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OBJECTIVE: To determine whether single-cell and plasma proteomic elements of the host’s immune response to surgery accurately identifies patients who develop a Surgical Site Complication (SSC) after major abdominal surgery. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA: SSCs may occur in up to 25% of patients undergoing bowel resection, resulting in significant morbidity and economic burden. However, the accurate prediction of SSCs remains clinically challenging. Leveraging high-content proteomic technologies to comprehensively profile patients’ immune response to surgery is a promising approach to identify predictive biological factors of SSCs. METHODS: Forty-one patients undergoing non-cancer bowel resection were prospectively enrolled. Blood samples collected before surgery and on post-operative day one (POD1) were analyzed using a combination of single-cell mass cytometry and plasma proteomics. The primary outcome was the occurrence of an SSC, including surgical site infection, anastomotic leak, or wound dehiscence within 30 days of surgery. RESULTS: A multiomic model integrating the single-cell and plasma proteomic data collected on POD1 accurately differentiated patients with (n=11) and without (n=30) an SSC (AUC = 0.86). Model features included co-regulated pro-inflammatory (e.g. IL-6- and MyD88- signaling responses in myeloid cells) and immunosuppressive (e.g. JAK/STAT signaling responses in M-MDSCs and Tregs) events preceding an SSC. Importantly, analysis of the immunological data obtained before surgery also yielded a model accurately predicting SSCs (AUC = 0.82). CONCLUSIONS: The multiomic analysis of patients’ immune response after surgery and immune state before surgery revealed systemic immune signatures preceding the development of SSCs. Our results suggest that integrating immunological data in perioperative risk assessment paradigms is a plausible strategy to guide individualized clinical care.

Background: Surgical site complications (SSCs) are an important source of morbidity after kidney transplantation. We assessed the incidence, risk factors, outcomes and economic impact of SSCs in a large, diverse population of kidney transplant recipients. Methods: We conducted a single-centre, observational cohort study of adult (age ≥ 18 yr) patients who underwent kidney transplantation between Jan. 1, 2005, and Dec. 31, 2015, with a minimum of 1 year of follow-up. Cases of SSC, including infections and wound dehiscence, were determined from patient records. Inpatient and outpatient hospital costs were determined 6 and 12 months after transplantation. We used the Kaplan–Meier product-limit method to determine the cumulative probability of SSCs and other outcomes. We evaluated risk factors and clinical outcomes using Cox proportional hazard ratios. Linear regression models were used to study the effect of SSCs on graft function. Results: The incidence rate of SSCs within 30 days after transplantation was 4.19 per 100 person-months. The cumulative probability of developing an SSC within 30 days after transplantation was 4.13% (95% confidence interval [CI] 3.23%–5.28%). Increased recipient body mass index (BMI) (hazard ratio [HR] 1.07, 95% CI 1.02–1.11), longer cold ischemic time (HR 1.05, 95% CI 1.01–1.09) and transplantation in 2010–2012 versus 2005–2009 (HR 2.20, 95% CI 1.19–4.04) were risk factors for SSC development. In multivariable stepwise Cox proportional hazard models, SSC was a significant risk factor for death-censored graft failure (HR 3.08, 95% CI 1.60–5.90) and total graft failure (HR 2.09, 95% CI 1.32–3.32). Cumulative median hospital costs were $2238.46 greater for patients with an SSC than for those without. Conclusion: Increased BMI, longer cold ischemic time and the 2010–2012 transplantation period predisposed to SSCs. The development of SSCs was associated with a higher risk of graft failure. Strategies to minimize SSCs may improve outcomes after kidney transplantation and reduce costs.

The faultless seal of the anastomosis is an important aspect of abdominal surgery but opportunities to make a histological evaluation of human intestinal anastomosis sites are rare. This retrospective study examined 30 anastomoses that had been resected following complications or postmortem; the aim was to describe the histological changes at various stages of healing ranging from 4 days to 3.5 years post-surgery. Anastomosis dehiscence showed features of extensive mucosal necrosis and bad submucosal apposition. Old healed anastomoses continued to have chronic inflammatory cells and muscular discontinuity with areas of intervening fibrosis. It would be useful to underst and more about how the intraluminal contents are propelled through this scarred area

OBJECTIVE To compare the early results of mass and layered closure of upper abdominal transverse incisions. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Contrary to midline incisions, data on closure of transverse abdominal incisions are lacking. METHODS This is the first analysis of a randomized controlled trial primarily designed to compare mass with layered closure of transverse incisions with respect to incisional hernias. Patients undergoing laparotomy through upper abdominal transverse incisions were randomized to either mass or layered closure with continuous sutures. Incisional surgical site infection (incisional-SSI) was the primary end-point. Secondary end-points comprised suture-to-wound length ratio (SWLR), closure duration, and fascial dehiscence (clinicatrials.gov NCT03561727). RESULTS A total of 268 patients were randomized to either mass (n=134) or layered (n=134) closure. Incisional-SSIs occurred in 24 (17.9%) and 8 (6.0%) patients after mass and layered closure, respectively (P =0.004), with crude odds ratio (OR) of 0.29 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.13-0.67; P =0.004]. Layered technique was independently associated with fewer incisional-SSIs (OR: 0.29; 95% CI 0.12-0.69; P =0.005). The number needed to treat, absolute, and relative risk reduction for layered technique in reducing incisional-SSIs were 8.4 patients, 11.9%, and 66.5%, respectively. Dehiscence occurred in one (0.8%) patient after layered closure and in two (1.5%) patients after mass closure (P >0.999). Median SWLR were 8.1 and 5.6 (P

Deep sternal infections are serious complications after open heart surgery. We present a case of a 59-year-old female with uncontrolled diabetes who underwent aortocoronary bypass surgery in another cardiac surgery department. After the surgical intervention sternal dehiscence and wound infection occurred, which was followed by two unsuccessful attempts for sternal refixation.Two months after the initial procedure the patient was admitted to our institution with severe dyspnea and paradoxical movement of the thorax. Computed tomography revealed a huge defect of the sternum and metal osteosynthesis with a titanium plate and omentoplasty was performed.The patient was followed-up for one year with excellent postoperative result.

Objective: To compare resource utilization of NPWT and CWT for SAWHI after surgery Summary of Background Data: NPWT is widely used in the management of complex wounds but high-level evidence of its resource use remains sparse. Methods: The multicenter, multinational, randomized clinical SAWHI study enrolled a total of 539 consecutive, compliant adult patients with SAWHI after surgery without fascial dehiscence between August 2, 2011, and January 31, 2018. Patients were randomly assigned to NPWT and CWT stratified by study site and wound size using a centralized web-based tool. Evaluation of direct resource use comprised inpatient and outpatient time, personnel and material for wound treatment, and associated wound-related procedures. The resource use analysis was primarily based on the per protocol population (NPWT 157; CWT 174). Results: Although treatment length within 42 days was significantly shorter in the NPWT arm {Mean [Standard deviation (SD)] NPWT 22.8 (13.4); CWT 30.6 (13.3); P < 0.001 U-test}, hospitalization time was shorter with CWT [Mean (SD) NPWT 13.9 (11.1); CWT 11.8 (10.8); P = 0.047 U-test]. Significantly more study participants were outpatient with CWT [N=167 (96.0%)] than with NPWT [N = 140 (89.2%) (P = 0.017)]. Time for dressing changes per study participant [Mean (SD) (min) NPWT N = 133, 196 (221.1); CWT N = 152, 278 (208.2); P < .001 U-test] and for wound-related procedures [Mean (SD) (min) NPWT 167 (195); CWT 266 (313); P < 0.001 U-test] was significantly lower with NPWT. Conclusions: NPWT reduces resource use and maybe an efficient treatment alternative to CWT for SAWHI after surgery.

Objective: A surgical approach to the treatment of spinal defects and disorders has become more common because of the medical and technological advancements achieved in the last decade. This rising trend in spinal surgeries is associated with adverse events, most notably wound complications. From its introduction, negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) has proved to be essential in the management of complex wounds and in speeding up wound recovery. The aim of this study is to investigate the use of incisional NPWT in patients undergoing spinal surgery and its role in the prevention of wound complications. Method: This study is a retrospective medical chart review conducted on patients who underwent spinal surgery and received incisional vacuum therapy as part of their treatment. The apparatus was applied intraoperatively following the spinal surgery for all patients included in this study. All surgical procedures were conducted between September 2019 and May 2020. Data entry and analysis were performed between September and October 2020. Results: A total of five patients' records were reviewed. In our healthcare centre, three patients developed seroma, one developed haematoma, four required revision surgery and one patient required re-operation. There was no wound dehiscence and none of the wounds became infected. Mean length of hospital stay was 11.2 days (standard deviation (SD): 9.5 days) and mean operation time was 333 minutes (SD: 86.4 minutes). Conclusion: There is a scarcity of data on the role of incisional vacuum therapy in the prevention of wound complications associated with spine surgeries. Our study showed promising results for the use of incisional NPWT in the management of spinal wounds. Further research is required in order to enhance wound care by exploiting this potentially beneficial approach.

