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Background: This systematic review and meta-analysis searched, retrieved and synthesized the evidence as to whether preoperative esophagogastroduodenoscopy (p-EGD) should be routine before bariatric surgery (BS). Methods: Databases searched for retrospective, prospective, and randomized (RCT) or quasi-RCT studies (01 January 2000–30 April 2019) of outcomes of routine p-EGD before BS. STROBE checklist assessed the quality of the studies. P-EGD findings were categorized: Group 0 (no abnormal findings); Group 1 (abnormal findings that do not necessitate changing the surgical approach or postponing surgery); Group 2 (abnormal findings that change the surgical approach or postpone surgery); and Group 3 (findings that signify absolute contraindications to surgery). We assessed data heterogeneity and publication bias. Random effect model was used. Results: Twenty-five eligible studies were included (10,685 patients). Studies were heterogeneous, and there was publication bias. Group 0 comprised 5424 patients (56%, 95% CI: 45–67%); Group 1, 2064 patients (26%, 95% CI: 23–50%); Group 2, 1351 patients (16%, 95% CI: 11–21%); and Group 3 included 31 patients (0.4%, 95% CI: 0–1%). Conclusion: For 82% of patients, routine p-EGD did not change surgical plan/ postpone surgery. For 16% of patients, p-EGD findings necessitated changing the surgical approach/ postponing surgery, but the proportion of postponements due to medical treatment of H Pylori as opposed to “necessary” substantial change in surgical approach is unclear. For 0.4% patients, p-EGD findings signified absolute contraindication to surgery. These findings invite a revisit to whether p-EGD should be routine before BS, and whether it is judicious to expose many obese patients to an invasive procedure that has potential risk and insufficient evidence of effectiveness. Further justification is required.

Background: This systematic review and meta-analysis searched, retrieved and synthesized the evidence as to whether preoperative esophagogastroduodenoscopy (p-EGD) should be routine before bariatric surgery (BS). Methods: Databases searched for retrospective, prospective, and randomized (RCT) or quasi-RCT studies (01 January 2000–30 April 2019) of outcomes of routine p-EGD before BS. STROBE checklist assessed the quality of the studies. P-EGD findings were categorized: Group 0 (no abnormal findings); Group 1 (abnormal findings that do not necessitate changing the surgical approach or postponing surgery); Group 2 (abnormal findings that change the surgical approach or postpone surgery); and Group 3 (findings that signify absolute contraindications to surgery). We assessed data heterogeneity and publication bias. Random effect model was used. Results: Twenty-five eligible studies were included (10,685 patients). Studies were heterogeneous, and there was publication bias. Group 0 comprised 5424 patients (56%, 95% CI: 45–67%); Group 1, 2064 patients (26%, 95% CI: 23–50%); Group 2, 1351 patients (16%, 95% CI: 11–21%); and Group 3 included 31 patients (0.4%, 95% CI: 0–1%). Conclusion: For 82% of patients, routine p-EGD did not change surgical plan/ postpone surgery. For 16% of patients, p-EGD findings necessitated changing the surgical approach/ postponing surgery, but the proportion of postponements due to medical treatment of H Pylori as opposed to “necessary” substantial change in surgical approach is unclear. For 0.4% patients, p-EGD findings signified absolute contraindication to surgery. These findings invite a revisit to whether p-EGD should be routine before BS, and whether it is judicious to expose many obese patients to an invasive procedure that has potential risk and insufficient evidence of effectiveness. Further justification is required.

Background: Cefiderocol, ceftazidime-avibactam, ceftolozane-tazobactam, intravenous fosfomycin and plazomicin represent potential carbapenem sparing agents for extended-spectrum-beta-lactamase or AmpC beta-lactamase producing Escherichia coli infection. However, available data is limited in predicting the volume of carbapenem therapy which could be substituted and real-world contraindications. Method(s): We determined the number of carbapenem days of therapy (DOT) which could be substituted and frequent contraindications accounting for antimicrobial susceptibility and site of infection in an unselected cohort with ceftriaxone-non-susceptible E. coli bacteremia at a single health network from 2015 to 2016. Individual patient data was used to calculate DOT and substitution for each agent. Result(s): There were 108 episodes of E. coli bacteremia resulting in 67.2 carbapenem DOT/100 patient-days of antimicrobial therapy administered. Ceftazidime-avibactam could be used to substitute 36.2 DOT/100 patient-days (54%) for inpatient definitive therapy, ceftolozane-tazobactam for 34.7 DOT/100 patient-days (52%), cefiderocol for 27.1 DOT/100 patient-days (40%), fosfomycin for 23.3 DOT /100 patient-days (35%) and plazomicin for 27.1 DOT/100 patient-days (40%). Non-urinary tract source of infection was the most frequent contraindication to fosfomycin (25), plazomicin (26) and cefiderocol (26). Use in outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) programs accounted for 40% of DOT, all of which could be substituted if stability data allowed for ceftazidime-avibactam and ceftolozane-tazobactam. Conclusion(s): All tested agents could be used to replace a significant volume of carbapenem therapy. Establishing stability of these agents for use in OPAT is required for maximizing their use as carbapenem sparing agents while randomized clinical data is awaited for some of these agents in resistant E. coli bacteremia.Copyright © 2020, The Author(s).

