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5% of one of the largest biopsy-proven IgG4ROD cohort suffered from IgG4-related optic neuropathy, which was associated with upper cranial nerve(s) involvement and retrobulbar mass. Visual prognosis was related to the level of presenting vision. (35 words)

Purpose To evaluate the presence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in conjunctival secretions from patients without ocular symptoms. Methods Conjunctival swabs were prospectively collected from laboratory-confirmed Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients without ocular symptoms for reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and viral culture. Results A total of 158 conjunctival swabs were obtained from 49 laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 patients. The median duration of illness when the first conjunctival swab was obtained was 10 days (range 2–27 days). Four conjunctival swabs from four different patients (4/49, 8.2%) were positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA by RT-PCR. The Ct values ranged from 32.7 to 37.7 (mean 35.4). Viral cultures were negative for all four RT-PCR-positive conjunctival swabs. Conclusion Conjunctival secretions of a minority of COVID-19 patients without ocular symptoms may contain relatively low levels of SARS-CoV-2 RNA, but their infectiousness remains undetermined. Appropriate infection control measures should be implemented during ophthalmological assessment of COVID-19 patients to prevent potential nosocomial transmission of SARS-CoV-2.

Purpose Glycemic control has been recognized as an important modifiable risk factor for diabetic retinopathy (DR). Whether hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), as an indicator of glycemic control, could modify the genetic susceptibility to severe DR remains to be investigated. This study aimed to investigate whether HbA1c could modulate the genetic susceptibility to severe DR in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes. Methods A total of 3,093 Chinese individuals with type 2 diabetes were included in the cross-sectional case-control study: 1,051 with sight-threatening DR (STDR) and 2,042 without STDR. Sixty-nine top-ranked single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) identified from previous genome-wide association studies were examined for their associations with STDR and proliferative DR as a subgroup analysis. SNPs showing suggestive associations with DR were examined in the stratified analysis by dichotomized HbA1c (

PurposeTo describe and correlate the morphological and clinical features of focal choroidal excavation (FCE).MethodsThis is a consecutive case series from the review of the 4436 optical coherence tomography scans performed by Kowloon East Cluster Ophthalmic Service from 1 August 2014-31 January 2016. Statistical analysis was performed on SPSS 18.0 (SPSS, Chicago, IL, USA). A significance level of P0.05 was taken.ResultsAll 16 patients with FCE had unilateral involvement. The mean age of diagnosis was 52.56±14.00. The mean greatest linear dimension (GLD) of FCE was 636.25±265.11 μm. The mean choroidal thickness was 183.63±52.39 μm. Fourteen FCEs (87.5%) were conforming and two were non-conforming (12.5%). In the eyes with FCE, concurrent macular pathology was present in four cases (25.0%). Tractional pathologies of macular pucker and macular scar corresponded to the two non-conforming FCEs in the series. Polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) and lacquer crack had a close topographic relationship with the FCE. The mean GLD was significantly larger in eyes with concurrent macular pathology than those without (878.00 vs 555.67 μm, P=0.029). In the fellow eyes, concurrent macular pathology was present in 5 cases (31.3%): PCV in 3 cases and chronic central serous chorioretinopathy in 2 cases.ConclusionAs a significant proportion of FCE is associated with concurrent macular pathology in the involved or fellow eye, angiography for both eyes is recommended even for asymptomatic cases. The GLD of FCE may have clinical value in risk stratification.

PURPOSE To characterize epidemiological data on methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) ocular infections over a 10-year period in Hong Kong; to compare the characteristics between hospital-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (h-MRSA) and community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) ocular infections; and to review the treatment regimen and outcome of identified cases. METHODS A retrospective case review of ocular samples testing positive for MRSA at a tertiary eye center from July 2005 to June 2015 was performed. RESULTS Ninety nonduplicative samples from 75 patients with ocular MRSA infection were included during the study period. The average annual rate of ocular MRSA infection among all ocular S. aureus infections was 12.9%. Ten patients had CA-MRSA (13.3%). The most common clinical manifestation was preseptal cellulitis in the CA-MRSA group and blepharoconjunctivitis in the h-MRSA group. Vision-threatening conditions occurred only in the h-MRSA group. Besides vancomycin, other antibiotics to which both MRSA groups were highly sensitive included chloramphenicol, fusidic acid, cotrimoxazole, and gentamicin. Significantly more CA-MRSA was sensitive to levofloxacin and clindamycin (P < 0.01). The h-MRSA group required a significantly longer duration of treatment to eradicate infection (mean 79 vs. 28 days, P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS CA-MRSA presents as a genetically different organism with distinctive clinical presentation and antibiotic sensitivity from its h-MRSA counterpart. Despite increasing resistance patterns, we demonstrate that MRSA ocular infections can be effectively treated without the use of vancomycin, limiting its use to refractory or vision-threatening conditions.

Purpose We present a case of endogenous endophthalmitis because of an unusual bacterium, Citrobacter koseri. Patient A 57-year-old woman without previous history of eye surgery or trauma presented with diabetic ketoacidosis and a painful right eye with the reduction of vision. C. koseri was identified in blood culture; thus, a diagnosis of right eye endogenous endophthalmitis was made. Intravenous and intravitreal antibiotics were both started, and vitreous culture further confirmed C. koseri as the causative organism. Computed tomography of the abdomen and pelvis revealed a right C-shaped perinephric abscess, which was drained under ultrasound guidance. Results Because of rapid progression to corneal melting, evisceration was performed. Conclusion Cases of endogenous endophthalmitis caused by Citrobacter are very limited, and a review of all published cases in the English literature and the present case revealed that endogenous Citrobacter endophthalmitis arose almost entirely from Citrobacter renal infection. Early recognition and drainage of renal abscess may lower the chance of uncontrolled infection and endogenous spread to the eyes. Despite prompt and intensive treatment, the clinical outcome of Citrobacter endogenous endophthalmitis seems to be poor.

An increasing number of patients are taking novel oral anticoagulant (NOAC) medication, making perioperative management in phacoemulsification surgery an important issue. This study reports the haemorrhagic complications of NOAC in phacoemulsification surgery. Retrospective case study over a 4-year period. Consecutive cases receiving NOAC during the time of phacoemulsification were reviewed. Patients were either advised to continue medications (continued group) or withhold medications before surgery (withheld group). Details including patient demographics, preoperative assessment, postoperative outcome and intraoperative, postoperative and systemic complications were recorded. A total of 20,100 cases of phacoemulsification were performed. Of which, 66 cases were found to be on NOAC (0.33%). This included 66 eyes of 53 patients, with 42 continued and 24 withheld medications before surgery. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in demographics, cataract risk factors, baseline renal function, clotting profile, type of NOAC, incision size, phacoemulsification energy, preoperative and postoperative visual acuity. There was also no significant difference in intraoperative, postoperative and systemic complications (p = 1.00 and 0.53, Fischer’s exact test). None of the patients in the continued group had postoperative complications; two cases in the withheld group receiving retrobulbar anaesthesia had bruising and subconjunctival haemorrhage after resumption of NOAC (p = 0.13, Fischer’s exact test). The present study found no difference in haemorrhagic complications between cases continuing and withholding NOAC during phacoemulsification. Nevertheless, the potential risks and benefits to continue or withhold NOAC perioperatively should be carefully considered via a multidisciplinary approach.