Postcoital vaginal cuff dehiscence is a rare but well documented complication of hysterectomy. Common symptoms are vaginal bleeding and abdominopelvic pain with or without evisceration of the intraperitoneal contents through the separated vaginal cuff, which can lead to bowel injury, necrosis and sepsis. This potentially life-threatening condition usually occurs during the first postoperative act of intercourse or within the first few months of surgery. This case report presents the unusual case of vaginal cuff dehiscence in a 59-year-old woman 14 years after a total abdominal hysterectomy.

Background Opioids are commonly prescribed for postoperative pain following total joint arthroplasty. Despite widespread use, few studies have examined the dose-dependent effect of perioperative opioid use on postoperative complications following total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Therefore, we examined the dose-dependent relationship between opioid use and postoperative complications following primary THA and TKA. Methods We queried the Premier Healthcare Database to identify adult patients who underwent primary elective THA or TKA from 2004 to 2014, and quantified opioid consumption within the first 3 postoperative days. Opioid consumption was standardized to morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs). Patients were divided into quintiles on the basis of MME exposure: 172 MMEs. Primary outcomes included postoperative periprosthetic joint infection, pulmonary embolism, deep venous thrombosis, and pulmonary complications. Secondary outcomes included wound infection, wound dehiscence, and readmission within 30 and 90 days postoperatively. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to compare differences between groups and to account for confounders. Results A total of 1,525,985 patients were identified. The mean age was 65.7 ± 10.8 years, 598,320 patients (39.2%) were male, and 1,174,314 patients (77.0%) were Caucasian. On multiple logistic regression analysis, increasing MME exposure was associated with a dose-dependent increased risk of postoperative complications. Compared with patients receiving 172 MMEs was associated with greater odds of periprosthetic joint infection (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.37; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.33 to 1.42), deep venous thromboembolism (aOR, 1.34; 95% CI, 1.30 to 1.38), pulmonary embolism (aOR, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.25 to 1.34), and pulmonary complications (aOR, 1.06; 95% CI, 1.05 to 1.08). Exposure to >172 MMEs was associated with increased risk of wound infection (aOR, 1.37; 95% CI, 1.33 to 1.41), wound dehiscence (aOR, 1.24; 95% CI, 1.19 to 1.31), and readmission within 30 (aOR, 1.21; 95% CI, 1.20 to 1.22) and 90 days (aOR, 1.20; 95% CI, 1.19 to 1.21). Conclusions Increasing opioid use within the early postoperative period following THA or TKA was associated with a dose-dependent increased risk of periprosthetic joint infection and venous thromboembolic events. Level of evidence Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Patients and breast cancer surgeons are frequently confronted with wound complications after mastectomy. Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) is a promising technique for preventing wound complications after skin closure in elective surgery. However, a clinical study evaluating postoperative complications following the use of NPWT, focusing solely on closed incisions in patients undergoing mastectomy, has yet to be performed. Between June 2019 and February 2020, 50 consecutive patients underwent mastectomy with NPWT during the first seven postoperative days. This group was compared to a cohort of patients taking part in a randomized controlled trial between June 2014 and July 2018. Primary outcome was the rate of postoperative wound complications, i.e. surgical site infections, wound necrosis or wound dehiscence during the first three postoperative months. Secondary outcomes were the number of patients requiring unplanned visits to the hospital and developing clinically significant seroma (CSS). In total, 161 patients were analyzed, of whom 111 patients in the control group (CON) and 50 patients in the NPWT group (NPWT). Twenty-eight percent of the patients in the NPWT group developed postoperative wound complications, compared to 18.9% in the control group (OR = 1.67 (95% CI 0.77–3.63), p = 0.199). The number of patients requiring unplanned visits or developing CSS was not statistically significant between the groups. This study suggests that Avelle negative pressure wound therapy in mastectomy wounds does not lead to fewer postoperative wound complications. Additionally, it does not lead to fewer patients requiring unplanned visits or fewer patients developing clinically significant seromas.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT03942575. Date of registration: 08/05/2019.

Background/aim To investigate the risk factors for evisceration in a gynecological-oncology population. The secondary aim was to evaluate the impact of evisceration on survival. Materials and methods Inclusion criteria were having had an elective surgery performed by a xiphoidopubic incision in our institution and having a gynecological malignancy based on pathology. A total of 198 patients were evaluated, 54 with evisceration and 144 without evisceration. Due to the widely varied prognosis of female genital cancers, the survival was analyzed on a homogenized group, including only 62 patients with primary advanced stage epithelial ovarian-tubal-peritoneal cancer. Results The preoperative factors associated with evisceration in the univariate analysis were old age, high body mass index (BMI), hypertension, smoking, comorbidities, high American Society of Anesthesiologist (ASA) score (3 and 4), and low preoperative albumin level. The associated intraoperative factors were bleeding volume, receiving more than two units of erythrocyte suspension or fresh frozen plasma, and having had a major operation. The associated postoperative factors were the albumin transfusion and the antibiotic use in the early postoperative period. In the multivariate analysis, smoking, low levels of preoperative albumin, high BMIs, and high ASA scores (3 and 4) were independent prognostic factors for evisceration. Evisceration was not associated with recurrence and survival in the patients with primary advanced stage epithelial ovarian-tubal-peritoneal cancer patients. Conclusion Smoking, preoperative hypoalbuminemia, obesity, and high ASA scores (3 and 4) were the prognostic factors for evisceration. Short-term modifiable factors such as smoking cessation and improved nutritional status should be considered in elective gynecological-oncology surgeries. Evisceration had no impact on survival and recurrence in the patients with primary advanced stage epithelial ovarian-tubal-peritoneal cancer patients. Key words: Evisceration, hypoalbuminemia, obesity, smoking, survival, wound dehiscence.

Background Anastomosis-related complications are common after the radical resection of colon cancer. Among such complications, severe stenosis or completely occluded anastomosis (COA) are uncommon in clinical practice, and the separation of the anastomosis is even rarer. For such difficult problems as COA or anastomotic separation, clinicians tend to adopt surgical interventions, and few clinicians try to solve them through endoscopic operations. Case presentation In this article, we present a case of endoscopic treatment of anastomotic closure and separation after radical resection for sigmoid carcinoma. After imaging examination and endoscopic evaluation, we found that the patient had a COA accompanied by a 3–4 cm anastomotic separation. With the aid of fluoroscopy, we attempted to use the titanium clip marker as a guide to perform an endoscopic incision and successfully achieved recanalization. We used a self-expanding covered metal stent to bridge the intestinal canal to resolve the anastomotic separation. Finally, the patient underwent ileostomy takedown, and the postoperative recovery was smooth. The follow-up evaluation results showed that the anastomotic stoma was unobstructed. Conclusions We reported the successful application of endoscopic technique in a rare case of COA and separation after colon cancer surgery, which is worth exploring and verifying through more clinical studies in the future.

Objective To estimate the effectiveness of prophylactic negative pressure wound therapy in patients undergoing laparotomy for gynecologic surgery. Methods We conducted a randomized controlled trial. Eligible, consenting patients, regardless of body mass index (BMI), who were undergoing laparotomy for presumed gynecologic malignancy were randomly allocated to standard gauze or negative pressure wound therapy. Patients with BMIs of 40 or greater and benign disease also were eligible. Randomization, stratified by BMI, occurred after skin closure. The primary outcome was wound complication within 30 (±5) days of surgery. A sample size of 343 per group (N=686) was planned. Results From March 1, 2016, to August 20, 2019, we identified 663 potential patients; 289 were randomized to negative pressure wound therapy (254 evaluable participants) and 294 to standard gauze (251 evaluable participants), for a total of 505 evaluable patients. The median age of the entire cohort was 61 years (range 20-87). Four hundred ninety-five patients (98%) underwent laparotomy for malignancy. The trial was eventually stopped for futility after an interim analysis of 444 patients. The rate of wound complications was 17.3% in the negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) group and 16.3% in the gauze group, absolute risk difference 1% (90% CI -4.5 to 6.5%; P=.77). Adjusted odds ratio controlling for estimated blood loss and diabetes was 0.99 (90% CI 0.62-1.60). Skin blistering occurred in 33 patients (13%) in the NPWT group and in three patients (1.2%) in the gauze group (P Conclusion Negative pressure wound therapy after laparotomy for gynecologic surgery did not lower the wound complication rate but did increase skin blistering. Clinical trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02682316. Funding source The protocol was supported in part by KCI/Acelity.

