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Objective To correlate the histopathologic results of conjunctival specimens with clinical findings in patients with conjunctivochalasis and report the results of the paste-pinch-cut technique for management. Design Retrospective chart review. Methods SETTING: Single tertiary ophthalmological centre (Ocular Surface Diseases and Dry Eye Clinic, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Md.). Methods Twenty-five patients (32 eyes) with clinically significant conjunctivochalasis. All patients were referred for clinically significant dry eye without previous diagnosis of chalasis. Sixteen patients had an underlying inflammatory systemic condition. Intervention or Observation Procedure(s): Patients underwent surgery with paste-pinch-cut technique. Subjective dry eye symptoms and ocular surface staining scores (corneal and conjunctival staining using fluorescein and lissamine green respectively) were assessed at every visit. Main outcome measures Change in patient symptoms and ocular surface staining scores and histopathologic findings in conjunctival specimens. Results After surgery, significant improvement was achieved in dry-eye symptoms as well as both corneal and conjunctival staining scores in 29 eyes on reduced topical therapy. Only 3 eyes had persisting conjunctival lissamine staining. Light microscopic examination disclosed mild to moderate lymphoplasmocytic inflammation of the conjunctivae with areas of epithelial goblet cell loss, squamous metaplasia, stromal edema, and fibrosis. Conclusion Conjunctivochalasis appears to be associated with significant inflammation in the setting of dry eye and underlying inflammatory systemic conditions. Although topical anti-inflammatory treatment could be attempted in the initial management, surgical excision should be considered in the absence of clinical response.

Introduction Revision framework surgeries might be required for unilateral vocal fold paralyses. However, outcomes and indications of revision surgeries have not been adequately documented. For a better understanding of indications for the procedure and to help in achieving better vocal outcomes, we performed a retrospective chart review of patients who underwent revision framework surgeries for unilateral vocal fold paralysis. Objectives This study aimed to present clinical features of patients who underwent revision framework surgeries for the treatment of unilateral vocal fold paralysis. Methods Of the 149 framework surgeries performed between October 2004 and October 2019, 21 revision framework surgeries were performed in 19 patients. Self-assessments by patients using the voice handicap index-10 questionnaire, and objective aerodynamic and acoustic assessments performed pre- and post-operatively were analyzed using the Wilcoxon’s signed-rank test for paired comparisons. Results Undercorrection was indicated as reasons for revision surgeries in all cases. The revision techniques included type I thyroplasty, type IV thyroplasty, and arytenoid adduction, and revision surgeries were completed without any severe complication in all cases. Pre- and post-operative voice handicap index-10 scores were obtained in 12 cases, and other parameters were evaluated in 18 cases. Significant improvements were observed in voice handicap index-10 scores, maximum phonation time, mean flow rate, Current/Direct Current ratio, and pitch perturbation quotient. Conclusion Undercorrection was observed in all patients who underwent revision framework surgeries for unilateral vocal fold paralysis, and the initial assessment and planning are thought to be important in order to avoid revision surgeries. Revision surgeries were performed safely in all cases, and significantly improved vocal outcomes were observed, even after multiple procedures. Revision surgery should be considered for patients with unsatisfactory vocal functions after primary framework surgeries for unilateral vocal fold paralysis.

BACKGROUND People who inject drugs (PWID) are known to be at increased risk of infectious diseases including bacterial and blood-borne viral infections. However, there is limited literature surrounding the burden of spinal infections as a complication of injecting drug use (IDU). AIMS To quantify the clinical and financial burden of IDU-related spinal infections. METHODS Retrospective chart review of adult PWID with spinal infections requiring hospital admission to a tertiary health service in Melbourne, Australia between 2011 and 2019. RESULTS Fifty-seven PWID with 63 episodes of spinal infections were identified with a median hospital stay of 47 days (IQR 16, range 4-243). One-third of episodes required neurosurgical intervention and 11 episodes (17%) required intensive care unit (ICU) admission (range 2-17 days). Staphylococcus aureus was the most common causative pathogen, present in three-quarters of all episodes (n = 47). The median duration of antibiotic regime was 59 days (IQR 42) and longer courses were associated with known bacteraemia (p = 0.048), polymicrobial infections (p = 0.001) and active IDU (p = 0.066). Predictors of surgery include neurological symptoms at presentation (RR 2.6; p = 0.010), inactive IDU status (RR 3.0; p = 0.002), a diagnosis of epidural abscess (RR 4.1; p = 0.001) and spinal abscess (RR ∞; p

Pulmonary artery coarctation may pose a risk for pulmonary stenosis and subsequent failure to achieve definitive repair. We sought to assess the impact of pulmonary artery coarctation on pulmonary artery growth.A retrospective chart review was performed in 130 patients, including 37 single ventricles with a modified Blalock-Taussig shunt as first palliation. Pulmonary artery coarctation was defined as discrete stenosis of the pulmonary artery, with a diameter of less than 3 mm and with the ductus arteriosus connected. Preoperative echocardiography showed pulmonary artery coarctation in 29 patients (22%). Concomitant pulmonary artery plasty was performed in 14 patients with discrete stenosis having a diameter of less than 2 mm.Pre-modified Blalock-Taussig shunt left pulmonary artery z-scores were lower in patients with pulmonary artery coarctation than in those without (-4.0 [-5.8, -2.1] vs -1.7 [-2.6, -0.8], P .001), and this remained the same even after modified Blalock-Taussig shunt (-2.5 [-5.1, -0.5] vs -0.5 [-2.4, 0.8], P = .010). Concomitant pulmonary artery plasty did not result in catch-up growth of the left pulmonary artery (post-modified Blalock-Taussig shunt left pulmonary artery z-score in patients with pulmonary artery plasty: -3.0 (-6.5, -2.0) versus those without: -1.8 (-3.3, -0.3), P = .279). Definitive repair/Fontan completion was achieved in 111 patients (85%), and this was not affected by the presence of pulmonary artery coarctation.Pulmonary artery coarctation affected disproportionate pulmonary artery growth throughout the staged repair, but did not result in failure of definitive repair/Fontan completion. Pulmonary artery plasty during the neonatal period did not contribute to catch-up growth of the left pulmonary artery; therefore, surgical indications and timing should be carefully considered.

BACKGROUND: Hyperbilirubinemia (HB), defined as elevated total serum bilirubin (TSB) levels, commonly affects neonates and requires prompt treatment to prevent neurological complications. Up to 10%of neonates experience rebound hyperbilirubinemia (RHB), requiring re-initiation of treatment. Unfortunately, treatment guidelines lack practical recommendations surrounding subthreshold phototherapy, treatment termination, and RHB investigations. We examined local management practices for HB and RHB treatment in a well newborn nursery. As a secondary aim, we investigated the association between treatment practices and RHB rates. METHODS: Retrospective chart review identified neonates treated for hyperbilirubinemia between January 2015 and December 2019 during their birth hospitalization at a tertiary care centre. Standardized data collection sheets were used to record treatment parameters. RESULTS: Over the 5-year period, there were 9683 births and 305 (3.15%) neonates received phototherapy. Of the treated cases, 20–25%were subthreshold to practice guideline values. Upon treatment termination 25–55%of cases had TSB levels within 3 mg/dL, which may increase the risk of RHB. In our cohort, 20.3%of treated cases experienced one episode of RHB and 3.9%experienced two episodes of RHB. Although clinicians evaluated neonates for RHB 0–12 hours following treatment termination prior to discharge, many cases were identified in outpatient settings and required re-admission for phototherapy. CONCLUSION: When managing HB and RHB, treatment practices such as when to terminate treatment in relation to threshold values, and timing of RHB investigations, are largely inconsistent amongst clinicians. Future studies are required to better understand the landscape of hyperbilirubinemia treatment beyond initiation of phototherapy.