Aims: To identify the angiographic and tomographic prognostic factors of chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) treated with half-dose photodynamic therapy (PDT). Methods: This is a consecutive series of 61 eyes with chronic CSC treated with half-dose PDT from January 1, 2009 to October 31, 2016. Results: The mean logMAR best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improved from 0.47 to 0.31 at 3 months (p < 0.001). From multivariate regression, the final BCVA was significantly associated with the baseline BCVA (p = 0.003), a diffuse hyperfluorescence pattern on indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) (p = 0.024), posttreatment shallow irregular pigment epithelium detachment (PED) (p = 0.022), and disruption of the ellipsoid zone (p = 0.007). A diffuse hyperfluorescence pattern on ICGA was associated with a 77.4 times risk of subretinal fluid persistence after treatment (p = 0.009). Conclusion: A poor baseline BCVA, diffuse hyperfluorescence ICGA pattern, shallow irregular PED, and disruption of the ellipsoid zone indicate poor prognosis.

Transscleral cyclodiode laser cyclophotocoagulation (TSCP) is often reserved for treatment of refractory glaucoma. This retrospective study investigates the safety and efficacy of TSCP among the Chinese population. A retrospective review was performed on electronic patient records of all patients receiving TSCP between years 2009 to year 2016. Patient demographics, indication for laser, success and response rate, change in intraocular pressure (IOP), number of treatment sessions, laser energy, glaucoma medication, visual acuity, pain symptoms and complication rate were documented. The study included 126 patients: 81 patients were male and 45 were female, and the mean age was 66.6 ± 14.3 years old and the mean follow-up was 22.7 ± 14.1 months. The mean number of treatment sessions was 1.5 ± 0.8. The success rate was 67.3%. The mean IOP before TSCP was 67 ± 38.6 mmHg and 22.8 ± 14.2 mmHg after TSCP, the mean IOP reduction was 38.4%, which was statistically significant (P value

To compare the imaging of retinal vein occlusion (RVO) with optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) and fluorescein angiography (FA) and evaluate their roles in clinical management. RVO patients who underwent imaging with both FA and OCTA from 1 June 2015–31 December 2015 were enrolled. An independent retinal specialist blinded from patient identity assessed the FA and OCTA reports. The pixel counting technique was used for FAZ size measurement. A significant level of p

A 60-year-old lady of Chinese origin presented with a right medial canthal mass. The lesion had been present for many years but progressively increased in size a few months prior to the consultation. Clinical examination revealed a medial canthal mass measuring 1.8 cm in diameter. It was firm with an irregular crusting surface. It was not attached to underlying deep lamella, and there were overlying telangiectatic vessels with contact bleeding. Excisional biopsy of the lesion confirmed a diagnosis of eccrine porocarcinoma. Eccrine porocarcinoma rarely occurs in the eyelid, and this is the first reported case of its occurrence in non-Caucasian patient. Given the significant risk of recurrence and metastasis, long-term surveillance is warranted. Although being rare, ophthalmologists should be vigilant of this potentially life-threatening lesion in the management of eyelid tumors.

Synthetic fibre granuloma of the conjunctiva, sometimes known as 'teddy bear granuloma', results from granulomatous foreign body reaction of the conjunctiva to synthetic fibres. It is often an incidental finding, most commonly found in children, is unilateral, and occurs in the lower eyelid. We present here, what we believe is the first reported case of synthetic fibre conjunctival granuloma in Hong Kong, together with a review of the condition. An awareness of this clinical entity allows early and accurate diagnosis and early treatment.

Obturator hernia is a rare disease and preoperative diagnosis is always difficult. There are increasing reports employing laparoscopic approach in the recent literature. Our aim was to review and compare the open and laparoscopic approach in repairing obturator hernia. All patients with obturator hernia from 1997 to 2011 were recruited. Patient’s demographics, presentation, operative details, morbidity, and mortality were retrospectively collected and reviewed. There were 36 patients during the 15-year period. All of them were elderly ladies (median 83). Nineteen underwent open surgery while 16 received laparoscopic surgery. Both age and ASA were comparable. The median operative time was 68 and 65 min for laparoscopic and open group, respectively (p = 0.690). The median hospital stay was significantly longer in the open group (19 vs 5 days, p = 0.007). There were less major complications (p = 0.004) and mortality (p = 0.049) in the laparoscopic group. Two recurrences were reported in the laparoscopic group, although statistically not significant (p = 0.202). Laparoscopic repair can achieve a shorter hospital stay and has lesser major complications and mortality in selected patients.

Background/aims This was a cross-sectional survey to find the prevalence of visual impairment and eye diseases among adults with Down syndrome (DS) in Hong Kong. Methods 91 DS patients over the age of 30 were recruited through the Hong Kong Down Syndrome Association. Each patient was provided with a complete ophthalmological assessment including best corrected visual acuity, refraction, slit lamp and fundus examination. Results In our sample, 56.6% had normal vision to mild vision impairment, 33.7% and 7.2% had moderate and severe vision impairment, respectively, and 2.4% were blind. The mean presenting distant LogMAR visual acuity was 0.66 (Snellen equivalent 20/90), and the best corrected LogMAR visual acuity was 0.48 (Snellen equivalent 20/60). Significant refractive errors were found in 86.3% of the eyes, with spherical equivalent corrections ranging from −23.25D to +3.00D. Myopia and astigmatism were prevalent and found in 59.3% and 72.7% of the eyes, respectively. Blepharitis and chalazion were found in 44% of the eyes, while corneal problems were present in 27.5%. There were low incidences of infective keratitis (0.5%), keratoconus (0.5%) and Brushfield spots (1.1%). Cataracts were found in 72.2% of the eyes; 26.1% were congenital and 44.9% were age-related. Fundal abnormalities were present in 49.5% of the eyes. Conclusions There is a high prevalence of vision impairment among Chinese DS adults. Uncorrected refractive errors, high myopia and cataracts are the main visually debilitating ophthalmological abnormalities. Vision may be improved through the simple use of glasses and early treatment of age-related cataracts.

AimsTo identify the clinical features and prognostic factors of endogenous endophthalmitis caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae.MethodsThis is a retrospective case series of all patients with Klebsiella endophthalmitis managed from January 2006 to December 2015 by Kowloon East Ophthalmic Service. Statistical analysis involved hypothesis testing on the SPSS 18.0 software (SPSS). A significance level of P

Background We report a case of peripheral pigmentary retinopathy and visual field loss following topiramate use for uncontrolled seizures. Such side effects have not been well documented despite the increasing use of topiramate in the past 10 years. A thorough search of available English literature revealed only a small number of reports of topiramate-induced retinopathy or visual field defects in humans. One similar case has been described. We are concerned about the possible rare instances of this occurrence in future patients and hence would like to propose a presumed correlation. Case presentation A 48-year-old Chinese woman developed blurred vision after 9 months of topiramate use. Her visual acuity dropped from 1.2 to 0.7 in both eyes, with bilateral diffuse pigmentary retinopathy and a constricted visual field. Despite an improvement in visual acuity after cessation of the drug, the other clinical findings remained. The temporal relationship between the initiation of topiramate and the visual disturbance suggests that topiramate could be the cause of such signs and symptoms. Conclusion Topiramate potentially causes pigmentary retinopathy and constricted visual field.

