colectomy; Hartmann’s); rectal (anterior resection; APR). Results There were 178 resections over the 4-year period, with 169 cases eligible for inclusion (M: F 113:65); mean age: 71 years (range 43-89). 122 laparoscopic and 47 open resections were performed, with mean node harvest for laparoscopic: 18.9 nodes; open: 19.5 nodes (P=0.634; CI-3.06-1.87). There were 71 right-sided resections (53 laparoscopic; 18 open) with mean harvest for laparoscopic: 20.3 nodes; open: 20.1 nodes (P=0.920; CI-4.03-4.47). 26 left-sided resections were recorded (19 laparoscopic; 7 open) with mean laparoscopic harvest: 16.4 nodes; open: 19.3 nodes (P=0.495; CI-12.40-6.56). 72 rectal resections were performed (50 laparoscopic; 22 open) with mean node harvest for laparoscopic: 18.3 nodes; open: 19.0 nodes (P=0.677; CI-4.13-2.70). Discussion There was no statistically significant difference demonstrated in nodal harvest between open and laparoscopic surgery for all types of colorectal cancer resections., Introduction We reviewed patient demographics for women undergoing laparoscopic surgery for endometriosis, to counsel patients about their prognosis and reoperation risk. Aims To identify reoperation risk factors for endometriosis Methods Retrospective chart, electronic and histopathology record review for excisional surgery over six years by two laparoscopic surgeons in the gynaecology department of a UK DGH (108 patients). Results Average age was 31 years, average parity 0 and average BMI 26. Psychomotor co-morbidities coexisted in 41%; depression 31%, IBS 17% and fibromyalgia 5%. Patients ≤30 years had higher reoperation rates (OR 2.47 [95% C.I. 1.08-5.61], p=0.03). There was no association with operator and reoperation rate (RR 0.96 [95%C.I. 0.55-1.67], p=0.89) or use of adjunctive hormonal therapy (OR 1.40 [95%C.I. 0.61-3.15] p=0.41). IBS was associated with reoperation but was not statistically significant (OR 2.33 [95%C.I. 0.83-6.52] p=0.10). Patients with depression did not have greater reoperation rates (OR 1.51 [95%C.I. 0.61-3.72] p=0.36), or those with a combination of fibromyalgia and IBS (OR 1.35 [95%CI 0.21-8.48] p=0.74). Discussion Only age ≤30 was associated with reoperation; other factors including operator, BMI and parity were not. The perception that patients with psychomotor comorbidities have poorer outcomes is not reflected., Introduction/Aim EUPD is a controversial yet common mental disorder affecting 1-2% of the population. We explored why Psychiatrists are reluctant to diagnose EUPD and disclose it to patients. Method A thematic analysis of transcribed, semi-structured interviews with four Consultant Psychiatrists was performed in 2016. Results Emerging themes showed the immense stigma that both Psychiatrists and patients associate with this disorder. There is still a lack of training, therapeutic options and support available to Psychiatrists in managing patients with this condition, leading to a reluctance to disclose the condition to patients. Important relational processes also occur between the Psychiatrist and patient that appear to limit the clinician’s ability to reflect, formulate a diagnosis and disclose it to the patient. Discussion The study shows the need for improvement in training so that Psychiatrists can employ a psychotherapeutic framework in understanding patients’ behaviours and indeed, their own responses to patients. Personality disorder services and treatments need to be developed locally, to support Psychiatrists in their diagnosis, disclosure and treatment of patients with EUPD., Introduction Patients presenting to the Royal Victoria Hospital (RVH) Emergency Department requiring Plastic Surgery input are referred to the trauma clinic in Ulster Hospital Dundonald (UHD). Number of transfer / year, patient demographic and outcomes post transfer are unknown. Aims To identify reason for transfer, distance from home postcode to each site and outcome of transfer. Methods All 2015 transfers were reviewed. Patients anonymised by sex, age and home post code. Outcomes and average distance from home post code to UHD and RVH was calculated. Results 56 transfers in 2015 occurred. 42 males, 14 females, age range 874. 42 had operative management: 4 patients for nerve injuries, 3 for arterial injuries, 23 for tendon injuries, 18 for cosmetic injuries and 16 for plasticorthopaedic input. Mean distance from patient home postcode to RVH 9.13 miles and to UHD 13.9 miles, a statistically significant difference (P >0.05). Discussion Despite patients travelling significantly further to UHD it is unclear if this has any impact upon outcomes. Considering the vast majority of patients went on to theatre, our study suggests that the current triage system is effective, but could perhaps be refined to prevent unnecessary transfers., Introduction Determining what is appropriate patient consent is a clinical and medical-legal problem. Valid patient consent requires that the patient can recall, understand and weigh up information, thus facilitating effective decision making. Several studies report high patient satisfaction when informed consent occurs within the context of shared decision making. Aims To measure recall and understanding of consent information after a shared decision making consent process, and assess if written information improved patient understanding. Methods Patients diagnosed with inguinal hernia were consented in an outpatient setting using standardized information through a shared decision making process. Recall and understanding of consent information were objectively measured using a knowledge questionnaire after verbal information and again after written information. Results 100 patients (97 males) were recruited. Age was 57.7 (SD=14.0) years. Mean recall was 51.3% (SD=13.2) after verbal information and 51.6% (SD=12.45) (p=0.88) after written information. Mean understanding was 34.8% (SD=15.9) after verbal information and 36.9% (SD 15.23) (p=0.28) after written information. Conclusions Patient recall and understanding of informed consent information were worryingly low. Written information did not improve patient recall or understanding. Focused interventions are necessary to improve informed consent., Introduction Male Breast Cancer accounts for less than 1% of breast cancers with published overall and disease free survival being lower than in females. Aims To determine treatment and long term outcomes for male breast cancer in our unit. Methods A database has been maintained for all breast cancer patients diagnosed since 1993. Patients were identified using the database and data collated using the database and retrospective chart review. Male breast cancer patients were treated using similar principles to female breast cancer. Results From 1994-2009 twenty-four cancers were diagnosed in twenty-two patients. Mean age at diagnosis was 69. Twenty patients underwent mastectomy, two patients underwent wide local excision. No patients developed local recurrence. One patient died from their breast cancer with systemic metastases. 10-year overall survival was 22%, 10 year disease-specific survival was 80%. Other causes of death included co-morbidity and secondary cancers. Discussion Disease free survival in our unit is better than other published studies and is comparable to and even better than female breast cancer. High age at diagnosis and co-morbidity are the most important factors in determining overall outcome. Treatment pathways for male breast cancer should follow guidelines for females to optimise outcomes., Introduction Neonatal sepsis is a serious cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality, accounting for 10% of newborn deaths. NICE published guidelines for neonatal sepsis management in 2015. The SEHSCT follows guidelines published in 2016 by the NI Neonatal Network. The major difference in the SEHSCT protocol is the inclusion of pre labour rupture of membranes and prolonged rupture of membranes at term (Pre & PROM) as two separate risk factors for sepsis. Aims Determine percentage of infants screened for Pre & PROM. Identify the risk factors in infants who require a prolonged course of antibiotics/lumbar puncture. Methods Retrospective study. Data analysed from a 5 months period (Aug-Dec 15) Results Pre & PROM accounted for a third of infants screened and a third of infants requiring lumbar puncture/prolonged course of antibiotics. Discussion A significant proportion of infants are requiring antibiotics for Pre & PROM at term. A contributing factor is the obstetric protocols in the SEHSCT. In order to improve patient care and optimise patient safety we recommend combining Pre & PROM at term as one non red flag risk factor, instigating a period of enhanced observation monitoring and reviewing the obstetric protocols. This should result in change in practice and potentially a change in regional guidelines., Introduction Good record keeping is essential for continuity in patient care and a requirement of the GMC. Record keeping in our busy fracture clinic is predominantly with the use of Dictaphones and tape. Anecdotal evidence existed of problems with missing dictation due to lost and poor quality tapes. Aims To determine the extent of missing dictation in patients attending consultant fracture clinics. Improve the quality of our record keeping by introducing electronic dictation and subsequently reassessing performance. Method Data was collected for 45 consultant clinics over a 4-week study period (March 2016) using a proforma. Electronic dictation software was then procured and is due for imminent introduction to fracture clinic. Results Data for 998 patients attending clinics was assessed. Of these, 113 had no dictation recorded from their last attendance. (11.3%). The location of the patients last attendance was Front-of-House (65.7%), Consultant Clinic (30.3%), other (3.9%). Discussion At present, missing recorded dictation from patient