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Background: Surgical excision for postaxial polydactyly type B is advocated to avoid long-term complications. Excision with local anesthesia (LA) in infancy represents a safe and effective treatment for this condition, although general anesthesia (GA) is employed by many surgeons. We present a comparison of surgical outcomes, cost, and time between LA and GA to support widespread change in management. Methods: A retrospective review of patients under 12 months of age undergoing surgical polydactyly excision by a single surgeon was performed. Anesthesia type, patient demographics, and complications were recorded. Comparisons were made between LA and GA groups on procedure cost, operating time, length of stay (LOS), and time from procedure end to discharge. Stepwise forward regression was used to identify the best model for predicting total costs. Results: Ninety-one infants with a mean age of 3 months (±1.9) were examined; 51 (56%) underwent LA alone, 40 (44%) underwent GA. Mean operating time was 11.53 ± 4.36 minutes, with no difference observed between anesthesia groups ( P = .39). LA infants had a significantly shorter LOS (2.5 vs 3.5 hours; P < .05), quicker postoperative discharge (32 vs 65 minutes, P < .05), and fewer overall expenses, 2803 vs 6067 U.S. dollars (USD), P < .05. Two minor surgical complications (1 in each group) were reported. Conclusions: This study demonstrates significantly decreased cost, LOS, and time to discharge using LA alone for surgical excision of postaxial polydactyly type B. Results suggest the approach is quick, economical, and avoids the risks of GA in early infancy.

Background Endoscopic thyroidectomy offers excellent cosmetic outcomes, but requires a period of time for surgeons to become proficient. We examined the learning curve for the first 100 cases experienced by a single surgeon using a video-assisted neck surgery (VANS) subclavian approach. Methods We retrospectively studied 100 patients (99 women, 1 man; mean age, 36.2 years) with both benign and malignant thyroid diseases treated between 2016 and 2020. Results Preoperative diagnosis was papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) in 36 cases and other (non-PTC) in 64 cases. All patients underwent lobectomy, with unilateral central node dissection added for patients with PTC. Mean operative time was 125 min for non-PTC cases and 129 min for PTC cases (p = 0.43), with blood loss of 33.8 ml and 7.6 ml, respectively (p = 0.01). Recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis (RNP) was observed in 12 patients (12%) and hemorrhage in 2 patients (2%). Comparing the first 30 cases with the last 70 cases, no significant differences in operative time or blood loss were evident, although tumor size of non-PTC cases was significantly greater among later cases (32.4 mm vs. 39.5 mm, p = 0.039). RNP was significantly decreased in later cases (26.7% vs. 5.7%, p = 0.003). Multivariate analysis revealed tumor size as a significant risk factor for increased blood loss, and increased experience correlated significantly with the decrease in RNP. Conclusions In VANS, a certain surgical level was reached after experiencing 30 cases.

The aim of this study was to determine the rate of persistent pain following total TMJ replacement and to identify potential predictive risk factors. A retrospective review of case notes treated by a single surgeon in a tertiary unit was performed. For each patient a number of variables were recorded including visual analogue pain scores (0 to 10) and opioid usage pre surgery and at 12 months or last follow up beyond 12 months. Persistent pain scores of 5 to 7 were regarded as moderate and 8 to 10 as severe. The mean pain score at last follow-up was significantly lower than preoperatively (2.1 vs. 6.3, p 0.001) with a mean follow-up time of 40.1 months (range 12-44). 16.4% of the patients reported moderate to severe pain and 13.7% were still on regular opioids at the last follow-up. Therefore 15 patients (20.5%) suffered from chronic postoperative pain after TMJ replacement surgery. Patients reporting severe preoperative pain scores (p = 0.04), regular opioid use (p = 0.001) or multiple previous open TMJ surgeries (p = 0.03) were more likely to suffer from chronic persistent pain and these should be regarded as predictive risk factors. The identification of these factors allows for better risk stratification of patients, informed consent and the agreement of expected outcomes. Patients with true articular disease and a single failed surgery should be considered for early total TMJ replacement to minimise multifactorial persistent pain.

The management of transchondral and osteochondral talar lesions has evolved, with microfracturing originally considered the best initial treatment. Despite talar lesions being a tri-dimensional defect, most studies use two-dimensional parameters to grade them. We propose in this study that tri-dimensional sizing may be more appropriate in evaluation for treatment. The present study evaluated the outcomes of treatment of talar lesions performed by a single surgeon, creating and using an algorithm based on volume, location, and integrity of the subchondral plate. The lesions were classified as “small” (up to 125 mm3), “medium” (125 mm3-1500 mm3), and “large” (>1500 mm3) based upon evaluation of the pre-operative MRI. Location of the lesion was also noted on a nine-region grid pattern of the talar dome. These three parameters dictated whether a lesion required microfracturing or retrograde drilling, autogenous or allogenous bone graft, and whether an open versus an arthroscopic approach was required. Over a ten-year period, surgery was performed on 204 lesions. Overall, the average time to return to activity was 7.93 ± 5.00 (range 2-36) months. The average pre-operative American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle score was 76.44 ± 10.98 (range 52-86), and the average post-operative American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle score was 96.12 ± 3.46 (range 81-100), P=.0001. By using the proposed algorithm, the outcome and return to activity for most patients can be better predicted, regardless of the size or location of the osteochondral lesion”. The treatment algorithm implemented in the present investigation yielded overall acceptable results, with only 7 of the 204 lesions needing additional surgery.

The purpose of this study was to compare the preoperative magnetic resonance arthrography findings in patients who underwent glenohumeral stabilization with a history of primary instability, recurrent instability, or failed stabilization.All patients who presented with glenohumeral instability and underwent stabilization performed by a single surgeon in our institution between 2008 and 2020 were considered for inclusion in this study. The magnetic resonance arthrography findings of all patients were recorded. Imaging findings were compared between patients with primary instability, those with recurrent instability, and those with failed prior stabilization. P.05 was considered statistically significant.Overall, 871 patients were included, of whom 814 (93.5%) were male patients; the mean age was 23.1 years (range, 13-57 years). There were 200 patients with primary instability, 571 with recurrent instability, and 100 who required revision stabilization surgery, with no significant differences in demographic characteristics between the groups. A significantly higher amount of glenoid bone loss was noted in patients with recurrent instability (43.4%) and failed prior stabilization (56%) than in those with primary instability (26.5%) (P.0001). Additionally, a significantly higher number of Hill-Sachs lesions were observed in patients with recurrent instability (70.1%) and failed prior stabilization (89%) than in those with primary instability (67.5%) (P.0001). We found no significant differences between the groups regarding articular cartilage damage, glenolabral articular disruption, anterior labral periosteal sleeve avulsion, humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligaments, or superior labral anterior-posterior tears (P.05).Patients presenting for stabilization with recurrent instability or following a failed stabilization procedure have higher rates of glenohumeral bone loss than those with primary instability. Therefore, stabilization of primary instability, particularly in high-functioning athletes with a view to preventing recurrence, may reduce the overall progression of glenohumeral bone loss and potential subsequent inferior clinical outcomes.