Objective To evaluate the relationship between intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering success with selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) and Kahook Dual Blade (KDB) goniotomy in eyes with glaucoma. Design Retrospective chart review. Participants 30 eyes of 24 patients undergoing phacoemulsification combined with a KDB with 6 months follow-up and who had previously undergone SLT in the same eye. Methods Data collected from electronic health records included demographic and glaucoma status, IOP and IOP-lowering medication after SLT and KDB. SLT and KDB success were defined as IOP reduction ≥20% or medication reduction ≥1 at 2 and 6 months, respectively. Main outcome Association between SLT success and KDB success. Results Overall, SLT was successful in 17 of 30 eyes (56.7%) at 2 months, and KDB was successful in 18 of 30 eyes (60%) at 6 months. Nine of 17 eyes (52.9%) with prior successful SLT had successful subsequent KDB, whereas 9 of 13 (69.2%) with prior unsuccessful SLT had successful KDB. There was no significant relationship between SLT and KDB outcome in these 30 eyes (p = 0.465 by Fisher's exact test). Conclusion No relationship between success of SLT and subsequent KDB was observed. However, patients with history of failed SLT still benefited from subsequent KDB.

This retrospective chart review assesses the impact of introduction of an adolescent young adult oncology navigator (AYAON) on first contact with oncology psychosocial services (OPS) for adolescents and young adults (AYAs) newly diagnosed with cancer. All AYAs newly diagnosed at a single adult oncology center between 17 and 29 years of age from July 2016 to July 2018 were reviewed. AYA contact with the AYAON was associated with an increase in contact with OPS. Following the introduction of the AYAON, there was a clinically significant decrease in the time to first OPS contact for newly diagnosed AYAs with cancer.

Objective The purpose of this study was to develop a natural language processing (NLP) pipeline to identify incidental thyroid nodules (ITNs) meeting criteria for sonographic follow-up and to assess both adherence rates to white paper recommendations and downstream outcomes related to these incidental findings. Methods 21583 non-contrast chest CT reports from 2017 and 2018 were retrospectively evaluated to identify reports which included either an explicit recommendation for thyroid ultrasound, a description of a nodule ≥ 1.5 cm, or description of a nodule with suspicious features. Reports from 2018 were used to train an NLP algorithm called fastText for automated identification of such reports. Algorithm performance was then evaluated on the 2017 reports. Next, any patient from 2017 with a report meeting criteria for ultrasound follow-up was further evaluated with manual chart review to determine follow-up adherence rates and nodule-related outcomes. Results NLP identified reports with ITNs meeting criteria for sonographic follow-up with an accuracy of 96.5% (95% CI 96.2-96.7) and sensitivity of 92.1% (95% CI 89.8-94.3). In 10006 chest CTs from 2017, ITN follow-up ultrasound was indicated according to white paper criteria in 81 patients (0.8%), explicitly recommended in 46.9% (38/81) of patients, and obtained in less than half of patients in which it was appropriately recommended (17/35, 48.6%). Discussion NLP accurately identified chest CT reports meeting criteria for ITN ultrasound follow-up. Radiologist adherence to white paper guidelines and subsequent referrer adherence to radiologist recommendations showed room for improvement.

Background: The recurrence rate after open excision of ganglion cysts is approximately 20%. However, this literature is based on a small series of subjects. This study aims to determine the rate and risk of recurrence after open excision of ganglion cysts in a large patient series. Methods: This study included 628 patients who had ganglion cyst excision from 2010 to 2018. A retrospective chart review recorded the following: age, sex, laterality, volar/dorsal location, and recurrence. An overall recurrence rate was calculated. In addition, a 1-way analysis of variance test was used to compare recurrence rates among the individual surgeons, and unpaired t tests were used to compare age of recurrence, dorsal cyst recurrence, laterality of cyst, and recurrence based on sex. Finally, a comparison of recurrence rate over time was conducted for surgeon 3. Results: The overall recurrence rate was 3.8% (24 of 628). The recurrence rates for each surgeon were 3% (9 of 353), 2% (3 of 167), and 11% (12 of 107), P = .02. The age of those with and without a recurrence did not differ (32 years vs 38 years), P = .06. The recurrence rate of dorsal ganglion cysts was 4.1% (14 of 341) compared with 3.5% (10 of 286) for volar ganglion cysts, P = .69. Male patients had a recurrence in 6.4% (13 of 204) of cases compared with 2.6% (11 of 424) of female patients, P = 0.01. There was a decrease in the rate of recurrence from 42.9% to 5.3% over 5 years for surgeon 3. Conclusion: In our sample, male sex and surgeon experience were significant risk factors in ganglion cyst recurrence.

Purpose To determine if implementing a normothermia bundle, which includes preoperative forced-air warming blankets, reduces incidence of inadvertent perioperative hypothermia (IPH). Design Intervention study using retrospective chart review. Methods Patients received a preoperative forced-air warming blanket and temperature management with the normothermia bundle. Temperature status data was collected from patient charts to evaluate the incidences of IPH and findings from this data analysis was used to measure improvement in perioperative temperature management. Findings Of 200 patients, 63 (31.5%) remained normothermic, 37 (18.5%) had at least one documented hypothermic temperature, and 100 (50%) had no documented temperature during the intraoperative phase of care. Although compliance with intraoperative temperature monitoring decreased by 13% postintervention, the incidence of documented IPH in reviewed records was decreased by 3.6-fold. Conclusion Implementing a normothermia bundle that includes a preoperative forced-air warming blanket may lower the incidences of IPH, especially in surgical cases lasting over 120 minutes.

Objectives To compare the perioperative and postoperative outcomes of single port robotic pyeloplasty and multiport robotic pyeloplasty using a propensity-score matched analysis. Materials and Methods We performed a chart review of all patients who underwent single port robotic pyeloplasty from January 2019 to October 2020 and multiport robotic pyeloplasty from January 2016 to October 2020. Patient demographics, intraoperative data, and postoperative outcomes were collected and analyzed. Propensity-score matching was performed on sex, body mass index, and history of previous pyeloplasty to adjust for potential baseline confounders. A post hoc sensitivity analysis for operative time was performed to examine the robustness of the results. Results In total, 24 and 41 patients underwent single port and multiport robotic pyeloplasty, respectively. Following propensity-score matching, 21 multiport cases were matched 1:1 to single port cases. The SP group was shown to have longer median operative times (128.0 vs 88.0 minutes, p=0.0411) and shorter follow up time (9.3 vs 18.7 months, p=0.0066). In a sensitivity analysis, single port robotic pyeloplasty was marginally associated with increased operative time (95% CI -0.25, 29.72, p=0.0540). Conclusions Single port robotic pyeloplasty is a safe and acceptable alternative to multiport robotic pyeloplasty, achieving comparable perioperative and postoperative outcomes.