Parenteral nutrition (PN) is the administration of a nutritional formula by means other than the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The formula may include carbohydrates, amino acids, lipids, electrolytes and/or micronutrients. The primary indications for PN are intestinal failure (IF) due to an underlying disease or treatment, or if the GI tract is not accessible. The goals of PN should be to ensure adequate nutrition provision to meet patient needs while minimising the risk of complications. PN should be commenced in <48 h in patients who are malnourished or otherwise within 7 days if oral or enteral nutrition is not possible or insufficient. There has been evolution in PN techniques and technology, and the risks associated with PN administration have been reduced. Monitoring clinical, laboratory and metabolic parameters in acute IF is essential to provision of safe nutritional support. When provided to appropriate patients with IF in a timely and considered manner, PN has been shown to be safe, improve nutritional parameters and reduce complications associated with malnutrition. This review aims to provide clinicians a practical guide for the management of PN in adult patients within the acute setting.Copyright © 2020 Royal Australasian College of Physicians

Background: Cefiderocol, ceftazidime-avibactam, ceftolozane-tazobactam, intravenous fosfomycin and plazomicin represent potential carbapenem sparing agents for extended-spectrum-beta-lactamase or AmpC beta-lactamase producing Escherichia coli infection. However, available data is limited in predicting the volume of carbapenem therapy which could be substituted and real-world contraindications. Method(s): We determined the number of carbapenem days of therapy (DOT) which could be substituted and frequent contraindications accounting for antimicrobial susceptibility and site of infection in an unselected cohort with ceftriaxone-non-susceptible E. coli bacteremia at a single health network from 2015 to 2016. Individual patient data was used to calculate DOT and substitution for each agent. Result(s): There were 108 episodes of E. coli bacteremia resulting in 67.2 carbapenem DOT/100 patient-days of antimicrobial therapy administered. Ceftazidime-avibactam could be used to substitute 36.2 DOT/100 patient-days (54%) for inpatient definitive therapy, ceftolozane-tazobactam for 34.7 DOT/100 patient-days (52%), cefiderocol for 27.1 DOT/100 patient-days (40%), fosfomycin for 23.3 DOT /100 patient-days (35%) and plazomicin for 27.1 DOT/100 patient-days (40%). Non-urinary tract source of infection was the most frequent contraindication to fosfomycin (25), plazomicin (26) and cefiderocol (26). Use in outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) programs accounted for 40% of DOT, all of which could be substituted if stability data allowed for ceftazidime-avibactam and ceftolozane-tazobactam. Conclusion(s): All tested agents could be used to replace a significant volume of carbapenem therapy. Establishing stability of these agents for use in OPAT is required for maximizing their use as carbapenem sparing agents while randomized clinical data is awaited for some of these agents in resistant E. coli bacteremia.Copyright © 2020, The Author(s).

Parenteral nutrition (PN) is the administration of a nutritional formula by means other than the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The formula may include carbohydrates, amino acids, lipids, electrolytes and/or micronutrients. The primary indications for PN are intestinal failure (IF) due to an underlying disease or treatment, or if the GI tract is not accessible. The goals of PN should be to ensure adequate nutrition provision to meet patient needs while minimising the risk of complications. PN should be commenced in <48 h in patients who are malnourished or otherwise within 7 days if oral or enteral nutrition is not possible or insufficient. There has been evolution in PN techniques and technology, and the risks associated with PN administration have been reduced. Monitoring clinical, laboratory and metabolic parameters in acute IF is essential to provision of safe nutritional support. When provided to appropriate patients with IF in a timely and considered manner, PN has been shown to be safe, improve nutritional parameters and reduce complications associated with malnutrition. This review aims to provide clinicians a practical guide for the management of PN in adult patients within the acute setting.Copyright © 2020 Royal Australasian College of Physicians

