Postoperative Bleeding (postoperative + bleeding)

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Distribution within Medical Sciences


Selected Abstracts


CURRENT STATUS IN THE OCCURRENCE OF POSTOPERATIVE BLEEDING, PERFORATION AND RESIDUAL/LOCAL RECURRENCE DURING COLONOSCOPIC TREATMENT IN JAPAN

DIGESTIVE ENDOSCOPY, Issue 4 2010
Shiro Oka
Bleeding, perforation, and residual/local recurrence are the main complications associated with colonoscopic treatment of colorectal tumor. However, current status regarding the average incidence of these complications in Japan is not available. We conducted a questionnaire survey, prepared by the Colorectal Endoscopic Resection Standardization Implementation Working Group, Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum (JSCCR), to clarify the incidence of postoperative bleeding, perforation, and residual/local recurrence associated with colonoscopic treatment. The total incidence of postoperative bleeding was 1.2% and the incidence was 0.26% with hot biopsy, 1.3% with polypectomy, 1.4% with endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), and 1.7% with endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). The total incidence of perforation was 0.74% (0.01% with the hot biopsy, 0.17% with polypectomy, 0.91% with EMR, and 3.3% with ESD). The total incidence of residual/local recurrence was 0.73% (0.007% with hot biopsy, 0.34% with polypectomy, 1.4% with EMR, and 2.3% with ESD). Colonoscopic examination was used as a surveillance method for detecting residual/local recurrence in all hospitals. The surveillance period differed among the hospitals; however, most of the hospitals reported a surveillance period of 3,6 months with mainly transabdominal ultrasonography and computed tomography in combination with the colonoscopic examination. [source]


Hydrophilic Polymers with Potassium Salt and Microporous Polysaccharides for Use as Hemostatic Agents

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 12 2007
JULIA HO MD
BACKGROUND Postoperative bleeding can lead to complications such as hematoma, infection, dehiscence, and an unscheduled office visit. Topical hemostatic agents can be used to aid in hemostasis. OBJECTIVE The objective is to familiarize physicians with topical hemostatic agents,hydrophilic polymers with potassium salts (Urgent QR powder) and microporous polysaccharide hemispheres (Bleed-X). METHODS Two hemostatic agents, microporous polysaccharide hemospheres and hydrophilic polymers with potassium salt, are discussed. The literature is reviewed. RESULTS Numerous types of hemostatic agents exist. Topical hemostatic agents are safe, cost-effective, and efficient. CONCLUSION Microporous polysaccharide hemospheres and hydrophilic polymers with potassium salts can be an adjunct to hemostasis after cautery and ligation. Patients can apply hemostatic agents if they experience any bleeding leading to decreased office visits. Hemostatic agents used intraoperatively shorten bleeding time and enable the physician to use less cautery. Using hemostatic agents can lead to fewer hematomas, infections, and office visits. [source]


Recombinant factor VIIa (NovoSeven®) as a hemostatic agent after surgery for congenital heart disease

PEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 3 2005
YARON RAZON MD
Summary Background :,Postoperative bleeding and blood product requirements can be substantial in children undergoing open-heart surgery, and reexploration is required in 1% of cases. Recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa, NovoSeven®, NovoNordisk, Denmark) is a hemostatic agent approved for the treatment of hemophilic patients with inhibitors to factor VIII or factor IX. It has also been used with success in other conditions. We present our experience with rFVIIa treatment for uncontrolled bleeding after open-heart surgery in five pediatric patients. Methods :,The study group consisted of five patients after open-heart surgery with excessive blood loss. The patients were treated with rFVIIa after failure of conventional treatment to control the bleeding. Blood loss, blood product consumption, and coagulation test results were recorded before and after rFVIIa administration. Results :,In all cases, blood loss decreased considerably after rFVIIa administration (mean 7.8 ml·kg,1·h,1), almost eliminating the need for additional blood products, and the prolonged prothrombin time normalized. In two patients with thrombocytopathy, rFVIIa helped to discriminate surgical bleeding from bleeding caused by a defect in hemostasis. No side effects of rFVIIa treatment were noted. Conclusions :,These cases support the impression that RFVIIa is efficient and safe in correcting hemostasis in children after cardiopulmonary bypass when other means fail. However, the data are still limited, and more extensive research is needed. [source]