Among the materials used for dorsal augmentation rhinoplasty (DAR), cross-linked human acellular dermal matrix (ADM) has been claimed for its low risk of infection and extrusion. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of ADM in subjects undergoing primary versus revision dorsal augmentation rhinoplasties.Using a retrospective cohort study design, the investigators enrolled a cohort set of DAR patients operated by a single surgeon during a 65-month interval. The predictor variable was the treatment group (primary or revision DAR). The main outcome variables were postoperative changes with regard to the degree of augmentation (ratio of the dorsal height [DH] and radix height [RH] to the nasal length) and patients' and surgeons' satisfaction with the aesthetic and functional results. Other study variables were grouped into the following categories: demographic, surgical, and pathological. Descriptive, uni-, and bivariate statistics were computed using P ≤ 0.05 as a cutoff value.The study cohort comprised 145 subjects (75.2% with primary DAR; 39.3% females) with a mean age of 30.7 ± 9.4 years (range, 19-58). DAR was linked to the significant changes in DH and RH in both the treatment groups. Comparison of the two groups revealed that there was no significant difference in DH and RH between both the groups. Surgeons' and patients' satisfaction rates were comparable between the two surgery groups, neither of which experienced serious complications. Microscopic findings of the removed ADM showed abundant collagen tissue with newly formed vessels without signs of foreign body reaction.Despite significant differences in patient characteristics (age; number of osteotomy, tip plasty, and hump reduction surgeries), the results of this study suggest that ADM can be used in both primary and revision DAR, with minimal complications.

SUMMARY: Background: Pre-operative estimation of breast mound volume for immediate breast reconstruction is necessary for operative planning, especially in direct-to-implant reconstruction. Our purpose was to investigate the relationship between pre-operative predictions of breast mound weight from 3D imaging and actual mastectomy weight and implant size. Methods: A retrospective chart review of all patients who had previously undergone nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) by a single surgeon was performed. Pre-operative 3D images were reviewed and calculations of breast mound weight were performed by three independent reviewers. Intra-operative mastectomy weight and final implant weight were collected from patient charts. A regression analysis between calculated and actual values was performed. Results: There were 59 reconstructed breasts included. Pre-operative 3D imaging-guided breast weight calculations were similar across reviewers (R=0.96). Pre-operative calculations of breast weight were 49.4g (SD=134.0) smaller than actual mastectomy specimens. Mastectomy specimens were 41.0g (SD=130.2) smaller than final implant sizes. Thereby, the relationship was as follows: Pre-operative calculated breast weight < actual Mastectomy weight < implant weight. Mastectomy weight and final implant size had linear relationships with pre-operative calculations of breast weight. Formulas for predicting mastectomy weight [mastectomy weight = 63.2 + 0.95 (pre-operative calculated weight)] and implant size [Implant weight = 209.7+ 0.56 (pre-operative calculated weight)] from pre-operative calculations of breast weight were generated. Conclusions: Three-dimensional scanning technologies may be a useful tool to predict implant sizes for direct-to-implant breast reconstruction. Final implant size was heavier than intra-operative mastectomy weight and pre-operative calculated breast mound weight.

Introduction Segmental bone defects are a challenging clinical problem. In animal studies and craniomaxillofacial surgery, resorbable polylactide membrane (OrthoMesh; DePuy Synthes, West Chester, PA) shows promise for treatment of bone defects. This study presents the results of the treatment of segmental bone defects with resorbable polylactide membrane, bone morphogenic protein-2 (BMP-2), and autograft. Methods This study was approved by the institutional review board. All patients with a segmental bone defect treated with a resorbable polylactide membrane by a single surgeon from 2010 to 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. Data related to demographic variables, surgical details, and union were collected. Results Eleven patients with median age of 37 years (range 22–62 years) were included in the study with segmental bone defects in the tibia (n = 3), femur (n = 4), or forearm (n = 4). Median bone defect size was 6 cm (range 3–12 cm). Etiology of bone defects included osteomyelitis (n = 7), oncologic resection (n = 3), and post-traumatic aseptic nonunion (n = 1). Flap coverage was performed in two patients. Median radiographic follow-up was 24 months (range 5–75 months). Ten patients (10/11) achieved union at a median of 17 months (range 5–46 months). Seven patients required reoperation for any reason with six patients requiring repeat grafting. Conclusions To our knowledge, this study is the largest series of patients with segmental bone defects treated with resorbable polylactide membrane. Resorbable polylactide membrane in combination with BMP-2 and autograft represents a safe and effective method of bone graft containment in segmental bone defects measuring up to 12 cm in this series. Ten of 11 patients achieved union at a median time of 16 months with 6 patients requiring repeat grafting. These results compare favorably with the induced membrane technique. This study is limited by its retrospective design, absence of control and comparison groups, and low patient numbers. Future prospective randomized study of the induced membrane technique and resorbable polylactide membrane should be undertaken to determine preferred approaches for treatment of segmental bone defects.

Objective Tracheal granulation is one of the common long term complications in patients after tracheostomy. Hypertrophic tracheal granulation may cause airway obstruction and further operation may be required to recreate an airway. Distal tracheal granulation is clinically challenging because of its position and surgical field limitation. This retrospective case review study evaluated the outcomes of PEAK PlasmaBlade-assisted tracheal surgery in patients with distal tracheal granulation. Methods This study retrospectively reviewed patients with distal tracheal granulation following long-term tracheostomy. All patients received PEAK PlasmaBlade assistance tracheal surgery (PATS) between February 2013 and December 2019. The surgery was performed using the PEAK PlasmaBlade with TnA type tip, powered by a PULSAR Generator, and guided by a 45 ° rigid endoscope. Patients were regularly followed up for a minimum of 12 months. Results A total 21 patients had completed PATS. None of the patients experience immediate life-threatening complications during or after the procedure. All the 21 patients were free of recurrent obstructive granulation within 12 months after operation. Conclusion PATS is practical, effective, and safe for distal tracheal granulation and can be performed by single surgeon. Furthermore, it is technically less demanding than other surgical approaches and it has a rapid learning curve.