Annals of thoracic and cardiovascular surgery (2020). doi:10.5761/atcs.oa.19-00293, Published by Medical Tribune, Tokyo

Summary Background Although acellular dermal matrix (ADM) is widely used in expander-implant-based breast reconstructions, previous analyses have been unable to demonstrate improvements in patient-reported outcomes (PROs) with this approach over non-ADM procedures. This study aims to develop a more selective, evidence-based approach to the use of ADM in expander-implant-based breast reconstruction by identifying patient subgroups in which ADM improved clinical outcomes and PROs. Study design The Mastectomy Reconstruction Outcomes Consortium Study prospectively evaluated immediate expander-implant reconstructions at 11 centers from 2012 to 2015. Complications (any/overall and major), and PROs (satisfaction, physical, psychosocial, and sexual well-being) were assessed two years postoperatively using medical records and the BREAST-Q, respectively. Using mixed-models accounting for centers and with interaction terms, we analyzed for differential ADM effects across various clinical subgroups, including age, body mass index, radiation timing, and chemotherapy. Results Expander-implant-based breast reconstruction was performed in 1451 patients, 738 with and 713 without ADM. Major complication risk was higher in ADM users vs. nonusers (22.9% vs. 16.4% and p = 0.04). Major complication risk with ADM increased with higher BMI (BMI=30, OR=1.70; BMI=35, OR=2.29, interaction p = 0.02). No significant ADM effects were observed for breast satisfaction, psychosocial, sexual, and physical well-being within any subgroups. Conclusion In immediate expander-implant-based breast reconstruction, ADM was associated with a greater risk of major complications, particularly in high-BMI patients. We were unable to identify patient subgroups where ADM was associated with significant improvements in PROs. Given these findings and the financial costs of ADM, a more critical approach to the use of ADM in expander-implant reconstruction may be warranted.

Background Traditionally, perforated diverticulitis has been managed with an open approach, with a Hartmann procedure or a colectomy with primary anastomosis. Minimally invasive surgery is associated with postoperative advantages in the elective setting and may show a benefit in the emergent setting. Objective The aim of this study was to compare postoperative outcomes of open vs minimally invasive approaches for emergent perforated diverticulitis. Design This was a retrospective review of the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program targeted colectomy database using propensity score matching. Settings Interventions were performed in hospitals participating in the national database. Patients Patients who underwent emergent colectomy from 2012 to 2017 were included. Procedures were divided into Hartmann procedure and primary anastomosis. Open vs minimally invasive groups were defined by intention to treat. Main outcome measures Outcomes measures included length of stay and overall morbidity and mortality. Results Of 130,616 patients, 7105 met inclusion criteria (4486 Hartmann procedure and 2619 primary anastomosis). A total of 1989 open Hartmann procedure cases were matched to 663 minimally invasive cases. The minimally invasive group underwent longer operations and had lower rates of respiratory failure. There were no differences in overall complications, mortality, length of stay, or home discharge. In the primary anastomosis group, 1027 cases were matched 1:1. The minimally invasive approach was associated with longer operative times, but reduced wound dehiscence, sepsis, bleeding, overall complications, and length of stay. No difference was detected in anastomotic leak, mortality, reoperation, or readmission rates. Limitations Limitations include retrospective nature, data loss, nonuniformity, selection bias, and coding errors. Conclusions Emergent minimally invasive primary anastomosis results in a shorter length of stay and decreased 30-day morbidity in comparison with open primary anastomosis for perforated diverticulitis. Emergent open and minimally invasive Hartmann procedures for perforated diverticulitis have comparable outcomes, perhaps because of a 40% conversion rate. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B421. Abordaje abierto versus mnimamente invasivo para colectoma de emergencia en diverticulitis perforada ANTECEDENTES:Tradicionalmente, la diverticulitis perforada se ha tratado con un abordaje abierto, con un procedimiento de Hartmann o una colectomia con anastomosis primaria. La cirugia minimamente invasiva se asocia con ventajas posoperatorias en el escenario electivo y puede mostrar beneficio en el escenario emergente.OBJETIVO:El objetivo de este estudio fue comparar los resultados posoperatorios del abordaje abierto versus el minimamente invasivo para la diverticulitis perforada emergente.DISENO:Esta fue una revision retrospectiva de la base de datos de colectomia dirigida del Programa Nacional de Mejoramiento de la Calidad Quirurgica del Colegio Americano de Cirujanos utilizando el pareamiento por puntaje de propension.ESCENARIO:Las intervenciones se realizaron en los hospitales participantes en la base de datos nacional.PACIENTES:Se incluyeron pacientes que fueron sometidos a colectomia emergente de 2012 a 2017. Los procedimientos se dividieron en procedimiento de Hartmann y anastomosis primaria. Los grupos abierto versus minimamente invasivo se definieron por intencion de tratar.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Las medidas de resultado incluyeron la duracion de la estancia, la morbilidad general y la mortalidad.RESULTADOS:De 130,616 pacientes, 7,105 cumplieron los criterios de inclusion (4,486 procedimiento de Hartmann y 2,619 anastomosis primaria). 1,989 casos abiertos de procedimientos de Hartmann se emparejaron con 663 casos minimamente invasivos. El grupo minimamente invasivo se sometio a operaciones mas prolongadas y tuvo tasas mas bajas de insuficiencia respiratoria. No hubo diferencias en las complicaciones generales, la mortalidad, la duracion de la estancia o el alta domiciliaria. En el grupo de anastomosis primaria, 1,027 casos se emparejaron 1: 1. El abordaje minimamente invasivo se asocio con tiempos quirurgicos mas prolongados, pero tambien con tasas reducidas de dehiscencia de herida, sepsis, sangrado, complicaciones generales y la duracion de la estancia. No se detectaron diferencias en las tasas de fuga anastomotica, mortalidad, reintervencion o reingreso.LIMITACIONES:Las limitaciones incluyen la naturaleza retrospectiva, perdida de datos, falta de uniformidad, sesgo de seleccion y errores de codificacion.CONCLUSIONES:La anastomosis primaria minimamente invasiva emergente resulta en una estancia mas corta y una disminucion de la morbilidad a los 30 dias en comparacion con la anastomosis primaria abierta para la diverticulitis perforada. El procedimiento de Hartmann abierto y minimamente invasivo de emergencia para la diverticulitis perforada tiene resultados comparables, quizas debido a una tasa de conversion del 40%. Consulte el Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B421.

Introduction Nasogastric decompressive tube utilization has been accepted as one of the basic perioperative care measures after esophageal resection surgery. However, with the development of multimodal rehabilitation programs and without clear evidence to support their use, the systematic indication of this measure may be controversial. Material and methods Retrospective, descriptive and comparative study of patients who had undergone Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy in our center – from January 2015 to December 2018 – with placement (Group S), or without placement (Group N) of a decompressive tube in gastroplasty during postoperative period. Epidemiological variables and differences between groups in post-surgical morbidity and mortality, hospital stay, onset of oral tolerance and the need for nasogastric tube placement were evaluated. Results A total of 43 patients were included in this study, with a median age of 61 years, being 86% male. 46.5% were hypertensive, 25.5% had lung disease and 16.3% had diabetes mellitus. The median length of hospital stay was 9 days in group S versus 11.5 days in group N, with no differences in the onset of oral tolerance. Anastomotic dehiscence rate was 5% and 0% respectively. The overall mortality was 2.3% in the first 90 days, without differences between the groups. Placement of nasogastric tube during postoperative period was required only in 1 patient (4.3%) of the group N. Conclusions Non-use of nasogastric tube during postoperative period of an Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy is a safe measure, as it is not associated with a higher rate of complications or hospital stay. This fact may be able to improve patients’ comfort and postoperative recovery.