Haemostasis after cold-knife conisation: A randomised prospective trial comparing cerclage suture versus electro-cauterisation

AUSTRALIAN AND NEW ZEALAND JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY, Issue 3 2008
Cem DANE
Aims: The purpose of this study was to compare two different techniques of obtaining haemostasis after cold-knife conisation. Methods: Seventy-eight women who required conisation for treatment of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia were prospectively enrolled in a randomised clinical trial to receive either cerclage with cold-knife conisation or cautery with cold-knife conisation. Outcome measures evaluated include estimated blood loss, operative time, early late haemorrhage and dysmenorrhoea. The short- and long-term morbidity was compared, and a six-month follow up was completed. Results: The procedure-related complication rate was 16.7% in the cautery group, compared with 7.0% in the suture group (P < 0.05). The cerclage group had significantly shorter operative time and intraoperative blood loss than the cautery group (P < 0.05). Postoperative bleeding and dysmenorrhoea were observed in eight (10.2%), and 14 cases (17.9%), in cerclage and cautery group, respectively. Three cases (3.8%) had postoperative infections and were cured with oral antibiotics. Conclusions: These results suggest that cerclage suturing technique provided excellent haemostasis and restoration of normal cervical anatomy. Cerclage suture of the cone bed is superior to only cauterisation as a method of achieving haemostasis, with significantly less blood loss and shorter operative time. [source]


CURRENT STATUS IN THE OCCURRENCE OF POSTOPERATIVE BLEEDING, PERFORATION AND RESIDUAL/LOCAL RECURRENCE DURING COLONOSCOPIC TREATMENT IN JAPAN

DIGESTIVE ENDOSCOPY, Issue 4 2010
Shiro Oka
Bleeding, perforation, and residual/local recurrence are the main complications associated with colonoscopic treatment of colorectal tumor. However, current status regarding the average incidence of these complications in Japan is not available. We conducted a questionnaire survey, prepared by the Colorectal Endoscopic Resection Standardization Implementation Working Group, Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum (JSCCR), to clarify the incidence of postoperative bleeding, perforation, and residual/local recurrence associated with colonoscopic treatment. The total incidence of postoperative bleeding was 1.2% and the incidence was 0.26% with hot biopsy, 1.3% with polypectomy, 1.4% with endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), and 1.7% with endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). The total incidence of perforation was 0.74% (0.01% with the hot biopsy, 0.17% with polypectomy, 0.91% with EMR, and 3.3% with ESD). The total incidence of residual/local recurrence was 0.73% (0.007% with hot biopsy, 0.34% with polypectomy, 1.4% with EMR, and 2.3% with ESD). Colonoscopic examination was used as a surveillance method for detecting residual/local recurrence in all hospitals. The surveillance period differed among the hospitals; however, most of the hospitals reported a surveillance period of 3,6 months with mainly transabdominal ultrasonography and computed tomography in combination with the colonoscopic examination. [source]


The role of selective angiographic embolization of the musculo-skeletal system in haemophilia

HAEMOPHILIA, Issue 4 2009
E. C. RODRIGUEZ-MERCHAN
Summary., The incidence of haemarthrosis as a result of a spontaneous periarticular aneurysm in haemophilia is very low. In these circumstances, angiographic embolization might be considered as a promising therapeutic and coagulation factor saving option in joint bleeds not responding to replacement of coagulation factor to normal levels. Moreover, embolization should be considered as a possible treatment for postoperative pseudoaneurysms complicating total knee arthroplasty in haemophilia. However, the pathological process of aneurysmal bleeding and clotting factor replacement is entirely different. While embolization is the treatment of choice for some periarticular complications that may occur, it is by no means a panacea for all resistant periarticular bleeds in haemophilia or for postoperative bleeding which usually settles with clotting factor replacement. Another use of arterial embolization is for the treatment of haemophilic tumours of the pelvis, because they can act as a focus for infection and cause cutaneous fistulas. When they present perforations and infections of endogenous origin, their course is usually fatal. Suitable treatment has been investigated on numerous occasions, most of the literature agreeing that the only curative treatment is surgical resection. However, surgical resection after performing arterial embolization to reduce the vascularization of the pseudotumour is a good alternative, thereby reducing the size of the pseudotumour and the risk of bleeding complications during surgery. It is important to bear in mind that despite its efficacy, arterial embolization is an invasive procedure with a reported rate of complications up to 25% (16% minor, 7% serious, 2% death). [source]