Background: This systematic review and meta-analysis searched, retrieved and synthesized the evidence as to whether preoperative esophagogastroduodenoscopy (p-EGD) should be routine before bariatric surgery (BS). Methods: Databases searched for retrospective, prospective, and randomized (RCT) or quasi-RCT studies (01 January 2000–30 April 2019) of outcomes of routine p-EGD before BS. STROBE checklist assessed the quality of the studies. P-EGD findings were categorized: Group 0 (no abnormal findings); Group 1 (abnormal findings that do not necessitate changing the surgical approach or postponing surgery); Group 2 (abnormal findings that change the surgical approach or postpone surgery); and Group 3 (findings that signify absolute contraindications to surgery). We assessed data heterogeneity and publication bias. Random effect model was used. Results: Twenty-five eligible studies were included (10,685 patients). Studies were heterogeneous, and there was publication bias. Group 0 comprised 5424 patients (56%, 95% CI: 45–67%); Group 1, 2064 patients (26%, 95% CI: 23–50%); Group 2, 1351 patients (16%, 95% CI: 11–21%); and Group 3 included 31 patients (0.4%, 95% CI: 0–1%). Conclusion: For 82% of patients, routine p-EGD did not change surgical plan/ postpone surgery. For 16% of patients, p-EGD findings necessitated changing the surgical approach/ postponing surgery, but the proportion of postponements due to medical treatment of H Pylori as opposed to “necessary” substantial change in surgical approach is unclear. For 0.4% patients, p-EGD findings signified absolute contraindication to surgery. These findings invite a revisit to whether p-EGD should be routine before BS, and whether it is judicious to expose many obese patients to an invasive procedure that has potential risk and insufficient evidence of effectiveness. Further justification is required.

Background: This systematic review and meta-analysis searched, retrieved and synthesized the evidence as to whether preoperative esophagogastroduodenoscopy (p-EGD) should be routine before bariatric surgery (BS). Methods: Databases searched for retrospective, prospective, and randomized (RCT) or quasi-RCT studies (01 January 2000–30 April 2019) of outcomes of routine p-EGD before BS. STROBE checklist assessed the quality of the studies. P-EGD findings were categorized: Group 0 (no abnormal findings); Group 1 (abnormal findings that do not necessitate changing the surgical approach or postponing surgery); Group 2 (abnormal findings that change the surgical approach or postpone surgery); and Group 3 (findings that signify absolute contraindications to surgery). We assessed data heterogeneity and publication bias. Random effect model was used. Results: Twenty-five eligible studies were included (10,685 patients). Studies were heterogeneous, and there was publication bias. Group 0 comprised 5424 patients (56%, 95% CI: 45–67%); Group 1, 2064 patients (26%, 95% CI: 23–50%); Group 2, 1351 patients (16%, 95% CI: 11–21%); and Group 3 included 31 patients (0.4%, 95% CI: 0–1%). Conclusion: For 82% of patients, routine p-EGD did not change surgical plan/ postpone surgery. For 16% of patients, p-EGD findings necessitated changing the surgical approach/ postponing surgery, but the proportion of postponements due to medical treatment of H Pylori as opposed to “necessary” substantial change in surgical approach is unclear. For 0.4% patients, p-EGD findings signified absolute contraindication to surgery. These findings invite a revisit to whether p-EGD should be routine before BS, and whether it is judicious to expose many obese patients to an invasive procedure that has potential risk and insufficient evidence of effectiveness. Further justification is required.

Background: This systematic review and meta-analysis searched, retrieved and synthesized the evidence as to whether preoperative esophagogastroduodenoscopy (p-EGD) should be routine before bariatric surgery (BS). Methods: Databases searched for retrospective, prospective, and randomized (RCT) or quasi-RCT studies (01 January 2000–30 April 2019) of outcomes of routine p-EGD before BS. STROBE checklist assessed the quality of the studies. P-EGD findings were categorized: Group 0 (no abnormal findings); Group 1 (abnormal findings that do not necessitate changing the surgical approach or postponing surgery); Group 2 (abnormal findings that change the surgical approach or postpone surgery); and Group 3 (findings that signify absolute contraindications to surgery). We assessed data heterogeneity and publication bias. Random effect model was used. Results: Twenty-five eligible studies were included (10,685 patients). Studies were heterogeneous, and there was publication bias. Group 0 comprised 5424 patients (56%, 95% CI: 45–67%); Group 1, 2064 patients (26%, 95% CI: 23–50%); Group 2, 1351 patients (16%, 95% CI: 11–21%); and Group 3 included 31 patients (0.4%, 95% CI: 0–1%). Conclusion: For 82% of patients, routine p-EGD did not change surgical plan/ postpone surgery. For 16% of patients, p-EGD findings necessitated changing the surgical approach/ postponing surgery, but the proportion of postponements due to medical treatment of H Pylori as opposed to “necessary” substantial change in surgical approach is unclear. For 0.4% patients, p-EGD findings signified absolute contraindication to surgery. These findings invite a revisit to whether p-EGD should be routine before BS, and whether it is judicious to expose many obese patients to an invasive procedure that has potential risk and insufficient evidence of effectiveness. Further justification is required.

