Author: STITCHES Newsletter

Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy Improves Survival in Gastric Cancer Patients

Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) significantly improved overall survival and reduced recurrence rates in both prophylactic and therapeutic settings for peritoneal carcinomatosis of gastric origin. This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials highlights the efficacy of HIPEC as a safe and effective tool for prophylaxis and a promising resource for treatment, emphasizing the need for […]

Comparison of Stapled vs Handsewn Anastomosis and Anastomotic Leaks in Gastric Cancer Surgery

Results showed no significant association between stapled or handsewn anastomosis and anastomotic leaks in gastric cancer surgery. This population-based study included 2164 patients in Finland, with 21.8% having handsewn anastomosis and 78.2% having stapled anastomosis. Regardless of the type of gastrectomy, the choice of anastomotic technique did not impact the occurrence of leaks. Journal Article […]

Impact of Cannabis Use Disorder on Perioperative Outcomes in Cancer Surgery

Study finds no increased risk of morbidity or mortality in patients with Cannabis Use Disorder undergoing complex cancer surgery. While a slight uptick in postoperative kidney injury was observed, in-hospital mortality was slightly lower compared to non-users. After adjusting for other risk factors, Cannabis Use Disorder was not associated with higher morbidity and mortality rates. […]

Hemodynamic Deterioration During Trauma Patient Transfer

Among trauma patients transferred between hospitals, 10.1% experience hemodynamic deterioration (HDD), associated with moderate-severe injuries and mechanisms like motor vehicle collisions or gunshot wounds. HDD patients are more likely to require intensive care, surgery, or interventional radiology. Their mortality rate is higher (4.9%) compared to stable patients (2.1%). This underscores the importance of meticulous patient […]

Optimal Lymph Node Resection in IPMN-Derived Pancreatic Cancer

Optimal lymphadenectomy of ≥20 lymph nodes in IPMN-derived PDAC is associated with improved overall survival. A minimum of 10 lymph nodes is needed for accurate nodal staging. Specific optimal cut-offs were identified for different types of surgeries. Journal Article by Habib JR, Rompen IF (…) Daamen LA et 12 al. in Ann Surg Copyright © […]

Appendicoscopy Using Single Operator Cholangioscope: Effective Management of Acute Obstructive Appendicitis

Appendicoscopy had a technical success rate of 96.4% and a clinical success rate of 91.8% in diagnosing and treating acute obstructive appendicitis. The procedure time was brief at 20.9±10 minutes, with most patients experiencing pain relief within 6 hours. Hospital stays averaged 3.5±1.5 days, and there were no adverse events, demonstrating the feasibility and effectiveness […]

Extent of Resection and Long-Term Outcomes for Appendiceal Adenocarcinoma

Mucinous and non-mucinous appendiceal adenocarcinomas exhibit differences in recurrence rates and nodal positivity. Colectomy is associated with improved disease-specific survival for non-mucinous tumors at certain stages and grades, but not for mucinous tumors. This suggests that colectomy may not be necessary for mucinous appendiceal adenocarcinoma patients. Journal Article by Tsagkalidis V, Choe JK (…) Ecker […]

Mesenteric-based Surgery for Crohn’s Disease: Addressing Anastomotic Recurrence

Mesenteric-based surgery offers insights into postoperative anastomotic recurrence in Crohn’s disease. The mesenteric pole is implicated in recurrence after resection. However, the mesentery’s role remains debated. This review explores mesenteric changes, its proposed role in disease progression, and the potential of mesenteric-based surgery in managing Crohn’s disease surgically. Review by Duan M, Coffey JC and […]

Procalcitonin >0.5 ng/ml at Admission as a Risk Stratification Tool in Acute Left-Sided Colonic Diverticulitis

Procalcitonin >0.5 ng/ml at admission indicates increased risk for complicated diverticulitis, need for surgery, and mortality. It serves as a valuable tool for severity assessment and treatment decisions. The study enrolled 503 patients, revealing procalcitonin’s independent association with complicated diverticulitis, surgery, and mortality, underscoring its clinical relevance in guiding management strategies. Journal Article by Schena […]

Developing Tier-2 Emergency Medical Services in Low- and Middle-Income Countries

The study highlights the challenges and opportunities in developing formal, professional-driven emergency medical services (Tier-2 systems) in low- and middle-income countries. These systems, which include dedicated ambulances, personnel, and equipment, can significantly reduce mortality and disability due to emergency medical and surgical conditions. Challenges include limited coverage, financial constraints, regulatory issues, and workforce shortages, while […]