Introduction: Emergency gastrectomy has been shown to be associated with poor morbidity and mortality rates. The aims of this study were to review the outcomes of emergency gastrectomy in our institution and to determine any factors that were associated with worse perioperative outcomes. Materials and Methods: A retrospective review of all patients who underwent emergency gastrectomy for various indications from October 2003 to April 2009 was performed. All the complications were graded according to the classification proposed by Clavien and group. Results: Eighty-five patients, median age 70 (range, 27 to 90 years), underwent emergency gastrectomy. The indications for the surgery included perforation, bleeding and obstruction in 45 (52.9%), 32 (37.6%) and 8 (9.4%) patients, respectively. The majority of the patients (n = 46, 54.1%) had an American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score of 3. Partial or subtotal, and total gastrectomy were performed in 75 (88.2%) and 10 (11.8%) patients, respectively. Malignancy was the underlying pathology in 33 (38.8%) patients. The perioperative mortality rate was 21.2% (n = 18) with another 27 (31.8%) patients having severe complications. Twelve (14.1%) patients had a duodenal stump leak. The independent factors predicting worse perioperative complications included high ASA score and in perforation cases. Other factors such as malignancy, age and extent of surgery were not significantly related. The presence of a duodenal stump leak was the only independent factor predicting mortality. Conclusion: Emergency gastrectomy is associated with dismal morbidity and mortality rates. Patients with high ASA scores and perforations fared worse, and duodenal stump leak increases the risk of mortality. Key words: Emergency, Gastrectomy, Surgery, Treatment outcome

The use of defunctioning ileostomy is a common practice to reduce the septic complications after anastomotic leakage in colorectal surgery. In open surgery, the fashioning of ileostomy is a straightforward procedure. However, in the laparoscopic approach, this can be a difficult task and obstructive complications can occur postoperatively. A retrospective review was undertaken for all patients who underwent laparoscopic colorectal resection and defunctioning loop ileostomy over a 15-year period. In this period, 161 patients underwent laparoscopic colorectal surgery with defunctioning ileostomy. Eight patients developed obstructive complications in the early postoperative period requiring surgical intervention (5 percent). All patients presented with intestinal obstruction from the fourth to the sixth postoperative day. The median time to reoperation was 9.5 days (range, 5 to 19). The causes of obstructive complications were twisting of the ileostomy (n = 3), adhesive kinking proximal to the ileostomy (n = 3), tight fascia (n = 1), and both tight fascia and twisting of ileostomy (n = 1). Six patients underwent laparotomy for diagnosis and refashioning of ileostomy. The seventh patient had endoscopic decompression of small bowel and refashioning of ileostomy. The last patient was successfully managed with combined endoscopic and laparoscopic approach. Various pitfalls can occur in laparoscopically created defunctioning ileostomy. Measures can be taken to minimize these technical errors. Various surgical reinterventions can be attempted to determine the cause. With combined uses of enteroscope and laparoscope, a laparotomy can be avoided.

The purpose of this study was to describe the epidemiology, visual outcome and prognostic factors of intraocular foreign body (IOFB) injuries in a tertiary centre in Hong Kong. A retrospective review of 21 eyes in 21 patients with IOFB that presented to United Christian Hospital from January 2001 to July 2014 was performed. IOFB represented 16 % of all open-globe traumas. There was a high male predominance (90 %). The mean age was 42. Work-related injuries (86 %) were the main cause, where only 10.5 % had eye protection. Hammering was the commonest mechanism of injury (43 %). Most IOFBs were metallic (67 %). The IOFB was found in the anterior segment in 31 % and posterior segment in 69 %. 57 % presented with an initial visual acuity of ≥0.1, and up to 24 % of patients had an initial visual acuity of better than or equal to 0.5. Most cases (76 %) received prompt surgical intervention within 24 h, and there was a low (0 %) endophthalmitis rate. Forty-eight percent had an improvement in visual acuity, defined as final visual acuity more than or equal to 2 lines of improvement from initial visual acuity, and 48 % attained a final visual acuity of better than or equal to 0.5. One case underwent evisceration. A smaller IOFB size (

Background and Study Aim: Although magnetic endoscope imaging (MEI) has been reported to improve the performance of colonoscopy, so far only a few randomized controlled studies have been published supporting its adjunctive role. This randomized study was designed to evaluate the role of MEI on the overall performance of colonoscopy. Patients and Methods: Patients admitted for elective colonoscopy were recruited. They were randomly allocated into two groups, either with an MEI view (study group) or without (control group). Examinations were performed by one of the two designated, trained endoscopists. The primary end point was intubation time. Other outcome measures included completion rate, pain score graded by patients, and ease of procedure as reflected by the number of attempts at straightening the scope, the number of times of hand pressure was applied abdominally, and the need to change the patient's position. Endoscopists were also asked to score the ease of procedure. Finally, in the MEI group, endoscopists were asked to comment on whether MEI helped to locate colonic lesions during endoscopy. Results: In a 12-month period, 120 patients were recruited, with 60 patients in each group. The two groups were matched for age, gender distribution, and indications for colonoscopy. No complication occurred in either group. No significant difference was observed in the intubation time and colonoscopy completion rate. Other measures of ease of procedure and pain score were also similar. However, MEI was reported by endoscopists to be helpful in locating colonic lesions in 32% of examinations with positive findings. Conclusion: For trained endoscopists, the device confers no benefit in terms of performance improvement. The only identified benefit is in locating lesions. Thus, while the routine use of MEI cannot be recommended, the device could be selectively offered to patients for follow-up examination after local treatment, or to patients with small colorectal tumors in whom laparoscopic surgery is planned.

A randomized trial was undertaken to evaluate and compare stapled hemorrhoidopexy with excisional hemorrhoidectomy in which the Harmonic Scalpel™ was used. Patients with Grade III hemorrhoids who were employed during the trial period were recruited and randomized into two groups: (1) Harmonic Scalpel™ hemorrhoidectomy, and (2) stapled hemorrhoidopexy. All operations were performed by a single surgeon. In the stapled group, the doughnut obtained was sent for histopathologic examination to determine whether smooth muscles were included in the specimen. Operative data and complications were recorded, and patients were followed up through a structured pro forma protocol. An independent assessor was assigned to obtain postoperative pain scores and satisfaction scores at six-month follow-up. Patients were also administered a simple questionnaire at follow-up to assess continence functions. Over a 20-month period, 88 patients were recruited. The two groups were matched for age and gender distribution. No significant difference was identified between the two groups in terms of operation time, blood loss, day of first bowel movement after surgery, and complication rates. Despite a similar parenteral and oral analgesic requirement, the stapled group had a significantly better pain score (P = 0.002); these patients also had a significantly shorter length of stay (P = 0.02), and on average resumed work nine days earlier than the group treated with the Harmonic Scalpel™ (6.7 vs. 15.6, P = 0.002). Although 88 percent of doughnuts obtained in the stapled group contained some smooth muscle fibers, no association was found between smooth muscle incorporation and postoperative continence function, and as a whole the continence outcomes of the stapled group were similar to those after Harmonic Scalpel™ hemorrhoidectomy. Finally, at six-month follow-up, patients who underwent the stapled procedure had significantly better satisfaction scores (P = 0.001). Stapled hemorrhoidopexy is a safe and effective procedure for Grade III hemorrhoidal disease. Patients derive greater short-term benefits of reduced pain, shorter length of stay, and earlier resumption to work. Long-term follow-up is necessary to determine whether these initial results are lasting.