Background: This systematic review and meta-analysis searched, retrieved and synthesized the evidence as to whether preoperative esophagogastroduodenoscopy (p-EGD) should be routine before bariatric surgery (BS). Methods: Databases searched for retrospective, prospective, and randomized (RCT) or quasi-RCT studies (01 January 2000–30 April 2019) of outcomes of routine p-EGD before BS. STROBE checklist assessed the quality of the studies. P-EGD findings were categorized: Group 0 (no abnormal findings); Group 1 (abnormal findings that do not necessitate changing the surgical approach or postponing surgery); Group 2 (abnormal findings that change the surgical approach or postpone surgery); and Group 3 (findings that signify absolute contraindications to surgery). We assessed data heterogeneity and publication bias. Random effect model was used. Results: Twenty-five eligible studies were included (10,685 patients). Studies were heterogeneous, and there was publication bias. Group 0 comprised 5424 patients (56%, 95% CI: 45–67%); Group 1, 2064 patients (26%, 95% CI: 23–50%); Group 2, 1351 patients (16%, 95% CI: 11–21%); and Group 3 included 31 patients (0.4%, 95% CI: 0–1%). Conclusion: For 82% of patients, routine p-EGD did not change surgical plan/ postpone surgery. For 16% of patients, p-EGD findings necessitated changing the surgical approach/ postponing surgery, but the proportion of postponements due to medical treatment of H Pylori as opposed to “necessary” substantial change in surgical approach is unclear. For 0.4% patients, p-EGD findings signified absolute contraindication to surgery. These findings invite a revisit to whether p-EGD should be routine before BS, and whether it is judicious to expose many obese patients to an invasive procedure that has potential risk and insufficient evidence of effectiveness. Further justification is required.

Objectives The present Bayesian network meta-analysis aimed to compare the various strategies for acute ischemic stroke: direct endovascular thrombectomy within the thrombolysis window in patients with no contraindications to thrombolysis (DEVT); (2) direct endovascular thrombectomy secondary to contraindications to thrombolysis (DEVTc); (3) endovascular thrombectomy in addition to thrombolysis (IVEVT); and (4) thrombolysis without thrombectomy (IVT). Methods Six electronic databases were searched from their dates of inception to May 2017 to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing IVT versus IVEVT, and prospective registry studies comparing IVEVT versus DEVT or IVEVT versus DEVTc. Network meta-analyses were performed using ORs and 95% CIs as the summary statistic. Results We identified 12 studies (5 RCTs, 7 prospective cohort) with a total of 3161 patients for analysis. There was no significant difference in good functional outcome at 90 days (modified Rankin Scale score <=2) between DEVT and IVEVT. There was no significant difference in mortality between all treatment groups. DEVT was associated with a 49% reduction in intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) compared with IVEVT (OR 0.51; 95% CI 0.33 to 0.79), due to reduction in rates of asymptomatic ICH (OR 0.47; 95% CI 0.29 to 0.76). Patients treated with DEVT had higher rates of reperfusion compared with IVEVT (OR 1.73; 95% CI 1.04 to 2.94). Conclusions To our knowledge, this is the first network meta-analysis to be performed in the era of contemporary mechanical thrombectomy comparing DEVT and DEVTc. Our analysis suggests the addition of thrombolysis prior to thrombectomy for large vessel occlusions may not be associated with improved outcomes.Copyright © 2019 Author(s) (or their employer(s)). No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.