Post‐operative wound complications are some of the most common acute complications following spine surgery. These surgical site infections (SSI) contribute to increased healthcare related costs. Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) has long been used for treatment of soft tissue injury or defects. NPWT may reduce the incident of SSI following spinal fusion procedures; however, its potential applications need further clarification. Thus, we conducted a retrospective analysis of two cohorts to compare NPWT to traditional sterile dressings following spinal fusions in regards to post‐operative outcomes. Following institutional review board approval, 42 patients who had a NPWT were matched by type of surgery to 42 patients who had traditional dressings. A retrospective chart‐review was completed. Outcome measures, particularly SSI and need for reoperation, were analyzed using one‐way ANOVA for both univariate and multivariate analysis. When controlled for sex and body‐mass index, the use of a NPWT was independently correlated with decreased SSI (P = .035). Superficial dehiscence, seroma, need for additional outpatient care, and need for operative revision were all found to occur at higher rates in the traditional dressing cohort. Closed incisional negative pressure wound therapy provides a cost‐effective method of decreasing surgical site infection for posterior elective spine surgeries.

Background Although controversial, the use of acellular dermal matrices (ADMs) for abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR) is increasing. There are now many different ADMs available, but there is a lack of studies directly comparing ADMs in terms of outcomes. Materials and methods A retrospective chart review was performed to compare perioperative wound complications (up to 120 d postoperatively) between patients who underwent AWR with the human noncrosslinked ADMs Alloderm or Cortiva from January 2012 to March 2020. Surgical technique uniformly consisted of open component separation, onlay implantation of ADM, and progressive tension suture fixation of ADM. Results After exclusions, 53 patients were in the Alloderm group, and 29 patients were in the Cortiva group. The overall perioperative wound complication rate between Alloderm (51.92%) and Cortiva (72.41%) was not significantly different (P = 0.09921). The average follow-up for Alloderm was 76.69 ± 29.52 d and for Cortiva was 66.93 ± 35.16 d (P = 0.2088). There were no cases that required explantation of ADM. Conclusions Given the similar perioperative wound complication profiles, the more cost-effective ADM may be a consideration for use in AWR. The fact that there were zero instances of ADM explantation also supports the use of ADM in these high-risk cases.

Objective To explore the treatment of superficial incision dehiscence after abdominal surgery by Z-plasty combined with negative-pressure wound therapy. Methods A retrospective study was performed on seven patients with superficial abdominal incision dehiscence from October 2018 to February 2019. All patients were given systemic antibiotics and nutrition support. During the first stage, surgical debridement with negative-pressure wound therapy was performed. Local Z-plasty was performed in the second stage. Results The incision healed well in all patients, and no infection or necrosis occurred in the flaps. During the follow-up of 7.3 months (range, 5-10 months), no incision rupture or redehiscence occurred. Conclusions Surgical debridement, negative-pressure wound therapy, and Z-plasty can be used to treat superficial abdominal incision dehiscence and achieve good therapeutic effect and prognosis. Z-plasty can be used as an alternative to direct suture of incisions because of its simplicity and excellent results.

Background The Bostwick autoderm technique uses the patient's own deepithelialized mastectomy flap for lower pole coverage of an implant, similar to the use of acellular dermal matrix. The skin is closed over the autoderm flap in a Wise pattern. Unlike acellular dermal matrix, autoderm is perfused tissue that offers immediate protection for the implant. Because of this extra protective vascularized layer, implants can often be salvaged in cases of wound breakdown. Methods A retrospective review of 370 patients and 592 immediate implant reconstructed breasts was performed. Results Four hundred twenty-two (71 percent) were reconstructed with autoderm, 93 (16 percent) with total muscle coverage, and 77 (13 percent) with acellular dermal matrix. Higher body mass index patients were overrepresented in the autoderm group. Ninety-one of the reconstructions in the autoderm group (21.3 percent) were performed on patients with a body mass index greater than 35 kg/m2 compared to four (4.3 percent) in the total muscle coverage group and two (2.6 percent) in the acellular dermal matrix group. Despite this higher proportion of obese patients, the complication rate in the autoderm group was similar to that of the acellular dermal matrix group. The implant loss rate for all reconstructions was 3.4 percent. There were 17 losses (4 percent) in the autoderm group, zero in the total muscle coverage group, and 20 (3.4 percent) in the acellular dermal matrix group. There were 15 patients and 28 breasts that had prepectoral reconstruction. Conclusion The autoderm flap is a safe, reliable, and resource-conscientious technique for immediate, implant-based breast reconstruction. Clinical question/level of evidence Therapeutic, III.

Background Surgical dehiscence can occur after lower extremity orthopedic procedures. Underlying vascular aberrancy and localized ischemia contribute to chronic wound development requiring advanced techniques such as free tissue transfer. Localized vascular abnormality is an underrecognized contributing factor to such dehiscence. The authors reviewed their lower extremity free tissue transfer experience in this population to analyze the incidence of arterial abnormality and outcomes. Methods The authors conducted a retrospective review of 64 lower extremity free tissue transfers performed for chronic wounds after orthopedic procedures from 2011 to 2018. The primary outcome was major arterial abnormality as identified on angiography. Secondary outcomes were flap success, limb salvage, and ambulation status. Results The median age was 58 years, and 44 were men (69 percent). Comorbidities included osteomyelitis (77 percent), diabetes (39 percent), and peripheral vascular disease (17 percent). The incidence of arterial abnormality on angiography was 47 percent. Defect location correlated with angiosome of arterial abnormality in 53 percent. The flap success rate was 92 percent. Limb salvage and ambulation rates were 89 and 89 percent, respectively, at an average follow-up of 17.6 months. Men demonstrated an increased rate of limb salvage (p = 0.026). Diabetes (p = 0.012), arterial abnormality (p = 0.044), and arterial flap complication (p = 0.010) correlated with amputation. Conclusions The high incidence of arterial abnormality in this population highlights the importance of expedient multidisciplinary care, including vascular and plastic surgery. Diagnostic angiography is important for identifying major arterial abnormality and the need for free tissue transfer for definitive coverage.

Cervical anastomotic leakages may manifest either cervically or intrathoracically. We retrospectively investigated the management strategies and clinical outcomes of patients who developed anastomotic leakages after McKeown esophagectomy and the spectrum of its clinical manifestations.Patients with esophageal cancer who underwent McKeown esophagectomy with cervical anastomosis (n = 749) between January 2015 and December 2018 were included.Cervical anastomosis leakage was diagnosed in 53/749 (7.3%) patients. The leakage was primarily limited to cervical region in 16 (30.2%) patients, whereas intrathoracic spread was present in 37 (69.8%) patients. Intrathoracic manifestations were more commonly accompanied by fever (75.7% vs. 18.8%, P 0.001) and leukocytosis than cervical manifestations (81.1% vs. 25.0%, P 0.001). Compared to patients with cervical manifestations, those with intrathoracic manifestations had a longer duration of hospital stay (median; 58 vs. 40 days, P = 0.006) and higher incidence of tracheal fistula (21.6% vs. 0%, P = 0.045). Drainage through the neck wound was effective in all patients with cervical manifestations. Patients with intrathoracic manifestations who had transnasal inner drain or mediastinal drain placed intraoperatively achieved satisfactory drainage (27/37, 73.0%). Subsequent healing of anastomotic leaks was observed in 50 (94.3%) patients. There was no mortality associated with complications related to anastomotic leakage.Intrathoracic manifestations of cervical anastomotic leakage are common in patients after McKeown esophagectomy. However, they are diagnosed later and are associated with more severe clinical consequences than cervical manifestations. Thus, a high index of suspicion and an early intervention policy for such anastomotic leaks should be adopted and strengthened to decrease the incidence of adverse clinical outcomes.