attendances is a significant problem. This data was presented at the M&M meeting. It is our expectation that the introduction of electronic dictation will result in an improvement in patient records and lead to better quality care. We await the results of our postintervention assessment., Introduction Appendicectomy is the most common general surgical emergency operation. Numerous controversies exist, including rates of negative appendicectomy, pre-operative imaging and laparoscopy. Practice and outcomes in Northern Ireland remain unknown. Aim To describe current practice and outcomes of appendicectomy in Northern Ireland. Methods A prospective population-based study was carried out by a trainee research collaborative. Patients were recruited over two months in June and July 2016. Results Preliminary data are available for 134 patients (78 males) with a median age of 28.4 (IQR 14.0-41.3) years. Cross-sectional imaging was performed in 41(30.6%) patients and was diagnostic in 95% of these. A Consultant surgeon made the decision to operate in 51(38.1%) patients and was in theatre for 26 (19.4%) appendicectomies. A laparoscopic approach was employed for 65 (48.5%) patients with a 3.1% conversion rate to open appendicectomy. The negative appendicectomy rate was 22.4%. Conclusions This multicentre study is the first to describe appendicectomy practice in Northern Ireland. Use of crosssectional imaging, a laparoscopic approach, and consultant input are less frequent than in similar published studies but the negative appendicectomy rates are higher. Practice must change to standardise and optimise patient care in Northern Ireland., Introduction Inter-hospital transfers lengthen patient stay and increase mortality; however, they are integral to the functioning of the Belfast trust. From January - March 2016 there were 256 transfers to BCH from RVH alone. The BHSCT inter-hospital transfer policy states patients must have verbal and written communication with the receiving unit. Initial audit showed RVH handed over only 48% of transfers, demonstrating a process that was sub-optimal and compromised patient safety. Aim To achieve a 100% verbal handover rate for patients transferred from RVH to BCH by June 2016. Method Transfer file started in BCH for data collection Percentage handovers received collected weekly (12/1/16–18/4/16) Patients excluded if not from RVH or missing data Teaching session for BCH on how to complete transfer lists. RVH sent contact number for BCH transfers. New transfer form requiring accepting Doctor’s name placed on intranet. Regular email reminders to RVH staff. Results Median value found to be 56.5%, highest rate of 73%. Three implied trends: 1. Downward trend when transfers phone broken, 2. Noticeable decline during changeover week, 3. Upward trend when transfers phone re-established Discussion Handover rates continue to vary. No intervention showed a definitive improvement. Further work is needed across BHSCT to ensure a safer, more effective transfer process., Introduction Hypertensive disorders remain one of the leading causes of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality in the UK. NICE guidelines published in 2010 recommend aspirin for moderate to high risk patients. Methods An audit and re-audit of antenatal aspirin prophylaxis was carried in Antrim Area Hospital. The objectives were to identify moderate and high risk patients and identify the proportion who received prophylactic aspirin in accordance with NICE guidelines. Results The initial audit in March 2015 had a cohort of 41 patients. Nine patients were high risk and did not receive aspirin. The reaudit was carried out 6 months later in September 2015. Overall there has been an improvement in identifying moderate and high risk patients in accordance with the NICE guidelines and those who have received aspirin correctly, from 21% to 58%. Discussion The recommendations are to insert risk assessment tools at the booking visit for all antenatal patients, update community midwives, GPs and hospital staff. Another suggestion has been to have a laminated copy of the risk assessment tool in the consultation room wall. A re-audit is to be carried out in a further 6 months to monitor the progress of this unit., Introduction The NHS modernisation agency states >80% of patients should be treated as a day case. Selection of appropriate patients occurs during pre-assessment, which only occurs if patients are referred. Pre-assessment clinic (PAC) allows patient optimisation for surgery. This can improve patient safety and lead to lower morbidity and mortality rates and effective use of resources. Aims To establish current practice with regards to utilisation of pre-assessment clinics in elective plastic surgery patients and introduce guidelines to ensure appropriate patient referral. Methods Prospective audit of all elective plastic surgery patients admitted over a one week period. Results Only 31% were pre-assessed. 91% of patients not pre-assessed should have been (ASA grade 3/4). 38% of patients were admitted as a day case despite 100% of patients being suitable for day case surgery. Discussion Disappointing results led to consultation with anaesthetists and pre-assessment staff. A new department guideline has been implemented. This identifies patients who necessitate PAC referral and demonstrates the referral process as well as highlighting key information which must be included to allow timely pre-assessment and patient optimisation. Better utilisation will ensure patient optimisation, reduced cancellation of operations and facilitation, Colonoscopy and Flexible Sigmoidoscopy are essential tools for investigation, diagnosis and treatment of colorectal disease. Aim To assess validity of indications for Colonoscopy/Flexible Sigmoidoscopy using guidelines by the British Society of Gastroenterology BSG, AUGIS and ACPGBI. Method Indications and an outcome summary was compiled for elective endoscopies performed during one month of practice. Results 61 colonoscopies and 25 flexible sigmoidoscopies were considered. 19.7% of colonoscopies had no valid indication. No abnormalities were detected in 33.3% of non-indicated colonoscopies as compared to 26.5% of those indicated. 16% of the 25 flexible sigmoidoscopies had no valid indication. The most common indication (52.4%) was rectal bleeding with no bowel habit change in patients >40years. Almost 15% of indicated flexible sigmoidoscopes had criteria valid for a full colonoscopy: surveillance after resected colorectal cancer (14.3%), adenomas and FAP (4.8%). Discussion The guidelines emphasise that clinical judgement remains key to decision making when booking endoscopies1. However, in the non-valid colonoscopy cohort a high percentage of procedures were normal. Furthermore the results suggest that procedure selection (colonoscopy vs sigmoidoscopy) may be improved by referral to guidelines. This is especially relevant in follow up of colorectal carcinoma and FAP, where colonoscopy is recommended as per NICE guidelines2., Introduction Communicating with a temporarily voiceless head and neck cancer patient presents a unique communicative challenge for some surgical sub-specialties. Little is known about the best means of communication or the attitudes of patients or clinicians. Effective communication is an inherent part of Good Medical Practice and the ISCP curriculum for trainees. Aims To identify attitudes and behaviours of plastic surgical trainees in communicating with TV patients Methods A 32-question survey was sent to all plastics surgical trainees in Northern Ireland in a one-year period. (August 2015 - August 2016). Attitudes and behaviours were assessed using a 5-point Likert scale. Results 15 (83%) trainees responded. No trainee had received formal training in how to communicate effectively with a TV patient. The majority of trainees found communicating with a TV patient time consuming, more difficult and have had to adapt their ways of communicating. All trainees agreed to trialling information technology (IT) devices and would be open to formal teaching. Discussion We have identified a need for further education in communication for trainees and support of the introduction of IT devices. Further research into patient attitudes and behaviours is required to allow for correlation, Introduction Mentoring is a key tool for personal and professional development, with a range of benefits described for mentees, mentors and their organisations1. Recently many peer-mentorship programmes have been developed throughout the UK2. Within Northern Ireland a paediatric peer mentoring programme commenced in 2014. Aims To review trainee engagement throughout the NI paediatric mentorship programme, in response to various interventions and adjustments. Method Online questionnaires and focus groups were conducted to assess engagement and satisfaction throughout the programme. In response to feedback, various changes were implemented, including setting minimum numbers of contacts, introducing e-diaries, an induction evening for mentees, and changing from mandatory to voluntary mentee recruitment. Results Within the 2014-2015 year of the programme, there were low levels of engagement. After changes were made, levels of engagement improved well in the second year. Overall, ninety two percent found the mentorship programme beneficial. Discussion With many new peer mentorship schemes being developed, quality improvement measures need to be implemented to support trainee engagement. We have found that small changes to the programme structure have improved trainee engagement. However more areas still need to be developed, and only with continuing adaptation will we be able to help our trainees get the most out of mentorship., Introduction Patient body weight is an essential parameter in safe medication management. Drugs requiring weight-adjusted doses are often prescribed and administered without a recorded weight. We investigate the recording of patient body weight on the drug chart in a Trauma + Orthopaedics ward in RVH, Belfast. Aim Accurate body weight recorded on the drug chart of 100% of patients in the T&O ward. Method The current practice of weight recording on the drug chart was audited. Following this, an informal session with the nursing team was held to promote weight recording. This was succeeded by a formal teaching session where potential barriers to accurate weight measurement were explored using an anonymous questionnaire. “Weigh Day” was introduced whereby each Saturday would be assigned as a day for recording patient body weight. Results / Progress The results of the initial data collection are shown in Figure 1, and the first 3 PDSA cycles in Figure 2 (not included in abstract). Discussion Following implementation of the ‘Weigh Day’ initiative, documentation of accurate body weight on the drug chart increased from 4% to 73%. The number of patients without recorded body weight decreased dramatically to less than 20%. We plan to extend the project across all T&O wards in the future., Introduction Traditionally patient safety has focussed on learning from errors. A more positive alternative is to highlight what is done well by individuals and adopt this behaviour as a team to increase the standard of care as a whole. Aims 1. To nurture a culture of positive feedback. 