Summary Introduction Extralevator abdominoperineal excision (ELAPE) for low rectal tumours necessitates a reliable method of reconstructing the perineum. The senior author developed the partial myocutaneous gluteal (PMG) flap. We present 49 consecutive reconstructions with the refinement of the original procedure. Methods We conducted a retrospective observational review of patients undergoing ELAPE and PMG reconstruction from 2012 to 2019, with at least 1 year follow-up. The procedure was modified iteratively following our original series, to minimise perineal herniation, specifically by greater mobilisation of the inferior gluteus maximus muscle and separation of the muscle and fasciocutaneous components, allowing closure of the defect around the coccygeal remnant. Perineal herniation and wound complications were recorded. Laparoscopic and open resection techniques were compared, as were outcomes before and after modification of the flap. Results There were no flap failures in our cohort of 49 patients. Two patients (4%) required return to theatre acutely for perineal wound complications: one wound dehiscence and one flap-related haematoma. Five patients had evidence of perineal hernia, three prior to any modification of the flap and two following. Three had symptoms of which two required elective repair. The flap modifications were made in response to these cases. There were no significant differences in perineal outcomes for laparoscopic versus open, and before and after flap modification. Conclusions Over the last 8 years, we have refined our perineal reconstruction technique following instances of perineal herniation and major wound dehiscence. We believe that the PMG flap provides robust and reliable option for the reconstruction of perineal extralevator abdominoperineal defects.

Summary Lateral circumflex femoral artery (LCFA) system is one of the most versatile donor sites in the body. We present our experience with pedicled flaps from the LCFA system, including different components for a wide variety of etiologies and locations. Twenty-three consecutive pedicled flaps were performed on 22 patients (10 females and 12 males; age 4–71 years) between 2007 and 2015 by a single surgeon. Flap size, type, and composition were tailored according to the requirements of the defects, including (1) location; (2) surface area; (3) depth; (4) number of defects; (5) presence of exposed critical structures; (6) presence of exposed foreign bodies; (7) prior use of other options; (8) history of radiation; and (9) other comorbidities. Defect locations were 10 abdominal wall (including groin and pubis), 9 ischio-gluteo-trochanteric and 4 perineal. Defect sizes ranged from 6 × 6 to 30 × 35 cm. Maximum depth of wounds ranged between 7 and 18 cm. The flap sizes ranged from 9 × 6 to 38 × 20 cm. Two flaps were fasciocutaneous perforator, 4 were myocutaneous with "muscle sparing" vastus lateralis, 10 were myocutaneous with "segmental" vastus lateralis, 5 were myocutaneous "tri-muscle," 1 was "tri-muscle," and 1 was rectus femoris only. Donor sites were closed primarily in 20 cases and with split thickness skin grafting in 3 cases. All flaps survived completely without any partial loss or congestion. Pedicled flaps from the LCFA system can be tailored individually for a wide variety of etiologies and locations. Muscles can be harvested and used as "muscle sparing," "segmental," and "tri-muscle" to accommodate the requirements of the defects.

Objective To evaluate whether there would be a difference in outcome when the smaller ultra mini 12 Fr sheath was used instead of the mini 16 Fr sheath for percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) in paediatric patients for stones less than 25 mm. Methods This was a prospective cohort study of patients who underwent PCNL in our hospital in a 2 year period from 2016 to 2018 by a single surgeon. PCNL was performed in a prone position and tract was dilated to the respective size using single step dilatation. Laser was used to fragment the stone. Stone-free outcome was defined as absence of stone fragment at 3 months on kidney, ureter, and bladder (KUB) X-ray. Results There were 40 patients in each group. Mean stone size was comparable between the two groups, (14.5 mm vs. 15.0 mm). The procedure was completed faster in the 16 Fr group compared to 12 Fr group, (24.5 min vs. 34.6 min). Stone clearance was highly successful in both groups (97.5% vs. 95%). There was no difference in complications between the two groups. The decrease in hemoglobin was minimal in both groups (0.2 g/dL vs. 0.3 g/dL). Conclusions We found that the success rates were similar in both mini PCNL and the smaller ultra-mini PCNL groups. No significant difference in bleeding was noted in our pilot study, however, operative time was longer in the ultra-mini group as compared to the mini sheath group.

This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) (New World Medical Inc.) implantation in eyes with pediatric keratoplasty and glaucoma.Retrospective, noncomparative, interventional case series.Twenty-eight eyes of 25 children who underwent AGV after penetrating keratoplasty (PK) in 22 eyes and Descemet's stripping endothelial keratoplasty (DSEK) in 6 eyes were included.Children (age ≤ 16 years) treated with AGV implant after keratoplasty from 2008 to 2019 with documented 6 months follow-up operated by a single surgeon were included.The primary outcome measure was AGV survival (intraocular pressure [IOP] between 6 and 21 mmHg with or without topical anti-glaucoma medications [AGMs]), and the secondary outcome measure was corneal graft survival.The mean age (± standard deviation) of patients at AGV surgery was 4.8 ± 0.7 years. The mean follow-up after AGV was 3.4 ± 0.5 years. The mean IOP decreased significantly from 31.5 ± 2.0 mmHg to 21.1 ± 2.3 mmHg at 6 months postsurgery (P0.001). The mean number of AGM decreased significantly (P 0.001), and there was no change in mean visual acuity (P0.04 with Bonferroni correction). The cumulative survival probability of AGV was 92.9% ± 4.9% at 1 year and 81.3% ± 11.7% at 5 years. The AGV success was comparable between PK and DSEK eyes (P = 0.73). The cumulative probability of graft survival was 96.2% ± 3.8% at 1 year and 77.8% ± 9.1% at 5 years. The graft survival was also comparable between PK and DSEK eyes (P = 0.18). One eye needed tube trimming; none had tube or implant exposure. The major complication noted was corneal graft infection in 8 eyes (28.5%).In this cohort, the long-term AGV success and graft survival outcomes are satisfactory considering that AGV was performed in complex eyes with keratoplasty.

The purpose of this study was to report on a series of dancers who had undergone flexor hallucis longus (FHL) tenolysis/tenosynovectomy after having failed conservative management. Institutional human subjects committee approval was obtained prior to initiating this study. This study is a retrospective case series of 58 dancers and 63 ankles who underwent FHL tenolysis/tenosynovectomy via an open posteromedial approach by a single surgeon between 1993 and 2017. All patients were interviewed and charts reviewed. Collected variables included: preoperative and postoperative pain levels, time to return to dance, and subjective satisfaction with the procedure. Age, primary dance form, and level of dance were determined. Mean preoperative pain level decreased significantly postoperatively. Mean time to return to dance was 7.1 weeks. There was a 98% (62/63) return to dance at some level while 97% (61/63) of patients returned to dance symptom-free. There were no neurovascular or other major complications. Minor complications included stiffness at follow-up (6.3%, 4/63), superficial wound infection (3.1%, 2/63), and hypertrophic scar (4.8%, 3/63). Over 97% (61/63) of dancers considered the procedure a success and 98% (62/63) of dancers would repeat the procedure. This is one of the largest series reported of isolated FHL tenolysis/tenosynovectomy in dancers who have failed nonoperative management. Satisfactory pain relief and return to dance with a low complication rate may be expected from this surgical procedure. The results of this study can be used to help dancers and their providers make informed decisions about treatment in isolated FHL tendinitis.