Aim: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of intravitreal triamcinolone (IVTA) in Chinese patients with diabetic clinical significant macular oedema (CSMO). Methods: Eighteen eyes of 17 consecutive patients with CSMO were prospectively recruited and treated with a 4 mg injection of IVTA. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) on the ETDRS chart and central macular thickness (CMT) on optical coherence tomography were measured at baseline weeks 1, 2, 3, and months 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6. Side-effects were monitored. Results: All patients completed 6 months of follow up. The mean baseline BCVA and CMT were 1.20 ± 0.31 logMAR units and 552 ± 179 µm, respectively. Improvements in CMT and BCVA were observed as early as at 1 and 2 weeks, respectively (P

Aims: To report on the use of trypan blue (TB) 0.06% for staining the internal limiting membrane (ILM) and epiretinal membrane (ERM) during vitrectomy and report on their histology. Method: 14 consecutive patients with idiopathic macular hole or macular pucker (seven patients each) were prospectively recruited for ILM or ERM peel respectively. After pars plana vitrectomy and induction of posterior vitreous detachment, 0.5 ml TB 0.06% in phosphate buffered saline (VisonBlue) was injected over the posterior pole in an air filled eye and left for 2 minutes. The stained tissue was peeled with intraocular forceps. Specimens were evaluated using histochemical and immunohistochemical methods. Results: The average follow up was 4.4 months. Internal limiting membranes and epiretinal membranes were stained satisfactorily in all cases and removed successfully. Eight patients (57%) had improvement of 2 or more Snellen lines. All seven macular holes closed. In the ERM cases, no residual membranes were observed clinically, at the latest follow up. No complicatians relating to the use of the dye were encountered intraoperatively or postoperatively. Of the 14 procedures, nine (four macular hole and five macular pucker) yielded sufficient tissue for histopathological evaluation. Histological and immunohistological assessment revealed that the morphology of these specimens was similar to that observed in macular hole ILM and macular pucker ERM removed without the aid of dye. Conclusion: TB staining facilitated the identification and delineation of ILM and ERM removal during the surgical management of macular holes and macular pucker. The visual outcome of this series and the specimens removed suggest they are no different from those without TB staining. Its use in posterior segment appears to be safe but further studies are required to investigate its long term safety., link_to_OA_fulltext

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to compare the outcome of patients receiving hemorrhoidectomy using Harmonic Scalpel™, bipolar scissors, and the conventional scissors excision–ligation technique. METHODS: Eighty-six patients with irreducible prolapsing piles were randomly assigned to receive 1) Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy using scissors excision–ligation technique or 2) bipolar scissors hemorrhoidectomy and Harmonic Scalpel™ hemorrhoidectomy. Neither the patient nor the independent assessor were aware of the technique used at operation. Patients were followed up at 4 and 12 weeks after operation. The measured outcomes included 1) operation time; 2) blood loss; 3) postoperative hospital stay; 4) pain score; 5) pain expectation score; 6) date of first bowel movement; 7) number of pethidine injections; 8) number of dologesic tablets taken; 9) time off work or normal activity; 10) wound healing; 11) satisfaction score; and 12) postoperative complications, including anal stenosis and fecal or flatus incontinence. RESULTS: There was no difference among the three groups in the operation time, hospital stay, pain expectation score, day of first bowel movement, number of dologesic tablets taken, time off work or normal activity, wound healing, and satisfaction score. The complication rate also did not differ in the three groups. Both Harmonic Scalpel™ hemorrhoidectomy and bipolar scissors hemorrhoidectomy were superior to Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy in terms of reduced blood loss. Harmonic Scalpel™ hemorrhoidectomy had the best pain score when compared with bipolar scissors hemorrhoidectomy and Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy, and patients required significantly less pethidine injection after Harmonic Scalpel™ hemorrhoidectomy than after Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy. Although the time required to return to work or normal activity remained similar, patients after Harmonic Scalpel™ hemorrhoidectomy had the best satisfaction score among the three groups. CONCLUSION: The study shows that Harmonic Scalpel™ hemorrhoidectomy is as good as bipolar scissors hemorrhoidectomy in terms of reduced blood loss but is superior because it is associated with less postoperative pain and hence, better patient satisfaction. However, these observed benefits are small, and the time off work or normal activity remains similar.

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of an oral preparation containing hyaluronic acid on osteoarthritic knee joint pain and function as well as changes in inflammatory cytokines, bradykinin, and leptin. We also used heavy water to determine the turnover rates of glycosaminoglycans in synovial fluid. This was a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study of 40 subjects over a period of 3 months. Visual analog scale, Western Ontario McMaster pain, and WOMAC function scores were recorded. Serum and synovial fluid were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays for inflammatory cytokines, bradykinin, and leptin. In 20 subjects, terminal heavy water ingestion was used for spectral analyses of serum and joint fluid samples. There were statistically significant improvements in pain and function. Both serum and synovial fluid samples showed significant decreases for a majority of inflammatory cytokines, leptin, and bradykinin in the oral hyaluronic acid preparation group. Heavy water analyses revealed a significant decrease in hyaluronic acid turnover in the synovial fluid of the treatment group. A preparation containing hyaluronic acid and other glycosaminoglycans holds promise for a safe and effective agent for the treatment for patients with knee osteoarthritis and who are overweight. Further studies will be required to see whether this is a disease-modifying agent.

OBJECTIVES. To review the results of patching for amblyopia management in Hong Kong. DESIGN. Retrospective case series. SETTING. Regional hospital, Hong Kong. PATIENTS. Records of all patients attending Paediatric Ophthalmology Clinic at United Christian Hospital, Hong Kong from 1 January 2009 to 31 March 2009 were retrospectively reviewed. Records of all children who underwent patching for amblyopia in the study period were evaluated. RESULTS. The mean age of 50 children (50 eyes) was 4 (standard deviation, 1; range, 2-7) years and mean pretreatment visual acuity was 0.35 (0.15; 0.02-0.63) [~20/60]. The values for mean, standard deviation, and range of treatment duration were 27, 16, 4-67 months respectively, and corresponding values for prescribed patching per day were 4, 1, 2-8 hours. The mean, standard deviation, and range of visual acuity at final post-treatment assessment were 0.66, 0.16, 0.1-1.0 (~20/30), respectively. The overall success rate (ie final visual acuity >0.7 or 20/30) was 62%. Children with moderate amblyopia (20/40-20/80) and severe amblyopia (20/100-20/400) had success rates of 74% and 55%, respectively. The mean visual acuity improvements for moderate and severely amblyopic children were 2.3 lines and 5.8 lines, respectively. The mean, standard deviation, and range of patching prescriptions for moderate and severely amblyopic children were 5, 1, 2-7 hours and 5, 1, 3-6 hours, respectively. Recurrence ensued in 7% of the children with moderate amblyopia and 46% of those with severe amblyopia. Reported compliance was good (>75% of the time) in 68% of the children. CONCLUSION. Occlusion therapy is the mainstay of treatment in Hong Kong. The overall success rate was comparable to that achieved in the Amblyopia Treatment Study. Recurrence was more common in patients with severe amblyopia, for whom maintenance therapy may reduce the risk of recurrence. The duration of treatment was much longer in our locality than in western countries. Reported compliance was suspicious possibly due to traditional cultural contexts. It is important to emphasise compliance to all parents.