Pelvic exenteration for malignancy sometimes necessitates flap reconstruction.This study's aim was to investigate flap-related morbidity.A prospective database was reviewed from 2003 to 2016. All medical charts, correspondence, and outpatient follow-up records up to May 2017 were reviewed.This study was conducted at a tertiary referral unit.Patients who underwent pelvic exenteration surgery were selected.Reconstruction was performed with a vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap.Primary outcome was flap-related complications (short or long term3 months). Secondary outcomes were hospital stay, readmission, mortality, and quality of life (Short Form-36, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy for patients with colorectal cancer).Of 519 patients undergoing pelvic exenteration surgery, 87 (17%) underwent flap reconstruction. Median follow-up was 20 months (interquartile range, 8-39 months). Median age was 60 years (interquartile range, 51-66). Flap-related complications were found in 59 patients (68%), with minor recipient-site complications diagnosed in 33 patients (38%). In the short term, 15 patients experienced major recipient-site complications (17%), including flap separation (n = 7) and partial (n = 3) or complete necrosis (n = 4). Flap removal was required in 1 patient. Obesity was the single independent risk factor for short-term flap-related complications (p = 0.02). Hospital admission was significantly longer in patients with short-term major flap complications (median 65 days, p0.001) compared with patients without or with minor complications. There was no 90-day mortality. Patients who required flap reconstruction reported lower baseline quality-of-life scores than patients without flap reconstruction, but both recovered over time. In the long term, minor flap-related complications occurred in 12 patients, and 11 patients had major donor-site complications. Fourteen patients developed major recipient-site complications (16%), including sacral collections, enterocutaneous fistulas, perineal ulcer, or hernia.This was a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data.Vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flaps in pelvic exenteration surgery have a high incidence of morbidity that has significant impact on hospital stay and a temporary impact on quality of life. Flap reconstruction should be used selectively in pelvic exenteration surgery. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B274. COMPLICACIONES E IMPACTO EN LA CALIDAD DE VIDA DE LOS COLGAJOS MIOCUTÁNEOS DE MUSCULO RECTO DEL ABDOMEN EN CASOS DE RECONSTRUCCIÓN DE EXENTERACIÓN PÉLVICA: La exenteración pélvica (EP) para malignidad a veces requiere reconstrucción con colgajos musculares.El propósito del presente estudio fue investigar la morbilidad relacionada con los colagajos musculares.Revisión de una base de datos prospectiva de 2003-2016. Se evaluaron todas las historias clínicas, la correspondencia y los registros de seguimiento de pacientes ambulatorios hasta mayo de 2017.Unidad de referencia terciaria.Todos aquellas personas con cirugía de exenteración pélvica.Reconstrucción con colgajo miocutáneo de musculo recto vertical del abdomen.El resultado primario fueron las complicaciones relacionadas con el colgajo (a corto o largo plazo3 meses). Los resultados secundarios fueron la estadía hospitalaria, la readmisión, la mortalidad y la calidad de vida (QOL; SF-36, FACT-C).De 519 pacientes sometidos a EP, 87 (17%) se sometieron a reconstrucción con colgajos miocutáneos. La mediana de seguimiento fue de 20 meses (RIC 8-39 meses). La mediana de edad fue de 60 años (IQR 51-66). Se encontraron complicaciones relacionadas con el colgajo en 59 pacientes (68%), con complicaciones menores en el sitio del receptor diagnosticadas en 33 pacientes (38%). A corto plazo, quince pacientes sufrieron complicaciones mayores en el sitio del receptor (17%), incluida la separación del colgajo (n = 7), necrosis parcial (n = 3) o necrosis completa (n = 4). Se requirió la extracción del colgajo en un paciente. La obesidad fue el único factor de riesgo independiente para complicaciones relacionadas con el colgajo a corto plazo (p = 0.02). El ingreso hospitalario fue significativamente mayor en pacientes con complicaciones de colgajos mayores a corto plazo (mediana 65 días p0.001) en comparación con pacientes sin complicaciones menores o con complicaciones menores. No hubo mortalidad a los 90 días. Los pacientes que requirieron reconstrucción con colgajo informaron puntajes de calidad de vida basales más bajos que los pacientes sin reconstrucción con colgajo, pero ambos se recuperaron con el tiempo. A largo plazo, ocurrieron complicaciones menores relacionadas con el colgajo en 12 pacientes y 11 pacientes tuvieron complicaciones mayores en el sitio donante. Catorce pacientes desarrollaron complicaciones mayores en el sitio del receptor (16%), incluidas colecciones sacras, fístulas enterocutáneas, úlceras perineales o herniación.Análisis retrospectivo de datos recolectados prospectivamente.Los colgajos miocutáneos del musculo recto vertical del abdomen en casos de cirugía de exenteración pélvica tienen una alta incidencia de morbilidad conllevando a un impacto significativo en la estadía hospitalaria y un impacto temporal en la calidad de vida. Las reconstrucciones con colgajos deben aplicarse muy selectivamente en la cirugía de exenteración pélvica. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B274.

BACKGROUND Postsurgical skin healing can result in different scars types, ranging from a fine line to pathologic scars, in relation to patients' intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Although the role of nutrition in influencing skin healing is known, no previous studies investigated if the vegan diet may affect postsurgical wounds. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to compare surgical scars between omnivore and vegan patients. METHODS AND MATERIALS This is a prospective observational study. Twenty-one omnivore and 21 vegan patients who underwent surgical excision of a nonmelanoma skin cancer were enrolled. Postsurgical complications and scar quality were evaluated using the modified Scar Cosmesis Assessment and Rating (SCAR) scale. RESULTS Vegans showed a significantly lower mean serum iron level (p < .001) and vitamin B12 (p < .001). Wound diastasis was more frequent in vegans (p = .008). After 6 months, vegan patients had a higher modified SCAR score than omnivores (p < .001), showing the worst scar spread (p < .001), more frequent atrophic scars (p < .001), and worse overall impression (p < .001). CONCLUSION This study suggests that a vegan diet may negatively influence the outcome of surgical scars.

Background Panniculectomies are associated with high complication rates (43 to 70 percent), particularly in patients with obesity, smoking, and diabetes mellitus. Closed-incision negative-pressure therapy can be used postoperatively to support healing by promoting angiogenesis and decreasing tension. The authors hypothesized that using it with panniculectomies would minimize complications, and that a longer duration of therapy would not increase the incidence of complications. The authors also evaluated whether closed-incision negative-pressure therapy malfunction was associated with complications. Methods This retrospective, uncontrolled case series analyzed 91 patients who underwent panniculectomies managed with closed-incision negative-pressure therapy performed by a single surgeon from 2014 to 2018. Patients were followed for 6 months; therapy duration and malfunction were recorded. Patients were placed into therapy duration groups (2 to 7, 8 to 10, or >10 days). Complications managed conservatively were minor and major if they required intervention. Odds ratios were performed with 95 percent confidence intervals and p values. Results Mean follow-up was 225.1 days and mean closed-incision negative-pressure therapy duration was 10.5 days. Major complications were reported in five patients (5.5 percent), infections in four (4.4 percent), dehiscence in two (2.2 percent), and seroma in four (4.4 percent). Patients with malfunction [n = 16 (17.6 percent)] were more likely to experience complications (OR, 3.3; p = 0.043). No significant increase in complications was found with therapy duration longer than 10 days, but potentially there is an increased risk of infection (OR, 4.0; p = 0.067). Conclusions Although high complication rates have been associated with panniculectomies, the authors' results show that low complication rates can be achieved with closed-incision negative-pressure therapy. Randomized controlled trials need to be conducted evaluating different therapy systems and the optimal duration of therapy with panniculectomies. Clinical question/level of evidence Therapeutic, IV.

Purpose Inguinal lymphadenectomy in penile cancer is associated with a high rate of wound complications. The aim of this trial was to prospectively analyze the effect of an epidermal vacuum wound dressing on lymphorrhea, complications and reintervention in patients with inguinal lymphadenectomy for penile cancer. Patients and methods Prospective, multicenter, randomized, investigator-initiated study in two German university hospitals (2013–2017). Thirty-one patients with penile cancer and indication for bilateral inguinal lymph node dissection were included and randomized to conventional wound care on one side (CONV) versus epidermal vacuum wound dressing (VAC) on the other side. Results A smaller cumulative drainage fluid volume until day 14 (CDF) compared to contralateral side was observed in 15 patients (CONV) vs. 16 patients (VAC), with a median CDF 230 ml (CONV) vs. 415 ml (VAC) and a median maximum daily fluid volume (MDFV) of 80 ml (CONV) vs. 110 ml (VAC). Median time of indwelling drainage: 7 days (CONV) vs. 8 days (VAC). All grade surgery-related complications were seen in 74% patients (CONV) vs. 74% patients (VAC); grade 3 complications in 3 patients (CONV) vs. 6 patients (VAC). Prolonged hospital stay occurred in 32% patients (CONV) vs. 48% patients (VAC); median hospital stay was 11.5 days. Reintervention due to complications occurred in 45% patients (CONV) vs. 42% patients (VAC). Conclusions In this prospective, randomized trial we could not observe a significant difference between epidermal vacuum treatment and conventional wound care.