Summary Objective Recent studies have shown that minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is associated with a higher recurrence rate in patients with early-stage cervical cancer. In this study, we aim to report the survival outcomes of patients with early-stage cervical cancer who received MIS, performed in a single center by the same surgeon. Methods Eligible participants included patients with early-stage cervical cancer in stage IA1 with lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI+), IA2, and IB1. The surgeries were carried out by a single surgeon and survival outcomes of the 137 patients were evaluated retrospectively. Results The median follow-up time for the 137 patients was 53 (25–94) months, with the five-year disease-free survival (DFS) rate of 96.4% and the five-year overall survival (OS) rate of 96.8%. Among them, six (4.38%) patients relapsed and four (2.92%) of whom died. The five-year DFS rate was significantly higher in patients with tumor≤2 cm in size than in those with tumor >2 cm (P = 0.013), however, with no significant difference in the five-year OS rate (P = 0.219). Conclusion According to the existing literature and the results of this study, for MIS, the proficiency levels of a surgeon may be associated with survival outcomes of cancer patients. Tumor size may also be an important factor affecting survival outcomes of cervical cancer patients.

PurposeLaparoscopy has various advantages over laparotomy in terms of postoperative recovery. The number of surgeons using laparoscopy as a diagnostic and therapeutic tool in abdominal trauma patients is increasing, whereas open conversion is becoming less common. This report summarizes a single surgeon’s experience of laparoscopy at a level I trauma center and evaluates the feasibility of laparoscopy as a diagnostic and therapeutic tool for abdominal trauma patients. MethodsIn total, 30 abdominal trauma patients underwent laparoscopy by a single surgeon from October 2014 to May 2020. The purpose of laparoscopy was categorized as diagnostic or therapeutic. Patients were classified into three groups by type of surgery: total laparoscopic surgery (TLS), laparoscopy-assisted surgery (LAS), or open conversion (OC). Univariate analysis was performed to determine the advantages and disadvantages. ResultsThe mechanism of injury was blunt in 19 (63.3%) and penetrating in 11 patients (36.7%). Eleven (36.7%) and 19 patients (63.3%) underwent diagnostic and therapeutic laparoscopy, respectively. The hospital stay was shorter for patients who underwent diagnostic laparoscopy than for those who underwent therapeutic laparoscopy (5.0 days vs. 13.0 days), but no other surgical outcomes differed between the groups. TLS, LAS, and OC were performed in 12 (52.2%), eight (34.8%), and three patients (13.0%), respectively. There was no significant difference in morbidity and mortality among the three groups. ConclusionsLaparoscopic surgery for selected cases of abdominal trauma may be feasible and safe as a diagnostic and therapeutic tool in hemodynamically stable patients due to the low OC rate and the absence of fatal morbidity and mortality.

Objectives To examine association between post-prostatectomy incontinence (PPI) severity and weight changes before and after restoration of continence via artificial urinary sphincter (AUS). Methods Single surgeon, retrospective review of urologic prosthetic surgery (UPS) after radical prostatectomy (RP). A cohort of post-RP inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) patients served as a surgical control. Body Mass Index (BMI) and total body weight were assessed pre and post-UPS. Multivariable linear regression was utilized to assess BMI changes post-UPS. Results 187 AUS and 63 IPP patients met selection criteria. Greater PPI severity was associated with faster BMI gain after RP (coeff. 0.14 kg/m2, P = 0.03, per pad used) and magnitude of incontinence improvement (mean reduction in daily pad use) after AUS insertion was associated with greater BMI reduction at 12 months post-UPS (coeff. - 0.13 kg/m2, P = 0.04). On multivariable regression, AUS insertion was associated with a decrease in BMI by - 2.83 kg/m2 12 months post-UPS (P = 0.02). Twelve months post-UPS, men with AUS exhibited a mean BMI reduction of -1.0 kg/m2 compared to a mean BMI increase in the IPP cohort of 0.4 kg/m2 (P 5% body weight) at 12 months post-UPS (31.8% vs 8.3%, P Conclusion Severe PPI appears to be associated with weight gain and correction of PPI via AUS insertion with weight loss.

Pure laparoscopic donor right hepatectomy is a complex procedure, and the safety and feasibility of this operation remain unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes and learning curve of this operation performed by a single surgeon.We retrospectively reviewed the initial 100 donors who underwent pure laparoscopic donor right hepatectomy or open donor right hepatectomy by a single surgeon from December 2012 to May 2019. Endpoints analyzed included intraoperative results, postoperative complications, and learning curve, which was evaluated using the cumulative sum method based on the operation time. We divided the pure laparoscopic donor right hepatectomy group into initial and recent groups based on the time point of overcoming the learning curve.The operative time was significantly shorter in the recent pure laparoscopic donor right hepatectomy group (n = 57; 181.0 ± 35.7 min) than in the open donor right hepatectomy (n = 50; 203.0 ± 37.3 min) and initial pure laparoscopic donor right hepatectomy (n = 43; 282.2 ± 59.2 min) groups (P.001). Moreover, the length of hospital stay in the recent pure laparoscopic donor right hepatectomy group was significantly reduced compared to that in the open donor right hepatectomy group (7.7 ± 1.2 vs 5.8 ± 1.4; P.001). The complication rate was reduced from 10% in the open donor right hepatectomy group and 8% in the initial pure laparoscopic donor right hepatectomy group to 2% in the recent pure laparoscopic donor right hepatectomy group.As technology advances, the surgical outcomes of pure laparoscopic donor right hepatectomy are comparable and the operation time of pure laparoscopic donor right hepatectomy is superior to those of open donor hepatectomy.

Background Selective dental clearance before total joint arthroplasty (TJA) has been proposed; however, effective strategies of carrying out this practice are lacking. This study aims to determine the positive predictive value (PPV) of a novel oral examination performed by an orthopedic surgeon to better direct limited resources for marginalized patients in a safety net hospital system. Methods A retrospective review was conducted on 105 consecutive patients who had an oral examination performed by a single surgeon before elective TJA. Patients who screened negative proceeded to surgery without further formal dental clearance. Patients who screened positive underwent formal examination/intervention by a dentist before surgery. The rate of correct referral that resulted in patients undergoing an oral surgical intervention was determined. Complications during a minimum 90-day postoperative follow-up period were collected and compared. Results Thirty patients (28.6%) screened positive while 75 patients (71.4%) screened negative and proceeded to surgery without referral. The PPV of the screening test was high, with 73.3% of patients receiving a major surgical oral intervention before TJA. Patients sent for formal referral required 89.1 more days to receive their surgery than those that screened negative (54.9 days ± 4.24 vs 144.0 days ± 82.4, P Conclusion An orthopedic surgeon’s oral examination demonstrates a high PPV to identify high-risk patients in need of an oral surgical intervention before TJA. This provides a unique solution regarding over-referral for preoperative dental clearance and avoids delays for marginalized patients considering elective TJA in a safety net hospital system.