Complications of hysterectomy in women with von Willebrand disease

HAEMOPHILIA, Issue 4 2009
A. H. JAMES
Summary., Case reports and small case series suggest that women with von Willebrand disease (VWD) are at a very high risk of bleeding complications with hysterectomy. As the procedure may be beneficial to women who suffer from heavy menstrual bleeding and have completed childbearing, an understanding of the true risks involved is essential for appropriate decision making. To estimate the incidence of bleeding and other complications in women with VWD who undergo hysterectomy. The United States Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality for the years 1988,2004 was queried for all hysterectomies for non-malignant conditions. Data were analysed based on the NIS sampling design. Bivariate analyses were used to examine the differences between women with and without VWD. Multivariate analysis was used to adjust for potential confounders among women who underwent hysterectomy for heavy menstrual bleeding. 545 of the 1 358 133 hysterectomies were to women with VWD. Women with VWD were significantly more likely to experience intraoperative and postoperative bleeding (2.75% vs. 0.89%, P < 0.001) and require transfusion (7.34% vs. 2.13%, P < 0.001) than women without VWD. One woman with VWD died. While the risk of bleeding complications from hysterectomy in women with VWD is smaller than previously reported, women with VWD did experience significantly more bleeding complications than women without VWD. Nonetheless, for women who have completed childbearing, the risks of hysterectomy may be acceptable. [source]


Omental free flap reconstruction in complex head and neck deformities,

HEAD & NECK: JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENCES & SPECIALTIES OF THE HEAD AND NECK, Issue 4 2002
Albert Losken MD
Abstract Background Microvascular free flaps continue to revolutionize coverage options in head and neck reconstruction. This article reviews our 25-year experience with omental free tissue transfers. Methods All patients who underwent free omental transfer to the head and neck region were reviewed. Results Fifty-five patients were included with omental transfers to the scalp (25%), craniofacial (62%), and neck (13%) region. Indications were tumor resections, burn wound, hemifacial atrophy, trauma, and moyamoya disease. Average follow-up was 3.1 years (range, 2 months,13 years). Donor site morbidities included abdominal wound infection, gastric outlet obstruction, and postoperative bleeding. Recipient site morbidities included partial flap loss in four patients (7%) total flap loss in two patients (3.6%), and three hematomas. Conclusions The omental free flap has acceptable abdominal morbidity and provides sufficient soft tissue coverage with a 96.4% survival. The thickness \and versatility of omentum provide sufficient contour molding for craniofacial reconstruction. It is an attractive alternative for reconstruction of large scalp defects and badly irradiated tissue. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 24: 326,331, 2002; DOI 10.1002/hed.10082 [source]


Factors affecting outcome in liver resection

HPB, Issue 3 2005
CEDRIC S. F. LORENZO
Abstract Background. Studies demonstrate an inverse relationship between institution/surgeon procedural volumes and patient outcomes. Similar studies exist for liver resections, which recommend referral of patients for liver resections to ,high-volume' centers. These studies did not elucidate the factors that underlie such outcomes. We believe there exists a complex interaction of patient-related and perioperative factors that determine patient outcomes after liver resection. We sought to delineate these factors. Methods. Retrospective review of 114 liver resections by a single surgeon from 1993,2003: Records were reviewed for demographics; diagnosis; type/year of surgery; American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score; preoperative albumin, creatinine, and bilirubin; operative time; intraoperative blood transfusions; epidural use; and intraoperative hypotension. Main outcome measurements were postoperative morbidities, mortalities and length of stay (LOS). Data were analyzed using a multivariate linear regression model (SPSS v10.1 statistical analysis program). Results. Primary indications for resections were hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) (N=57), metastatic colorectal cancer (N=25), and benign disease (N=18). There were no intraoperative mortalities and 4 perioperative (30-day) mortalities (3.5%). Mortality occurred in patients with malignancies who were older than 50 years. Morbidity was higher in malignant (15.6%) versus benign (5.5%) disease. Complications included bile leak/stricture (N=6), liver insufficiency (N=3), postoperative bleeding (N=2), myocardial infarction (N=2), aspiration pneumonia (N=1), renal insufficiency (N=1), and cancer implantation into the wound (N=1). Average LOS for all resections was 8.6 days. Longer operative time (p=0.04), lower albumin (p<0.001), higher ASA score (p<0.001), no epidural use (p=0.04), and higher creatinine (p<0.001) all correlated positively with longer LOS. ASA score and creatinine were the strongest predictors of LOS. LOS was not affected by patient age, sex, diagnosis, presence of malignancy, intraoperative transfusion requirements, intraoperative hypotension, preoperative bilirubin, case volume per year or year of surgery. Conclusions. Liver resections can be performed with low mortality/morbidity and with acceptable LOS by an experienced liver surgeon. Outcome as measured by LOS is most influenced by patient comorbidities entering into surgery. Annual case volume did not influence LOS and had no impact on patient safety. Length of stay may not reflect surgeon/institution performance, as LOS is multifactorial and likely related to patient population, patient selection and increased high-risk cases with a surgeon's experience. [source]