Summary Background With the experience-based hypothesis of low donor site morbidity (DSM) for free flaps from the distal femur, this cohort study aimed to evaluate the DSM according to objective and reproducible criteria. Methods One hundred and fifty-six patients who had a flap harvest from either the medial or lateral femoral condyle region between 2005 and 2017 were included. A retrospective chart review was performed for all patients. In total, 97 patients were available for a follow-up examination. Outcomes were assessed according to objective (Knee Society Score; Larson Knee Score; OAK Score; 0–100 points), patient-reported (IKDC Score; KOOS Score; 0–100 points), and radiologic criteria (Kellgren and Lawrence Score; MRI Osteoarthritis Knee Score). Results The median follow-up time was 1,529 days (range: 248–4,810). The mean Knee Society Score (94.8 ± 10.1), Larson Knee Score (94.5 ± 10.1), and OAK Score (95.5 ± 6.6) showed nearly unimpaired knee function. The overall patient-reported DSM was low (IKDC Score: 86.7 ± 17.4; KOOS Score: 89.3 ± 17.1). Osteochondral (OC) flaps had a significantly higher DSM, regardless of the donor site. Bone flaps did not show any relevant radiologic morbidity in the Kellgren and Lawrence Score. Besides the procedure-associated cartilage lesions at the OC donor sites, MRI Osteoarthritis Knee Score did not show any significant presence of further knee pathologies in the bilateral MRI Scans. The obvious cartilage lesions did not have a relevant impact on the knee function of most patients. Conclusion The DSM for bone and soft-tissue flaps from the femoral condyle region is negligible. OC flaps are associated with a significantly higher DSM, although a clinically relevant impact on knee function was not evident in the majority of patients.

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) of rearranged Ig genes is an effective technology for identifying pathologic clonal cells in multiple myeloma (MM) and tracking minimal residual disease. The clinical effect of implementing NGS in Ig gene clonality analysis was evaluated via a retrospective chart review. A total of 312 patients diagnosed with MM were enrolled in the study. Ig gene clonality was determined by fragment analysis using BIOMED-2 multiplex PCR assays and by NGS using the LymphoTrack IGH FR1 Assay and LymphoTrack IGK Assay. The clonality detection rates in diagnostic samples obtained using fragment analysis and NGS were 96.7% and 95.4%, respectively (statistically nonsignificant difference; P = 0.772). Among samples of patients in complete remission, the clonality detection rates obtained using fragment analysis and NGS were 33.3% and 60.3%, respectively (statistically significant difference; P = 0.034). Progression-free survival was significantly longer in negative than positive patients by NGS analysis (P = 0.03). Clonality detection by NGS-based methods using IGH FR1 and IGK assays in routine clinical practice is feasible, provides good clonality detection rates in diagnostic samples, and allows monitoring of samples in MM patients with significant prognostic value.

Background Overall survival (OS) for malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) in vulnerable subgroups remains poorly understood with scarce data available to guide treatment decisions. The study describes real-world detailed treatment patterns and outcomes of patients with advanced MPM overall and specifically in elderly and poor performance status (PS) patients. Methods Retrospective chart review was performed for all patients with histologically confirmed MPM seen at University Health Network/Princess Margaret Cancer Centre (UHN-PM). Results A total of 667 patients with MPM were identified and 304 advanced-disease MPM (aMPM) patients had continuing care at U HN- P M (UP-cohort). In the UP-cohort, 77% of patients received ≥ one line of systemic treatment. Systemic therapy trial participation was 39%. Patients not treated with systemic therapy (29%) were more likely to be ≥ 75 years and PS ≥ 2. Median OS was 15.3 months (95%CI 13.6-18.3), with longer survival in treated vs. untreated patients (17.4 vs. 10.6 months; P = .01). Longer survival with systemic treatment was seen in patients ≥75 years (12.7 vs. 6.6 months) and patients with poor PS (9.1 vs. 5.9 months). Median progression-free-survival (PFS) and OS for patients treated with second-line therapy was poor (3.0 and 8.9 months, respectively). Discussion In our real-world analysis of patients with aMPM treated at an academic referral centre, systemic treatment was given to the majority of patients and benefit was seen even in the elderly and poor PS patients frequently underrepresented in clinical trials. Trial participation was potentially facilitated by the formation of a dedicated multidisciplinary MPM clinic.

Improved understanding of non-respiratory infections in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients will be vital to sustaining the increased life span of these patients. To date, there has not been a published report of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in CF patients. We performed a retrospective chart review at a major academic medical center during 2010-2020 to determine the features of UTIs in 826 CF patients. We identified 108 UTI episodes during this period. Diabetes, distal intestinal obstruction syndrome (DIOS), and nephrolithiasis were correlated with increased risk of UTIs. UTIs in CF patients were less likely to be caused by Gram-negative rods compared to non-CF patients and more likely to be caused by Enterococcus faecalis. The unique features of UTIs in CF patients highlight the importance of investigating non-respiratory infections to ensure appropriate treatment.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Follow-up on results of inpatient tests pending at discharge (TPAD) must occur to ensure patient safety and high-quality care continue after discharge. We identified a need to improve follow-up of TPAD and began a quality improvement initiative with an aim of reducing the rate of missed follow-up of TPAD to ≤20% within 12 months. METHODS The team used the Plan-Do-Study-Act method of quality improvement and implemented a process using reminder messages in the electronic health record. We collected data via retrospective chart review for the 6 months before the intervention and monthly thereafter. The primary outcome measure was the percentage of patients with missed follow-up of TPAD, defined as no documented follow-up within 72 hours of a result being available. The use of a reminder message was monitored as a process measure. RESULTS We reviewed charts of 764 discharged patients, and 216 (28%) were noted to have TPAD. At baseline, the average percentage of patients with missed follow-up was 80%. The use of reminder messages was quickly adopted. The average percentage of patients with missed follow-up of TPAD after beginning the quality improvement interventions was 35%. CONCLUSIONS We had significant improvement in follow-up after our interventions. Additional work is needed to ensure continued and sustained improvement, focused on reducing variability in performance between providers and investing in technology to allow for automation of the follow-up process.

Objective(s) To determine if hysteroscopic removal of endometrial polyps, specifically via morcellation of polyps, affects implantation rate (IR), clinical pregnancy rate (CPR), spontaneous abortion (SAB) rate, and live birth rate (LBR) in first frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles. Study Design Retrospective chart review, with data abstracted from the charts of all first autologous oocyte frozen embryo transfer (FET) cases (n=135) at a single fertility center from January 2018 through June 2020. Subjects were grouped into A) hysteroscopic polypectomy prior to first FET (n=25) or B) no hysteroscopic polypectomy prior to first FET (n=110). The primary outcome was live birth rate (LBR). Secondary outcomes were implantation rate (IR), clinical pregnancy rate (CPR), and spontaneous abortion (SAB) rate. Results We found no difference between the groups in terms of the primary outcome (LBR) or the secondary outcomes IR, CPR, and SAB rate. Conclusion(s) The data analyzed here suggest that hysteroscopic morcellation of endometrial polyps has no adverse effect on IR, SAB rate, CPR, or LBR among first FET cases after this type of polypectomy.

Key Points Orthopedic toxicity was common in adolescent and young adult patients treated on DFCI Consortium ALL pediatric protocols.Younger age and exposure to pegaspargase were associated with higher risk of ON, and patients with ON had superior OS., Visual Abstract, Adolescent and young adult patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) have superior outcomes when treated on pediatric regimens. Pediatric ALL regimens rely heavily on corticosteroids and asparaginase and are known to increase the risk of osteonecrosis (ON) and fractures in children, particularly adolescents. Orthopedic toxicity among young adults treated on pediatric-inspired regimens is not well described. Here, we report the symptomatic orthopedic toxicities of patients aged 15 to 50 years treated on sequential Dana-Farber Cancer Institute ALL Consortium protocols. Among 367 patients with a median age of 23 years (range, 15-50 years; 68% aged

Eosinophilic oesophagitis (EoE) may lead to severe complications if not promptly recognised.To assess the diagnostic delay in patients with EoE and to explore its risk factors.EoE patients followed-up at eight clinics were included via retrospective chart review. Diagnostic delay was estimated as the time lapse occurring between the appearance of the first likely symptoms indicative of EoE and the final diagnosis. Patient-dependent and physician-dependent diagnostic delays were assessed. Multivariable regression models were computed.261 patients with EoE (mean age 34±14 years; M:F ratio=3:1) were included. The median overall diagnostic delay was 36 months (IQR 12-88), while patient- and physician-dependent diagnostic delays were 18 months (IQR 5-49) and 6 months (IQR 1-24). Patient-dependent delay was greater compared to physician-dependent delay (95% CI 5.1-19.3, p0.001). A previous misdiagnosis was formulated in 109 cases (41.8%; gastro-oesophageal reflux disease in 67 patients, 25.7%). The variables significantly associated with greater overall diagnostic delay were being a non-smoker,1 episode of food impaction, previous endoscopy with no biopsies, regurgitation, and ≥2 assessing physicians. Being single was significantly associated with lower overall and patient-dependent diagnostic delay.EoE is burdened by substantial diagnostic delay, depending on both patient-related and physician-related factors.