Purpose Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a common microvascular complication of type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) had identified novel DR-susceptibility genetic variants in various populations. We examined the associations of these DR-associated single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with severe DR in a Chinese T2DM cohort. Methods Cross-sectional case-control studies on sight-threatening DR (STDR) and proliferative DR (PDR) were performed. We genotyped 38 SNPs showing top association signals with DR in previous GWAS in 567 STDR cases, including 309 with PDR and 1490 non-DR controls. Multiple logistic regression models with adjustment for conventional risk factors, including age, sex, duration of diabetes, and presence of hypertension, were employed. Results The strongest association was found at INSR rs2115386, an intronic SNP of INSR: Padjusted = 9.13 × 10-4 (odds ratio [OR],1.28; 95% confidence interval [95%CI], 1.11-1.48) for STDR, and Padjusted= 1.12 × 10-4 (OR [95%CI],1.44 [1.20-1.74]) for PDR. rs599019 located downstream of COLEC12 (Padjusted = 0.019; OR [95%CI],1.19 [1.03-1.38]) and rs4462262 located at an intergenic region between ZWINT and MRPS35P3 (Padjusted = 0.041; OR [95%CI],1.38[1.01-1.89]) also were significantly associated with STDR, but not with PDR alone. On the other hand, MYT1L-LOC729897 rs10199521 (Padjusted = 0.022; OR [95%CI],1.25 [1.03-1.51]) and API5 rs899036 (Padjusted = 0.049; OR [95%CI],1.36 [1.00-1.85]) showed significant independent associations only with PDR. Similar results were obtained when hemoglobin A1c also was included in the adjustment models. Conclusions We demonstrated the significant and independent associations of several GWAS-identified SNPs with DR in Chinese T2DM patients with severe DR. The findings on INSR rs2115386 are supportive of the role of insulin resistance, or the compensatory hyperinsulinemia, in the pathogenesis of DR.

Given the limitation of surgical access and instrumentation, pure NOTES technique currently appears challenging for colorectal surgery. As such, we would like to determine the technical feasibility and clinical results of hybrid NOTES right hemicolectomy with transrectal extraction of specimen.After the right-sided colon was fully mobilized and vessels ligated, bowel resection and intracorporeal side-to-side ileocolic anastomosis were performed with endostaplers. The Transanal Endoscopic Operations device was inserted transanally. The resected specimen was removed via the Transanal Endoscopic Operations device through an enterotomy made over the anterior wall of the upper rectum.The operation was performed on a 42-year-old woman and lasted 120 minutes; blood loss was 30 mL. The patient had an uneventful recovery and was discharged on postoperative day 5. The median pain score was 2 (range, 2-3). Our preliminary experience shows that hybrid NOTES right hemicolectomy is safe and feasible. The technique eliminates the need for mini-laparotomy in patients undergoing laparoscopic right hemicolectomy, and it offers promise in this era of minimally invasive surgery.

Laparoscopic colectomy for colorectal cancer is associated with definite short-term benefits, and is increasingly practised worldwide. The limitations of a pure laparoscopic approach include a relative lack of tactile feedback and long procedural time. Hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery was introduced in an attempt to facilitate operation by improving the tactile sensation. To date, there is no consensus as to which approach is better. Herein we conducted a randomized controlled trial comparing hand-assisted laparoscopic colectomy (HALC) with total laparoscopic colectomy (TLC) in the management of right-sided colonic cancer.Adult patients with carcinoma of the caecum and ascending colon were recruited and randomized to undergo either HALC or TLC. Measured outcomes included operative time, blood loss, conversion rate, postoperative morbidities, postoperative pain, length of hospital stay, disease recurrence and patient survival.Sixty patients (HALC=30, TLC=30) were recruited. The two groups were comparable with regard to age, gender distribution, body mass index and final histopathological staging. No difference was observed between the groups in terms of operating time, conversion rate, operative blood loss, pain score and length of hospital stay. With a median follow-up of 27 to 33 months, no difference was observed in terms of disease recurrence, and the 5-year survival rates remained similar (83%vs 80%, P=0.923).HALC is safe and feasible, but it does not show any significant benefits over TLC in terms of operating time and conversion rate. Routine use of the hand-assisted laparoscopic technique in right hemicolectomy is therefore not recommended.

Malignancy-associated chylothorax is a rare manifestation with uncertain characteristics and clinical significance. We segregated 18 patients into malignant lymphoma (n= 11) and solid malignancy (n= 7) groups to analyse the characteristics, treatment response and prognostic value of malignancy-associated chylothorax. Diagnosis of chylothorax was confirmed by a triglyceride concentration of110 mg/dL or by the presence of chylomicrons in the pleural effusion. Concentrations of glucose, protein and lactate dehydrogenase did not differ significantly between the malignant lymphoma and solid malignancy groups. Although not statistically significant (P= 0.25), 90.9% malignant lymphoma patients and 57.1% solid malignancy patients had exudates. The cytology diagnostic rate in the malignant lymphoma and solid malignancy groups was 20.0% and 33.3% respectively (P0.99). After chemotherapy, six malignant lymphoma patients achieved complete remission, with simultaneous chylothorax disappearance. The overall survival rate at 12 and 24 months in the malignant lymphoma group was 54.5% and 36.4% respectively, while that in the solid malignancy group was 35.7% and 0% respectively. Malignant lymphoma was the chief cause of chylothorax in our cohort. Effective lymphoma treatment, lacking supplementary interventions, is essential for treating chylothorax in malignant lymphoma patients. Chylothorax indicates extremely limited life expectancy for solid malignancy patients.