Perioperative Results of the Aortic Root Replacement in Strict Graft Inclusion Technique

JOURNAL OF CARDIAC SURGERY, Issue 5 2008
Niyazi Cebi M.D.
Therefore, the strict graft inclusion technique has been developed to avoid major complications. We present the early results after aortic root replacement in strict graft inclusion technique. Materials and Methods: The strict graft inclusion technique was performed in 28 patients between April 2001 and June 2006 in St-Johannes-Hospital-Dortmund, Dortmund, Germany. There were nine female and 19 male patients. The mean age was 57.78 ± 12.01 years (28 to 77 years). A type A aortic dissection and an ascending aortic aneurysm with aortic valve lesion were the indication to operation in patients. Results: There were no early mortality and postoperative rethoracotomy. The mean postoperative bleeding over mediastinal drains was 565 ± 310 mL. (100,2250 mL). In exception of the patients with preoperative double thrombocyte aggregation inhibitors therapy and postoperative consumption coagulopathy, the mean postoperative bleeding over mediastinal drain was 443.04 ± 171.59 mL (100,1100) in the first 24 hours, the transfusion rate was minimal, mean 0.39 ± 0.64 packed red blood cells (RBC) (0,4) and mean 0.14 ± 0.27 packed fresh frozen plasma (FFP) (0,4), whereas only in 18 patients (78.26%) out of 23 patients was a transfusion not necessary. The intraoperative and postoperative requirement for substitution of erythrocyte concentrate was mean 1 ± 1.28 packed RBC (0,5) and FFP concentrate was mean 1.21 ± 1.90 packed FFP (0,12). Conclusions: The strict graft inclusion technique for aortic root replacement represents a safe and feasible method to avoid bleeding from coronary ostial anastomoses, from aortic annular suture lines, and annular leak. [source]


Oral, direct Factor Xa inhibition with BAY 59-7939 for the prevention of venous thromboembolism after total hip replacement

JOURNAL OF THROMBOSIS AND HAEMOSTASIS, Issue 1 2006
B. I. ERIKSSON
Summary.,Background:,Joint replacement surgery is an appropriate model for dose-ranging studies investigating new anticoagulants. Objectives:,To assess the efficacy and safety of a novel, oral, direct factor Xa (FXa) inhibitor , BAY 59-7939 , relative to enoxaparin in patients undergoing elective total hip replacement. Methods:,In this double-blind, double-dummy, dose-ranging study, patients were randomized to oral BAY 59-7939 (2.5, 5, 10, 20, or 30 mg b.i.d.), starting 6,8 h after surgery, or s.c. enoxaparin 40 mg once daily, starting on the evening before surgery. Treatment was continued until mandatory bilateral venography was performed 5,9 days after surgery. Results:,Of 706 patients treated, 548 were eligible for the primary efficacy analysis. The primary efficacy endpoint was the incidence of any deep vein thrombosis, non-fatal pulmonary embolism, and all-cause mortality; rates were 15%, 14%, 12%, 18%, and 7% for BAY 59-7939 2.5, 5, 10, 20, and 30 mg b.i.d., respectively, compared with 17% for enoxaparin. The primary efficacy analysis did not demonstrate any significant trend in dose,response relationship for BAY 59-7939. The primary safety endpoint was major, postoperative bleeding; there was a significant increase in the frequency of events with increasing doses of BAY 59-7939 (P = 0.045), but no significant differences between individual BAY 59-7939 doses and enoxaparin. Conclusions:,When efficacy and safety were considered together, the oral, direct FXa inhibitor BAY 59-7939, at 2.5,10 mg b.i.d., compared favorably with enoxaparin for the prevention of venous thromboembolism in patients undergoing elective total hip replacement. [source]