To describe the surgical technique of the supraclavicular artery fascial flap (SAFF) and outcomes in neopharyngeal covering with overlay technique during salvage total laryngectomy for residual or recurrent carcinoma after chemo/radiation treatment.Chart review of patients treated between October 2018 and February 2019 at two tertiary care hospitals. Variables extracted from patient records were age, gender, history of chemo/radiation therapy, neck dissection, surgical and postoperative complications. Outcomes measured were surgical time, postoperative complications and flap failure, oral intake start and patient discharge.Ten male patients were included. Median age was 64 years. All patients underwent salvage total laryngectomy and neopharyngeal covering with SAFF. Mean flap harvest time was 25 minutes. No surgical complications or flap failure were recorded. Oral intake was started on a median of post-operative day 10. No cases of pharyngocutaneous fistula were encountered.SAFF is a reliable, easy and quick to harvest flap, which provides a good alternative to other pedicled and free flaps for hypopharyngeal coverage in laryngeal salvage surgery. Donor site morbidity is almost null and postoperative complications are very rare.Lembo peduncolato di fascia sovraclaveare: utile strumento nella laringectomia ed emifaringolaringectomia totale di salvataggio.Descrivere la tecnica chirurgica del lembo SAFF e le sue applicazioni e risultati nella ricostruzione faringea durante laringectomia di salvataggio per SCC persistenti dopo trattamento chemio/radioterapico.Analisi retrospettiva di pazienti trattati fra 10/2018 e 02/2019 in due centri ospedalieri di terzo livello. Le variabili analizzate sono età, sesso, precedente chemio/radioterapia, svuotamento laterocervicale, complicanze intra e post-operatorie. I risultati valutati sono tempo chirurgico, complicanze post-operatorie, fallimento del lembo, tempo d’inizio dell’alimentazione per os e durata della degenza.Sono stati inclusi 10 pazienti maschi. L’età mediana era 64 anni. Il tempo mediano di allestimento del lembo è stato di 25 minuti. Non sono state registrate complicanze intra o post-operatorie. L’inizio mediano dell’alimentazione per os è stato in decima giornata post-operatoria. Non sono stati osservati casi di fistolizzazione faringo-cutanea.Il SAFF è un lembo affidabile, facile e rapido da allestire, che offre una valida alternativa ad altri lembi peduncolati e liberi per la copertura ipofaringea nella chirurgia laringea di salvataggio. La morbilità del sito donatore è praticamente nulla e le complicanze post-operatorie sono molto rare.

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis is a condition in which bony or fibrous adhesion of the anatomical joint components results in loss of function. This is particularly distressing and debilitating for patients who struggle to maintain good oral hygiene, which results in additional pain, oral disease, and ultimately, a poor aesthetic profile. A retrospective chart review was carried out to document the cases of three patients who attended a single centre for the management of ankylosis of the TMJ. Consent for chart review and use of photographs was gained from each one. Charts were obtained, records reviewed, and each of the cases written up for presentation in a case series. All three underwent arthroplasty of the TMJ and insertion of Matthews devices (two patients unilateral, one bilateral). All were followed up postoperatively. They experienced significant improvements in vertical mouth opening which have been maintained to the present. The Matthews device allows movement and physiotherapy postoperatively whilst maintaining the surgically created space. This prevents impingement on the tissues placed between the glenoid fossa and mandible, and appears to prevent relapse and further ankylosis. To our knowledge, few studies to date have documented the use of the Matthews device following interpositional arthroplasty of the TMJ.

PURPOSE To investigate complications and outcomes of clear corneal incision cataract surgery in patients with thrombocytopenia. SETTING 1 veterans hospital and 2 academic medical centers. DESIGN Multicenter retrospective chart review. METHODS All eyes of thrombocytopenic patients that underwent clear corneal incision cataract surgery with a platelet count of 100 × 103/μL or less measured within 30 days prior to surgery were included. Subject demographics, intraoperative complications, use of pupillary expansion devices, use of local anesthetic injections, and change in corrected distance visual acuity were recorded. RESULTS 3 sites recorded 40 113 clear corneal incision cataract surgeries, of which 196 eyes (0.49%) of 150 thrombocytopenic patients were recorded. The mean platelet count in the study subjects was 73.0 ± 20.5 × 103/μL. Two cases of intraoperative iris hemorrhage that were readily and controlled occurred in conjunction with pupillary expansion. There were no bleeding complications associated with retrobulbar, peribulbar, or sub-Tenon anesthetic injections. There was a statistically significant improvement (P < .0001) in visual acuity post-operatively. CONCLUSIONS Clear corneal incision cataract surgery with pupillary expansion devices and local anesthetic injections can be safely performed in patients with thrombocytopenia.

Objective To evaluate the surgical procedures used to treat external auditory canal cancer with respect to avoiding postoperative infection of the temporal bone defect. Methods Enrolled in the study were 52 patients with external auditory canal cancer surgically treated between July 2015 and October 2020 (38 lateral temporal bone resections, 12 subtotal temporal bone resections and 2 partial resections, accompanied by various combined procedures). Retrospective chart review was conducted taking into consideration postoperative infection, and univariate analysis of prognostic factors was performed. Results In cases managed with subtotal temporal bone resection, no postoperative infections occurred. Cases managed with subtotal temporal bone resection demonstrated increased use of free-flap reconstruction, and longer antibiotic infusion period. On the other hand, analysis of cases managed with lateral temporal bone resection revealed 10 out of 38 patients with postoperative infection (26.3%). However, we couldn't find out any factors that contributed significantly to the prevention of postoperative infection, including the surgical procedures used to manage the defected space, which included free-flap implantation, obliteration with fat tissue, muscular flap rotation, and leaving the space empty without obliteration or reconstruction. Conclusion In cases managed with lateral temporal bone resection, leaving the resected space empty did not increase the risk of infection. On the other hand, in cases with subtotal temporal bone resection, filling the surgical defect with an autologous bulk, including the free-flap reconstruction and fat obliteration, seems to prevent the infection. Moreover, prolonged antibiotic infusion may suppress postoperative infection of the temporal bone defect.

Objectives Our aim in this study was to identify pediatric patients presenting in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) who received initial treatment inconsistent with current guidelines, and then to track associated complications. Methods This retrospective chart review examined 47 pediatric patients admitted to our institution with DKA, including those transferred from community hospitals. Primary outcome measures were exposure to treatment-related risk factors for cerebral edema (CE), including administration of an intravenous (IV) insulin bolus, IV bicarbonate, insulin within 1 hour of IV fluid start and non-NPO (nil per os) status. Results Seventy-five percent of patients were exposed to at least one management practice that deviated from guidelines. Thirty-four percent of patients were exposed to a treatment-related risk factor for CE, with a significantly higher prevalence in those presenting to community centres (52% vs 19%; p=0.02). There were no radiologically confirmed cases of CE. Conclusions Despite the presence of multiple, evidence-based guidelines, a significant proportion of children---and especially those who present to community centres---are exposed to practices that increase CE risk.