PURPOSE: To compare calculated corneal surgically induced astigmatism (SIA) by means of anterior-based keratometry (K) and total keratometry (TK) measurements made by 2 biometric devices. SETTING: Ophthalmology Department, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel. DESIGN: Retrospective, consecutive case series. METHODS: The medical records of patients who had undergone cataract surgery through a 2.4 mm temporal clear corneal incision by a single surgeon between March 2018 and November 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients for whom there were preoperative and postoperative K measurements assessed by 2 biometric devices, optical low-coherence reflectometry (OLCR) (Lenstar LS900, Haag-Streit, software v. eye suite i/9.1.0.0) and swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) (IOLMaster700, Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, software v. 1.80.6.60340), were identified. Corneal SIA (mean vector value) was calculated by vector analysis for 3 groups: SS-OCT(K), SS-OCT(TK), and OLCR(K). Bivariate analyses were applied for comparisons. RESULTS: 147 eyes of 123 patients (73 right eyes and 74 left eyes) were enrolled in the study. The right eye corneal SIA values were 0.09 diopters (D) @ 136 degrees, 0.09 D @ 141 degrees, and 0.07 D @ 123 degrees for the SS-OCT(K), SS-OCT(TK), and OLCR, respectively. The corresponding left eye corneal SIA values were 0.13 D @ 120 degrees, 0.11 D @ 123 degrees, and 0.08 D @ 120 degrees. There were no statistically significant differences between the mean vector value and variance of the corneal SIA for the right (P = .78 and P = .65) and the left (P = .75 and P = .37) eyes of the 3 groups. CONCLUSIONS: Corneal SIA values were low (0.07 to 0.13 D) and similar for the SS-OCT and the OLCR biometric devices with standard K measurements. TK measurements yielded similar corneal SIA values compared with anterior corneal-based measurements.

PURPOSE To describe the clinical outcomes and surgical technique in transconjunctival sutureless intrascleral fixation of intraocular lenses, including the effectiveness of haptic flanging and peripheral iridotomy. METHOD Retrospective series of patients who underwent sutureless intrascleral fixation of three-piece intraocular lenses by a single surgeon. RESULTS A total of 488 eyes were included in this study. Mean follow-up was 444 days. Mean preoperative best-corrected visual acuity was 20/355, and mean postoperative best-corrected visual acuity was 20/39 (P < 0.001). Intraocular lens dislocation occurred during the postoperative period in 67 (13.7%), with the majority (65.7%) occurring within 3 months after surgery. Dislocation occurred in 13 of 196 (6.6%) flanged haptics versus 54 of 292 (18.5%) unflanged haptics (P < 0.001). Reverse pupillary block occurred in 7 of 231 eyes (3.0%) without intraoperative peripheral iridotomy but only in 1 of 257 eyes (0.4%) with iridotomy (P = 0.0297). Other complications included haptic exposure (1.2%), retinal detachment (1.0%), and endophthalmitis (0.4%). CONCLUSION This is the largest reported series of sutureless intrascleral fixation of intraocular lenses using trocar cannulas. This technique is an effective surgical option with low complication rates. The authors recommend that haptic flanging and peripheral iridotomy be performed in all cases.

The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of temporary and permanent facial nerve injury in total temporomandibular joint (TMJ) replacement surgery and to identify potential predictive risk factors. We made a retrospective review of case notes and opportunistic review of patients treated in a single tertiary referral unit by a single surgeon. For each patient a number of potential risk factors were determined, and the presence or absence of nerve injury recorded at 2 week follow up and a minimum of 12 months follow up. At 2-week review, facial nerve weakness was noted in 38/133 cases (28%) and at last follow up there were 4/133 cases (3%) with continuing (permanent) facial nerve weakness. Bilateral surgery, revision TMJ replacement, primary diagnosis, the number of previous surgeries and a history of recovered facial nerve injury all significantly increased the likelihood of temporary facial nerve injury, but not the likelihood of permanent facial nerve injury. Factors which increase the risk of temporary facial nerve injury are relatively predictable and include bilateral surgery, revision TMJ replacement, and multiple open TMJ surgeries. Risk factors associated with permanent injury are less predictable but are likely to be similar. The identification of such factors allows for the risk stratification of patients and improve informed consent. We also recommend that patients with a single, previously failed open TMJ surgery should be considered for early TMJ replacement and in multiply operated patients a subfascial plane of dissection is adopted.

INTRODUCTION Hiatal hernia recurrence following surgical repair is common. We sought to define the most common anatomic location and mechanism for hiatal failure to inform technical strategies to decrease recurrence rates. METHODS Retrospective chart review and video analysis were performed for all recurrent hiatal hernia operations performed by a single surgeon between January 2013 and April 2020. Hiatal recurrences were defined by anatomic quadrants. Recurrences on both left and right on either the anterior or posterior portion of the hiatus were simply classified as 'anterior' or 'posterior', respectively. Three or more quadrants were defined as circumferential. Mechanism of recurrence was defined as disruption of the previous repair or dilation of the hiatus. RESULTS There were 130 patients to meet criteria. Median time to reoperation from previous hiatal repair was 60 months (IQR19.5-132). First-time recurrent repairs accounted for 74%, second time 18%, and three or more previous repairs for 8% of analyzed procedures. Mesh had been placed at the hiatus in a previous operation in 16%. All reoperative cases were completed laparoscopically. Video analysis revealed anterior recurrences were most common (67%), followed by circumferential (29%). There were two with left-anterior recurrence (1.5%), two posterior recurrence (1.5%), and one right-sided recurrence. The mechanism of recurrence was dilation in 74% and disruption in 26%. Disruption as a mechanism was most common in circumferential hiatal failures. Neither the prior number of hiatal surgeries nor the presence of mesh at the time of reoperation correlated with anatomic recurrence location or mechanism. Reoperations in patients with hiatal disruption occurred after a shorter interval when compared to hiatal dilation. CONCLUSION The most common location and mechanism for hiatal hernia recurrence is anterior dilation of the hiatus. Outcomes following techniques designed to reinforce the anterior hiatus and perhaps to prevent hiatal dilation should be explored.