Objectives The present Bayesian network meta-analysis aimed to compare the various strategies for acute ischemic stroke: direct endovascular thrombectomy within the thrombolysis window in patients with no contraindications to thrombolysis (DEVT); (2) direct endovascular thrombectomy secondary to contraindications to thrombolysis (DEVTc); (3) endovascular thrombectomy in addition to thrombolysis (IVEVT); and (4) thrombolysis without thrombectomy (IVT). Methods Six electronic databases were searched from their dates of inception to May 2017 to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing IVT versus IVEVT, and prospective registry studies comparing IVEVT versus DEVT or IVEVT versus DEVTc. Network meta-analyses were performed using ORs and 95% CIs as the summary statistic. Results We identified 12 studies (5 RCTs, 7 prospective cohort) with a total of 3161 patients for analysis. There was no significant difference in good functional outcome at 90 days (modified Rankin Scale score <=2) between DEVT and IVEVT. There was no significant difference in mortality between all treatment groups. DEVT was associated with a 49% reduction in intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) compared with IVEVT (OR 0.51; 95% CI 0.33 to 0.79), due to reduction in rates of asymptomatic ICH (OR 0.47; 95% CI 0.29 to 0.76). Patients treated with DEVT had higher rates of reperfusion compared with IVEVT (OR 1.73; 95% CI 1.04 to 2.94). Conclusions To our knowledge, this is the first network meta-analysis to be performed in the era of contemporary mechanical thrombectomy comparing DEVT and DEVTc. Our analysis suggests the addition of thrombolysis prior to thrombectomy for large vessel occlusions may not be associated with improved outcomes.Copyright © 2019 Author(s) (or their employer(s)). No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.

Advances in computed tomography (CT) technology now allow definitive imaging of the coronary arteries. Non-enhanced CT is used to perform coronary artery calcium scoring, which is useful to stratify the risk of future coronary events but does not allow assessment of stenosis. Contrast-enhanced CT coronary angiography (CTCA) enables angiographic evaluation of both the coronary artery lumen and wall. The high negative predictive accuracy of CTCA makes it a useful test to rule out the presence of significant coronary stenoses, especially in patients with an intermediate pre-test likelihood of coronary artery disease. CTCA also has potential to aid the triage of patients with acute chest pain in the emergency department. CTCA can determine the approximate degree of stenosis as well as detect high-risk plaque characteristics. Coronary artery bypass grafts can be assessed reliably using CT. Intracoronary stent evaluation is possible because of advances in temporal resolution. Myocardial perfusion imaging using cardiac CT is the subject of current investigation.Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd

Advances in computed tomography (CT) technology now allow definitive imaging of the coronary arteries. Non-enhanced CT is used to perform coronary artery calcium scoring, which is useful to stratify the risk of future coronary events but does not allow assessment of stenosis. Contrast-enhanced CT coronary angiography (CTCA) enables angiographic evaluation of both the coronary artery lumen and wall. The high negative predictive accuracy of CTCA makes it a useful test to rule out the presence of significant coronary stenoses, especially in patients with an intermediate pre-test likelihood of coronary artery disease. CTCA also has potential to aid the triage of patients with acute chest pain in the emergency department. CTCA can determine the approximate degree of stenosis as well as detect high-risk plaque characteristics. Coronary artery bypass grafts can be assessed reliably using CT. Intracoronary stent evaluation is possible because of advances in temporal resolution. Myocardial perfusion imaging using cardiac CT is the subject of current investigation.Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd

In Australia 1% of individuals aged over 50 years have Parkinson disease (PD). Guidance for commencing device-assisted therapies (DAT) for PD in Australia was developed based on a review of European recommendations and their relevance to the local clinical setting. An online survey and teleconference discussions were held by a group of eight local movement disorder experts to develop consensus. Referral to a movement disorder specialist and consideration of DAT is appropriate when motor fluctuations cause disability or reduced quality of life, response to treatment is inconsistent or motor fluctuations and dyskinesias require frequent treatment adjustment without apparent benefit and levodopa is required four or more times daily. Three types of DAT are available in Australia for patients with PD: continuous subcutaneous apomorphine; continuous levodopa-carbidopa intestinal gel infusion; and deep brain stimulation. All improve consistency of motor response. The most important aspects when considering which DAT to use are the preferences of the patient and their carers, patient comorbidities, age, cognitive function and neuropsychiatric status. Patients and their families need to be provided with treatment options that are suitable to them, with adequate explanations regarding the recommendations and comparison of potential device-related complications. DAT are best managed, where possible, in a specialist centre with experience in all three types of therapy. Proactive and early management of symptoms during disease progression is essential to maintain optimally motor responses and quality of life in patients with PD.Copyright © 2017 Royal Australasian College of Physicians