Children with refractory functional abdominal pain (FAP) experience functional disability and may utilize emergency department (ED) and/or inpatient services. Whether multidisciplinary programs which help care for children with refractory FAP affect acute healthcare utilization is unknown. A retrospective chart review of children initially evaluated by the outpatient Multidisciplinary Abdominal Pain Program (MAPP) from October 2016 to May 2019 was completed. Patient characteristics and number of ED visits and hospitalizations for abdominal pain in the year prior to versus year after MAPP evaluation were captured. Thirty-eight children (ages 9-17 years [median 13 years]) were included. The median number of ED visits/patient/year decreased from 1 (range: 0-7) to 0 (range: 0-3), (p

Purpose To evaluate the outcomes and complications of scleral buckle surgery alone or combined with pneumatic retinopexy (pneumatic buckle) for the treatment of primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. Design Retrospective chart review. Participants Two hundred thirteen patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment of whom 101 underwent primary scleral buckle surgery at Rabin Medical Center in 2005–2015 (SB group) and 112 underwent pneumatic buckle surgery at Royal Alexandra Hospital in 2013–2015 (PB group). Methods All patients were followed for ≥12 months. Data on clinical and surgical parameters, outcome, and complications were collected from the medical files. Main Outcome Measures Best corrected visual acuity and anatomical outcomes. Results At 12 months, average best corrected visual acuity was 0.3 logMar in the SB group and 0.42 logMar in the PB group ( P Conclusion Scleral buckle surgery alone is efficient for the treatment of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. Its combination with pneumatic retinopexy usually has no significant added value in terms of anatomical reattachment rate. Outcomes of Pneumatic buckling vs Scleral Buckling for RRD

OBJECTIVES To assess transfusion practices at a Canadian tertiary care center before and after a hospital-wide blood management educational campaign based on the Choosing Wisely toolkit. BACKGROUND Red blood cell (RBC) transfusions are an essential intervention in obstetrics and gynaec ology (O&G). However, with limited guidelines outlining the appropriate use of RBC transfusions, clinicians routinely transfuse based on haemoglobin values and habits. METHODS/MATERIALS We conducted a retrospective chart review of all patients who received a RBC transfusion while admitted under an O&G provider in two 12-month periods-before and after the intervention. The campaign consisted of Grand Rounds, formal and informal teaching, and posters placed within the hospital. We judged appropriateness from a set of criteria guided by the status of ongoing bleeding, pre-transfusion haemoglobin, and the number of units ordered simultaneously. RESULTS Transfusion appropriateness was poor in pre- and post-intervention periods (46% vs. 51%, p = 0.59). The overall rate of RBC transfusion was reduced from 1.8% to 1.2% (83/4610 vs. 55/4618, p = 0.02) after the intervention. There was a 52% reduction in the total number of RBC units of transfused (229 vs. 111, p

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is common in patients with obesity. Liver biopsy (LB) can be routinely or selectively performed during bariatric surgery to identify patients with NASH.Patients undergoing bariatric surgery between 2016 and 2020 at our institution were identified. Chart review identified patients undergoing concurrent LB. LB results were compared between patients undergoing routine LB and selective LB. Patient demographics and postoperative outcomes were compared between those who received LB and those who did not (non-LB). In the LB cohort, preoperative characteristics of patients with NASH were compared to those without NASH, and multivariable regression was used to identify predictors of NASH.Two thousand three hundred ninety-three patients were identified, of which 400 (16.7%) had liver biopsies (LB) and 1,993 (83.3%) did not (non-LB). Three hundred thirty LB were performed routinely, and 70 were selective. Compared to selective LB, routine LB identified significantly higher rates of steatosis (83.6% vs. 4.5%, p 0.01), periportal inflammation (67.0% vs. 3.2%, p 0.01), fibrosis (65.8% vs. 2.1%, p 0.01), and NASH (10.9% vs. 1.5%, p 0.01). There were no differences in postoperative complications, blood transfusions, readmissions, or reoperations between LB and non-LB. On multivariable regression, highest BMI 40 (OR 2.85, 95% CI 1.43-5.67) and insulin-dependent diabetes (OR 4.83, 95% CI 1.70-13.69) were associated with a higher odds of NASH, while Black race was associated with lower odds (OR 0.25, 95% CI 0.09-0.65).Routine liver biopsies during bariatric surgery identify higher rates of advanced NAFLD compared to selective biopsies, and can be safely performed without an increased risk of postoperative complications.

Background: The pharmacodynamic effects of digoxin are susceptible to multiple factors, most notably, heart uptake of the digoxin dose and its concentration in the serum. Another important factor to mention is the renal function state of an individual. Objective: In this study, we aimed to develop a simple algorithm based on subsets of clinically relevant information, which will help to personalize digoxin based on pharmacokinetic (PK) approach which can help in marketing the appropriate utilization of this medication. Methods: This was a retrospective chart review and analysis of 48 patients who were admitted to the Drug and Poison Information center in Buraidah, Saudi Arabia, between January 2016 and April 2019. All pharmacokinetic parameters were added according to the C-peaks and C-troughs. MONOLiX® was used for data pharmacokinetic analysis. Results: Twenty-seven (56%) were males and twenty-one (44%) were females with an average age of 63.6 years across both genders. The mean volume of distribution was 496.6 litres with an average clearance of 6.6 L/h. For females, their average volume of distribution was slightly higher than that for males (526 litres compared to 473 litres). In addition, the clearance rate between both genders showed a 2.1 litre/hour discrepancy (7.8 L/h for females compared to 5.7 L/h for males). Conclusion: In order to individualize the digoxin dosage regimens, this model can be used to predict digoxin serum concentration. Further studies are needed to clarify the effects of nutritional status and co-administration of medications on digoxin pharmacokinetics.

INTRODUCTION This study compared costs, length of visit, and utilization trends for patients with fractures seen in an immediate care orthopaedic center (I-Care) versus the emergency department (ED) in a major metropolitan area. METHODS A retrospective chart review of consecutive patients seen on an outpatient basis in the ED and I-Care over a 6-month period was conducted. Patient demographics, procedures done, care category, estimated costs, and disposition information were included for statistical analysis. Within the low-acuity fracture care group, a cost-comparison analysis was conducted. RESULTS A total of 610 patients met inclusion criteria with 311 seen in I-Care and 299 in the ER. I-Care patients were more likely to have low-acuity injuries compared with ED patients (60.1% versus 18.1%, P < 0.001). The length of visit was longer for patients seen in the ED compared with I-Care (6.1 versus 1.43 hours, P value < 0.001). A cost analysis of low-acuity patients revealed that an estimated $62,150 USD could have been saved in healthcare costs by the initial diversion of low-acuity patients seen in the ER to I-Care during the study period. DISCUSSION These results suggest that the I-Care orthopaedic urgent care model is a more cost-effective and more efficient alternative to the ED for patients with fractures requiring procedural treatment and low-acuity patients managed on an outpatient basis.

BACKGROUND: There is no consensus on how to wean infants from Nasal Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (NCPAP). We hypothesized that ceasing NCPAP abruptly would decrease the duration required, compared with a gradual wean. METHODS: This retrospective chart review included preterm infants requiring NCPAP for over 48 hours. Cohort1 weaned NCPAP by cycling on and off, while cohort 2 ceased NCPAP abruptly. The primary outcome was total days on NCPAP. Secondary outcomes included rate of bronchopulmonary dysplasia, weight gain, duration of hospital stay, and compliance with the use of stability criteria. RESULTS: 81 infants met inclusion criteria in cohort one, and 89 in cohort two. Median days on NCPAP were 17.0 and 11.0 days, respectively, not significant. There was no significant difference in secondary outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: There was no significant association between the two NCPAP weaning protocols and the outcomes studied.

