Uso y complicaciones del cateterismo urinario en salas de cuidados moderados de un hospital universitario

Introducción: El cateterismo urinario es un procedimiento frecuente y en ocasiones es utilizado por fuera de las indicaciones aceptadas para el mismo. Esto aumenta el riesgo de complicaciones vinculadas a su uso, por lo que pueden ser prevenibles. El objetivo del estudio es conocer las características del uso de cateterismo urinario en pacientes ingresados en salas de cuidados moderados de un hospital universitario del tercer nivel de atención, determinar la frecuencia, duración e indicaciones más frecuentes, así como evaluar la presencia de complicaciones asociadas al mismo Metodología: Estudio de corte transversal, realizado en salas de cuidados moderados de un hospital terciario y universitario de Montevideo, Uruguay, el 21 de diciembre de 2022. Se incluyeron pacientes hospitalizados que presentaban o presentaron catéter vesical en la presente internación y se completó la recolección de variables mediante la revisión de la historia clínica. Resultados: De 155 pacientes ingresados en salas de cuidados moderados, a 26 (16,7%) les fue colocado un catéter urinario. La mediana de edad fue 61 años, 80% eran de sexo masculino. La mediana de internación fue de 22 días. En todos los pacientes se utilizó sonda vesical y el 54% fue colocado en el Departamento de Emergencia. En el 46% de los pacientes no se encontró indicación escrita de colocación en la historia clínica. En 50% de los casos no está especificado el motivo de indicación de sonda vesical, mientras que las indicaciones identificadas más frecuentes fueron el control de diuresis (27%) y la desobstrucción de vía urinaria baja (23%). La duración de cateterismo fue de una mediana de 13,5 días, mientras que el 27% de los pacientes la usaron más de 30 días. 35% de los pacientes presentaron complicaciones vinculadas a la sonda vesical, en su mayoría no infecciosas (27%) y 15% presentaron infección urinaria. Estos pacientes tuvieron una duración de cateterismo mayor a los que no presentaron complicaciones (23 vs 10 días, p=0,411). Conclusiones: El catéter vesical fue utilizado en un porcentaje no despreciable de pacientes ingresados en salas de cuidados moderados, de forma prolongada y frecuentemente sin indicación precisa, lo cual expone a un riesgo aumentado de complicaciones vinculadas.

Introduction: Urinary catheterization is a frequent procedure and is sometimes used outside of its accepted indications. This increases the risk of complications related to its use, so they may be preventable. The objective of this study is to know the characteristics of the use of urinary catheterization in patients admitted to moderate care wards of a tertiary care university hospital, to determine the frequency, duration and most frequent indications, as well as to evaluate the presence of associated complications. Methodology: Cross-sectional study, carried out in moderate care wards of a tertiary care and university hospital in Montevideo, Uruguay, on December 21, 2022. Hospitalized patients who present or presented a bladder catheter during the present hospitalization were included, and the collection of variables was completed by reviewing the medical history. Results: Of 155 patients admitted to moderate care wards, 26 (16.7%) had a urinary catheter placed. The median age was 61 years, 80% were male. The median hospitalization was 22 days. In all patients a bladder catheter was used and 54% were placed in the Emergency Department. In 46% of the patients, no written indication for placement was found in the clinical history. In 50% of cases, the reason for indicating the bladder catheter is not specified, while the most frequent indications identified were diuresis control (27%) and lower urinary tract obstruction (23%). The duration of catheterization was a median of 13.5 days, while 27% of the patients used it for more than 30 days. 35% of the patients presented complications related to the bladder catheter, mostly non-infectious (27%) and 15% presented urinary tract infection. These patients had a longer duration of catheterization than those without complications (23 vs 10 days, p=0,411). Conclusions: The bladder catheter was used in a non-negligible percentage of patients admitted to moderate care wards, for a long time and often without a precise indication, which exposes them to an increased risk of related complications.