Currently transabdominal pre-peritoneal and totally extraperitoneal repairs are the two standard laparoscopic approaches for groin hernia repair. However, they are still largely reserved for uncomplicated elective cases. To determine whether laparoscopic groin hernia repair can achieve similar results for acute strangulated hernias as laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis, we analyzed and compared the results of emergency laparoscopic surgery and open repair for strangulated groin hernias performed by our team over the past 4 years.This is a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data. We analyzed the results of patients admitted between January 2007 and January 2011 who were diagnosed with acute strangulated groin hernia and underwent emergency open or laparoscopic hernia repair during the same admission. Patients' demographic details, mode of presentation, type of hernia, intraoperative findings, operative time, postoperative course and complications were compared.In total, 188 patients fulfilled the criteria for emergency surgical repair of strangulated groin hernias; 57 received laparoscopic and 131 received open repairs. The mean operative time was 79.82 ± 29.571 min and 80.75 ± 35.161 min, respectively. More laparotomies were performed in the open group (19 vs 0). The wound infection rate was significantly higher in the open group (12 vs 0). The mean hospital stay was shorter in the laparoscopic group (4.39 days vs 7.34 days). There was no mesh infection in either group. Recurrence occurred one case in the laparoscopic group and in three cases in the open group.Emergency laparoscopic repair for strangulated groin hernias is feasible and appears to have a lower morbidity relative to open repair. Further study should be performed to evaluate its full potential.

To review the site of involvement, clinical presentation, and treatment outcome of patients having immunoglobulin G4-related sclerosing disease in a local regional hospital.Retrospective case series.Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, Hong Kong.All patients with a diagnosis of immunoglobulin G4-related sclerosing disease in the hospital diagnosed in the period from April 2008 to March 2010.A total of 12 patients with involvement of various organs were identified. There was a male predominance (male-to-female ratio=5:1). The mean age at diagnosis was 65 years. The salivary glands, biliary tract, pancreas, and cervical lymph nodes were the commonest involved sites. The immunoglobulin G4 level was elevated in 83% of the patients. Patients usually appeared to respond well to steroid treatment.Immunoglobulin G4-related sclerosing disease is a systemic disease and can involve various systems.

Laparoscopic surgery for locally advanced tumours with extramural involvement is still controversial. It is believed that laparoscopic excision of T4 cancers is technically difficult and may result in prolonged operative time, increased conversion rate, added postoperative morbidity, and suboptimal oncological clearance.Our unit has been practising laparoscopic colorectal surgery since 1992, and all data are entered into a database prospectively. Since 1999 we have routinely used the laparoscopic approach for colorectal cancer resections. Data regarding patients with a histologically T4 cancer operated on between 1999 and 2008 were analysed. Outcomes included operating time, conversion rate, postoperative complications and oncological outcome.Over a 10-year period, 146 patients (male 75) with a T4 cancer underwent laparoscopic resection. The median operating time was 125 (range, 46-285) min and the median blood loss was 50 (0-1800) ml. The conversion rate was 16%. Six (4.1%) patients experienced anastomotic leakage. The median number of lymph nodes harvested was 13 (2-40). One hundred and two (70%) patients underwent curative resection. The recurrence rates were 41% and 53% for stage II and III patients, respectively. Four (3.9%) patients had local recurrence. At a median follow up of 18 (1-118) months, the overall survival was 25 months, with median overall survival for patients with stage II, III and IV disease being 63, 36 and 12 months, respectively.Laparoscopic colectomy in histologically T4 cancer is safe. Oncological outcomes remain satisfactory. Based on our data, provided expertise is available, patients with locally advanced tumours should not be excluded from a laparoscopic approach.

This is a non-randomized comparative trial designed to compare the results of pancreaticoduodenectomy with internal pancreatic stenting versus no stenting for pancreaticojejunal (PJ) anastomosis after pancreaticoduodenectomy.Between January 1999 and March 2008, a total of 49 consecutive patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy with duct-to-mucosa PJ anastomosis with, or without an internal stent were evaluated.The 2 groups were comparable in demographic data, underlying pathologies, and pancreatic stump condition. Four patients (16.7%) in the stented group, and four patients (16%) in the non-stented anastomosis group had pancreatic fistula. There was no significant difference in pancreatic fistula rate between two groups. No surgical reintervention was necessary in all the patients with pancreatic fistulas. There were also no significant differences in operating time (mean, 270.5 minutes vs. 263.6 minutes), intra-operative blood loss (mean, 772.9 ml vs. 665.3 ml), overall morbidity (45.8% vs. 40%) and hospital mortality (4.2% vs. 4.0%). The mean hospital stay after surgery was 34 days in stented group and 21.5 days in non-stented group.Internal stenting of pancreatic duct could not reduce pancreatic fistula rate after pancreaticoduodenectomy.

The immunoreactants detected by direct immunofluorescence (DIF) from the skin of patients with lupus erythematosus (LE) were related to disease subtypes and skin morphology. Male patients presented more frequently with discoid rashes and females with malar rashes. We investigated the differences in immunoreactants in skin lesions between male and female LE patients.The DIF records of 186 LE patients were reviewed and analysed.Among 186 patients (133 female and 53 male), 54 had cutaneous LE (CLE) and 132 had systemic LE (SLE). In the CLE group, eight of 33 (24.2%) women were DIF+ versus nine of 21(42.9%) men (p=0.23). In the SLE group, 49 of 100 (49%) women were DIF+ versus 17 of 32 (53.1%) men (p=0.84). The p-value was 0.01 when comparing DIF incidence between female CLE and SLE patients. IgM and complement component 3 (C3) were present in 84.2% and 52.6% of DIF+female patients, respectively, and both were comparable between genders (p0.05). However, IgG was observed only in eight of 57 female patients, and in 10 of 26 male patients (p=0.02). Among DIF+CLE patients, IgG was detected in none of the eight female versus three of nine male patients.Detection of immunoreactants in skin had no gender bias in CLE or SLE, but among women, it was probably lower in CLE than SLE. IgM and C3 were the most frequent immunoreactants in skin with no gender disparity, whereas IgG in female patients was lower than in males.

Current imaging modalities used in the evaluation of Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH) disease include ultrasound, fluorescein angiogram, indocyanine green angiography, and optical coherence tomography (OCT). However, they all fail to give detailed information on the ultrastructural changes of the choroid. A recent technique using OCT termed "enhanced depth imaging" produces high-resolution cross-sectional images of the whole thickness of the choroid. The purpose of the study was to describe a novel imaging finding in the choroid in cases of VKH uveitis and to assess for interobserver agreement of this new physical sign.This is an age-matched, sex-matched, and spherical equivalent-matched, case-control, cross-sectional study. Six VKH patients in acute and convalescent stages underwent choroidal imaging using enhanced depth imaging spectral-domain OCT imaging. A horizontal enhanced depth imaging spectral-domain OCT scan across the fovea was selected for each eye and was compared with a scan from an age-matched, sex-matched, and spherical equivalent-matched control subject. A loss of focal hyperreflectivity, represented by a decrease in the number of hyperreflective dots in the inner choroid, was observed. This finding was assessed for interobserver agreement using five masked observers. Mean observed agreement and multirater kappa statistics (κ) were calculated. The average choroidal thickness was also calculated and compared among acute-phase VKH patients, convalescent-phase VKH patients, and control subjects.There was a significant loss of focal hyperreflectivity in the inner choroid of VKH patients compared with control subjects in both acute and convalescent stages. Analysis revealed substantial interobserver agreement on this finding. The mean observed agreement was 95%, and the overall kappa coefficient (κ) was 0.80 (P0.01). The choroid of acute-phase VKH patients was thicker than that of convalescent-phase patients by 151 μm (P = 0.043) and control subjects by 137 μm (P = 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in thickness between convalescent eyes and controls.Enhanced depth imaging spectral-domain OCT highlights a loss of focal hyperreflectivity in the inner choroid of eyes with VKH, a feature that is consistently observed by independent masked observers. The presence of this feature in both acute and convalescent phases could represent permanent structural change to small choroidal vessels caused by VKH uveitis.