Background Due to an ageing population, dengue among older patients is encountered more frequently in many countries. Our study aimed to explore the clinico-laboratory parameters and outcomes among dengue-infected older patients in comparison with younger patients. Methods This retrospective chart review involved dengue patients with dengue non-structural protein 1 (NS1) antigen positivity admitted to a tertiary hospital in Malaysia from January to July 2015. A comparison was made between older people (aged ≥60 y) and others. Results Among 406 dengue patients, 43 (10.6%) were older people. Older dengue patients were less likely to present with persistent vomiting (adjusted OR [AOR] 0.247, 95% CI 0.093 to 0.656, p=0.005), while restlessness and confusion were more common at presentation (AOR 3.356, 95% CI 1.024 to 11.003, p=0.046). Older patients had significantly lower albumin upon admission (38 vs 40 g/L, p=0.036) and during hospital stay (35 vs 37 g/L, p=0.015). Compared with younger patients, older patients were more likely to have experienced nadir platelet counts of Conclusions Diagnosis of dengue in older people may be challenging because of atypical presentations. Increased vigilance is necessary as there is an increased tendency to develop severe thrombocytopenia, hypoalbuminemia and prolonged hospitalisation in older people.

Purpose To report the phenomenon of spontaneous regression in presumed ocular surface squamous neoplasia (OSSN) Methods Retrospective chart review of clinically diagnosed cases of OSSN during 2016 to 2019 Results Of the 449 OSSN lesions, spontaneous regression was seen in 8 lesions (2%). The mean age at diagnosis of OSSN was 37 years (median, 36 years; range, 21 to 59 years). All were males with unilateral, treatment-naïve tumors. Mean duration of symptoms was 3 months (median, 2 months; range, 1 to 12 months). All tumors arose within the interpalpebral region, located in the nasal quadrant in 88% (n = 7) and in temporal quadrant in 12% (n = 1). The mean tumor diameter was 4 mm (median, 4 mm; range, 3 to 5 mm). Lesions showed nodular (n = 4; 50%) or placoid (n = 4; 50%) morphology. The other features included keratin production and intrinsic vascularity (n = 8; 100%), feeder vessels (n = 4; 50%), and intratumoral pigmentation (n = 4; 50%). The diagnosis of OSSN was confirmed by classic anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) features. Tumors regressed after a mean period of 5 months (median, 4 months; range, Conclusion OSSN can spontaneously regress in 2% of cases. Immune-mediated reversal of dysplastic changes may explain this phenomenon. Précis In this study, spontaneous regression of presumed ocular surface squamous neoplasia was noted in 2% patients. Tumor regression resulted in restoration of normal epithelial architecture and no recurrences were observed during the follow-up period.

Aim: To determine the safety and efficacy of 0.5 mg intramuscular (IM) epinephrine for the treatment of subcutaneous allergen immunotherapy induced anaphylaxis. Patients & methods: Retrospective chart review of patients who received 0.5 mg of IM epinephrine for treatment of anaphylaxis from subcutaneous allergen immunotherapy at two outpatient allergy and immunology practices. Results: Thirty-eight patients received 0.5 mg IM epinephrine. Eleven patients (29%) required a second dose, and two patients (5%) required a third dose of IM epinephrine. Sixteen patients (42%) were transferred to the emergency department with ongoing symptoms. All had eventual resolution of anaphylaxis. There were no adverse reactions or fatalities. Conclusion: IM epinephrine at a dose of 0.5 mg is safe and effective for treatment of anaphylaxis from subcutaneous allergen immunotherapy.

Aim: Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of genicular nerves can treat refractory chronic knee pain. This study evaluated association between patient and procedural characteristics and pain improvement after genicular nerve RFA. Materials & methods: A retrospective chart review. Data were extracted from patients who underwent thermal or cooled RFA of the knee. Results: A total of 124 patients were included. 81% of patients reported ≥75% pain relief after diagnostic nerve blocks. 35% reported ≥50% pain reduction from the RFA. Predictors of improved pain outcomes included higher baseline pain, no depression and thermal (vs cooled) RFA. Conclusion: Identifying patients who may benefit the most from genicular RFA is still not clear. Pain reduction differences between patients with and without depression and RFA type deserves further exploration.

Introduction While guidelines recommend testing for actionable biomarkers for patients with advanced or metastatic NSCLC, testing rates have varied. This study aimed to assess molecular testing patterns in a large network of US community-based oncology practices. Methods This retrospective observational study examined adult patients with newly diagnosed stage IV NSCLC with ≥2 visits in The US Oncology Network from 01 July 2016 – 30 September 2019. Testing patterns were examined using electronic health record structured fields and chart review. Structured data were analyzed for the overall study population (Cohort A), and structured and unstructured data were analyzed for a select cohort of 300 patients (Cohort B). Results In Cohort A (n=3,337), PD-L1 (37%) was the most frequently tested biomarker documented in structured data, followed by EGFR (36%), ALK (35%), ROS1 (20%), and BRAF (16%). According to unstructured data in Cohort B (n=300). EGFR (80%) was the most frequently tested biomarker, followed by ALK (79%), PD-L1 (72%), ROS1 (71%), and BRAF (56%). The proportion of tests ordered prior to 1L treatment increased from 2016-2018 for all biomarkers, as did the proportion of test results available prior to 1L treatment. However, some of the test results became available after 1L or later lines of treatment were in progress. Conclusion Our study found increased testing rates over time and decreases in testing turnaround times. However, rates of testing for all biomarkers still need to improve, as does completion of testing prior to initiation of therapy. Microabstract Timely testing for actionable biomarkers for patients with advanced or metastatic NSCLC can ensure that they receive the appropriate treatment at the right time, but the real-world rate of testing has varied. This study assessed molecular testing patterns in a large network of US community-based oncology practices. While testing rates increased over time and testing turnaround times decreased, results of testing were not available for a considerable of patients before initiation of first-line treatment.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has been associated with ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) reperfusion delays despite reduced emergency department (ED) volumes. However, little is known about ED contributions to these delays. We sought to measure STEMI delays and ED quality benchmarks over the course of the first two waves of the pandemic. STUDY: This study was a multi-centre, retrospective chart review from two urban, academic medical centres. We obtained ED volumes, COVID-19 tests and COVID-19 cases from the hospital databases and ED Code STEMIs with culprit lesions from the cath lab. We measured door-to-ECG (DTE) time and ECG-to-Activation (ETA) time during the phases of the pandemic in our jurisdiction: pre-first wave (Jan-Mar 2020), first wave (Apr-June 2020), post-first wave (July-Nov 2020), and second wave (Dec 2020 to Feb 2021). We calculated median DTE and ETA times and compared them to the 2019 baseline using Wilcox rank-sum test. We calculated the percentages of DTE ≤10 min and of ETA ≤10 min and compared them to baseline using chi-square test. We also utilized Statistical Process Control (SPC) Xbar-R charts to assess for special cause variation. RESULTS: COVID-19 cases began during the pre-wave phase, but there was no change in ED volumes or STEMI quality metrics. During the first wave ED volumes fell by 40%, DTE tripled (10.0 to 29.5 min, p = 0.016), ETA doubled (8.5 to 17.0 min, p = 0.04), and percentages for both DTE ≤10 min and ETA ≤10 min fell by three-quarters (each from more than 50%, to both 12.5%, both p < 0.05). After the first wave all STEMI quality benchmarks returned to baseline and did not significantly change during the second wave. A brief period of special cause variation was noted for DTE during the first wave. CONCLUSIONS: Both DTE and ETA metrics worsened during the first wave of the pandemic, revealing how it negatively impacted the triage and diagnosis of STEMI patients. But these normalized after the first wave and were unaffected by the second wave, indicating that nurses and physicians adapted to the pandemic to maintain STEMI quality of care. DTE and ETA metrics can help EDs identify delays to reperfusion during the pandemic and beyond.