Introdução: O cateterismo urinário é um procedimento frequente e às vezes é usado fora de suas indicações aceitas. Isso aumenta o risco de complicações relacionadas ao seu uso, portanto, podem ser evitáveis. O objetivo deste estudo é conhecer as características do uso do cateterismo urinário em pacientes internados em enfermarias de cuidados moderados de um hospital universitário terciário, determinar a frequência, duração e indicações mais frequentes, bem como avaliar a presença de complicações associadas ao mesmo. Metodologia: Estudo transversal, realizado em quartos de cuidados moderados de um hospital terciário e universitário em Montevidéu, Uruguai, em 21 de dezembro de 2022. Foram incluídos pacientes que apresentaram ou apresentaram sonda vesical durante a internação atual e a coleta de variáveis ​​foi concluída .revisando o histórico médico. Resultados: Dos 155 pacientes admitidos em enfermarias de cuidados moderados, 26 (16,7%) tiveram um cateter urinário colocado. A idade média foi de 61 anos, 80% eram do sexo masculino. A mediana de internação foi de 22 dias. Em todos os doentes foi utilizada sonda vesical e 54% foram internados no Serviço de Urgência. Em 46% dos pacientes, nenhuma indicação escrita para colocação foi encontrada na história clínica. Em 50% dos casos não é especificado o motivo da indicação da sonda vesical, enquanto as indicações mais frequentes identificadas foram controle da diurese (27%) e desobstrução do trato urinário inferior (23%). A duração do cateterismo foi em média de 13,5 dias, enquanto 27% dos pacientes o utilizaram por mais de 30 dias. 35% dos pacientes apresentaram complicações relacionadas ao cateter vesical, em sua maioria não infecciosas (27%) e 15% apresentaram infecção urinária. Esses pacientes tiveram uma duração mais longa de cateterismo do que aqueles sem complicações (23 vs 10 dias, p=0,411). Conclusões: A sonda vesical foi utilizada em percentual não desprezível de pacientes internados em quartos de cuidados moderados, por tempo prolongado e muitas vezes sem indicação precisa, o que os expõe a um risco aumentado de complicações associadas.

Desfechos obstétricos adversos durante a COVID-19: uma série de casos retrospectiva / Adverse obstetric outcomes during COVID-19: a retrospective case series / Resultados obstétricos adversos durante el COVID-19: serie de casos retrospectiva

Objetivo: analisar as características e os desfechos obstétricos adversos em gestantes/puérperas infectadas pelo SARS-CoV-2 em serviço de referência. Método: série de casos retrospectiva entre gestantes com Covid-19 em um hospital universitário em Minas Gerais, Brasil, atendidas no serviço de 2020 a 2021, coletados em abril de 2022, empregando-se estatística descritiva para análise dos dados através do Statistical Package for the Social Science. Resultados: incluídas 26 gestantes, em sua maioria brancas, que tiveram como principais desfechos obstétricos adversos a internação em UTI (43,5%), parto prematuro (34,6%), dado reestratificado de semanas para dias para investigar o encurtamento da gestação, onde constatou-se média de 38,6 dias potenciais de gravidez perdidos dos 280 dias ideais, e ainda 15,4% evoluíram para óbito materno. Conclusão: o estudo proporcionou evidenciar a necessidade de vigilância e atenção às gestantes com foco nos principais desfechos adversos, podendo-se intervir em tempo oportuno para diminuir adversidades.

Objective: to analyze the characteristics and adverse obstetric outcomes in pregnant/puerperal women infected by SARS-CoV-2 at a reference service. Method: a retrospective case series conducted among pregnant women with Covid-19 in a university hospital from Minas Gerais, Brazil, treated at the service from 2020 to 2021. The cases were collected in April 2022 employing descriptive statistics for data analysis in the Statistical Package for the Social Science. Results: a total of 26 pregnant women were included, mostly white-skinned, whose main adverse obstetric outcomes were admission to the ICU (43.5%), premature birth (34.6%) and data restratified from weeks to days to investigate shortening of pregnancy, where a mean of 38.6 potential days of pregnancy were lost out of the ideal 280 days, and 15.4% resulted in maternal death. Conclusion: the study provided evidence of the need for surveillance and care for pregnant women with a focus on the main adverse outcomes, enabling timely intervention to reduce adversities.