In Australia 1% of individuals aged over 50 years have Parkinson disease (PD). Guidance for commencing device-assisted therapies (DAT) for PD in Australia was developed based on a review of European recommendations and their relevance to the local clinical setting. An online survey and teleconference discussions were held by a group of eight local movement disorder experts to develop consensus. Referral to a movement disorder specialist and consideration of DAT is appropriate when motor fluctuations cause disability or reduced quality of life, response to treatment is inconsistent or motor fluctuations and dyskinesias require frequent treatment adjustment without apparent benefit and levodopa is required four or more times daily. Three types of DAT are available in Australia for patients with PD: continuous subcutaneous apomorphine; continuous levodopa-carbidopa intestinal gel infusion; and deep brain stimulation. All improve consistency of motor response. The most important aspects when considering which DAT to use are the preferences of the patient and their carers, patient comorbidities, age, cognitive function and neuropsychiatric status. Patients and their families need to be provided with treatment options that are suitable to them, with adequate explanations regarding the recommendations and comparison of potential device-related complications. DAT are best managed, where possible, in a specialist centre with experience in all three types of therapy. Proactive and early management of symptoms during disease progression is essential to maintain optimally motor responses and quality of life in patients with PD.Copyright © 2017 Royal Australasian College of Physicians

Background Recent literature suggests that living kidney donation may be associated with an excess risk of end-stage kidney disease and death. Efforts to maximize access to transplantation may result in acceptance of donors who do not fit within current guidelines, potentially placing them at risk of adverse long-Term outcomes. Methods We studied the risk profile of Australian and New Zealand living kidney donors using data from the Australia and New Zealand Dialysis and Transplant Living Kidney Donor Registry over 2004 to 2012. We compared their predonation profile against national guidelines for donor acceptance. Results The analysis included 2,932 donors (mean age 48.8 +/- 11.2 years, range 18-81), 58% female and 87% Caucasian. Forty (1%) had measured glomerular filtration rate less than 80 mL/min; 32 (1%) had proteinuria >300 mg/day; 589 (20%) were hypertensive; 495 (18%) obese; 9 (0.3%) were diabetic while a further 55 (2%) had impaired glucose tolerance; and 218 (7%) were current smokers. Overall 767 donors (26%) had at least one relative contraindication to donation and 268 (9%) had at least one absolute contraindication according to national guidelines. Conclusions Divergence of current clinical practice from national guidelines has occurred. In the context of recent evidence demonstrating elevated long-Term donor risk, rigorous follow-up and reporting of outcomes are now mandated to ensure safety and document any change in risk associated with such a divergence.Copyright © Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Background Recent literature suggests that living kidney donation may be associated with an excess risk of end-stage kidney disease and death. Efforts to maximize access to transplantation may result in acceptance of donors who do not fit within current guidelines, potentially placing them at risk of adverse long-Term outcomes. Methods We studied the risk profile of Australian and New Zealand living kidney donors using data from the Australia and New Zealand Dialysis and Transplant Living Kidney Donor Registry over 2004 to 2012. We compared their predonation profile against national guidelines for donor acceptance. Results The analysis included 2,932 donors (mean age 48.8 +/- 11.2 years, range 18-81), 58% female and 87% Caucasian. Forty (1%) had measured glomerular filtration rate less than 80 mL/min; 32 (1%) had proteinuria >300 mg/day; 589 (20%) were hypertensive; 495 (18%) obese; 9 (0.3%) were diabetic while a further 55 (2%) had impaired glucose tolerance; and 218 (7%) were current smokers. Overall 767 donors (26%) had at least one relative contraindication to donation and 268 (9%) had at least one absolute contraindication according to national guidelines. Conclusions Divergence of current clinical practice from national guidelines has occurred. In the context of recent evidence demonstrating elevated long-Term donor risk, rigorous follow-up and reporting of outcomes are now mandated to ensure safety and document any change in risk associated with such a divergence.Copyright © Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

We present what we believe is Australia's first fresh peripheral arterial transplant for revascularisation of an ischaemic limb. Although cryopreserved homografts are accepted as a management option for revascularisation of critical limb ischaemia in infected fields, cryopreserved peripheral vascular tissue is not currently available in Australia. We describe a 72-year-old man without autologous conduit in whom infected prosthetic grafts were explanted, causing critical limb ischaemia of a below knee stump. Fresh peripheral arterial tissue was procured via the Australian organ donation authority, DonateLife, and was used to revascularise the stump with an axillofemoral bypass. This permitted successful healing of the stump within 6 weeks and mobilisation with a prosthesis. This case illustrates that fresh arterial homografts are a viable bridging solution for revascularisation of limb ischaemia with infection. However, it also highlights the need to establish a peripheral homograft bank so that cryopreserved conduits are readily available for similar scenarios.Copyright 2015 BMJ Publishing Group. All rights reserved.