2. To create a feedback tool to complement appraisal/revalidation. 3. To improve staff morale. 4. To identify areas for improvement through analysis of feedback. Methods A postcard template was created with 3 questions: 1. Who did well? 2. What did they do well? 3. What can we do to develop excellence in this area? The postcards are available to all staff and deposited in a box. An electronic certificate is presented to the nominated people along with formal feedback. We aim to analyse trends and categories and use appreciative inquiry to investigate the most important reports. We hope to then identify areas of focus for improvement and provide constructive feedback for all staff as part of their continuing professional development. Results The project is currently in the design phase. Discussion We hope to expand this regionally within our specialty and then hopefully extend this to other specialties., Introduction Foundation doctors routinely encounter problems relating to patient care and are well placed to identify solutions and lead improvement strategies. Aim We identified a lack of training programmes to support foundation doctors in leading improvement within Belfast Health and Social Care Trust (BHSCT). We developed the First Steps to Leadership (First Steps) Programme with the aim of improving foundation doctors’ skills in clinical leadership and quality improvement (QI). Method First Steps was piloted across BHSCT from October 2015 – June 2016. The programme includes ten monthly workshops which align with online learning modules facilitated via the Institute for Healthcare Improvement Open School and experiential learning through completion of small group QI projects. Results Thirty-three foundation doctors completed the programme. Post-programme questionnaires displayed, Introduction Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common occurrence during hospital admission. It is often defined as sudden loss in kidney function resulting in retention of urea and other nitrogenous waste products. AKI during hospital admission correlates with a significant rise in morbidity. Furthermore it costs the NHS approximately £50million per annum in Northern Ireland alone. Utilising a risk assessment tool as part of the admission assessment can identify patients at risk of developing AKI and thus prevent it occurring. Aims To highlight how frequent AKI presents during hospital admission, To access how often the AKI risk assessment tool is used as part of patient assessment on admission, To access how often the AKI management plan is completed Methods Random sampling of 50 medical patients across three medical wards. Results 30% of patients had the risk assessment completed on admission. Discussion We have since implemented change to the medical proforma and have re-audited to see if there is an improvement in our ability to prevent, recognise and manage AKI in medical patients at the time of admission to hospital., Introduction Review of serious adverse incidents within our institution highlighted a requirement to improve the approach to category 1 sections. Aim To improve pertinent areas identified including documentation, clarity in communication, and availability of staff. Methods A retrospective chart review of Category 1 caesarean sections were undertaken. Informal structured interviews and focus group discussions were carried out with each MDT group to identify pertinent issues. Results Just over half the cases (58%) had the decision clearly documented, with 64% of cases in agreement between anaesthetic and obstetric records. One of the most significant issues identified by staff was the availability of anaesthetic nurse assistance out of hours. Discussion The issues specific to our individual institution were considered and challenged in a collaborative approach. Initially the anaesthetic assistant was added to the team emergency pager, and this pager also used to declare every category 1 section. An algorithm was subsequently developed, combining this service improvement, which streamlined the overall approach to the process. Achieving this level of agreement between all specialty members marks a significant step in our unit’s approach of learning from previous events, to improve safety and patient care., Introduction 1. All head and neck cancer (HANC) patients must undergo oral assessment to ensure adequate dental fitness pre-radiotherapy. 2. Post-radiotherapy HANC patients are at increased risk of dental caries. Aims Determine the oral health status of pre- and post-radiotherapy HANC patients in Northern Ireland between 2004 and 2014. Methods Health and care numbers of all HANC patients diagnosed between 2004-2014 were obtained from the Northern Ireland Cancer Registry. Dental records of patients also registered with the Centre for Dentistry, Belfast, were reviewed. Results Between 2004 and 2014, 504 patients attended for pre-radiotherapy dental assessment. 57% of patients had dental caries, with a mean of 3.6 carious teeth. 46% required at least one tooth extraction, with an average of 5.4 teeth removed per patient. Approximately half of post-radiotherapy patients had evidence of dental caries (49%). Patients with tongue cancer had a greater number of mean carious teeth (6.4) than patients with tonsillar (4.5) or laryngeal (3.6) cancer. There was an overall decline in the mean number of carious teeth in post-radiotherapy patients from 2004 to 2014. Discussion Head and neck cancer patients present with significant oral disease pre- and post-radiotherapy. Improvements in radiotherapy technology and the dental care pathway may account for a reduction in post-radiotherapy dental caries from 2004 to 2014., Introduction Violent instability infringes upon access to medical education for many undergraduate students. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is such an example where violence, transport issues, class cancellations and campus evacuations result in disruptions to student learning. Aims October 2015 saw an increase in hostilities in the Palestinian territories. Consequently there was a need to adopt flexible pedagogies to ensure students remained up to date with their studies. Palestinian students, like their peers globally, use smartphones to communicate and share information. As such, an online portfolio was developed as a means of disseminating the Clinical Physiology course material. Methods To assess the benefits of such a program, student marks were analysed before and after the implementation of the portfolio to ascertain if the change in pedagogy proved useful to students. Results Thirty-nine demonstrated an improvement in their marks using the online program (72.2%); The greatest improvement between the pre and post initiative examinations was eight marks (40%). Discussion The use of social media & online learning materials proved to be effective pedagogical tools for students studying medicine in areas of uncertainty. In the future, online resources could be considered in similar circumstances where conflict and violence disrupt access to education., Introduction The General Medical Council recommends students seek benefit from self-assessment and reflection1. Although students find self-assessment helpful in steering learning2, they do not automatically consider their learning needs. Aims A Visual Likert Scale (VLS) method was used to track the outcome of student-perceived self-assessment at the beginning and end of the Ageing and Health module. Methods Fourth year students (252) were invited to complete the VLS to assess self-perceived learning needs for key areas of the curriculum at the beginning and end of the module. The areas were history-taking and skills, examination skills, medications, co-morbidity, nutritional assessment, and swallowing assessment. Values were compared before and after the module. Student focus groups explored issues surrounding VLS use. Results Significant improvement for each area was demonstrated. Key focus groups themes included ease of VLS use, its use in identifying learning needs, and potential future uses. Discussion The results demonstrated increased student-perceived competencies after the module. VLSs were generally viewed positively and suggestions for VLS use were identified., Introduction Trainee-led regional networks can facilitate research through a novel, collaborative approach. We report the establishment and output of the Northern Ireland Surgical Research Collaborative, the first trainee