Objetivo: analizar las características y resultados obstétricos adversos en gestantes/puérperas infectadas por SARS-CoV-2 en un servicio de referencia. Método: serie de casos retrospectiva entre gestantes con Covid-19 en un hospital universitario de Minas Gerais, Brasil, atendidas en el servicio de 2020 a 2021. Los datos se recolectaron en abril de 2022, se utilizó estadística descriptiva para analizar los datos mediante el Statistical Package for the Social Science. Resultados: se incluyeron 26 gestantes, la mayoría de raza blanca, cuyos principales resultados obstétricos adversos fueron ingreso a UCI (43,5%), parto prematuro (34,6%), dato reestratificado de semanas a días para investigar el acortamiento de la gestación, que arrojó como resultado un promedio de 38,6. Se comprobó que se perdieron en promedio 38,6 días potenciales de embarazo de los 280 días ideales, y muerte materna (15,4%). Conclusión: la evidencia que proporcionó el estudio indica que es necesario vigilar y atender a las gestantes enfocándose en los principales resultados adversos, lo que permite intervenir de forma oportuna para reducir adversidades.

The importance of MDCT in the evaluation of risk factors before the TAVI procedure and its complications after implantation.

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is the alternative to surgical valve replacement, expanding its indications in the latest guidelines. Multimodal CT (MDCT) is essential in patient selection and detection of complications. Vascular complications are frequent, so it is important to analyse the anatomy of the vessels before the procedure. Regarding annular ruptures and ventricular perforations, the volume and distribution of calcium and the ventricular diameter play an important role. Finally, valve migration is a rare complication that can occur both during and after TAVI. Proper planning of the MDCT procedure reduces the risk of complications and gives the interventional cardiologist security both before and during the procedure.

Imaging findings of the postoperative chest: What the radiologist should know.

Thoracic surgical procedures are increasing in recent years, and there are different types of lung resections. Postsurgical complications vary depending on the type of resection and the time elapsed, with imaging techniques being key in the postoperative follow-up. Multidisciplinary management of these patients throughout the perioperative period is essential to ensure an optimal surgical outcome. This pictorial review will review the different thoracic surgical techniques, normal postoperative findings and postsurgical complications.

COMPLICATIONS OF INTRAOSSEOUS ADMINISTRATION OF VANCOMYCIN IN TOTAL HIP ARTHROPLASTY. / COMPLICACIONES DE LA ADMINISTARCION INTRAOSEA DE VANCOMICINA EN ARTROPLASTIA TOTAL DE CADERA.

INTRODUCTION: The incidence of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) in hip surgeries has significantly decreased thanks to intravenous antibiotic prophylaxis. However, in patients colonized with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) or those at risk of colonization, it is necessary to include vancomycin in the prophylaxis. Intraosseous (IO) administration of vancomycin could enhance its effectiveness in total hip arthroplasty (THA). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted between March and December 2023 involving 53 patients scheduled for primary THA with colonization risk factors. The median age of the patients was 67 years (range 61 to 75), and all received treatment with intraosseous vancomycin (500 mg). Detailed records and documentation of complications during hospitalization and the first three months post-surgery were maintained. As a secondary outcome measure, the incidence of PJI was explored. RESULTS: We administered 500 mg of intraosseous vancomycin, injected into the greater trochanter, along with standard intravenous (IV) prophylaxis. The incidence of complications was 1.64%. The periprosthetic joint infection rate at 90 days was 0%. CONCLUSIONS: Intraosseous administration of low-dose vancomycin in total hip arthroplasty for patients at risk of MRSA colonization, combined with standard IV prophylaxis, was shown to be safe and did not present significant adverse effects. Furthermore, this strategy eliminates the logistical challenges associated with timely vancomycin administration. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV: Case Series.