AIMS Pre-operative templating for total hip replacement (THR) surgery leads to more accurate implant sizing and positioning. This study aimed to compare the KingMark™ dual-marker system for magnification calibration to the current gold standard single-marker system in accuracy of predicting implant size and restoration of leg length post-operatively. METHODS This is a retrospective analysis of patients who had primary THR surgery from 2013 to 2019 by a single surgeon. Patients were in two cohorts whose operations were completed at separate healthcare facilities. Patients in the first cohort had pre-operative templating using the KingMark system; patients in the second cohort had templating using a single-marker. For all patients, pre-operative radiographs were reviewed; predicted implants noted; and leg length discrepancies calculated. These were compared to post-operative data. We then tested the null hypothesis that there was no difference between the templating methods for prediction accuracy of implant size and achieving restoration of leg length. RESULTS A total of 121 patients were included in the KingMark cohort, and 104 were included in the single-marker cohort. In the KingMark cohort, 83.5% of patients had implantation of a cup within one size of that predicted, compared to 71.2% of the single-marker cohort. This superiority was statistically significant. There was a greater proportion of exact cup size predictions in the KingMark cohort, but this was not statistically significant. We did not find any significant difference between the cohorts for stem size, or stem placement, or reduction of leg length discrepancy. CONCLUSION We have demonstrated statistically significant superiority of the KingMark over a single-marker templating system for predicting cup size in primary THR surgery. For post-operative restoration of leg length, our study did not show any advantage of KingMark templating compared to single-marker templating.

The purpose of this study was to determine and establish the MCID for the NAHS at 2 years in patients undergoing hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS). Patients that underwent primary hip arthroscopy for FAIS between 2010 and 2016 were analyzed for eligibility. Data were collected from a single surgeon’s hip arthroscopy database. MCID was calculated for the NAHS utilizing a distribution-based method. The study included 298 patients (184 females) with an average age of 40.4 ± 13.0 years and average body mass index (BMI) of 25.7 ± 4.2 kg/m2. At baseline, the cohort’s average NAHS score was 48.7 ± 13.6 and demonstrated an improvement of 36.5 ± 17.0 for NAHS at follow-up. This resulted in MCID values of + 8.5 for NAHS. This is the first study to report the MCID (+ 8.5) for NAHS following primary hip arthroscopy, and as such, is a valuable contribution to future hip arthroscopy research. IV.

This study analyzes the large number of lateral meniscal allograft transplantation (LMAT) procedures conducted by a single surgeon over 23 years to determine whether the absolute amount of graft subluxation and the incidence of extrusion are different at the present time compared to the early MAT era.We reviewed 320 cases of LMAT performed by a single surgeon between 1996 and 2019. This cohort was chronologically divided into 8 groups (of 40 subjects). The absolute amount of subluxation was measured by the coronal sections of magnetic resonance images taken 1 year after operation. Subluxation by more than 3 mm was considered as extrusion. The graft extrusion learning curve was plotted in each series using the learning curve cumulative summation test (LC-CUSUM).Extrusion incidence was 41.6%, and the mean absolute amount of graft subluxation was 3.4 ± 2.2 mm for all subjects. There were significant between-group differences in extrusion incidence and absolute amount of graft subluxation (extrusion incidence, P.001; absolute amount of graft subluxation, P.001), and the extension incidence and graft subluxation decreased from Group I (72.5%, 4.6 ± 1.7) to Group VIII (27.5%, 2.5 ± 2.1). LC-CUSUM analysis signaled that the surgeon had achieved predefined acceptable outcomes in avoiding extrusion after 128 cases.The incidence of extrusion and absolute amount of graft subluxation decreased significantly over a period of 23 years, and the surgeon achieved a certain level of proficiency after 128 cases.Level IV, Case series.

Purpose Over the last years, great advances in the repair of abdominal wall hernias have dramatically improved patients' outcomes. Especially for large and other complex ventral hernias, the application of component separation techniques has been a landmark in their successful management. The aim of this study is to present our experience with the posterior component separation with transversus abdominis release (TAR) in patients with these demanding ventral hernias. Methods A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data of all patients who underwent elective ventral hernia repair with TAR between January 2016 and December 2019 was performed. Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative data were analyzed. Results A total of 125 patients with large and other complex ventral hernias were included in the final analysis. More than 80% of patients had one or more comorbidities. Of all patients, 116 (92.8%) had a history of previous abdominal surgery, 27 (21.6%) had a history of SSI and nine (7.2%) had active fistulas. Postoperatively, SSOs were presented in 11 patients (8.8%), including three cases of SSI. Neither mesh infection occurred, nor mesh excision required. With a mean follow-up of 2.5 years, only one recurrence was observed. Conclusions With a wound complication rate of less than 9% and a recurrence rate of less than 1%, our results show that TAR is a reliable, safe and effective technique for the repair of massive and other complex ventral hernias. The combination of knowledge of the abdominal wall anatomy at a proficient level, proper training, and adoption of a strict prehabilitation program are considered prerequisites for the successful management of such demanding hernias.

Background and Objectives: The United Kingdom (UK) national standard for the closure rate for myringoplasty is 89.5% (90.6% and 84.2% for primary and revision surgeries, respectively). The average hearing gains for primary and revision myringoplasty are 9.14 dB and 7.86 dB, respectively. This study compared the myringoplasty outcomes for a single surgeon over 5 years.Subjects and Methods: Data for 68 cases were analyzed retrospectively. The outcome measures were achievement of the tympanic membrane closure and the average hearing gain or loss.Results: The overall and primary closure rates were 97% and 98%, respectively and significantly higher than the UK national standard (p=0.0210 and p=0.0287, respectively). The revision closure rate was 93%; however, it was not significantly higher than the national standard (p=0.1872). The average hearing gain was 5.18 dB. The gains for primary and revision surgeries were 5.15 dB and 5.25 dB, respectively.Conclusions: We propose that these outcomes are a result of our surgical technique, including the simultaneous use of cortical mastoidectomy in ears with discharge.

Purpose: Even though it is stated that external levator advancement (ELA) has a much longer learning curve than Müller muscle-conjunctival resection (MMCR) in the treatment of aponeurotic ptosis, there is no study in the literature regarding the learning curves of these two surgical techniques. We aimed to objectively determine the length of the learning curves of ELA and MMCR using cumulative sum (CUSUM) analysis.Methods: The first 30 unilateral ELA and the first 30 unilateral MMCR consecutively performed by a single surgeon were retrospectively reviewed. The CUSUM method was used to analyze the learning curves of ELA and MMCR based on operation times of consecutive surgeries and the clinical outcomes were compared.Results: CUSUM analyses revealed that the operation time stabilized after around 11 ELA surgeries and 12 MMCR surgeries and R2 value for ELA and MMCR were 0.93 and 0.91, respectively. There was no significant difference in these stratified analyses. Mean operation time was 45.7 minutes in the ELA group and 34.1 minutes in the MMCR group (p = 0.002). Total number of intraoperative complications was 37 in the ELA group and 16 in the MMCR group (p = 0.015). Symmetry success rate was significantly higher (p < 0.0001) and reoperation rate was significantly lower in the MMCR group (p = 0.045).Conclusions: Even though ELA is more challenging than MMCR, comparable learning curves indicate that surgeons in training need to be encouraged to perform both techniques. The challenges and obstacles that the surgeons in training face in these two techniques need to be analyzed in detail.