collaborative formed in Northern Ireland. Aims To evaluate if a trainee research collaborative could be established in Northern Ireland and if it could deliver good quality research. Results After four meetings and a two-month period of research, over a total of six months, the first trainee-led prospective audit has been completed, submitted for presentation and prepared for publication. The strengths of this model were identified as having an enthusiastic cohort of trainees available to gather data, choice of topic acutely relevant to trainees and increase in the profile of research amongst the surgical community. Weaknesses identified included multiple site rotas limiting accurate and timely follow-up, loss of momentum from some members of the collaborative and lack of wider infrastructure to support ongoing research. Discussion This process confirms that good quality research can be carried out when initiated and undertaken by trainees, given that trainees can be in frequent contact with each other, are motivated, and require formalised evidence of research and audit, Introduction ENT trainees are expected to have a sound knowledge of common conditions. However, teaching and assessment of these conditions are not equally emphasized during medical school nor as part of the foundation programme curriculum. We developed a one day intensive course for the upcoming junior trainee into the department. Aim To develop a course that will reinforce current trainee knowledge and skill sets for the specialty. Method A one day course curriculum, including didactic lectures and hands-on skill stations, was designed based on round-robin scheduling. The lectures and skill stations were aimed at basic otology, rhinology and laryngology disease. A pre-course survey and post-course survey was collected after the course. Unpaired t-test were performed on the data with p, Introduction Resilience has been described as the capacity to ‘bounce back’ from adversity. The relevance of this to medical training has become recognised by the GMC, who recommend that medical schools make resilience training an ‘integral part’ of the medical curriculum. Aims To establish a baseline of subjective resilience in 1st year medical students. Methods First year medical students attended targeted ‘resilience workshops’. The sessions covered practical areas of resilience training for student life and specific medical student issues. Prior to these sessions students filled out the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC), Perceived Stress Scale, Budner’s Tolerance of Ambiguity and the Warwick-Edinburgh Well-Being scale to measure baseline levels of resilience and other personality traits. Result 248 of the 268 students 93% attended the sessions - of which 228 completed the questionnaires. Mean scores for resilience (73.64) were slightly higher than equivalent populations. Higher levels of resilience correlated with better scores of global wellbeing and lower perceived stress. Discussion This study suggests that first year medical students are in fact relatively resilient. Our results support, evidence that higher levels of personal resilience as scored on the CD-RISC correspond with higher levels of self-reported wellbeing, Medical students often lack confidence in assessing/diagnosing skin conditions thus new teaching methods are required to enhance knowledge acquisition. Precision Teaching (PT) is an educational technique that can improve knowledge retention by using frequent, brief, timed measures of student performance on specific learning points e.g. multiple dermatological images. Aims To determine the impact of PT on dermatology diagnostic skills compared to traditional teaching. Methods Third year medical students were randomly allocated to the intervention group (PT + traditional teaching) or control group (traditional teaching). For the PT group, we designed 50 image flashcards. Flashcard practice during timed one minute periods took place 2-3 times/teaching day and students’ data on accuracy was recorded. Pre + post-training tests were carried out to determine the impact of PT on students’ diagnostic skills. Results 135 participants were randomised to the intervention (n=70) or control groups (n=65). Analysis of covariance was used to calculate the ‘change score’ (comparing pre- and posttest). Compared with the control group, there was a statistically significant improvement of 8.8% (95% CIs; 4.9-12.7, p, Introduction Benign metastasising leiomyoma (BML) is a rare disorder involving distant metastases secondary to a primary smooth muscle tumour of the myometrium. Most literature is available in the form of case reports. This case report describes a 48 year old woman with multiple pulmonary nodules noted on routine chest x-ray. She had a total abdominal hysterectomy 6 years prior to the scan, for multiple benign fibroids of the uterus. CT FNA of the pulmonary nodules showed abnormal smooth muscle proliferation within lung parenchyma, suggesting smooth muscle tumour confirmed with immunohistochemistry. Discussion BML lesions are most often found incidentally in lung tissue; however metastases to abdominal lymph nodes, oesophagus, trachea, striated muscle, nervous system, heart and breast have also been described1-4. Metastatic spread is thought to be haematogenous in nature5,6. Growth of pulmonary metastases secondary to uterine leiomyoma are affected by oestrogen and progesterone levels2 and metastases are often positive for hormone receptors6. Due to low case numbers, management is still controversial. Hormone therapies (e.g. tamoxifen, aromatase inhibitors), chemical and surgical castration have been used in the management of BML1,2,7. Spontaneous regression of the pulmonary metastases has been described after the onset of menopause8., A 36 year old woman, with no previous contact with mental health services was referred to psychiatry after an acute psychotic episode. Bloods were carried out which showed gross hyperthyroidism. On subsequent physical examination, she had generalised myxodema, a boggy thyroid and thinning hair and had had weight gain, cognitive slowness & intolerance to cold in the preceding months. Advice was sought from endocrinology and she was commenced on thyroxine. Over weeks of treatment with thyroxine & haloperidol her delusions resolved and her mental state recovered. Discussion This case was complicated as she had just given birth to her first child by emergency section & had other contributing factors including stressful job as a probation officer. Her delusions centred around her baby & she believed that she and her daughter would come to harm. The initial impression was puerperal psychosis and she was managed in the community. It was only when her mental state deteriorated and she was admitted to the ward that thyroid function was checked. This case highlights the need for awareness of physical causes of psychosis & also the wide variety of manifestations that thyroid dysfunction can present with., Background Preterm infants and young infants are at greater risk of severe RSV-related disease. Little is known regarding innate immune responses of airway epithelium to RSV in these groups. We aimed to establish WD-PNEC cultures from term and preterm infants at birth and characterise morphology and RSV cytopathogenesis. Methods Nasal epithelial cells from term and preterm infants were obtained within hours/days of birth. Paediatric nasal cells were grown under an air-liquid interface until formation of a pseudostratified columnar epithelium with extensive cilia coverage and mucous production. WD-PNECs were infected with a clinical isolate of RSV. Culture morphology was examined by fluorescent microscopy. Chemokine/cytokine secretions and qRT-PCR of targeted genes comparing responses to RSV in preterm and term derived WD-PNECs is underway. Results Newborn WD-PNEC cultures with extensive cilia coverage and mucous production were successfully generated. Proportions of ciliated and goblet cells were similar in term and preterm WD-PNECs. Following infection of newborn WD-PNECs, similar RSV growth kinetics to that previously reported in WD-PNECs derived from older infants, were observed. Conclusion The successful culture of WD-PNECs from new-borns represents a unique opportunity to study RSV cytopathogenesis and innate immune responses in early life., Introduction Bioactive materials offer particular clinical benefits in the field of dental implantology, where differentiation of stem cells towards an osteoblastic lineage is required for osseointegration and appropriate function of implants in vivo. Aims The aim of this study was to evaluate the osteoblastic response of Stro-1+ve periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) to three well-characterised biomaterial surfaces: an abraded titanium surface control (cpTi); a polycrystalline titanium surface, with both micro and nano-topography produced by radio frequency magnetron sputtering (TiTi); and the same surface incorporating a sputter deposited calcium phosphate coating (CaP-TiTi). Methods PDLSCs were grown on each surface in the absence of supplementary osteogneic-inducing agents. Osteoblastic responses were assessed for up to 21 days in culture by measuring gene expression using real time q-PCR and via assessment of intracellular alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity. Results The CaP-TiTi surfaces were non-stoichiometric, carbonated, and calcium rich with a Ca/P ratio of 1.74. Gene expression analysis for the CaP-TiTi surfaces showed a significant late stage up-regulation of Secreted Phosphoprotein 1 combined with a late stage down regulation of ALP (gene expression). There was also a significant increase in intracellular ALP at day 21 for the CaP-TiTi surface. These data suggest that the CaP-TiTi surfaces provide the bioactive conditions required for direct osteoblastic differentiation of PDLSCs.