[Characterization of older adult patients admitted to an acute unit of a high complexity hospital in Bogotá, Colombia]. / Caracterización de los pacientes adultos mayores ingresados a una unidad de agudos de un hospital de alta complejidad en Bogotá, Colombia.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The objective is to describe the demographic, clinical, functional characteristics and outcomes of older adult patients hospitalized in the acute unit of the San Ignacio University Hospital (HUSI). METHODS: Descriptive, cross-sectional observational study, based on the review of the medical records of patients hospitalized in the Geriatrics Unit of the HUSI during the period 2019-2021. VARIABLES: Demographics, comorbidities, baseline situation, main cause of entry and outcomes. The diagnosis of geriatric syndromes was made through the Barthel index, the Lawton and Brody scale, FRAIL scale, mini nutritional assessment short form and Confusion Assessment Method criteria. RESULTS: A total of 4601 patients were analyzed, whose average age was 83years (56.2% women). 72.4% had some degree of dependency for basic activities of daily living, 90.8% had some degree of dependency for instrumental activities of daily living, 32.2% had malnutrition, 15. 7% falls, 9.9% oropharyngeal dysphagia, 32.2% frailty, 28.1% delirium, 54.1% previous dementia. The main comorbidities presented were arterial hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and diabetes. 2.9% had some complication during their hospitalization, 10.8% died, and the hospital stay was 5days. CONCLUSION: Older adult patients admitted to the acute unit of the HUSI have a high frequency of dependency, dementia and nutritional disturbances.

[Translated article] Treatment of supracondylar femoral fractures by minimally invasive techniques vs. exposure of the fracture site: A retrospective cohort study.

INTRODUCTION: Fractures of the distal femoral third are an important cause of morbidity and mortality, and their treatment is currently controversial. OBJECTIVES: To compare the results between minimally invasive techniques versus exposure of the fracture site. Secondly, to evaluate the relationship between demographic factors, mechanism of injury and surgical delay with patient prognosis. METHOD: Retrospective cohort study carried out between 2015 and 2021 in a tertiary hospital. Data collection was performed by reviewing medical histories, measuring demographic and hospital parameters and definitive treatment strategy. One year of follow-up was completed in all patients, assessing the occurrence of surgical complications and mortality. A stratified analysis of the variables of interest was performed among patients over 65 years of age. RESULTS: 128 fractures were recorded, with definitive osteosynthesis being performed in 117. Patients who underwent minimally invasive techniques required a shorter hospital stay (9 [7-12] vs. 12 [8.75-16] days) (p=0.007), with no differences in mortality or complications during follow-up. In those over 65 years of age, opening the fracture site was associated with an increased risk of infection compared to minimally invasive techniques (33.3% vs. 2%) (p=0.507). All the deceased were patients over 65 years of age (33.7% at one year). Surgical delay longer than 48h increased mortality by 10% among those older than 65 years (p=0.3). High-energy trauma had a higher proportion of pseudarthrosis (27.6% vs. 6.1%) (p=0.011). CONCLUSIONS: Minimally invasive techniques decreased hospital stay but not complications or long-term mortality. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IIb.

Microsurgical clipping of unruptured intracranial aneurysms: Clinical and radiological outcomes.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The prevalence of unruptured intracranial aneurysms is 1-3%. The annual rupture rate increases in patients with multiple aneurysms that presented a previous hemorrhage from another aneurysm. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate outcomes of clipping unruptured aneurysms, comparing patients with single or multiple aneurysms clipped, describe the complications related to surgery and to identify risk factors predicting an unfavorable outcome. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective study including patients who underwent clipping of unruptured aneurysms between 2020-2023 at our center. Occlusion rate, complications, and functional outcome were analyzed. Risk factors for poor prognosis are identified using univariate model. RESULTS: 82 patients with 114 aneurysms were treated with microsurgery. Multiple aneurysms were clipped in 22 patients. A mini-open approach was used in 86,5% of cases. Complete occlusion in angio3D was found in 78.6% of clipped aneurysms. Complication rate was 12.2%, including asymptomatic cases. Mortality was 0%. The probability of 1 point mRS worsening was 7.3% and 2 or more points was 1.2%, with a good functional outcome in 98.9%. Clipping multiple aneurysms, miniopen approaches, or surgery in patients with previous subarachnoid hemorrhage did not increase the risk of complications. Posterior circulation aneurysms surgery increased the risk of ischemia. CONCLUSIONS: The management for unruptured intracranial aneurysms should be multimodal and based on clinical and radiological outcomes. Microsurgery is a valid and safe technique, with 0% mortality and bleeding rates and 1,2% rate of severe morbidity in our series.