INTRODUCTION Laparoscopic side-to-side intestinal anastomosis is a common in clinic practice and training simulation. The aim of this study is to design and validate a reliable and reproducible tool for its evaluation. METHODS A modified Delphi method was used to design a tool with elements that determine quality, including 5 items: separation between stiches, eversion, tension, leak and iatrogenesis. The study included 21 participants (10 first-year residents and 11 experts) who performed a 5cm laparoscopic intestinal side-to-side anastomosis with porcine viscera. The evaluations were blinded and done independently by 2 evaluators. RESULTS The means obtained by novice and expert participants were, respectively: separation between stiches 3.2 vs. 5.7 (P < .001), eversion 3.3 vs. 5.9 (P = .004), tension 2.9 vs. 5.9 (P = .001), leak tightness 3.2 vs. 5.7 (P = .005), iatrogenesis 6.9 vs. 7 (P = .47). The iatrogenesis parameter was not discriminatory, so it was removed from the tool. The total results were 12.5 for novices and 23.2 for experts (P = .001). The correlation between observers presented an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.99 for the separation between stiches, 0.94 for eversion, 0.98 for tension and 0.99 for leak. The correlation between the score and the leak without pressure presented a Rosenthal's R of -0.71 (P < .001); with pressure R = -0.55 (P = .01). CONCLUSIONS The designed tool is valid to discriminate between novice and expert participants, presents very high concordance between observers and correlates with the risk of leak.

Purpose Acellular dermal matrices (ADM) are increasingly used in implant-based breast reconstruction (IBR). Uncertainty remains with regard to their efficacy and complications. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes and complication rates associated with the use of ADMs in IBR. Methods Retrospective cohort study of patients undergoing ADM-assisted IBR between 2008 and 2013. Cases were identified from a prospectively collected database. Simple descriptive statistics and logistic regression analysis were performed. Results A total of 110 patients (175 mastectomies) were included in the analysis. The median age was 46 (19–75) years and the median BMI was 22.2 (16.2–41.5). Seventy nine mastectomies were performed for therapeutic purposes. The median mastectomy weight was 244 (185–335) gr. The majority of reconstructions were performed with fixed volume (n = 115, 66%) or permanent expandable implants (n = 53, 30%) as one-stage procedures. Forty mastectomies were associated with at least one complication. The infection rate was 2.3% (n = 4). Post-operative haematoma developed in 5 cases (2.9%), but only 2 required surgical interventions. Three mastectomies were complicated by nipple necrosis (3.6%), 3 with skin necrosis (1.7%) and 9 with wound dehiscence (5.1%). The capsule formation rate was 2.3% (n = 4). Reconstruction failure with implant loss occurred in 3 cases (1.7%). Conclusions The complication rates following ADM-assisted IBR can be very low with appropriate patient selection and meticulous surgical technique. This supports the safety of using ADM in carefully selected patients. Further research is warranted to assess the health economics of ADM use in IBR.

Objectives There are limited methods to identify which obese patients will experience wound complications after undergoing gynecologic surgery. We sought to determine the association between frailty and postoperative wound complications and to develop a prediction model for wound complications in this patient population. Methods We reviewed prospectively collected data of obese patients undergoing laparotomy though midline vertical incisions from 7/2013-3/2016. Modified frailty index (mFI) was calculated using 11 comorbidities previously validated. The primary outcome was the composite rate of postoperative wound complication. Data was analyzed using Fisher exact test or Chi-square and t-tests or Kruskal-Wallis tests. Poisson regression models were used to generate relative risks. Prediction models were created with receiver-operator characteristic curve analysis. Results Of 163 patients included, 56 (34%) were considered frail. Wound complications occurred in 52 patients (31.9%): 28 (50%) frail and 24 (22.4%) non-frail patients (RR 2.23, 95%CI 1.29-3.85). Frail patients had significantly greater frequencies of wound breakdown (37.5% vs 15%, RR 2.51, 95%CI 1.31-4.81). After controlling for BMI, tobacco use, and maximum postoperative glucose, frailty remained an independent predictor of wound complication (aRR 1.88, 95%CI 1.04-3.40). The area under the curve for the predictive model incorporating frailty was 0.73 for wound complications. Conclusion Frailty is associated with wound complications in obese patients undergoing gynecologic surgery via a midline vertical incision and is a useful tool in identifying the most high risk patients. Further prospective research is necessary to incorporate mFI into preoperative planning and counseling.

Background Microsurgical free tissue transfer is an important treatment option for nonhealing lower extremity diabetic wounds. The purpose of this study was to identify factors that affect flap survival and wound complications. Methods A retrospective review was conducted of 806 lower extremity free-flap reconstructions performed from 1979 to 2016. A total of 33 free flaps were used for coverage of nonhealing lower-extremity diabetic ulcers. Primary outcome measures were perioperative complications and long-term wound breakdown. Results The average age was 54 ± 12.3 y. 15.2% of patients were smokers, 12.1% had coronary artery disease and 12.1% had end-stage renal disease. Muscle flaps predominated (75.8%) compared to fasciocutaneous flaps (24.2%). There were 7 patients (21.2%) that underwent a revascularization procedure before (71.4%) or at the same time (28.6%) as the free flap. Immediate complications occurred in 7 flaps (21.2%) with 4 partial losses (12.1%) and 3 total flap failures (9.1%). Major wound complications occurred in 18.2% of patients. An end-to-side (E-S) anastomosis for the artery was used in 63.6% (n = 22) of flaps compared with an end-to-end (E-E) anastomosis. E-S anastomosis was associated with a significantly lower risk of wound complications compared with an arterial E-E anastomosis (0% versus 45.5%, P = 0.001). Conclusions The use of microvascular free flaps can be used successfully to cover lower-extremity diabetic wounds. E-E arterial anastomosis should be avoided if possible as it is associated with higher rates of wound breakdown, likely by impairing perfusion to a distal limb with an already compromised vasculature. Level of evidence Level III.

Background While the proportion of colon cancer occurring in older patients is expected to increase, these patients may have more complications that may lead to serious consequences. The aim of this study was assess postoperative complications and their short-term consequences in colon cancer surgery according to age. Patients and Methods Patients undergoing surgery for primary invasive colon cancer in 22 centers between June 2010 and December 2012 were included. Presurgical and surgical variables were analyzed, and in-hospital major postoperative complications and its most serious consequence (no relevant, transfusion, reintervention, admission to the intensive care unit, or death) were estimated according to age group. Chi-square tests were used to analyze the possible associations between variables and age groups. Results Data from 1976 patients, mean (range) age 68 (24-97) years, 62% men, were analyzed; 52.2% were aged > 69 years and 17.7% were aged > 79 years. The complication rate was 25.3%, reaching 30.9% in those aged ≥ 80 years. Older age was associated with a higher rate of postoperative infections during the hospital stay. The most common surgical complication in patients aged > 85 years was dehiscence of the anastomosis (11.5%). About 5% of patients with major complications died in the hospital (11.1% of those aged 80-84 years and 14.3% aged > 85 years). Among patients aged > 85 years, 38.1% required transfusions. Conclusion Older patients should receive appropriate functional preparation before the intervention, and when the risks of the intervention outweigh the potential benefits, a nonsurgical approach may be preferable.

Aims Although internal hemipelvectomy is associated with a high incidence of morbidity, especially wound complications, few studies have examined rates of wound complications in these patients or have identified factors associated with the consequences. The present study aimed to: 1) determine the rate of wound and other complications requiring surgery after internal hemipelvectomy; and 2) identify factors that affect the rate of wound complications and can be used to stratify patients by risk of wound complications. Methods The medical records of 123 patients undergoing internal hemipelvectomy were retrospectively reviewed, with a focus on both overall complications and wound complications. Logistic regression analyses were performed to examine the association between host, tumour, and surgical factors and rates of postoperative wound complications. Results The overall rate of postoperative complications requiring surgery was 49.6%. Wound complications were observed in 34.1% of patients, hardware-related complications in 13.2%, graft-related complications in 9.1%, and local recurrence in 5.7%. On multivariate analysis, extrapelvic tumour extension (odds ratio (OR) 23.28; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.97 to 274.67; p = 0.012), both intra- and extrapelvic tumour extension (OR 46.48; 95% CI, 3.50 to 617.77; p = 0.004), blood transfusion ≥ 20 units (OR 50.28; 95% CI, 1.63 to 1550.32; p = 0.025), vascular sacrifice of the internal iliac artery (OR 64.56; 95% CI, 6.33 to 658.43; p < 0.001), and use of a structural allograft (OR, 6.57; 95% CI, 1.70 to 25.34; p = 0.001) were significantly associated with postoperative wound complications. Conclusion Internal hemipelvectomy is associated with high rates of morbidity, especially wound complications. Several host, tumour, and surgical variables are associated with wound complications. The ability to stratify patients by risk of wound complications can help refine surgical and wound-healing planning and may lead to better outcomes in patients undergoing internal hemipelvectomy. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(3):280–284