Introduction Chronic wounds affect around 200 000 people in the UK, costing around £3 billion annually. Wound healing problems are associated with hypoxia of the wound microenvironment. Promoting angiogenesis with autologous cell-based treatments requires both the correct cell and the optimal application method. Aims This study has been designed to investigate the use of commercially-available dermal scaffolds in delivering stem cell therapy to wounds. Methods Endothelial colony forming cells (ECFCs) were isolated from adult human peripheral blood, and cultured on one of three scaffolds in vitro (Matriderm®, Glyaderm®, Optimaix). The capacity of the cells to form three-dimensional microtubular constructs in scaffolds was determined. Scaffold-cell constructs were implanted into full thickness wounds on the dorsum of athymic nude mice. Wound blood flow was measured using laser Doppler imaging. Wound size was calculated from serial photographs. Results ECFCs formed more numerous and more stable microtubular constructs in Matriderm® than in other scaffolds. Preliminary results show that wounds with implanted ECFC-Matriderm® constructs had significantly higher blood flow both 2 and 4 days after wounding than wounds treated with Matriderm® alone. Discussion Wound healing problems cause substantial morbidity and considerable costs. Characterising cell delivery methods is essential to translate research into clinical use, Introduction The association between overexpression of cyclooxgenase 2 (COX-2) and survival in colorectal cancer remains incompletely investigated. Aims To investigate the role of COX-2 expression and survival in a population-based cohort of patients with stage II and III colon cancer. Methods Immunohistochemical expression of COX-2 (positive versus negative) was assessed in 663 stage II and III colon cancer patients. Five-year follow-up data were obtained through the Northern Ireland Cancer Registry. Cox proportional hazards models were used to calculate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for colon cancer-specific survival (CSS). Results Medication history was available for n=607 (91.6%) patients and aspirin use within this subgroup was n=130 (21.4%). COX-2 positive cancers (p=0.01) were slightly older but stage distribution and aspirin use were similar between the COX-2 groups. COX-2 expression and aspirin use were not associated with improved CSS after adjusting for age, gender and stage. CSS was improved amongst aspirin users with COX-2 positive tumours (HR 0.52, CI 0.29-0.99) but this finding was no longer statistically significant when adjuvant chemotherapy and co-morbidities were considered (HR 0.67, CI 0.28-1.63). Discussion COX-2 expression does not appear to have prognostic or predictive potential within this population-based cohort of colon cancer., Introduction Cognitive impairment is known to affect between 40-60% of individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). The effectiveness of cognitive rehabilitation in MS is uncertain. Aims To explore the feasibility and efficacy of computerised, home-based cognitive rehabilitation in patients with MS using advanced structural and functional MRI techniques. Methods 38 patients with MS and evidence of cognitive impairment on the Brief International Cognitive Assessment for Multiple Sclerosis (BICAMS) were enrolled in the study. Patients were randomly assigned to undergo 45-minutes of computerised cognitive rehabilitation (n= 19) three times weekly for six weeks or to a control condition (n = 19). All patients underwent MRI at baseline (time 1) and post-intervention (time 2). Changes in cortical activations were explored using a visual n-back fMRI paradigm. Results The n-back task was associated with robust cortical activations in known working memory networks. At time 2 the treatment group exhibited a significantly increased activation in the bilateral prefrontal cortex and right temporo-parietal regions relative to control group at time 2 (p, Introduction Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) Good Surgical Practice guidelines provide eighteen key parameters which should be documented on a surgical operation note to allow for quality patient care and effective handover. Poor documentation of these parameters and poor legibility of note keeping both have the potential to impact on patient safety. Aims To audit the quality of 50 surgical operation notes for General Surgery and Urology in the Ulster Hospital Dundonald. Methods Operation note quality for 50 consecutive patients was audited. Operation notes were assessed in comparison with the RCS criteria. Legibility was assessed by both a doctor and a lay person using the Adjusted Note Keeping and Legibility Score. Results No patient had all parameters recorded. Time of operation and CEPOD status was not recorded for any patient. Only seven (39%) parameters were met for all patients. Seven (14%) operation notes were classed “illegible” by a lay person. Discussion Current operation notes do not comply with RCS guidelines. An electronic operation note, potentially accessible through NIECR would facilitate direct patient care by automatically recording many parameters and provide legible, easily accessible operation notes., Introduction Working on a busy ward for oesophagogastric surgery involves a large multidisciplinary approach to discharge. Many aspects need to be covered such as dietary care, wound care, analgesia and medication. The aim of our audit was to improve adherence to the following national guidelines: NICE recommend 28 days post op enoxaparin for major abdominal surgery, and British guidelines for haematology recommend 3 monthly hydroxocobalamin post gastrectomy but not oesophagectomy. Aims The initial audit was a review of 34 discharge letters between January and June 2015 which showed a large variation in discharge prescriptions, particularly at weekends. Methods A checklist with an ABC style approach to include MDT aspects of discharge was implemented. A reaudit for 16 patients between July and October was completed. Results Following checklist implementation, hydroxocobalamin and enoxaparin prescription increased from 68% to 82%. 7% of oesophagectomy patients inappropriately received hydroxocobalamin on discharge which reduced to 0% on reaudit. There was no change in the prescription of enoxaparin in oesophagectomy patients. Discussion Since the introduction of the checklist, adherence with national guidelines has improved. We plan further ward staff education and reaudit., Introduction Non-elective laparotomy is commonly performed in the UK. Unfortunately, there is limited evidence on patient outcomes. Evidence is lacking on the impact of timing of laparotomy and the use of pre-operative computerised tomography (CT) scanning on outcomes. Aims To investigate the impact of pre-operative CT scan, time and day of laparotomy on mortality rate and length of hospital stay (LOS) following urgent laparotomy. Methods Data was collected retrospectively for consecutive adult patients who underwent a midline laparotomy within 24 hours of admission to Causeway Hospital between 1st January 2012 – 31st December 2013. Statistical analysis was performed. Results 78 patients were included. 11 patients died in-hospital (14.1%) and 18 patients died within 12-months of laparotomy (23.1%). The timing of laparotomy, along with pre-operative CT scanning, did not demonstrate any statistically significant impact on survival or LOS. Discussion Urgent laparotomy has a significant in-hospital mortality rate. Analysis demonstrated no statistically significant difference in mortality or LOS when analysed against timing of laparotomy and performance of pre-operative CT scan. Findings may apply to similar sized hospitals within the UK., Introduction British Society of Thyroid guidelines on thyroid cancer continue to recommend using the Thy1-5 classification for the reporting of fine needle aspirates taken from suspicious thyroid lesions. Of interest to us is the somewhat grey area of Thy3, which includes 3a (indeterminate, suspicious) and 3f (possible follicular). How good is our diagnostic cytology service in helping us decide whom to operate on? Aims To find our local diagnostic rate for samples reported as Thy3 on cytology, after proceeding to hemithyroidectomy. Methods We reviewed pre and post op pathology results over a period of on calendar year, and then compiled the data to find our diagnostic rates. Results 247 needle or core biopsies, strong female preponderance, mean age of 53. 31 cases of Thy 3a, 13% diagnostic. 37 cases of Thy 3f, 22% diagnostic rate. Discussion This data compares well with internationally published data regarding the acceptable variation in thy3 diagnosis and outcomes. It has allowed us to better inform our patients and improved pre-operative counselling. It has also formed a base for further audit into the U classification mandated for radiological ultrasound reporting., Introduction While the management of rectal cancer has become increasingly multimodal, surgical excision in the form of anterior resection or abdomino-perineal resection remains the mainstay of treatment. Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) increases the options available to the colorectal surgeon for early rectal cancer and endoscopically unresectable polyps, which can be used as an alternative to radical abdominal surgery, or challenging transanal excision. Aims To evaluate the outcome of all TEM procedures performed in a district general hospital over the past 4 years. Methods Data were obtained from reviewing patient notes, operation records, and PACS Radiology system. Results 21 patients (Male 11: Female 10) with a mean age of 67.9 years underwent TEM. Initial biopsy results: 17 patients with low-grade tubulovillous adenoma (TVA), 1 patient with high-grade TVA, and 3 with adenocarcinoma. All 21 procedures were completed as TEM, with a mean inpatient stay of 2.1 days. Post-operative pathology showed clear margins in 18 patients. Only 2 patients suffered complications - secondary haemorrhage; perforated rectum, repaired laparoscopically. At mean follow-up of 26 months, there have been two recurrences, with one mortality secondary to co-morbidities. Discussion TEM is a proven alternative to radical abdominal surgery with comparable results with traditional abdominal surgery., Case Study We describe the case of a 47 year-old male who presented with bleeding and discharge from a long-standing large, malodorous warty lesion in his natal cleft. Histopathology confirmed Giant Condylomata Accuminatum (GCA) with mild-to-moderate dysplasia and widespread koilocytosis. He was later readmitted for wide local excision of the lesion which was 105x85x25mm in size. His wound was successfully managed with Topical Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (TNPWT) and he was discharged day 3 postoperatively. Discussion GCA, also referred to as a Buschke-Löwenstein tumour is a locally aggressive verrucous growth of the ano-genital mucosa. Incidence is less than 0.1% and tumour pathogenesis is strongly associated with HPV-infection. Due to significant risks of recurrence and malignant transformation surgical excision is recommended. Options include wide local excision with mesh skin-grafts or flaps and abdominoperineal resection is reserved for those with pelvic involvement. Due to complications such as poor wound healing from faecal contamination, abscess and perianal fistulae formation, a temporary loop colostomy is a more common surgical approach. This is the first reported case to use TNPWT post excision, which allowed for reduced inpatient stay, quicker recovery and less impact on patient quality of life., Introduction Identification of variation in practice is a key step towards standardisation and determination of reliable quality markers. Following similar national studies, this study aimed to investigate the outcomes following emergency appendicectomy, paying attention to key rates of morbidity. Aims & Methods Single centre trainee led retrospective cohort study performed (2014). Primary outcome of interest was the normal pathology rate. Secondary outcomes were laparoscopy and 30-day adverse events. Results N=195. Age range (yrs): 32% (50). 54% M:F 46% ASA I-II: 96% ASA III-IV: 3%; Pre-Op Imaging: 49% None/AXR, 11% USS, 18% CT, 23% Missing; Operative Type: 78% Open, 19% Laparoscopic, 3% Lap-to-Open; Operating Surgeon Grade: 6% Consultant, 93% StR/Middle Grade, 1% SHO; Duration of Surgery: 55% 60mins; Histology: 16% Normal, 57% Simple Appendicitis, 20% Complicated Appendicitis, 7% Malignancy/Other; 30 Day Adverse Events: 0% Requiring Surgery/Radiology Intervention, 4% Wound Infection, 2% Pelvic Abscess, 11% Post-Op Imaging, 0.5% Composite Conclusions National studies reveal a wide variation of practice and outcomes when performing appendicectomy for acute appendicitis. Our data suggests much better than average overall outcomes compared with landmark recent national studies. ‘Normal’ appendicectomy rate is acceptably low (16%), allied to 30-day adverse event rates. Deterioration of surgical training is a concern however, with only 1% of cases being performed by the SHO grade and 19% laparoscopic surgery rate, suggesting a lack of trainee confidence when performing laparoscopy unsupervised., Introduction Acute Diverticulitis is one of the most common entities which presents to the general surgeon. Flexible Endoscopy, CT Colonography and Barium Enema are the common diagnostic modalities. Aims 1. Evaluate change in the age or BMI of those presenting with acute diverticulitis in the last decade; 2. Establish if there has been a change in diagnosis and management; 3. Assess waiting times for definitive colonic assessment Methods Single centre retrospective cohort study: patients hospitalised with acute diverticulitis in years 2004 (n=24) and 2014 (n=30). Results Mean age 58.1 (2004) versus 52.7 (2014) (p=0.22). Mean BMI 31.5 (2004) versus 31.9 (2014) (p=0.87); Diagnostic CT 29.4% (2004), 90% (2014); 2004: 23.5% had surgery, 50% pre-operative CT; 2014: 16.7% had surgery, 90% pre-operative CT; 2014: Significantly increased interval between discharge and definitive colonic assessment Average wait for barium enema 42.4 days (2004) versus 80 days for endoscopy/CT Colonoscopy (2014) (p=0.05) Conclusions No significant change in demographics or BMI. Increased utilisation of diagnostic CT with subsequent reduction in surgery. Generational paradigm shift with modality of colonic assessment. By 2014 patients waiting significantly longer for assessment, majority >6 weeks for definitive diagnosis, Introduction British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG) set standards for the management of acute gallstone pancreatitis; in particular, time until definitive treatment (2-weeks from index admission). Aims To evaluate the management of acute pancreatitis against BSG guidelines, focusing on delays to definitive management, in 3 district general hospitals. Methods Data were obtained retrospectively for consecutive patients over 1-year period in each hospital between 2012-2015, and evaluated against BSG guidelines. Results 113 patients in total were admitted with gallstone pancreatitis (mean age 56 years). Mortality was 4.9%; mean length of stay - 7.9 days. Mean wait for ultrasound: 1.4 days; MRCP as inpatient: 3.3 days, as outpatient: 22.5 days. Intervention included ERCP (mean inpatient wait: 4.1 days, as outpatient: 47.7 days) and cholecystectomy (60 patients, mean wait 77.3 days). There were 13 re-admissions of patients awaiting cholecystectomy. Compliance with BSG guidelines were 8%, 24%, and 75% respectively within the three centres. Discussion Delay for definitive management was partly attributable to imaging, especially as outpatient. Patients should be investigated as an inpatient to ensure guideline compliance with the 2-week rule. There was variability between the centres, concluding that these patients should have surgery during their index admission., Aims The available data reports the efficacy of the threedimensional (3D) vision system and its superiority over twodimensional (2D). However the physiological effects of 3D on surgeons remain unaddressed. To address such gap in literature; we aimed to objectively investigate the effects of 3D on ocular and hand muscles fatigue in comparison to 2D and its impact on surgical performance in novices. Methods We conducted a stratified randomised comparative study with cross-over of 26 novices. Eye fatigue was assessed using Visual Stress Test (VST), Visual Acuity (VA) and post-study display questionnaire. Hand fatigue was assessed using grip dynamometer. Surgical performance was evaluated using a validated curriculum with proficiency criteria Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery curriculum (FLS). Results The VST showed a higher mean score in the 3D group of 3.92 in comparison to the 2D group with mean of 3.15, (P-value = 0.23). It is apparent from VA test that the 3D group had a better VA on both eyes compared to the 2D group after performing the suturing task (right eye; P-value=0.29, left eye P-value=0.47). There was no statistical difference in handgrip strength between both display groups (right hand; P-value=0.55, left hand P- value=0.70). The 3D group demonstrated statistically evident superior performance in terms of less slippage errors (P-value=0.003) and gap errors (P-value=0.015), number of repetitions and accuracy were similar in both groups (P-value = 0.81 and P-value = 0.20 respectively). Conclusion 3D offers superior visual feedback that positively reflects on the VA and accuracy without any evident substantial physiological impact on the operating surgeon, which in turn favourably impact training and patient safety., Introduction Smartphones today with their rising popularity and versatile apps have great potential for revolutionising healthcare services. However, this was soon overshadowed by worrying studies over the quality of publically available medical and health apps. These were subject and/or discipline specific, and mostly evaluated partial compliance with information portrayal standards. Aims This study aimed to take a broader approach by assessing the most popular medical and health apps in the UK for full compliance with information portrayal standards. Methods The top 50 free and paid apps of the “medical” category on both iTunes and Google App stores were evaluated for evidence of compliance with an app-adapted version of the “Health On the Net” foundation principles. Results The sample included 64 apps, 34/64 (53%) were on Google Play and 36/64 (56%) were free. None managed to comply with the entire eight principles. Discussion Improving the current situation requires raising public awareness, providing tools that would assist in quality evaluation, encouraging developers to use a robust development process, and facilitating collaboration and engagement among the stakeholders, Introduction Variation in PRN and RT prescribing practices observed in a Dementia Ward, especially with the 58% of patients admitted “out-of-hours”. At time of observation, there was no specific treatment algorithm to inform prescribing practice. Aims To establish standardised PRN and RT prescribing practice in older adult psychiatric inpatients through the development of a Treatment Algorithm for RT in Older Adults following audit of current practice. Methods Admission procedures were audited, to collate and analyse what, and how, medications were prescribed in accordance with standard criteria. Literature search was conducted. Subsequently, a new Treatment Algorithm was developed in collaboration with Consultants in Old Age Psychiatry. Results 27% of RT/PRN medications prescribed at admission were changed at the Consultant-led first ward-round as they were considered inappropriate, found to be more prevalent in patients admitted out of hours. Literature search identified deficiencies in the evidence base for RT. Discussion Hypothesised variability in prescribing practices was confirmed, likely perpetuated by a lack of consensus on RT prescribing in the literature. Guidance is necessary to standardise practice and ensure patient safety, and a Treatment Algorithm has been developed to meet this need., Introduction Fractures carry an incidence of 5-10% for non union. Low intensity Pulse ultrasound therapy (LIPUS) can accelerate fracture healing and gives clinical benefit in cases such as delayed or non-unions. Aim The objective of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of LIPUS at RVH trauma unit. Methods Data was collected retrospectively for 45 patients who underwent LIPUS therapy prescribed via RVH trauma team with regards to time scale from date of injury to diagnosis of delayed/non-union to final outcome with demographic parameters and smoking status. Results Of the 45 patients, 28 (62%) progressed to radiological evidence of union as compared to 8 (18%) with documented non-union despite therapy. The majority (60%) were diagnosed and considered for LIPUS during the 3-6 month period with 72% progressing to radiological union within 3-6 months following the introduction of LIPUS. There was an equal gender distribution with 51% male and 49% female patients with 38% of patients identified as smokers. Conclusion LIPUS is clinically effective as a safe and a cost effective non-invasive adjunct to consider for delayed/ non-unions in fractures., Introduction NICE guidelines recommend that an Autism assessment includes a medical assessment. In the Belfast Trust children assessed by the Autism Assessment and Intervention Team are not necessarily reviewed by a Paediatrician. Significant non-attendance rates at these Paediatrician led clinics in recent years highlighted the need to review this service. Aims The aim of this project was to provide an efficient “New” Autism Medical Clinic service which best serves the children with Autism in the Belfast Trust and is compliant with NICE guidance. Methods We implemented a partial booking process and created Trust approved age appropriate “Going to see the Doctor” leaflets (11yrs or >11yrs) which were enclosed with the appointment letter. Four Autism Medical clinics were conducted between June and July 2015. Results 28 appointments were allocated. The Did Not Attend (DNA) rate almost halved (44% less) compared with figures in 2013 and 2014. Feedback to date has been generally positive regarding the booking process, the waiting times and the staff encountered at the assessment. Discussion The partial booking process to promote patient autonomy and the introduction of patient leaflets to better prepare patients has resulted in a reduction in clinic DNA rates and improved patient/parent satisfaction which has positive implications for resource management., Introduction Neutropenic sepsis (NS) is a common medical emergency in Emergency (ED) and Acute Medicine units (AMU). London Cancer Alliance audit data highlights suboptimal guideline adherence. Management is often initiated by junior doctors with limited Oncology experience. Aims To assess and improve NS management in a London district general hospital. Methods Data was collected for 6 months on crucial aspects of NS management. A teaching programme for the ED and AMU, delivered by the Acute Oncology Service was designed. A Consultant, Nurse and CMT jointly facilitated educational sessions consisting of an interactive presentation and a forum to discuss barriers. Parameters were re-audited for 6 months. Results Proportion of patients receiving the standard of care improved in 11 of 15 parameters. ‘Door-to-needle’ antibiotic time reduced from 3.3hrs to 1.7hrs. Admission length reduced from 6.2days to 4.2days. Discussion An improvement in the proportion of patients receiving standard of care, including door-to-needle antibiotic time was observed. Mean admission length was 48hours shorter following intervention. The teaching programme will be embedded into junior doctor inductions. An e-prescribing tool is in development. Re-audit is required. Conclusions Multidisciplinary teaching on a focused topic has the potential to improve an interdepartmental problem., Introduction As a surgical SHO in Altnagelvin, I noted that a high volume of admissions had Abdominal X-Rays performed routinely. Given the radiation exposure (35 times the dose of a chest x-ray), risk to patients (0.009% increase in cancer risk), and cost (£16 per AXR), I undertook a retrospective audit to determine whether or not these AXRs were being done appropriately. Aims To evaluate if AXRs requested on the General Surgery take are appropriate as per IRMER Guidelines. Target: 100%. Methods - Review of Surgical take records over a 2 week period, including differential diagnosis - Review of AXR requests, and final report, - Comparison of requests with IRMER guidelines Results - 52% of Admissions got AXRs, - 80.7% were inappropriate, - 67% were reported as normal Discussion AXRs requested seemed to be to rule out obstruction or perforation, despite a lack of clinical suspicion. Most Surgical consultants expect that anyone presenting with abdominal pain will have an AXR, and awareness of the IRMER guidelines for appropriate requests is seemingly non-existent. I presented this audit to my surgical colleagues, and posted the IRMER guidelines around the surgical assessment areas for reference. Re-audit is taking place currently., Introduction Last year the NHS Caesarean section rate increased from 25.5% to 26.2%. Surgical site infection (SSI) is a common post-operative complication. Elevated BMI and diabetes - both increasing amongst the maternal population - add to risk of SSI. SSIs often lead to a negative maternal experience and also impact adversely on resources. Aims A multi-disciplinary quality improvement project was designed to: Improve clinical practice to reduce rates of SSI, Educate staff in SSI recognition Educate patients in wound-care, Improve SSI reporting rates Methods Intra-operative measures were introduced: standardised skin preparation with ‘Chloroprep’ and administration of intravenous antibiotic prophylaxis prior to knife-skin. Midwifery staff were trained by infection control and tissue viability teams in symptoms and signs of SSI; and 48-hour wound-dressing introduced. A patient information wound-care leaflet was developed and administered on discharge. Staff were educated in completion of RISC monitoring forms. Results SSI rates reduced from 18% in 2012 to 6% in 2015, below the acceptable standard of 10%. HISC form completion increased from 35% in 2008 to >70% in 2015. Discussion Reduced SSI rates increase patient safety, improve maternal experience and reduce demands on resources., Introduction Metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC) refers to spinal cord/cauda equina compression by direct pressure and/or induction of vertebral collapse or instability by metastatic spread or direct malignancy extension. Aims To ascertain compliance with the MSCC NICE guidelines and explore the characteristics of the populations undergoing imaging. Methods Retrospective analysis of patients who underwent urgent whole-spine MRI extracted from radiology database between 01/07/2015-30/09/2015. Data collection included demographics, diagnosis, symptoms, MRI outcome and time between request and report. Dichotomous variables analysis was performed via Chi-square; for continuous variables a Mann-Whitney was used. A p-value 0.5) from the others. A Root Cause Analysis is being carried out with involvement of the Oncology department. Greater numbers are required to study variables associated with MSCC., Introduction In September 2013 24/7 PPCI was rolled out across the eastern region of Northern Ireland. Aim The aim of this project was to evaluate the first year outcomes of the primary percutaneous coronary intervention service against national standards. Methods Retrospective analysis of all patients activating the primary percutaneous coronary intervention service between 30/09/2013 and 30/09/2014 including call to balloon time (CTB) and door to balloon time (DTB). Results 720 activations of the PPCI team between 30/09/2013 and 30/09/2014. 