Aprotinin and renal dysfunction after pediatric cardiac surgery

PEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 2 2008
ANDREA SZÉKELY MD PhD
Summary Background:, Aprotinin is a potent antifibrinolytic drug, which reduces postoperative bleeding and transfusion requirements. Recently, two observational studies reported increased incidence of renal dysfunction after aprotinin use in adults. Therefore, the aim of the study was to investigate the safety of aprotinin use in pediatric cardiac surgery patients. Methods:, Data were prospectively and consecutively collected from 657 pediatric patients undergoing cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). The database was assessed with regard to a possible relationship between aprotinin administration and dialysis and between aprotinin and postoperative renal dysfunction [defined as 25% decrease in the creatinine clearance (Ccr) compared with the preoperative value] by propensity-score adjustment and multivariable methods. Results:, The incidence of dialysis (9.6% vs 4.1%; P = 0.005) and renal dysfunction (26.3% vs 16.1%; P = 0.019) was higher in patients who received aprotinin; however, propensity adjusted risk ratios were not significant [odds ratio (OR) of dialysis: 1.22; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.46,3.22; OR of renal dysfunction 1.26; 95% CI: 0.66,1.92]. Aprotinin significantly reduced blood loss in the first postoperative 24 h. The main contributors of renal dysfunction were CPB duration, cumulative inotropic support, age, preoperative Ccr, amount of transfusion and pulmonary hypertension. Conclusions:, Despite the higher incidences of renal dysfunction and failure in the aprotinin group, an independent role of the drug in the development of renal dysfunction or dialysis could not be demonstrated in pediatric cardiac patients undergoing CPB. [source]


Which may be effective to reduce blood loss after cardiac operations in cyanotic children: tranexamic acid, aprotinin or a combination?

PEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 1 2005
FÜSUN S. BULUTCU MD
Summary Background:, Children with cyanotic heart disease undergoing cardiac surgery in which cardiopulmonary bypass is used are at increased risk of postoperative bleeding. In this study, the authors investigated the possibility of reducing postoperative blood loss by using aprotinin and tranexamic acid alone or a combination of these two agents. Methods:, In a prospective, randomized, blind study, 100 children undergoing cardiac surgery were investigated. In group 1 (n = 25) patients acted as the control and did not receive either study drugs. In group 2 (n = 25) patients received aprotinin (30.000 KIU·kg,1 after induction of anesthesia, 30.000 KIU·kg,1 in the pump prime and 30.000 KIU·kg,1 after weaning from bypass). In group 3 (n = 25) patients received tranexamic acid (100 mg·kg,1 after induction of anesthesia, 100 mg·kg,1 in the pump prime and 100 mg·kg,1 after weaning from bypass). In group 4 (n = 25) patients received a combination of the two agents in the same manner. Total blood loss and transfusion requirements during the period from protamine administration until 24 h after admission to the intensive care unit were recorded. In addition, hemoglobin, platelet counts and coagulation studies were recorded. Results:, Postoperative blood loss was significantly higher in the control group (group 1) compared with children in other groups who were treated with aprotinin, tranexamic acid or a combination of the two agents (groups 2, 3 and 4) during the first 24 h after admission to cardiac intensive care unit (40 ± 18 ml·kg,1·24 h,1, aprotinin; 35 ± 16 ml·kg,1·24 h,1, tranexamic acid; 34 ± 19 ml·kg,1·24 h,1, combination; 35 ± 15 ml·kg,1·24 h,1). The total transfusion requirements were also significantly less in the all treatment groups. Time taken for sternal closure was longer in the control group (68 ± 11 min) compared with treatment groups 2, 3 and 4, respectively (40 ± 18, 42 ± 11, 42 ± 13 min, P < 0.05). The coagulation parameters were not found to be significantly different between the three groups. Conclusions:, Our results suggested that both agents were effective to reduce postoperative blood loss and transfusion requirements in patients with cyanotic congenital heart disease. However, the combination of aprotinin and tranexamic acid did not seem more effective than either of the two drugs alone. [source]