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association between smoking and postoperative complications following total shoulder arthroplasty. We hypothesized that active smokers would have significantly greater postoperative medical and surgical complications.The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was queried for patients who underwent total shoulder arthroplasties from 2005 through 2016. Patients were stratified based on tobacco use within the past year. Logistic regression was used to assess the relationship between smoking status and postoperative medical and surgical complications. Multivariate logistic regression was used to adjust for demographic and comorbid factors.We identified 14,465 patients, of whom 10.5% were active smokers. Smokers were more likely to be younger, to be female patients, and to have a lower body mass index compared with nonsmokers (P.001). Univariate analysis demonstrated that smoking was not associated with postoperative medical complications (P.05) but was associated with an increased risk of overall surgical complications (odds ratio [OR], 3.259; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.861-5.709; P.001). Multivariate modeling showed that smoking increased the risk of wound complications (adjusted OR, 7.564; 95% CI, 2.128-26.889; P = .002) and surgical-site infections (adjusted OR, 1.927; 95% CI, 1.023-3.630; P = .042).This study demonstrates that smoking is associated with an increased risk of surgical complications following total shoulder arthroplasty. On the basis of our available data, medical complications are not significantly increased. This information can help risk stratify patients prior to their procedures.

Backgroundː Sternal wound complications pose a tremendous challenge post cardiac surgery and still no consensus or clear guidelines to deal with them, so we propose simple and more objective classification helps in organising the range of sternal wound complications and suggests a relevant treatment strategy. Methodsː 116 cases of sternal wound complications were reviewed retrospectively out of 2391 adult patients underwent full sternotomy for almost cardiac surgery indications from 2006 to 2018. 86 cases of them were managed conservatively and the other 30 required surgical intervention. More objective classification was proposed and less invasive fasciocutaneous flap was reconsidered for almost reconstructive indications. Resultsː The incidence of Sternal wound complications was 4.8%. Conservative management was adopted for 86 cases, mean duration was 11.19±9.8 days. Surgical management was performed in 30 patients (25.86%), twenty eight (93.3%) of them recovered with good outcomes of less invasive fasciocutaneous flap done for 13 cases. Two cases had recurrence, one was managed conservatively and other was reoperated and healed well. The commonest organisms in recurrent infections were N. coagulase (29.8%) Klebsiella (12.5%), pseudomonas (10.5%), and MRSA (10.5%). We had 4 mortalities; all are not related to sternal wound complications and one related to the cardiac surgery. Conclusionsː Sternal wound complications are grave events, objective classification and selecting proper management are warranted to gain better outcomes.

Study Objective To compare the rate of spontaneous and complete vaginal cuff dehiscence (VCD) using absorbable versus nonabsorbable sutures for vaginal cuff closure. Design Retrospective comparative cohort design. Setting Freestanding ambulatory surgery center in suburban Maryland. Patients Women age >18 years old who underwent hysterectomy for benign conditions between October 2013 and April 2018. Intervention Laparoscopic retroperitoneal hysterectomy was performed by 2 gynecologic surgical specialists. Transvaginal cuff closure was performed using either absorbable Vicryl (polyglactin 910) sutures (n = 881) or nonabsorbable Ethibond (polyester) sutures (n = 574). The nonabsorbable sutures were surgically removed after 90 days. Measurements and Main Results No statistically significant differences in age, race, weight, body mass index, parity, uterine weight, or number of comorbidities were noted between the nonabsorbable and absorbable suture groups. Spontaneous vaginal cuff dehiscence (VCD) occurred in 3 patients (0.52%) in the nonabsorbable group and in 12 patients (1.4%) in the absorbable group (p = .183). Eleven of the 12 cases of VCD in the absorbable group were precipitated by intercourse and occurred within 90 days of surgery. Conclusion Our data suggest that use of a nonabsorbable suture may be an effective approach to prevent spontaneous VCD, but the benefits should be weighed against the inherent risk associated with a second procedure to remove sutures.

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and a gel containing an extract of Barbatimão, a native Brazilian tree, have shown promising results in both preclinical and clinical wound healing studies.To describe the treatment of surgical wound dehiscence with LLLT and Barbatimão gel.A 54-year-old woman without comorbidities underwent abdominoplasty at another health facility. Three (3) weeks later she presented to the authors' clinic after an episode of syncope, abrupt dyspnea, purulent exudate, and necrotic tissue in the surgical incision. She reported that wound redness, warmth, and swelling started 8 days postoperatively. The patient was admitted; on day 3 of that hospital stay, her condition improved and surgical debridement was performed. Follow-up care of wound dehiscence was provided in the outpatient clinic. The treatment involved daily application of Barbatimão gel and weekly application of LLLT. The wound healed after 84 days.This case report suggests that LLLT may be a beneficial adjunctive therapy, together with Barbatimão gel, for the treatment of surgical wound dehiscence.

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: Wound dehiscence is associated with high morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to analyze the risk factors and comorbidities in the patients undergoing radical cystectomy with early postoperative wound dehiscence. METHODS: In all, 539 patients with bladder cancer who underwent radical cystectomy and urinary diversion at a single center between January 2008 and January 2022 were included in the study. The data related to the demographics, medical history, and perioperative clinical features were reviewed. Univariate and multivariate regression analysis was performed to identify risk factors for wound dehiscence. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 64.2 years (22–91). The mean body mass index was 26.4 kg/m2 (18.7–35.4). Wound dehiscence was observed in 43 (7.9%) of 539 patients. The patients with wound dehiscence had significantly higher mean BMI (27.8 vs. 26.3, p=0.006), ASA scores (p=0.002), history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (30.2 vs. 14.3%, p=0.006), diabetes mellitus (44.2 vs. 17.9%, p=0.003), previous abdominal surgery (18.6 vs. 7.7%, p=0.014), and postoperative ileus (58.1 vs. 16.9%, p=0.006). In the multivariable regression model, diabetes mellitus (odds ratio [OR] 4.9, 95%CI 2.3–10.1; p

Management of staple line dehiscence following laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) varies based on local expertise and timing of presentation. We present our experience with an endoscopic suturing platform to treat patients with staple line dehiscence following LSG. We included all patients who presented to our institution with a staple line dehiscence following LSG from 2005 through November 2017. All endoscopic suturing procedures were performed by a single interventional endoscopist. Five patients, ages 25–69 years, received treatment of staple line dehiscence at a median time of 22 days following LSG (range 13–335 days). Four out of the five patients received a stent at some point during their treatment. One patient with a chronic leak required gastrectomy and esophago-jejunostomy as a definitive treatment. The remaining four patients experienced resolution of the leak at a median of 48 days post-operatively (range 21–82 days). Endoscopic suturing may have a role in the management of leaks following LSG, as a primary treatment or as an adjunct to treatment with a stent. However, given that the technique requires considerable endoscopic expertise and in light of a number of other available therapeutic choices, further studies are required to better define the role of this technology in the algorithm of LSG-related leak management.

Background Wound complications are associated with worse satisfaction and additional costs in patients undergoing posterior lumbar fusion (PLF) surgery, and the relationship between enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathway and wound complications remains poorly characterized. Methods In this retrospective single-center study, we compared 530 patients receiving ERAS pathway care with previous 530 patients in non-ERAS group. The primary aim of our study was to identify the relationship between the ERAS program and the incidence of postoperative wound-related complications and other complications following PLF surgery; other outcomes included the length of stay (LOS), 90-day hospital and rehabilitation center readmission. Results The average patient age was 65 yr. More patients with old cerebral infarction were in ERAS group (p p = 0.02). The non-ERAS group had a significantly higher rate of wound dehiscence or poor wound healing (6% vs. 3%, p = 0.02). ERAS group had a lower incidence of severe postoperative hypoalbuminemia (serum albumin less than 30 g/L) (15.8% vs. 9.0% p p p Conclusion ERAS pathway might help decrease the rates of postoperative wound complications and severe hypoalbuminemia following PLF surgery; additionally, it demonstrated that ERAS pathway was also associated with shorter LOS and lower rate of readmissions within 90 days.