To compare the use of endorectal plus phased-array coils with use of phased-array coil alone with respect to the accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging for detecting mesorectal involvement of rectal cancer.Retrospective study.A tertiary referral centre in Hong Kong.Ethnic Chinese patients with rectal adenocarcinoma who underwent staging magnetic resonance imaging during the years 2003 to 2008 in our centre were selected; those who received preoperative neoadjuvant therapy were excluded. Unless otherwise contra-indicated, endorectal coils have been used since 2006.Magnetic resonance images were retrieved and reviewed by two radiologists blinded to the pathological results. The radiological findings were then correlated with the pathological reports to determine diagnostic accuracy.A total of 50 patients were studied; 13 of the examinations were in patients having an endorectal coil. The overall accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging in detecting mesorectal tumour involvement was 80%. Subgroup analysis showed higher accuracy in the group with endorectal coils than in those with phased-array coils alone. Over-detection of mesorectal involvement was noted in 12% of the cases, with lower rate being observed in patients with endorectal coils. Underdetection of mesorectal tumour involvement was only noted in the group without endorectal coils. With the use of endorectal coils, the sensitivity reached 100% and the specificity increased to 86%.Use of endorectal coil in staging magnetic resonance imaging of the rectum improves diagnostic accuracy. Whenever feasible, endorectal coil use is therefore recommendable to enhance diagnostic accuracy. The study results substantiate the understanding of staging by magnetic resonance imaging of rectal cancer in the local Chinese population.

Background: We describe a case of intraoperative fracture of phacoemulsification sleeve during phacoemulsification surgery. Case presentation. Phacoemulsification surgery was performed in the left eye of a 58-year-old lady with grade II nuclear sclerosis & grade I cortical cataract. Towards the end of quadrant removal, there was anterior chamber instability with impaired followability of nuclear fragments. The distal part of the fractured sleeve remained inside the anterior chamber upon removal of the phacoemulsification probe. The retained sleeve was retrieved with a pair of forceps through the corneal incision site, which did not require widening. There was no missing fragments retained intraocularly and the patient had an uneventful recovery with vision of 20/25 at three months post-operatively. Conclusion. Phacoemulsification sleeve fracture is an uncommon complication. With early identification of this condition and proper management, major complications can be avoided. © 2010 Shum et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd., published_or_final_version

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of double peel using triamcinolone acetonide (TA) and trypan blue (TB) in removing epiretinal tissues in vitrectomy for myopic macular hole with retinal detachment (MHRD).Prospective interventional case control study. Patients with myopic MHRD underwent vitrectomy with TA-assisted adherent cortical vitreous (ACV) removal followed by TB-assisted internal-limiting membrane (ILM) peeling and gas tamponade. The results were compared with historical control group without the use of any vital dye or TA.Ten eyes of 10 study cases were compared with nine eyes of nine control cases. Mean axial length was 28.3 ± 1.4 mm and 29.6 ± 2.4 mm and mean follow-up period was 15 months and 42 months for the study group and the control group, respectively. Reattachment rate was 70% in the study group and 44% in the control group. Mean logMAR visual acuity improvement was 0.02 at 6 months and 0.01 at 12 months for the study group (P0.05). Transient intraocular pressure rise was observed in seven eyes in the study group and five eyes in the control group. No other complication was noted.Double peel using TA and TB appeared safe and effective in facilitating removal of ACV and ILM in MHRD. It has higher surgical success rate compared with conventional vitrectomy with epiretinal membrane peeling and gas tamponade.

Total mesorectal excision (TME) is currently the gold standard for resection of mid or low rectal cancer and is associated with a low local recurrence rate. However, few studies have reported the long-term oncological outcome following use of a laparoscopic approach. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term oncological outcome after laparoscopic sphincter-preserving TME with a median follow up of about 4 years.Patients with mid or low rectal cancer who underwent laparoscopic sphincter-preserving TME with curative intent between March 1999 and March 2009 were prospectively recruited for analysis.During the 10-year study period, 177 patients underwent laparoscopic sphincter-preserving TME with curative intent for rectal cancer. Conversion was required in two (1%) patients. There was no operative mortality. At a median follow-up period of 49 months, local recurrence had occurred in nine (5.1%) patients. The overall metastatic recurrence rate after curative resection was 22%. The overall 5-year survival and 5-year disease-free survival in the present study were 74% and 71%, respectively.The results of this study show that laparoscopic sphincter-preserving TME is safe with long-term oncological outcomes comparable to those of open surgery.

Purpose: To identify factors associated with variability in anatomical and functional response of diabetic macular oedema (DMO) after 4 mg of intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide (ivTA), and for recurrence of macular oedema. Design: Pooled analysis of individual data from two randomized controlled trials. Methods: This was a multicentre study involving 107 eyes with DMO administered 4 mg ivTA. Predictive factors for response to treatment were evaluated with linear regression analysis. Factors associated with time to recurrence of oedema were studied with Cox proportional hazards modelling. Main outcome measures were maximum improvement in optical coherence tomography (OCT)-measured central foveal thickness (CFT) and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), final CFT and BCVA at 12 months and time to oedema recurrence. Results: Greater reduction of retinal thickening occurred in eyes with worse baseline thickening (P

This study aims to evaluate the outcomes of percutaneous cholecystostomy for acute calculous cholecystitis in patients with high surgical risk and determine whether subsequent cholecystectomy is beneficial and necessary. Percutaneous cholecystostomy has been shown to be a safe treatment option for patients suffering from acute cholecystitis but at high risk for emergency surgery. Controversies still exist on the approach of the cholecystostomy and the subsequent management of these patients.From January 1996 to March 2004, percutaneous cholecystostomy was performed on 65 patients that suffered from acute calculous cholecystostomy but were considered high risk for emergency surgery (American Society of Anesthesiologists grade III or IV). Their clinical outcomes were described and risk factors for in-hospital mortality and recurrence of cholecystitis were identified by univariate and multivariate analysis.Percutaneous cholecystostomy was successfully performed in all patients (100%). The clinical response rate was 91%. The in-hospital mortality was 12.3%. Shock on admission was found to be a single independent risk factor for in-hospital death (p=0.006; odd ratio = 16.5; 95% CI = 2.2-123.1). Twenty-four patients underwent subsequent cholecystectomy whereas 33 did not. The 1-year and 3-year recurrence of acute cholecystitis were 35% and 46% respectively in patients who did not have subsequent cholecystectomy. Stone sizeor = 1cm was independently associated with higher recurrence of acute cholecystitis (p=0.01; hazard ratio = 6.3, 95% CI 1.6-25.5). However, there was no difference in 1-year and 3-year overall survival between patients with or without cholecystectomy (82% Vs 81% and 59% Vs 63%, p=0.79).Percutaneous cholecystostomy is a safe and promising treatment for acute calculous cholecystitis in patients who are at high risk for emergency surgery. Cholecystectomy after the resolution of cholecystitis and optimization of associated medical illnesses is always advisable in order to prevent recurrent cholecystitis. However, the limited survival of these patients because of their old age and medical co-morbidities should be taken into consideration.