Successful management of bleeding with recombinant factor VIIa (NovoSeven®) in a patient with Burkitt lymphoma and thrombosis of the left femoral and left common iliac veins

PEDIATRIC BLOOD & CANCER, Issue 3 2007

Abstract We present the case of an 18-year-old female with Burkitt lymphoma involving the intra-abdominal and inguinal lymph nodes. The tumor had invaded the left femoral and common iliac veins causing secondary thrombosis and vessel occlusion. Chemotherapy and anticoagulant treatment resulted in mild thrombocytopenia and a prolonged prothrombin time, respectively, which exacerbated postoperative bleeding following surgical removal of a deep inguinal necrosis. After 6 days, bleeding combined with epistaxis was considered to be life threatening and anticoagulant reversal with recombinant factor VIIa was successfully performed. The patient has since achieved complete remission and subsequent antithrombotic therapy has resolved the vascular occlusion. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2007;49:332,335. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]


Living Donor Liver Transplantation for Biliary Atresia: A Single-Center Experience with First 100 Cases

AMERICAN JOURNAL OF TRANSPLANTATION, Issue 11 2006
C.-L. Chen
The aim of this study is to present our institutional experience in living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) as a treatment for end-stage liver disease in children with biliary atresia (BA). A retrospective review of transplant records was performed. One hundred BA patients (52 males and 48 females) underwent LDLT. The mean follow-up period was 85.5 months. The mean age was 2.4 years. The mean preoperative weight, height, and computed GFR were 12.2 kg, 82.5 cm, and 116.4 ml/min/1.73 m2, respectively. Twenty-seven patients were below 1 year of age, and 49 patients were below 10 kg at the time of transplantation. Ninety-six had had previous Kasai operation prior to transplant. The mean recipient operative time was 628 min. The mean recipient intraoperative blood loss was 176 ml. Thirty-five did not require blood or blood component transfusion. The left lateral segment (64) was the most common type of graft used. There were 27 operative complications which included 3 reoperations for postoperative bleeding, 9 portal vein, 4 hepatic vein, 4 hepatic artery, and 7 biliary complications. There was one in-hospital mortality and one retransplantation. The overall rejection rate was 20%. The overall mortality rate was 3%. The 6-month, 1-year and 5-year actual recipient survival rates were 99%, 98% and 98%, respectively. [source]


Management of hyperfunctioning single thyroid nodules in the era of minimally invasive thyroid surgery

ANZ JOURNAL OF SURGERY, Issue 5 2009
Charles Tan
Both surgical excision and radioiodine ablation are effective modalities in the management of hyperfunctioning thyroid nodules. Minimally invasive thyroid surgery (MITS) using the lateral mini-incision approach has previously been demonstrated to be a safe and effective technique for thyroid lobectomy. As such MITS may offer advantages as a surgical approach to hyperfunctioning thyroid nodules without the need for a long cervical incision or extensive dissection associated with formal open hemithyroidectomy. The aim of the present study was to assess the safety and efficacy of MITS for the treatment of hyperfunctioning thyroid nodules. This is a retrospective case study. Data were obtained from the University of Sydney Endocrine Surgical Unit Database from 2002 to 2007. There were 86 cases of hyperfunctioning thyroid nodules surgically removed during the study period, of which 10 (12%) were managed using the MITS approach. The ipsilateral recurrent laryngeal nerve was identified and preserved in all cases with no incidence of temporary or permanent nerve palsy. The external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve was visualized and preserved in eight cases (80%). There were no cases of postoperative bleeding. There was one clinically significant follicular thyroid carcinoma in the series (10%). In nine of 10 cases (90%) normalization of thyroid function followed surgery. MITS is a safe and effective procedure, achieving the benefits of a minimally invasive procedure with minimal morbidity. As such it now presents an attractive alternative to radioiodine ablation for the management of small hyperfunctioning thyroid nodules. [source]