2-octyl cyanoacrylate (2OCA) is a high-viscosity medical-grade tissue adhesive that is routinely used. However, no studies have evaluated its use in musculoskeletal surgery. We enrolled 99 patients who underwent musculoskeletal surgery. 2OCA was chosen for wound closure and was performed by a specific surgeon for all patients. The drying times for the adhesive were recorded, and photographs were obtained intra-operatively. Posttreatment follow-up consisted of queries regarding pain level and recording incisional dehiscence, wound infection, hematoma, and incisional bleeding. Data collection was performed postoperatively at 48 hours, 5 to 10 days, 14 days, and 30 days. Other adverse events were documented. 2OCA was applied to 110 incisions in 99 patients, comprising 62 female and 37 male patients. The mean age of patients was 50.41 (±16.83) years; mean incision length was 10.24 (±5.7) cm, and the mean pain score using a visual analogue scale was 2.37 on a postoperative day 7. The mean drying time was 1.81 (±0.59) minutes; 91 (91%) patients reported excellent and superior satisfaction, and the remaining patients reported “good” (6%) and “fair” (2%) satisfaction. The percentages of dehiscence, hematoma and keloid formation were considerably low. In this study, 2OCA was safe for musculoskeletal oncology surgical incisions. The incidence of postoperative adverse events was low. However, some patients develop hematomas. Postoperative pain was low, and patient satisfaction was high. 2OCA can be a practical alternative to traditional suture closure for skin incisions after musculoskeletal surgery.

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the post-operative effects of closed incision negative pressure wound therapy with conventional dressing in emergency laparotomy. Methods: This study was conducted from 1st November 2018 to 31st March 2020 in ABVIMS & Dr. R.M.L. Hospital, New Delhi. The potential candidates for the study were patients of 18 years and above who were admitted in surgical emergency and underwent emergency laparotomy by a midline incision. Fifty random patients were alternatively allotted to group A (25 patients) and group B (25 patients). In the patients of group A, closed incision negative pressure wound therapy (ciNPWT) was applied on midline closed wound after an exploratory laparotomy procedure. The patients in group B, standard dry gauze dressing was done. Results: The mean age of patients in group A and group B were 46.76±12.20 and 41.96±8.33 years, respectively (p-value-0.11). The wound infection was present in 12% of cases in group A and 32% in group B, but when we calculate the p-value, it was found to be statistically non-significant (p-value-0.08). Similarly, seroma formation and wound dehiscence were found less in group A as compared to group B but not reached up to a statistically significant limit (p-value 0.55 and 0.38 respectively). The frequency of dressing change was 1-2 per week in 92% of cases in group A while it was 3-4 per week in 68% of cases in group B. The mean time of the frequency of dressing change was 1.24±0.72 per week and 4.28±1.90 per week in both the groups respectively (p-value 0.05) difference in the duration of hospital stay between group A (mean hospital stay 8.20±2.34 days) and group B (mean hospital stay 8.21±3.37 days). Conclusion: Closed incision negative pressure wound therapy has no advantages over conventional dressing in terms of post-operative complications and hospital stay. However, it reduces the frequency of dressing change significantly, which reduces the mental stress of the patient and the burden of changing daily dressing.

Longitudinal trends on traumatic cataract wound dehiscence are scant. In this study, we present the characteristics of traumatic cataract wound dehiscence using 15 years of longitudinal trend in one of the largest medical centers in Taiwan for a period when cataract surgeries were gradually shifting from extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) to phacoemulsification. All patients with a prior cataract surgery who suffered from blunt open globe trauma between 2001 and 2015 at a tertiary referral center in Taiwan were included. The number of cases per year; type of prior cataract surgery; visual acuity (VA); mechanism and place of injury were analyzed. The risk factors associated with final VA were investigated in patients followed up for ≥ 1 month. Seventy-six eyes of 75 patients were included and all of them were traumatic cataract wound dehiscence with a prior ECCE (65 eyes) or phacoemulsification. The most common mechanism and place of injury was fall and at home in both cataract surgical types. The mean log of the minimal angle resolution (logMAR) of final VA was 2.15 ± 0.88 (ECCE) and 1.61 ± 0.83 (phacoemulsification) (P = .026). The most significant risk factors associated with worse final VA were retinal detachment at the initial visit and low ocular trauma score (both P

Background The superficial fascial system is routinely closed to alleviate tension at the abdominal donor site after harvest of the deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap (DIEP) for breast reconstruction. This is thought to decrease rates of wound dehiscence and improve contour postoperatively. There has been no comparative analysis on closure of the superficial fascial system and its effect on donor-site outcomes. Methods The authors retrospectively evaluated outcomes of DIEP flap breast reconstructions performed between 2017 and 2019. After May of 2018, the surgeons collectively agreed to stop closure of the superficial fascial system. All subsequent patients underwent closure of rectus abdominis fascia followed by skin closure. Patient demographic data and abdominal donor-site comorbidities were recorded between the superficial fascial system closure and no-superficial fascial system closure groups. Representative photographs of patients from the two groups were blindly assessed for scar appearance and contour using previously published grading scales. The results were compared. Results DIEP flap breast reconstruction was performed in 103 consecutive women. Among patients with abdominal donor-site reconstruction, 66 had superficial fascial system closure and 37 did not. There was not a significant difference in fat necrosis or wound dehiscence between the two groups (p = 0.29 and p = 0.39, respectively). Postoperative abdominal scar and contour were evaluated by 10 independent raters and showed no significant difference between the two groups. Conclusion Omission of superficial fascial system closure resulted in no difference in wound dehiscence or fat necrosis rates and aesthetic appearance of the abdominal scar and contour. Clinical question/level of evidence Therapeutic, III.

Surgical interventions in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc), in particular plastic procedures, might cause undesired consequences. Notably, liposuction seems to possess greater risk as adipose tissue has been shown to play an important role in treating wounds and ulcers in patients with SSc. While anticentromere antibodies were found to be correlated with vasculopathy in SSc, patients with SSc and anticentromere antibodies might be more vulnerable to surgical wound complications following liposuction. A 46-year-old female patient, who had been diagnosed with SSc at the age of 31 years, had antinuclear as well as anticentromere antibodies. She underwent abdominoplasty with liposuction and developed severe skin necrosis of the abdomen following the procedure and at the site of liposuction. The correlation with anticentromere and the role of liposuction in skin necrosis in SSc are presented.

The use of aortic homograft in infective pathology is well described. Its use in the repair of post-transplant airway complications has been seldom reported. Herein, we report our experience with the successful use of aortic homograft in the management of post-transplant large airway complications in two patients.

Post-thoracotomy wound dehiscence after a lung transplant carries with it morbidity in the postoperative period. While this complication has been widely reported in the literature after a clamshell incision, the thoracotomy dehiscence's surgical solution has not received much emphasis. We present an original technical solution to deal with this complication, performed successfully in a 62-year-old woman diagnosed as having idiopathic pulmonary hemosiderosis after a single lung transplant. This surgical treatment consists of necrotic rib tissue removal, pleural effusion drainage, pulmonary adhesion removal, and chest wall defect reparation with bioabsorbable mesh. This operative technique results safe and effective for thoracotomy dehiscence reparation.

Purpose This study describes an incision-free minimally invasive conjunctival surgical (MICS) technique to repair late-onset leaking blebs after trabeculectomy. Methods A surgical technique to repair leaking blebs without incision or excision of conjunctiva is described. This is followed by retrospective review of all patients treated at the Glaucoma Unit at St. Michael's Hospital for bleb leaks repaired with MICS from 2012 to 2017. With Research Ethics Board approval, clinical data obtained from the charts included demographic information, vision, intraocular pressure (IOP) data before and after surgery, need for additional medication, and complications. Resolution of the bleb leak without the need for additional therapy or intervention for glaucoma control was considered a success. Results The MICS approach was applied to 14 eyes of 13 consecutive patients with a leaking bleb. Mean age of presentation was 70.2 ± 14.8 years, and all patients had a history of mitomycin use at the time of glaucoma surgery. The onset of bleb leak following trabeculectomy ranged from 7 months to 16.3 years. Mean pre-operative IOP was 4.5 ± 2.8 mm Hg; IOP measured 12.3 ± 3.0 mm Hg immediately after the procedure. Complete resolution of the bleb leak was observed following surgery in all cases. The follow-up period ranged from 2 weeks to 61 months (10.2 ± 18.1). Recurrent bleb leak was reported in 1 patient 2 years following initial surgery. In all cases, the initially repaired filtering blebs remained functional at last follow-up, and no additional medications were required. Conclusions The MICS procedure is an effective option for treating late-onset leaking blebs without cutting or excising conjunctival tissue. The minimal requirements of this method make it additionally accessible to low-resource settings. NOTE: Publication of this article is sponsored by the American Ophthalmological Society.