Inadequate initial antibiotic treatment of ESBL urinary tract infections (UTI) can lead to increase in the number of antibiotics used, return visits, longer hospitalizations, increased morbidity and mortality and increased costs. Given the important health implications on patients, this study aimed to examine the prevalence and predictors of ESBL UTIs among Emergency Department (ED) patients of a tertiary care center in Beirut, Lebanon.Single-center retrospective observational study involving all adult UTI patients who presented to the ED of the American University of Beirut Medical Center, a tertiary care center between August 2019 and August 2020.Out of the 886 patients that were included, 24.9% had an ESBL organism identified by urine culture. They had higher bladder catheter use within the previous 90 days, antibiotic use within last 90 days, and were more likely to have a history of an ESBL producing isolate from any body site in the last year. Antibiotic use in the last 90 days and a history of ESBL producing isolate at any site in the previous year were significantly associated with developing an ESBL UTI (OR = 1.66, p = 0.001 and OR = 2.53, p0.001 respectively). Patients diagnosed with cystitis were less likely to have an ESBL organism (OR = 0.4 95%CI [0.20-0.81], p = 0.01) CONCLUSION: The prevalence of ESBL organisms was found to be 24.9% in urinary tract infections. The predictors of an ESBL UTI infection were antibiotic use in the last 90 days, a history of ESBL producing isolate at any site in the previous year. Based on the findings of our study, we can consider modifying initial empiric antibiotic treatment for patients presenting with a UTI with the above stated risk factors.

Background Inappropriate antibiotic treatments for urinary tract infection (UTI) in nursing home (NH) residents are common and contribute to antibiotic resistance. Published guidelines aim to improve accurate assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of UTIs. This study assessed whether records from hospitalized NH residents diagnosed with UTI, while comparing the Cooper Tool and Stone criteria, supported appropriate treatment. Methods A retrospective chart review was conducted using electronic medical record (EMR) data from residents of 3 NHs who were diagnosed with UTI when hospitalized over a 3-year period. The Cooper Tool and Stone criteria were used to assess treatment appropriateness. Results Of 79 hospitalized residents treated for UTI, 11 (13.9%) were appropriately treated according to the Cooper Tool and 9 (11.4%) according to Stone. The 2 criteria agreed in 9 of the cases including 100% of those with catheters. Urinalysis was documented in 72% of residents and 24% had documentation of culture and sensitivity. Conclusions Appropriate UTI treatment rates using both tools were low but much higher in those with catheters. Future research is necessary to validate the use of these tools in the hospital setting which have the potential to improve treatment accuracy and reduce unnecessary antibiotics use.

Background The breath print is a quantitative measurement of molecules in exhaled breath and represents a new frontier for biomarker identification. It is unknown whether this state-of-the-art, noninvasive method can detect malnutrition. We hypothesize that individuals with malnutrition will present with a distinguishable breath print. Methods We conducted a retrospective chart review on patients with previously analyzed breath samples to identify malnutrition. Breath was analyzed by selected-ion flow-tube mass spectrometry. Registered dietitians conducted a retrospective chart review to collect malnutrition diagnosis and nutritional status indicators. Patients were categorized into one of four groups: pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), PAH with malnutrition (PAH-Mal), Control, and Control with malnutrition, based on malnutrition diagnosis present in the patient's chart. Principle component analysis was conducted to characterize the breath print. A logistic regression model with forward selection was used to detect the best breath predictor combination of malnutrition. Results 74 subjects met inclusion criteria (PAH:52; PAH-Mal:10; Control:10; Control-Mal:2). 1-octene (PAH-Mal 5.1±1.2, PAH 12.5±11.2; p = 0.005) and ammonia (PAH-Mal 14.6±15.8, PAH 56.2±64.2; p = 0.013) were reduced in PAH-Mal compared to PAH. The combination of 1-octene (p = 0.010) and 3-methylhexane (p = 0.045) distinguished malnutrition in PAH (ROC AUC: 0.8549). Conclusions This proof-of-concept study provides the first evidence that the breath print is altered in malnutrition. Larger, prospective studies are needed to validate these results and establish whether breath analysis may be a useful tool to screen for malnutrition in the clinical setting. Clinical relevancy statement Early identification and intervention combats malnutrition. However, malnutrition screening practices are hindered by a lack of a malnutrition biomarker. The breath print describes the molecules released in the exhaled breath and is a novel "tissue" to identify biomarkers of disease. This report identifies that the breath print is altered in patients with malnutrition and implicates potential for its use as a malnutrition screening biomarker. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Introduction: Referral rates and patterns to specialists by family physicians have a significant impact on numerous aspects of medical care, including the quality and cost of care provided. The aim of this study was to examine the referral rate and pattern of family physician practices associated with a large academic health center. Methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review of referrals for patients seen in the family medicine clinics associated with a large academic institution. Basic demographic information was collected. The primary outcome was the monthly referral rate, measured as the proportion of patient visits that resulted in a consult to a specialist outside of the referring family medicine clinic. Binomial and γ generalized linear mixed models were fit to determine the associations between high/medium/low referral rate clinics and patient demographics. Results: The average monthly referral rate for all of the clinics was 20.3%, and the rate varied significantly between clinic groups. Patient gender, race, and being in a committed relationship were noted to be associated with lower referral rate. Discussion: Referral rates among family physician practices differ widely and are associated with gender, race, and relationship status of patients. Referrals to several specific specialties are common among family physicians.

Introduction: This paper examines the correlates of needle and syringe sharing among People Who Inject Drugs in Dhaka city, Bangladesh, which is currently experiencing a steep increase in HIV prevalence despite the ongoing presence of Needle Exchange Programs. Methodology: This was a retrospective chart review with cross-sectional design that extracted data from 783 male People Who Inject Drugs enrolled into five Opioid Substitution Treatment clinics in Dhaka city between April 2010 and January 2016. Data were retrieved from the program’s electronic database. Needle and syringe sharing constituted the borrowing or lending of needles and syringes from others within the past month preceding data collection. Results: Buprenorphine was the preferred injection drug and 44.6% shared needles and syringes within the past month. Multivariate analysis indicated that People Who Inject Drugs who were homeless (OR = 8.1, 95% CI = 1.4-44.9, p < 0.05), living with friends (OR = 6.8, 95% CI = 2.5-18.2, p < 0.001), injecting 2-3 times/day (OR = 4.8, 95% CI = 1.2-19.7, p < 0.05), injecting more than three times/day (OR = 4.8, 95% CI = 1.1-20.0, p < 0.05), not using condom with non-commercial female sex partners (OR = 3.3, 95% CI = 1.8-6.0, p < 0.05), bought sex from female sex workers (OR = 2.9, 95% CI = 1.0-8.3, p < 0.05), and did non-suicidal self-injury (OR = 1.8, 95% CI = 1.0-3.0, p < 0.05) were more likely to share needles and syringes. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that operating a standalone harm reduction approach that just provides sterile needles and syringes may not adequately curb needle and syringe sharing among People Who Inject Drugs.