Clopidogrel: mechanisms of action and review of the evidence relating to use during skin surgery procedures

CLINICAL & EXPERIMENTAL DERMATOLOGY, Issue 4 2010
L. C. Stewart
Summary Patients who have skin surgery may be taking medication that increases the likelihood of bleeding, such as clopidogrel, aspirin, warfarin, heparin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). All of these may increase the risk of perioperative and postoperative bleeding. This article examines the mechanism of action of clopidogrel, current practice, and evidence for or against continuing its use during skin surgery. The mechanisms of action of aspirin, warfarin, heparin and NSAIDS will also be briefly discussed. [source]


Teenage and adult tonsillectomy: dose,response relationship between diathermy energy used and morbidity

CLINICAL OTOLARYNGOLOGY, Issue 5 2007
A.A.J. Cardozo
Objective:, To determine whether an increase in the use of bipolar diathermy energy to perform a tonsillectomy is associated with an increase in postoperative pain and haemorrhage. Study design:, Prospective study. Setting:, District General Hospital. Methods:, In all, 101 patients above the age of 13 years who underwent a tonsillectomy that involved the use of bipolar diathermy during the study period were included. The cumulative amount of diathermy energy used to perform each tonsillectomy was calculated with the help of a digital stop clock timing device connected to the diathermy foot-pedal. Main outcome measures:, Postoperative pain scores and the incidence of secondary haemorrhage were recorded for each patient at four points in time following surgery, up to the tenth postoperative day. The haemorrhage rates were categorised into three groups (no bleeding, minor bleeding and major bleeding) according to severity. Associations between the diathermy energy used to perform each tonsillectomy and the corresponding postoperative pain scores and secondary bleeding rates were investigated. Results:, There was a statistically significant positive relationship between the total amount of bipolar diathermy energy used per tonsillectomy and the pain scores at all the four recorded points in time (rs = 0.44,0.72, P < 0.001). When the median energy consumption in the three groups (no bleeding, minor bleeding and major bleeding) were compared using the Kruskal,Wallis test, we found that there was limited evidence of a difference between the groups, but this was not statistically significant at the 5% level [H (2) = 5.374, P = 0.065, 99% CI 0.058,0.071]. Conclusions:, Increased use of bipolar diathermy during the performance of a tonsillectomy is associated with a statistically significant increased amount of postoperative pain. The dose,response relationship between diathermy energy and postoperative bleeding is less clear. This suggests that there could be other important factors such as surgical instrument characteristics and degree of tonsillar adherence that have an additional influence and are therefore possible areas for future research. [source]


Doppler guided haemorrhoidal arterial ligation with recto-anal-repair (RAR) for the treatment of advanced haemorrhoidal disease

COLORECTAL DISEASE, Issue 10Online 2010
P. Walega
Abstract Objective, A modification of Doppler guided haemorrhoidal artery ligation (DGHAL) to include the addition of recto-anal repair is reported. Preliminary results of function and safety of third and fourth degree haemorrhoidals are given. Method, Thirty patients underwent DGHAL combined with recto-anal-repair (RAR). Each had rectal examination, anorectal manometry and Quality of Life assessment before and 3 months after the procedure. Results, Twenty-nine patients were included in the final analysis. There were three (10.34%) patients of intra-operative and one (3.45%) of postoperative bleeding. Three months after RAR (17.24%) patients with minor residual mucosal prolapse were detected, three (10.34%) patients reported residual symptoms. There was no case of recurrent bleeding. Anal manometry at 3 months after RAR was significantly lower than before the procedure (P < 0.05). One (3.45%) patient reported occasional soiling 3 months after RAR. Conclusion, Recto-anal-repair is safe in treating third and fourth degree haemorrhoids with no major complications and low rate of residual disease. [source]


