In a multicenter randomized trial, researchers investigated the impact of lymphatic venous anastomosis (LVA) on cellulitis prevention in lower extremity lymphoedema. Patients undergoing LVA with non-operative decongestive therapy showed a significant reduction in cellulitis frequency over 6 months compared to those receiving only non-operative decongestive therapy. Limb circumference and pain did not significantly differ, but […]

Navigating change in a large healthcare entity, like a major surgical department, poses challenges. This study emphasizes aligning projects with institutional and departmental strategic plans. Key steps involve defining missions, setting short- and long-term goals, resource analysis, and understanding expectations. Careful project design is crucial for successful implementation. The study explores considerations and challenges in […]

Examining 877,430 patients, this retrospective cohort study discerns that undergoing surgery within 11.3 months of a prior cardiovascular event escalates 30-day postoperative mortality risk. Subgroup analyses reveal specific intervals for elective (14.2 months) and emergency surgery (7.3 months). While stroke and myocardial infarction exhibit similar risk intervals, absolute risk is higher following a stroke. Clinicians […]

A survey of 622 US academic surgeons, trainees, and medical students revealed concerning mental health issues. About 26.1% reported a prior mental health diagnosis, with 15.9% screening positive for depression, 18.4% for anxiety, 11.0% for alcohol use disorder, and 17.3% for PTSD. Those with a history of mental health disorders, depression, or PTSD had increased […]

In exploring the perspectives of 22 experienced medical interpreters, the study unveiled key elements for improving surgical informed consent discussions, especially for patients with limited English proficiency. Interpreters emphasized their roles as patient advocates and cultural brokers, revealing patient attributes that influence discussions based on cultural values. Recommendations included surgeons demonstrating compassion, using simple language, […]

Examining 131 randomized placebo-controlled surgical trials, a systematic review revealed a scarcity of published pilot or feasibility studies to inform the design and execution of these challenging trials. Only four studies, focused on orthopedic and oral/maxillofacial surgery, conducted true pilot work. With a dearth of reported feasibility efforts, the study underscores the necessity for more […]

Analyzing tissue expander breast reconstruction cases (n=1986), researchers offered practical insights into regression modeling in surgical oncology. For breast-Q physical well-being, linear regression identified age, marital status, and dissection type as significant factors. Logistic regression for complications found BMI, age, bilateral reconstruction, and dissection type impactful. The study provides focused directives, urging researchers to judiciously […]

Analyzing 495,628 patients undergoing complex cancer surgery, researchers found that sex discordance between surgeons and patients (51.2%) was linked to a decreased likelihood of achieving optimal postoperative outcomes. Such discordance correlated with higher risks of complications and 90-day mortality. Intriguingly, male patients treated by female surgeons exhibited outcomes comparable to female patients treated by male […]

The Process 2023 Guidelines, aimed at improving reporting quality in surgical case series, underwent updates through collaboration and a Delphi consensus exercise. Involving a steering group and expert panel, the majority of proposed changes received consensus, leading to the presentation of updated guidelines. Notably, items 3c and 6a, lacking consensus, remain unchanged. With participation from […]