Diagnostic and therapeutic approach to spondylodiscitis in Spanish children through the RIOPed network: evaluation before and after the publication of the national consensus document.

OBJECTIVE: Pediatric spondylodiscitis (PSD) is an uncommon condition, for which there are no specific international clinical guidelines. Factors related to complications have not been stablished. Our aim was to describe clinical and epidemiological characteristics of PSD, to analyze factors associated with complications and to evaluate adherence to the recommendations of the Spanish National Consensus Document (NCD) for the diagnostic and therapeutic approach to acute osteoarticular infections. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Ambispective, multicenter, national study of two PSD cohorts: historical (2008-2012) and prospective (2015-2020, after publication of NCD). Patients with diagnosis of PSD were included. Demographic, clinical, microbiological and radiological data were recorded. Factors related to the development of complications were analized by logistic regression. Comparisons between both cohorts were performed. RESULTS: Ninety-eight PSD were included. In 84.7%, diagnosis was confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. Microbiological isolation was obtained in 6.1%, with methicillin-sensitive S. aureus as the main etiologic agent. Complications occurred in 18.9%, the most frequent being soft tissue abscess. Of the 8.6% of patients with sequelae, persistent pain was the most common. Comparing cohorts, there was better adherence to NCD treatment recommendations in the prospective one (57.6% vs. 12.9%, p < 0.01), including a reduction in the length of intravenous antibiotic therapy (10 vs. 14 days, p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: The evolution of PSD in our series was favorable, with low frequency of complications and sequelae. The adherence to the recommendations of the NCD was high. Studies with larger sample size are needed to establish new recommendations to optimize the approach to these infections.

Challenges in implementing a total hip arthroplasty program in a developing country: Our experience at Monkole Hospital in the Democratic Republic of Congo. / Desafíos al implementar un programa de artroplastia total de cadera en un país en vías de desarrollo: nuestra experiencia en el Hospital Monkole de la República Democrática del Congo.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is an effective surgery for treating hip osteoarthritis, but access is limited in Sub-Saharan Africa due to multiple challenges. This article describes the implementation of a THA program at Monkole Hospital in the Democratic Republic of Congo, focusing on the technical challenges and surgical complications. The objective is to share our experience to assist other professionals and organizations in similar settings. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eight THA surgery campaigns were conducted between July 2019 and February 2023. Most patients presented with femoral head necrosis secondary to sickle cell anemia. Demographic and surgical data, technical difficulties, and complications were prospectively collected, and follow-up was conducted by a local orthopedic surgeon. RESULTS: Seventy-three surgeries were performed on 63 patients with a mean age of 34 years and an average follow-up of 24 months. Seventeen intraoperative technical incidents (23.2%) were observed. The postoperative complication rate was 9.5%, and three patients required revision surgery due to complications. CONCLUSIONS: The THA program at Monkole Hospital demonstrates that it is feasible to perform complex surgeries in developing countries and that it is a cost-effective procedure that improves patients' quality of life, provided there are adequate hospital infrastructures, team training, availability of implants, and ensured proper care and follow-up. Training local surgeons and investing in resources are key to the sustainability of the program and the improvement of surgical care.

[Determinants of avoidable hospitalization for type2 diabetes. Narrative review]. / Factores determinantes de las hospitalizaciones evitables por diabetes tipo2. Revisión narrativa.