Objectives To evaluate the time course and caseload required to achieve proficiency by plotting the learning curve of video-assisted thoracoscopic sleeve lobectomy. Methods We reviewed 127 cases of video-assisted thoracoscopic sleeve lobectomy by a single surgeon at Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital to evaluate its learning curve using the cumulative sum (CUSUM) analysis. The changes of perioperative outcomes were assessed. Results The inflection points of the CUSUM curve were around case 30 and 90, according to which 3 phases were identified: Phase I, Phase II, and Phase III. Significant downtrends were observed regarding operative time (Phase I, 194 [173-233 minutes] vs Phase II, 172 [142-215 minutes] vs Phase III, 138 [117-164 minutes], P, Graphical abstract 30 cases are needed to lay the technical foundation and 90 cases are required to achieve proficiency. Significant improvements concerning the perioperative outcomes were observed as the learning curve developed. CUSUM, Cumulative sum; OT, operative time.

Microvascular free tissue transfer is the criterion standard of reconstruction post-oncological resections of the head and neck region. We present a consultant's first 200 consecutive microvascular head and neck reconstructions in independent practice. A retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database of all head and neck reconstructions performed in the first 3 years of practice was performed. These included 200 consecutive microvascular head and neck reconstructions performed by a single surgeon at a tertiary referral center. We review the results and complications in this series and discuss factors significant for successful outcomes in head and neck reconstruction. We also highlight that different parts of the surgery in the majority of cases were performed by a trainee under the supervision of the senior surgeon and thus discuss the need for training future plastic surgeons with an interest in head and neck reconstruction.

Sialendoscopy is a minimally invasive technique that facilitates the diagnosis and treatment of sialolithiasis. This case series presents the novel use of sialendoscopy to treat sialodocholithiasis in six patients with a non-functional or surgically absent submandibular gland by a single surgeon at the University of Pennsylvania Health System between March 2013 and December 2019. The four female and two male patients had a median age of 56 years and mean follow-up of 16.2 months (range 1–44.5). All stones were successfully removed using sialendoscopy, and in 5 patients a combined approach was utilized. All patients remain asymptomatic at last clinical follow-up. We conclude that sialendoscopy is a viable, minimally invasive method for managing sialodocholithiasis in patients with prior submandibular gland excision or atretic gland. It is also useful as an assistive tool when approaching complex transcervical or transoral procedures in previously instrumented patients.

Background Although there are several publications on the new transoral robotic thyroidectomy technique, few have thoroughly reviewed its associated complications. This study analyzed the causes and prevention of transoral robotic thyroidectomy–specific complications and presented preventive measures. Methods The medical records of patients who underwent transoral robotic thyroidectomy performed by a single surgeon between March 1, 2009 and April 30, 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Patient demographic, clinical, and operative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. We describe the transoral robotic thyroidectomy–related complications experienced at our institution and how to overcome them. Results This study included a total of 423 patients who underwent transoral robotic thyroidectomy. The general surgical complications included immediate postoperative bleeding (2 cases) and delayed hematoma (3 cases). Chyle leakage and localized wound infection were found in 1 case each. Transient vocal cord palsy occurred in 4 cases, and 1 case developed transient hypoparathyroidism. The transoral robotic thyroidectomy–specific complications included zygoma bruise (2 cases), flap bruise (3 cases), chin flap perforation (2 cases), and oral commissure tearing (2 cases). The complications occurring when creating the flap included flap burns (4 cases), skin dimpling in the midline of the lower chin (2 cases), and hematomas in the intraoral trocar insertion sites (3 cases). Conclusion Surgeons familiar with thyroid surgery and experienced in robotic surgery can perform transoral robotic thyroidectomy without causing more complications than those seen with traditional surgery.

As a modification of the duodenal switch (DS), single-anastomosis duodenal-ileal bypass with sleeve gastrectomy (SADI-S) has recently become very popular and is successful for weight loss and T2DM remission. However, current studies have been mostly aimed at patients with severe obesity. In this study, we firstly compare primary SADI-S to the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) in Chinese with diabetes and BMI< 35 kg/m2. Using a propensity score (PS) matching analysis, we analyzed all patients with diabetes and BMI< 35 kg/m2 who underwent primary SADI-S or RYGB. All surgeries were conducted by a single surgeon at a Chinese center from June 2017 to January 2019. Twenty-six patients who underwent SADI-S and 65 patients who underwent RYGB were included in our analysis. Of these, 26 (100%) of patients in the SADI-S group and 43 (66%) of patients in the RYGB group completed the 24-month follow-up. No severe perioperative complication was observed in either group. There was a statistically higher percentage of total weight loss with SADI-S at the 2-year follow-up when compared to RYGB (p = 0.017 after PS correction). After PS adjustment, 76.5% of patients in the SADI-S group and 82.4% of patients in the RYGB group achieved complete remission of T2DM (p = 1.000). Nutritional outcomes were similar in the two groups. In Chinese with diabetes and BMI< 35 kg/m2, with comparable T2DM remission and nutritional outcomes, primary SADI-S allows for better weight loss than RYGB. Compared with RYGB, SADI-S is also a safe, effective, and feasible treatment for these patients.

Mastopexy has become a widely popularized procedure across the country over the last 20 years. Women have seen the benefits of various forms of breast lifts to correct breast ptosis. While older teachings focused on mastopexy and augmentation as separate, staged procedures, many centers now perform both simultaneously. Our center primarily performs mastopexy procedures with simultaneous augmentation with implants, and we reviewed 260 patient charts to examine complications when compared to mastopexy alone. Complications reviewed include the following: hematoma formation, incision openings, and revision surgeries. Our data showed only minor rates of hematoma formation, incision openings, and revision surgeries with a negligible difference between the 2 groups. Patients in both groups overall had few surgical complications. Patients undergoing mastopexy with simultaneous augmentation had similar rates of complications when compared to patients with mastopexy alone. Many previously believed that simultaneous augmentation with mastopexy would place too much tension on the mastopexy incisions due to the rapid breast volume increase. However, with no significant changes in complications between the groups, it is clear that surgical technique and planning has improved to allow this to be a safely performed single-staged procedure. Overall, we had minimal complications and show that mastopexy with simultaneous augmentation is safe for patients who desire these procedures.