Day case stapled haemorrhoidopexy for prolapsing haemorrhoids

COLORECTAL DISEASE, Issue 1 2006
G. C. Beattie
Abstract Objective, Conventional surgical management of prolapsing haemorrhoids is by excisional haemorrhoidectomy. Postoperative pain has restricted the application of such procedures in the day case setting. These operations remain associated with a period of restricted activity. The use of circular stapling devices as an alternative to the excisional approach in the management of haemorrhoids has been described. This study reports our experience of stapled haemorrhoidopexy as a day case procedure. Methods, Patients with third or fourth degree haemorrhoids were eligible for the procedure. Patients were considered suitable candidates for day case surgery based on conventional parameters. Symptoms were assessed using a previously validated symptom severity rating score. Stapled haemorrhoidopexy was carried out using a circular stapling device. Pain scores were obtained prior to discharge. Patients were admitted if pain was uncontrolled despite oral analgesia. Symptoms were re-scored at six-week follow-up. Results, Over a 70-month period 168 consecutive stapled haemorrhoidopexies were performed or directly supervised by one consultant colorectal surgeon. One hundred and ten (65%) patients were considered appropriate candidates for day case surgery by conventional criteria. Ninety-six (87.3%) patients successfully underwent stapled haemorrhoidopexy on a day case basis. Fourteen (12.7%) patients required admission on the day of surgery (5 for early postoperative bleeding, 4 for pain necessitating continuing opiate analgesia, two for urinary retention and three for surgery performed late in the day). Six (5%) patients were re-admitted postoperatively; four for pain relief and two because of urinary retention. Of the day case patients, 91 (82.7%) and 56 (50.9%) had been seen for 6 week and 6 month review, respectively, at the time of analysis. Symptom scores were 6 (pre-operatively) vs 0 (postoperatively) (P < 0.01). 76/91 (83.5%) patients reviewed at 6/52 were asymptomatic. Conclusion, Stapled haemorrhoidopexy is a safe and effective procedure that can be carried out on selected patients on a day case basis. Complications are of a similar nature to excisional haemorrhoidectomy. [source]


Etomidate and thiopental inhibit platelet function in patients undergoing infrainguinal vascular surgery

ACTA ANAESTHESIOLOGICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 4 2001
A. Gries
Background: Postoperative platelet hyperaggregability following general anesthesia has been reported in patients undergoing major vascular surgery. In contrast, since anesthetic agents inhibited platelet function both in vitro and in vivo, an increased risk for postoperative bleedings due to prolonged platelet dysfunction has been discussed. Nevertheless, data describing platelet-affecting properties of induction agents such as etomidate and thiopental in patients undergoing major vascular surgery are lacking. Methods: Platelet function was determined at 0, 2, 20, and 200 ,g/ml thiopental and at 0, 0.2, 2, 20 ,g/ml etomidate in vitro in blood samples drawn from 16 patients suffering from severe occlusive arterial disease. In addition, 30 patients undergoing vascular surgery were investigated before (PRE) and after anesthesia induction (T0) either with etomidate (ETO group, n=16) or thiopental (THIO group, n=14), and 2 h after the beginning of surgery (T2). Platelet function was determined according to platelet aggregation, in vitro bleeding time, and flow cytometric measurements. Results:In vitro, P-selectin expression was inhibited by etomidate at 2 and 20 ,g/ml (,28% and ,38%, respectively) and also by thiopental at 200 ,g/ml (,27%). In patients undergoing vascular surgery, anesthesia induction in the ETO group resulted in a 31% prolongation of the in vitro bleeding time and an inhibition of ADP- and collagen-induced platelet aggregation (,30% and ,17%, respectively) and of P-selectin expression (,25%) at T0. In the THIO group, only ADP-induced platelet aggregation was affected (,16%). At T2, all parameters had reached PRE level again in both groups. Furthermore, in comparison with the THIO group, operation time was significantly prolonged and transfusion volume was significantly increased in the ETO group. In addition, platelet count and hematocrit significantly decreased at T2, whereas levels of tPA, PAI-1, fibrinogen and antithrombin III and partial thromboplastin time remained unchanged in both groups during the study period. Conclusions: In the present study, etomidate and, to a minor extent, thiopental offered significant platelet inhibitory properties. Anesthetic-induced platelet inhibition may lead to higher transfusion rates and prolonged operation times. Therefore, anesthetic-related platelet inhibitory properties should be considered when searching for the anesthetic agent of choice, especially in patients with compromised hemostasis and co-existing bleeding disorders. [source]