Benign symmetrical lipomatosis (Madelung's disease) is a rare condition of unclear aetiology characterized by numerous, unencapsulated lipomatous deposits. The only effective treatment is by surgical intervention; however, there is no consensus in the optimal approach. We present the case of a patient who required staged, multi-modality treatment to achieve disease quiescence. The case highlights the usefulness of magnetic resonance imaging as a tool for assessment as well as preoperative planning.Copyright © 2015 World Obesity.

Calciphylaxis is a rare, potentially life-threatening syndrome of progressive cutaneous necrosis from calcium deposition. It is well described in uraemic diseases. However, its mechanism is poorly understood and information on non-uraemic causes is lacking. This is the first report of a biopsy-proven non-uraemic calciphylaxis in a nonagenarian.Copyright 2015 BMJ Publishing Group. All rights reserved.

We present what we believe is Australia's first fresh peripheral arterial transplant for revascularisation of an ischaemic limb. Although cryopreserved homografts are accepted as a management option for revascularisation of critical limb ischaemia in infected fields, cryopreserved peripheral vascular tissue is not currently available in Australia. We describe a 72-year-old man without autologous conduit in whom infected prosthetic grafts were explanted, causing critical limb ischaemia of a below knee stump. Fresh peripheral arterial tissue was procured via the Australian organ donation authority, DonateLife, and was used to revascularise the stump with an axillofemoral bypass. This permitted successful healing of the stump within 6 weeks and mobilisation with a prosthesis. This case illustrates that fresh arterial homografts are a viable bridging solution for revascularisation of limb ischaemia with infection. However, it also highlights the need to establish a peripheral homograft bank so that cryopreserved conduits are readily available for similar scenarios.Copyright 2015 BMJ Publishing Group. All rights reserved.

Calciphylaxis is a rare, potentially life-threatening syndrome of progressive cutaneous necrosis from calcium deposition. It is well described in uraemic diseases. However, its mechanism is poorly understood and information on non-uraemic causes is lacking. This is the first report of a biopsy-proven non-uraemic calciphylaxis in a nonagenarian.Copyright 2015 BMJ Publishing Group. All rights reserved.

Benign symmetrical lipomatosis (Madelung's disease) is a rare condition of unclear aetiology characterized by numerous, unencapsulated lipomatous deposits. The only effective treatment is by surgical intervention; however, there is no consensus in the optimal approach. We present the case of a patient who required staged, multi-modality treatment to achieve disease quiescence. The case highlights the usefulness of magnetic resonance imaging as a tool for assessment as well as preoperative planning.Copyright © 2015 World Obesity.

We present the case of a patient who died from multiple organ failure due to acute liver failure as a result of malignant hepatic infiltration by an adenocarcinoma. A review of the literature revealed that the clinical picture, laboratory examination, and imaging studies do not contribute to the diagnosis of this rare cause of liver failure. Therefore, liver biopsy should be considered early in the process, as this diagnosis is a contraindication for orthotopic liver transplantation.

Objective. External cephalic version (ECV) is a safe and effective intervention that can prevent breech delivery, thus reducing the need for cesarean delivery. It is recommended in national guidelines. These guidelines also mention contraindications for ECV, and thereby restrict the application of ECV. We assessed whether the formulation of these contraindications in guidelines are based on empiric data. Design. Systematic review. Population. Pregnant women with a singleton breech presentation from 34 weeks. Methods. We searched the National Guideline Clearinghouse, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE (1953-2009), EMBASE (1980-2009), TRIP database (until 2011), NHS (National Health Services, until 2011), Diseases database (until 2011) and NICE guidelines (until 2011) for existing guidelines on ECV and studied the reproducibility of the contraindications stated in the guidelines. Furthermore, we systematically reviewed the literature for contraindications and evidence on these contraindications. Main outcome measures. Contraindications of ECV. Results. We found five guidelines mentioning 18 contraindications, varying from five to 13 per guideline. The contraindications were not reproducible between the guidelines with oligohydramnios as the only contraindication mentioned in all guidelines. The literature search yielded 60 studies reporting on 39 different contraindications, of which we could only assess evidence of six of them. Conclusion. The present study shows that there is no general consensus on the eligibility of patients for ECV. Therefore we propose to limit contraindications for ECV to clear empirical evidence or to those with a clear pathophysiological relevance. © 2012 The Authors Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica © 2012 Nordic Federation of Societies of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Acute pulmonary embolism (PE) is a common condition frequently associated with a high mortality worldwide. It can be classified into non-massive, sub-massive and massive, based on the degree of haemodynamic compromise. Surgical pulmonary embolectomy, despite having been in existence for over 100 years, is generally regarded as an option of last resort, with expectedly high mortality rates. Recent advances in diagnosis and recognition of key qualitative predictors of mortality, such as right ventricular stress on echocardiography, have enabled the re-exploration of surgical pulmonary embolectomy for use in patients prior to the development of significant circulatory collapse, with promising results. We aim to review the literature and discuss the indications, perioperative workup and outcomes of surgical pulmonary embolectomy in the management of acute PE. © The Author 2012. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Journal of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