The lifetime risk of developing symptomatic knee osteoarthritis (OA) is estimated to be 45%, with up to two thirds of patients presenting with bilateral knee symptoms. Patients presenting with end stage bilateral knee OA may benefit from single anaesthetic bilateral total knee replacement (SABTKR). Our study aim was to compare the outcomes of SABTKR with unilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in a single surgeon series over a 20 year period. We performed a retrospective review of a single surgeon’s data from the New Zealand Joint Registry (NZJR) over a 20-year period from January 1999 to December 2018. This review reports on patient demographics, functional outcomes, revision rates and mortality rates. 1225 total knee replacements were performed by the senior author (995 TKAs and 115 patients underwent SABTKRs) over the 20 year period reviewed. The mean ages of the TKA and SABTKR groups were 67.7 and 66.7 years, respectively. There was 16.9% mortality rate for the TKA group versus 7.8% in SABTKR group. There were no revisions in the SABTKR group versus 17 revisions in the TKA group representing a revision rate of 0.23/100 component years which can be viewed against a 20 year revision rate of 0.48/100 component years (p

Background This study aimed to quantitatively evaluate the learning curve of laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) of a single surgeon. Patients and methods A retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database of liver resections was conducted. 171 patients undergoing pure LLRs between April 2008 and April 2021 were analysed. The Halls difficulty score (HDS) for theoretical predictions of intraoperative complications (IOC) during LLR was applied. IOC was defined as blood loss over 775 mL, unintentional damage to the surrounding structures, and conversion to an open approach. Theoretical association between HDS and the predicted probability of IOC was utilised to objectify the shape of the learning curve. Results The obtained learning curve has resulted from thirteen years of surgical effort of a single surgeon. It consists of an absolute and a relative part in the mathematical description of the additive function described by the logarithmic function (absolute complexity) and fifth-degree regression curve (relative complexity). The obtained learning curve determines the functional dependency of the learning outcome versus time and indicates several local extreme values (peaks and valleys) in the learning process until proficiency is achieved. Conclusions This learning curve indicates an ongoing learning process for LLR. The proposed mathematical model can be applied for any surgical procedure with an existing difficulty score and a known theoretically predicted association between the difficulty score and given outcome (for example, IOC).

Purpose As the number of shoulder arthroplasty procedures performed rises yearly, so does the number of periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs). In this study, PJI consensus definitions were compared and contrasted in a series of revision shoulder arthroplasty cases preoperatively diagnosed as PJI. Understanding the variations in these definitions may guide PJI diagnoses, thereby improving treatment strategies and patient outcomes in the setting of infected shoulder arthroplasty. Methods All revision shoulder arthroplasty cases with preoperatively-diagnosed or suspected PJI (determined by procedure code) performed from 2008 – 2017 at a single institution by a single surgeon (fellowship-trained in shoulder and elbow surgery) were retrospectively evaluated. Following Institutional Review Board approval, patient demographic, treatment, and laboratory data were collected. Musculoskeletal Infection Society (MSIS; 2011) and International Consensus Meeting on Orthopaedic Infections (ICM; 2013, 2018 Revision, 2018 Shoulder) definitions of PJI were applied to the data. Statistical analysis assessed significant associations between culture status and PJI classification algorithm criteria. Results Thirty-seven patients with suspected PJI were identified; 24 culture-positive (CP) and 13 culture-negative (CN). In this series, the 2018 ICM Shoulder definition for definite infection was met at lower rates than all other definitions (CP; 71% vs. 96%; CN; 62% vs. 69%). 2018 ICM Shoulder major criteria showed stronger correlations to 2011 MSIS, 2013 ICM, and 2018 ICM Revision major criteria when “gross intra-articular pus” was excluded than when pus was included as a major criterion. 2018 ICM Revision cases determined to be infected were very strongly, positively, correlated with the 2018 ICM Shoulder cases determined to have definite or probable infections (ρ = 1.000, P Conclusions In this series, the 2018 ICM Shoulder definition and previous PJI definitions classified cases as PJI at similar rates. However, the inclusion of a third major criterion of “gross intra-articular pus” weakened the correlation with prior definitions. Level of evidence Level IV; Case Series.

Background Although it has been shown that Medicare populations have a higher overall rate of complications than those with private insurances for large cohort total joint studies, there is limited information comparing patient-reported outcomes (PROs) among private insurance patients. The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of non-Medicaid insurance type on outcomes after shoulder arthroplasty. Methods This retrospective case-controlled study included 203 patients who underwent shoulder arthroplasty from 2012 to 2017 by a single surgeon. Preoperative and postoperative PROs were collected and included the Simple Shoulder Test, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Shoulder Assessment Form, and the Constant Shoulder Score. Patients were categorized into groups based on insurer—preferred provider organization, health maintenance organization, Medicare, and Veterans Affairs Care program—and outcomes were compared between groups Results The 4 insurance provider groups were matched for body mass index, surgery type, and comorbidities (P = .526). Preoperatively, no significant differences in PROs between groups were present except for the Constant Shoulder Score (P = .029). All payer groups significantly improved from preoperative to postoperative PROs (P ≤ .001). At the final follow-up, no significant difference in PROs between groups were seen (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Shoulder mean 75.3 ± 20.9 [P = .757], Simple Shoulder Test of 9.1 ± 2.9 [P = .312], and Constant Shoulder Score of 65.0 ± 15.2 [P = .526]). Conclusions Our results suggest variations in insurance type did not significantly impact outcomes for our cohort of patients undergoing shoulder arthroplasty. Although variations in patient cohorts exist, patients regardless of insurance type and coverage variations can expect significant improvements in their function and pain after shoulder arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: Few studies directly compare the effect of interbody cages with different degrees of lordosis in producing segmental lumbar lordosis (SLL) in the transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) procedure. Thus, we aimed to investigate changes in SLL in hyperlordotic cages compared to standard lordotic cages in open TLIF procedures. METHODS: Thirty-eight consecutive patients who received open TLIF procedures performed by a single surgeon between 2017 and 2018 were reviewed. Twenty patients had “hyperlordotic cages” (20° lordosis), while 18 patients had “standard lordotic cages” (6° lordosis). Twenty-three patients had one-level TLIF procedures and 15 had two-level TLIF. Standard radiographic measurements, including SLL were assessed preoperatively, postoperatively, and at 1-year follow-up. SLL was measured from the superior endplate of the cephalad vertebra to the inferior endplate of the caudal vertebra. Changes in SLL were compared using Student’s and paired t-tests. RESULTS: In one- and two-level open TLIF, both hyperlordotic and standard lordotic cages produced significant improvement in SLL. Among those receiving a one-level TLIF, SLL increased 7.8° (P=0.024) in those with standard lordotic cages; it increased 8.2° (P=0.020) in those with hyperlordotic cages. Among those receiving a two-level TLIF, SLL increased 13.9° (P=0.032) in those with standard lordotic cages; it increased 8.8° (P=0.023) in those with hyperlordotic cages. However, the improvement in SLL was not significantly different between the two cage types in either one or two-level TLIF procedures (P=0.917, P=0.389). At 1-year follow-up, there was no significant change in SLL, among standard lordotic and hyperlordotic cages (P=0.501, P=0.781). CONCLUSIONS: Although it is theorized that hyperlordotic cages would increase SLL during open TLIF procedures more than standard lordotic cages, our data failed to demonstrate that. As our study examined cases performed by a single surgeon immediately before and after adoption of these lordotic cages, it is likely that surgical technique is of equal or greater importance in improving SLL than the amount of lordosis designed into interbody cages.