A game-changing tool has emerged in the world of colon surgery. Laparoscopic laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI) provides real-time, dye-free visualization of intestinal perfusion. This study, involving 64 patients, revealed LSCI’s potential to accurately image colonic perfusion without disrupting surgery. Operating surgeons found it easy to interpret, and 17% indicated it could change their anastomosis […]
Author: STITCHES Newsletter
The Lancet: Two Centuries of Impact on Medicine and Society
The Lancet, celebrating its 200th anniversary in 2023, reflects on its historical journey of shaping the medical landscape in the UK and globally. This survey explores how the journal has championed “the best science for better lives” through pioneering articles on medical advancements and healthcare organization. It also delves into the journal’s advocacy and campaigns […]
Surgery Timing for Low-Risk Thyroid Microcarcinoma: Immediate or Delayed?
A study explored the outcomes of treating low-risk papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) through immediate surgery (IOP) or delayed surgery after active surveillance (DOP). DOP was an alternative to immediate surgery. Among the 516 patients undergoing surgery, DOP patients had larger tumors, more lymphatic invasion, and multifocality. However, rates of complications didn’t significantly differ. Disease progression […]
Circumferential ESD Shows Promise in Barrett’s Neoplasia Treatment
In North America, where esophageal cancers often stem from Barrett’s esophagus, researchers are exploring the effectiveness of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for treatment. This study analyzed eleven patients who underwent 100% circumferential esophageal ESD. Impressively, all procedures were technically successful with clear margins in most cases, indicating the potential for ESD as an alternative to […]
Using Autofluorescence in Thyroidectomy: Impact on Parathyroid Hormone Levels Examined
This multicenter study investigated the use of autofluorescence, specifically the Fluobeam® LX device, in thyroid surgery. Researchers aimed to determine if it helps identify and protect parathyroid glands during total thyroidectomy, potentially reducing low parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels after surgery. Among 535 patients, autofluorescence didn’t significantly lower low PTH levels in the entire group, but […]
Centralization Key for Small Intestinal Neuroendocrine Tumor Surgery: CentralChirSINET Study
Centralizing surgical care, this study investigated small intestinal neuroendocrine tumor (SI-NET) resections’ outcomes based on procedure volume. High-volume centers (HVCs) performed over five SI-NET resections annually, while low-volume centers (LVCs) did fewer. HVCs showcased better surgical quality, with more lymph nodes resected, advanced techniques, and higher success rates. Optimal SI-NET resection was prevalent in HVCs, […]
Endoscopic Retrograde Appendicitis Therapy vs. Surgery or Antibiotics: Balancing Act for Appendicitis Treatment
In the debate over how to treat appendicitis, a systematic review compared endoscopic retrograde appendicitis therapy (ERAT) with surgery and antibiotics. While ERAT resulted in shorter procedural times and hospital stays, it posed a higher risk of appendicitis recurrence at one year. The study found no significant differences in technical success during the initial admission. […]
High-Volume Endocrine Surgeons Achieve Cost-Effective Thyroid Surgery
A study exploring healthcare cost-efficiency in thyroid surgeries found that high-volume endocrine surgeons, performing over 50 cases annually, managed thyroidectomies at significantly lower costs compared to their low-volume counterparts. The cost reduction was even more pronounced when cases were categorized by relative value units, demonstrating that experienced surgeons can deliver cost-effective care without compromising quality. […]
Robotic Surgery May Reduce Complications for Minority Patients in Colon Cancer Resection
In a study analyzing over 64,000 patients undergoing elective colon cancer resection, it was found that robotic colectomy led to fewer complications in minority patients compared to laparoscopic colectomy. After adjusting for various factors, there were no significant differences in mortality based on surgical approach or race. However, Black patients who had laparoscopic surgery experienced […]
Referrals to Non-Surgical Providers Delay Treatment for Cholelithiasis and Cholecystitis
Researchers investigated if referrals to non-surgical providers, following the initial presentation of symptomatic cholelithiasis, lead to delays in surgical management. Their study included 482 patients who had cholecystectomies from 2015 to 2019. Among these patients, 61.2% received direct surgical referrals, while 38.8% were referred to non-surgical providers. The latter group experienced significantly longer delays from […]