To evaluate the results of laparoscopic exploration of the common bile duct (LECBD) in patients with previous gastrectomy.This study is a retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database of LECBD during the period 1994-2005. Those cases of LECBD with previous open gastrectomy were sorted out and analyzed. Indications of operation included unsuccessful endoscopic extraction due to altered anatomy and some explorations were performed together with side-to-side choledochoduodenostomy so as to eliminate biliary stasis and decrease stone recurrence. The operation steps involved open insertion of trocar and creation of pneumoperitoneum, meticulous adhesiolysis, direct choledochotomy followed by clearance of biliary stones. After confirmed ductal clearance, the common bile duct was routinely closed with t-tube diversion. The perioperative parameters of these patients were analyzed and compared to those receiving open exploration of common bile duct due to previous gastrectomy during the same study period.Of the 184 LECBD performed between 1994 and 2005, 33 patients had previous open upper gastrointestinal operations and among them 18 LECBD were performed in post-gastrectomy patients (2 with previous classical Whipple's operation). There were 10 male and 8 female patients with mean age of 77.5 (58-97 years). Of the 14 patients undergoing preoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, there were 10 failed cannulations and 4 failed extractions. Altogether 17 choledochotomies and 1 transcystic duct exploration was performed whereas 4 patients with recurrent primary stones received additional choledochoduodenostomy. Median operating time was 120 min (60-390 min). Open conversion was required in 3 patients (16.6%) because of jammed basket, extensive adhesion and "throughthrough" bile duct injury respectively. Postoperative complications occurred in 4 patients (22.2%), which included 3 bile leaks and also the previously mentioned bile duct injury. The median hospital stay was 9 days (4-82 days). Upon a median follow-up of 17.5 months, there was only 1 patient found to have recurrent common bile duct stone and he was managed by laparoscopic exploration and choledochoduodenostomy. When the results were compared to those 12 open explorations because of previous open gastrectomy, longer operation time (120 vs. 75 min, p=0.004) and slightly shorter hospital stay (9 vs. 14 days, p=0.104) were noted in the LECBD group but without increased complication rate (22.2 vs. 25%, p=1).These results suggest that LECBD is worth attempting even in patients with previous open gastrectomy.

To evaluate the feasibility of whole body imaging using a 3 Tesla magnetic resonance scanner without a contrast agent, and to study the prevalence of abnormal findings among a cohort of asymptomatic doctors.Prospective study.Private hospital, Hong Kong.A total of 132 asymptomatic medical doctors (111 men, 21 women), with a mean age of 56 (range, 38-82) years, volunteered for the study. They underwent corresponding whole body imaging at our hospital between October 2005 and February 2006. Imaging involved a 3 Tesla magnetic resonance scanner with 32 channels, parallel imaging, Total Imaging Matrix technology, a maximum gradient amplitude of 40 mT/m and a slew rate of 200 mT/m/ms (Magnetom Tim Trio, Siemens Medical Solution, Erlangen, Germany). The use of matrix coils enabled coverage of the whole body. No contrast agent was used.Detection of abnormalities in asymptomatic, apparently healthy adults.All examinations were completed successfully. The mean scan time per subject was 33 (standard deviation, 4) minutes. All subjects tolerated the examination well and overall imaging quality was satisfactory. A total of 124 (94%) subjects had positive findings, of whom 24 (18%) had further workup. Five (4%) subjects were found to have tumours, of which two (1.5%) were proven malignant. Our cancer detection rate was comparable to that of other reported whole body screening studies using contrast magnetic resonance imaging and positron emission tomography.We demonstrated the feasibility of performing whole body imaging in 30 minutes, using 32-channel magnetic resonance imaging at 3 Tesla without a contrast agent or any ionising radiation.

Purpose To identify the factors which significantly contribute to the thickness variabilities in macular retinal layers measured by optical coherence tomography with or without magnification correction of analytical areas in normal subjects. Methods The thickness of retinal layers {retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), ganglion cell layer plus inner plexiform layer (GCLIPL), RNFL plus GCLIPL (ganglion cell complex, GCC), total retina, total retina minus GCC (outer retina)} were measured by macular scans (RS-3000, NIDEK) in 202 eyes of 202 normal Asian subjects aged 20 to 60 years. The analytical areas were defined by three concentric circles (1-, 3- and 6-mm nominal diameters) with or without magnification correction. For each layer thickness, a semipartial correlation (sr) was calculated for explanatory variables including age, gender, axial length, corneal curvature, and signal strength index. Results Outer retinal thickness was significantly thinner in females than in males (sr2, 0.07 to 0.13) regardless of analytical areas or magnification correction. Without magnification correction, axial length had a significant positive sr with RNFL (sr2, 0.12 to 0.33) and a negative sr with GCLIPL (sr2, 0.22 to 0.31), GCC (sr2, 0.03 to 0.17), total retina (sr2, 0.07 to 0.17) and outer retina (sr2, 0.16 to 0.29) in multiple analytical areas. The significant sr in RNFL, GCLIPL and GCC became mostly insignificant following magnification correction. Conclusions The strong correlation between the thickness of inner retinal layers and axial length appeared to result from magnification effects. Outer retinal thickness may differ by gender and axial length independently of magnification correction.

To review the management of ruptured pseudoaneurysms following upper abdominal surgery.Retrospective study.Minimal access surgery centre, Hong Kong.Patients who were diagnosed to have a pseudoaneurysm after undergoing major upper abdominal surgery were recruited during the period of 1998 to 2006.Success rate of haemostasis, re-bleeding rate, re-intervention rate, and mortality.During the study period, a total of eight patients (median age, 61 years) were managed in our department for bleeding pseudoaneurysms following cholecystectomy, gastrectomy, or Whipple's operation. Five patients underwent upper endoscopy as the initial investigation. In four of these five patients, visceral artery pseudoaneurysms were identified by angiography and haemostasis was achieved without re-bleeding. The one for whom angiographic identification of the bleeding source failed, was successfully treated subsequently by open plication. In three other patients, open surgical haemostasis was resorted to and achieved in two of them. However, one of the latter had re-bleeding, which was successfully treated by embolisation. The one who failed open identification of the bleeding source, was eventually also treated successfully by embolisation. The overall success rates of embolisation and open surgery were 80% and 67%, respectively, and the re-bleeding rates were 0% and 33%, respectively. The corresponding mortality rates were 20% and 33%; both deaths were associated with multi-organ failure. There were no procedure-related complications following embolisation.Based on our experience, visceral angiography can enable the diagnosis and treatment of ruptured pseudoaneurysm in a single session. The procedure is safe, the re-bleeding rate is low, and it is as effective as alternative treatments, and should be considered a first-line intervention in patients with bleeding pseudoaneurysms complicating upper abdominal surgery.

A 55-year-old woman presented with a 1-day history of repeated vomiting of non-bile stained content. She also had intermittent epigastric pain and …