54% originated from NIAS and 39% for emergency departments (ED). 79% of patient had a CTB less than 150 minutes. No statistically significant difference in CTB with age and gender. Patients admitted via ED were 40 times more likely (OR=40, CI: 21-75) to have CTB, Introduction Several potential areas for improvement with respect to morning handover in the Plastic Surgery department were identified in the recent GMC survey. It is recognised that improper handover can be a major contributory factor to human error and patient harm1,2. Aims The aim of our project was to ensure that an efficient and comprehensive handover process is implemented and utilised. Methods Using the PDSA cycle a handover proforma was devised. A time and place was agreed for the meeting. The proforma was piloted for one week. Following initial verbal and written feedback the template was adjusted. Six weeks following implementation, a further PDSA cycle was implemented and attendees were asked to complete a questionnaire. Results The PDSA approach has facilitated the implementation of a multidisciplinary team (MDT) morning handover meeting. The questionnaire had a 60% response rate. The handover sped up the ward round and allowed planning with regards to trauma patients. The proforma contained enough pertinent information to enhance patient care. Discussion The introduction of a daily MDT handover meeting supplemented with a handover proforma has increased the knowledge of issues affecting current inpatients, leading to a more efficient ward round and planning of the trauma service. References 1General Medical Council – Good Medical Practice 2013. 2British Medical Association. Safe handover: safe patients. Guidance on clinical handover for clinicians and managers. London: BMA, 2004., Introduction Documentation of radiology reports in patient case notes is essential for medico-legal reasons and patient safety. Anecdotally this was not being appropriately carried out in our unit. Aims 100% of scans reports to be documented in patient notes by completion of morning ward round the day after result reported. Methods Patients who had investigations reported between 7th-14th November 2014 within surgical unit of Causeway Hospital were identified. Individual case notes were analysed for documentation of result. Documentation of report’s conclusion felt appropriate. Audit was limited to scans (CT and USS) with plain films excluded. Result of first cycle presented at unit-based teaching session. Second cycle completed (12th-24th March 2014). Results 1st cycle: 19 surgical patients identified (9 CT and 10 USS); 12/19 scan results appropriately documented by following day ward round (63.2%) 2nd cycle: 19 patients included (14 CT and 5 USS); 17/19 scan results documented in the notes (89.5%). Improvement from 63.2%. Discussion the 1st cycle of data collection revealed a poor rate of documentation. Following the education of the team regarding this issue, the second cycle of data collection demonstrated a significant improvement but not 100%., Introduction Red flag referrals are for suspected cancer. Northern Ireland Cancer Network (NICAN) provides guidelines. This project audited referrals for suspected colorectal cancer (CRC) to surgical team in Causeway Hospital. Aims 100% of referrals in accordance with NICAn guidelines; 100% of patients referred seen within 14 days. Methods Red flag referrals for suspected CRC included (July-August 2014). Details of referral and outcomes for each patient found by analysis of Electronic Care Record (ECR). Results 55 patients identified. 39 referrals analysed with 16 not found on ECR. 15/39 referred appropriately (38.5%) with 24/39 not referred appropriately (61.2%). 11/55 patients seen within 14 day target (20%). 5/55 patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer (9.1%) with 100% being referred appropriately. 5/15 appropriate referrals led to cancer diagnosis (33%) with 0/24 inappropriate referrals leading to cancer diagnosis. Discussion The majority of referrals for suspected CRC are not in accordance with NICAN guidelines. Appropriate referral associated with significant probability of diagnosing CRC (33%) with very low probability in those referred inappropriately. Improvements to reduce inappropriate referrals (e.g. proforma) and subsequent impact on waiting times may be possible.

Objective: To present a case report of a patient with an open fracture and severe burns and review the literature. Methods: The patient was treated with intubation, intravenous antibiotics, and debridement and intramedullary nailing for the femur fracture. He later underwent multiple burn excision procedures with allograft and autograft skin coverage. The wound over the fracture was treated with dressing changes. The fracture was treated with nail exchange and bone grafting for atrophic nonunion. Results: The patient was returned to full weightbearing and good function with a fully healed femur. Conclusions: Treatment of open fractures in burn patients should be tailored to the specific needs of the individual; they should be reduced and stabilized via internal fixation at the earliest opportunity and should be managed by minimizing wound colonization through successive debridement, wound care, and consideration of flap coverage.

Background: The reconstruction of major burn and other deformities resulting from significant soft tissue deficits of the face and neck is a continuing challenge for surgeons who wish to reliably restore facial function and aesthetic appearance. A primary problem is deficiency of well-matched donor skin. Other problems include the unique characteristics of facial skin, the fine anatomic nuances, and the unique functional demands placed on the face. This article describes an expanded shoulder transposition flap that can provide a large amount of both flap and full-thickness skin graft for total and subtotal reconstruction of the face. Methods: An expanded shoulder transposition flap has been used since 1986 for head and neck resurfacing 58 times in 41 patients ranging in age from 2 to 62 years. The details of the technique and the results of the flap including complications are described. Results: The flap proved remarkably reliable and reproducible in resurfacing the peripheral facial aesthetic units. The pedicle skin is often used for grafting of the central face with its finer features. The donor site of the flap is closed primarily. Conclusions: Twenty years' experience with expanded transposition flaps has shown it to be reliable and versatile in the reconstruction of major soft tissue deficits of the face and neck. It is a technique that provides economy of tissue, versatility, and is well within the skill, patience, and courage of most reconstructive surgeons.

Objective: Burn wound depth is a significant determinant of patient treatment and morbidity. While superficial partial-thickness burns generally heal by re-epithelialization with minimal scarring, deeper wounds can form hypertrophic or contracted scars, often requiring surgical excision and grafting to prevent a suboptimal result. In addition, without timely intervention, more superficial burn wounds can convert to deeper wounds. As such, the rapid and accurate assessment of burn wound depth is a priority in treating burn-injured patients. The object of this article is to review current research on modalities useful in the assessment of burn wound depth with emphasis on the relative costs and benefits of each technique. Methods: PubMed and Cochrane computerized databases were used for data retrieval, using the search terms “burns,” “burn wounds,” “burn depth,” “burn depth measurement,” and “burn depth progression.” In addition, bibliographic references from prior reviews of burn depth were reviewed. All peer-reviewed, English-language articles relevant to the topic of burn depth measurement were reviewed, including those focusing on animal and human populations. Where appropriate, conclusions drawn from review articles and expert analyses were included. Results: Although bedside evaluation remains the most common modality of diagnosing the depth of burn wounds, recent technological advances have broadened the scope of depth assessment modalities available to clinicians. Other depth assessment techniques include biopsy and histology, and perfusion measurements techniques such as thermography, vital dyes, indocyanine green video angiography, and laser Doppler techniques. Conclusion: Of the depth assessment modalities currently used in clinical practice, LDI and ICG video angiography offer the best data-supported estimates of accuracy. Until the future of new modalities unfolds, a combination of clinical evaluation and another modality—thermography, biopsy, or, ideally, ICG video angiography or LDI—is advised to best assess the depth of acute burn wounds.