Acute pulmonary embolism (PE) is a common condition frequently associated with a high mortality worldwide. It can be classified into non-massive, sub-massive and massive, based on the degree of haemodynamic compromise. Surgical pulmonary embolectomy, despite having been in existence for over 100 years, is generally regarded as an option of last resort, with expectedly high mortality rates. Recent advances in diagnosis and recognition of key qualitative predictors of mortality, such as right ventricular stress on echocardiography, have enabled the re-exploration of surgical pulmonary embolectomy for use in patients prior to the development of significant circulatory collapse, with promising results. We aim to review the literature and discuss the indications, perioperative workup and outcomes of surgical pulmonary embolectomy in the management of acute PE. © The Author 2012. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Journal of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

The indications for hormone therapy (HT) have changed markedly since the 1980s; they now include the treatment of menopausal symptoms and the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in the short term. Long-term therapy is discouraged because of the small increase in risk of breast cancer after 5 years of therapy. Careful assessment of the midlife woman allows for individualized risk-benefit analysis with the formulation of a specific health management plan. Lifestyle advice and modification form the cornerstone of management-followed by therapeutic options if appropriate indications exist. In some industrialized countries alternative therapies are preferred despite little scientific evidence of their efficacy. The choices of hormonal products have increased, with the introduction of new formulations and routes of administration allowing for more optimal treatment of the menopause, especially in the presence of concurrent medical conditions, for example, diabetes, breast cancer or fibroids. © 2003 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.

Background: Patients on dialysis for end-stage renal failure (ESRF) are undergoing cardiac surgery with increasing frequency. Furthermore, ESRF is known to be an important risk factor for complications of cardiac operations performed with cardiopulmonary bypass. Aim(s): To evaluate the outcome of dialysis-dependent patients undergoing cardiac surgery at one institution. Method(s): A retrospective analysis was performed on consecutive patients with ESRF dependent upon maintenance haemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis who underwent cardiac surgery from January 1998 to August 2002. Result(s): Thirty-eight patients on dialysis underwent cardiac surgery during this time period (1.5% of total cases). The most common cause for ESRF was diabetic nephropathy (n = 12). Operations performed included isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG, n = 22), CABG and valve surgery (n = 8), and valve surgery alone (n = 6). When allowing for age, sex, surgeon and operative category, the odds ratio for mortality risk of dialysis patients, compared with all others, was 4.9 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.7-13.9, p = 0.003), and for morbidity risk, was 2.8 (95% CI: 1.4-5.4, p = 0.003). Conclusion(s): Patients on dialysis have an increased morbidity and mortality following cardiac surgery, however we believe ESRF should not be regarded as an absolute contraindication to cardiac surgery or cardiopulmonary bypass. © 2005 Australasian Society of Cardiac and Thoracic Surgeons and the Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The indications for hormone therapy (HT) have changed markedly since the 1980s; they now include the treatment of menopausal symptoms and the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in the short term. Long-term therapy is discouraged because of the small increase in risk of breast cancer after 5 years of therapy. Careful assessment of the midlife woman allows for individualized risk-benefit analysis with the formulation of a specific health management plan. Lifestyle advice and modification form the cornerstone of management-followed by therapeutic options if appropriate indications exist. In some industrialized countries alternative therapies are preferred despite little scientific evidence of their efficacy. The choices of hormonal products have increased, with the introduction of new formulations and routes of administration allowing for more optimal treatment of the menopause, especially in the presence of concurrent medical conditions, for example, diabetes, breast cancer or fibroids. © 2003 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.