Objective Stereoelectroencephalography (sEEG) is an intracranial encephalography method of expanding use. The need for increased epilepsy surgery access has led to the consideration of sEEG adoption by new or expanding surgical epilepsy programs. Data regarding safety and efficacy are uncommon outside of high‐volume, well‐established centers, which may be less applicable to newer or low‐volume centers. The objective of this study was to add to the sEEG outcomes in the literature from the perspective of a rapidly expanding center. Methods A retrospective chart review of consecutive sEEG cases from January 2016 to December 2019 was performed. Data extraction included demographic data, surgical data, and outcome data, which pertinently examined surgical method, progression to therapeutic procedure, clinically significant adverse events, and Engel outcomes. Results One hundred and fifty‐two sEEG procedures were performed on 131 patients. Procedures averaged 10.5 electrodes for a total of 1603 electrodes. The majority (84%) of patients progressed to a therapeutic procedure. Six clinically significant complications occurred: three retained electrodes, two hemorrhages, and one failure to complete investigation. Only one complication resulted in a permanent deficit. Engel 1 outcome was achieved in 63.3% of patients reaching one‐year follow‐up after a curative procedure. Significance New or expanding epilepsy surgery centers can appropriately consider the use of sEEG. The complication rate is low and the majority of patients progress to therapeutic surgery. Procedural safety, progression to therapeutic intervention, and Engel outcomes are comparable to cohorts from long‐established epilepsy surgery programs.

Background & aims A unique model of care was adopted in Australia following introduction of universal subsidised direct-acting antiviral (DAA) access in 2016 in order to encourage rapid scale-up of treatment. Community-based medical practitioners and integrated hepatitis nurses initiated DAA treatment with remote hepatitis specialist approval of the planned treatment without physical review. We aimed to evaluate outcomes of community-based treatment of hepatitis C (HCV) through this remote consultation process in the first 12 months of this model of care. Methods A retrospective chart review of patients undergoing community-based HCV treatment from general practitioners and integrated hepatitis nurse consultants through the remote consultation model in three state jurisdictions in Australia from 1 March 2016 to 28 February 2017. Results SVR12 was confirmed in 383/588 (65.1%) subjects intended for treatment with a median follow-up time of 12 months (IQR 9-14 months). The SVR12 test was not performed in 159/588 (27.0%) and 307/588 (52.2%) did not have liver biochemistry rechecked following treatment. Subjects who completed follow-up exhibited high SVR12 rates (383/392,97.7%). Nurse-led treatment was associated with higher confirmation of SVR12 (73.7% v 62.4%, p = 0.01) and liver biochemistry testing post treatment (57.5% v 45.0%, p = 0.01). Conclusions Community-based management of HCV through remote specialist consultation may be an effective model of care. Failure to check SVR12, recheck liver biochemistry and appropriate surveillance in patients with cirrhosis may emerge as significant issues requiring further support, education and refinement of the model to maximise effectiveness of future elimination efforts. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Purpose To evaluate the outcomes of orbital hydrogel expanders in the management of congenital anophthalmia. Methods In this retrospective one-armed cohort study, a chart review was performed of eight children with congenital anophthalmia who underwent orbital expansion using orbital hydrogel tissue expander from January 2006 to July 2018. Computed tomography (CT) of orbital parameters was evaluated before and after surgery. Changes in the orbital parameters were correlated with clinical factors. Results The study sample comprised 11 anophthalmic orbits of eight children (seven males, one female; median age = 12 months), with a median postoperative follow-up of 3.8 years. The anophthalmic orbital parameters after hydrogel expander implantation improved significantly compared to preoperative assessment as follows: mean orbital height improved from 21.7 mm to 25.4 mm (P Conclusions Orbital hydrogel expander can improve the orbital development in congenital anophthalmia. However, the enlargement is not as extensive as that observed in the normal orbit. Orbital expanders associated with external conformers were not sufficient to induce normal growth of lids and fornix.

PURPOSE Auricular pseudocyst (AP) is a benign, noninflammatory swelling to the ear, located on either the front or side surface. Deroofing surgery with variable compression methods is considered the most effective method. However, post-operative wound pain is the main drawback following compression. We are introducing a novel painless surgical procedure which involves deroofing technique followed by Merocel® compression dressing. METHODS From 2015 to 2020, thirty-one patients with AP received this new surgical compression method in our university-affiliated tertiary hospital. Retrospective chart review and the analysis of the results were conducted. RESULTS All patients had unilateral lesions, with left side lesions (58.1%) predominant. The concha cymba (38.7%) and concha cavum (35.8%) were the most common sites. Previous aspiration or drainage had been performed for the cysts in eight patients (25.8%). Only one patient had the recurrence after post-operative 3 months and received the revised surgery without following recurrence and discomfort. Among all patients, 29 (93.5%) patients claimed minimal pain around 0 or 1 in numeric rating scale of pain score. Three patients had mild ecchymosis but recovered after conservative treatment. One patient had mild auricular deformity after surgery due to pre-treatment partial cartilage necrosis. All patients had follow-up for at least 6 months. CONCLUSION This novel Merocel® compression dressing technique to treat AP after deroofing is an effective procedure. Minimal pain, simple to do and easily acquired materials were the advantages of this novel procedure.

Introduction Phenobarbital has been successfully used in the emergency department (ED) to manage symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, but few studies have reported outcomes for ED patients who receive phenobarbital and are discharged. We compared return encounter rates in discharged ED patients with alcohol withdrawal who were treated with benzodiazepines and phenobarbital. Methods This is a retrospective cohort study conducted at a single academic medical center utilizing chart review of discharged ED patients with alcohol withdrawal from July 1, 2016, to June 30, 2019. Patients were stratified according to ED management with benzodiazepines, phenobarbital, or a combination of both agents. The primary outcome was return ED encounter within three days of the index ED encounter. Multivariate logistic regression identified significant covariates of an ED return encounter. Results Of 470 patients who were discharged with the diagnosis of alcohol withdrawal, 235 were treated with benzodiazepines, 133 with phenobarbital, and 102 with a combination of both. Baseline characteristics were similar among the groups. However, patients who received phenobarbital were provided significantly more lorazepam equivalents compared to patients who received benzodiazepines alone. Treatment with phenobarbital, alone or in combination with benzodiazepines, was associated with significantly lower odds of a return ED visit within three days compared with benzodiazepines alone [AOR 0.45 (95% CI 0.23, 0.88) p = 0.02 and AOR 0.33 (95% CI 0.15, 0.74) p = 0.007]. Conclusions Patients who received phenobarbital for alcohol withdrawal were less likely to return to the ED within three days of the index encounter. Despite similar baseline characteristics, patients who received phenobarbital, with or without benzodiazepines, were provided greater lorazepam equivalents the ED.

AIM The risk of serious illness in febrile infants (

Objectives To evaluate the performance characteristics of a line immunoassay (LIA) for the detection of Mi-2 antibodies associated with dermatomyositis (DM). Methods In total, 432 consecutive patient specimens were tested for Mi-2 antibodies concurrently by LIA (Mi-2α or Mi-2β) or immunoprecipitation (IP) test and antinuclear antibody by indirect immunofluorescence assay using HEp-2 substrate. Following antibody evaluation, results for patients positive in any of the assays for Mi-2 antibody had a retrospective chart review for diagnostic categorization. The performance of all tests was evaluated based on the extracted clinical data. Results Forty patients were positive in at least one of the Mi-2 assays. The frequency of Mi-2β antibody by LIA was highest (75.0%), followed by Mi-2 by IP (35.0%) and Mi-2α by LIA (20.0%), respectively. Mi-2 by IP had the best total percent agreement for DM (95.0%) compared with 70.0% and 25.0% for the LIA Mi-2α and Mi-2β, respectively. Positivity of the Mi-2β antibody was significantly associated with non-DM diagnosis. Conclusions Agreement for DM with assays for detecting Mi-2 is variable. Additional studies are required to validate Mi-2 immunoassays for routine patient evaluation.