OBJECTIVE: To identify the structural and intermediate determinants associated with avoidable hospitalizations (AH) of patients with type2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). DESIGN: Literature review based on narrative synthesis. DATA SOURCES: Databases: PubMed, Science Direct, and Latin American and Caribbean Literature in Health Sciences (LILACS). STUDY SELECTION: Documents were selected and analyzed under a critical literature review, considering inclusion and exclusion criteria. DATA EXTRACTION: Information extracted from each selected article was synthesized based on the countries' income levels and the social determinants of health framework. RESULTS: A total of 4,166 articles were relevant, 36 were selected for review. From this selection, 21 were publications conducted in high-income countries, 14 in upper-middle-income countries, and one in lower-middle-income countries. The review identified that the coverage of health services -mainly primary health care- and health insurance contribute to reducing the risk of AH for T2DM, while social inequalities tend to increase the risk. CONCLUSIONS: The AH due to T2DM are susceptible to reduction through policies that contribute to increasing effective access to health services (availability, insurance), since they express social inequality, occurring to a greater extent in socioeconomically vulnerable populations. This review also provides evidence of the need to expand research on this topic in middle and low-income countries.

Caracterización epidemiológica de pacientes con síndrome posterior a resección anterior baja de recto y aproximación de su relación con aspectos demográficos, patológicos y quirúrgicos, en un centro de referencia en Medellín, entre 2016-2022 / Epidemiological characterization of patients with post-low anterior rectal resection syndrome and approximation of its relationship with demographic, pathological, and surgical aspects, in a referral center in Medellin, between 2016-2022

Introducción. El cáncer colorrectal es uno de los tipos de cáncer más comunes y mortales a nivel mundial. Aunque los avances médicos han mejorado el manejo, la cirugía sigue siendo fundamental. La resección anterior baja (RAB) de recto ha ganado relevancia, a pesar de que puede llevar al síndrome de resección anterior baja de recto (LARS, por sus siglas en inglés), afectando la calidad de vida. Métodos. Estudio de corte transversal con intención analítica en un centro de referencia en Medellín, Colombia. Los pacientes con cáncer de recto sometidos a RAB entre enero de 2016 y diciembre de 2022 completaron el cuestionario LARS para evaluar disfunción intestinal. Se evaluaron factores relacionados con la presencia de LARS por medio de un análisis bivariado. Resultados. De 234 pacientes elegibles, 110 (47 %) respondieron la encuesta, predominantemente mujeres (58,2 %). La edad promedio fue 62 años. Dos tercios de los pacientes recibieron neoadyuvancia y el 69 % requirieron ileostomía. La prevalencia de LARS fue 47,3 %. El 80,9 % llevaban más de 12 meses desde la cirugía o el cierre del estoma. Factores estadísticamente significativos asociados a LARS fueron edad mayor de 65 años (p=0,03), estadío patológico avanzado (p=0,02) y requerimiento de estoma (p=0,03). Conclusiones. El LARS afecta a casi la mitad de los pacientes en diferentes etapas posquirúrgicas. El LARS scorees una herramienta práctica para evaluar la función intestinal en el seguimiento del paciente. La prevalencia y los factores de riesgo identificados contribuyen a la comprensión del impacto de la cirugía conservadora del esfínter en la calidad de vida de los pacientes.

Introduction. Colorectal cancer is one of the most common and deadly types of cancer worldwide, with a high incidence of rectal cancer. Although medical advances have improved management, surgery remains crucial. Low anterior resection of the rectum (LAR) has gained significance, despite its potential to lead to low anterior resection syndrome (LARS), affecting quality of life. Methods. A cross-sectional study with analytical intent was conducted at a referral center in Medellín, Colombia. Patients with rectal cancer who underwent LAR between January 2016 and December 2022 completed the LARS questionnaire to assess intestinal dysfunction. Factors related to the presence of LARS were analyzed using bivariate analysis. Results. Of 234 eligible patients, 110 (47%) responded, predominantly women (58.2%). The average age was 62 years. Two-thirds of patients received neoadjuvant therapy and 69% required ileostomy. The prevalence of LARS was 47.3%. 80.9% had been more than 12 months post-surgery or stoma closure. Statistically significant factors associated with LARS included age over 65 years (p=0.03), advanced pathological stage (p=0.02), and stoma requirement (p=0.03). Conclusions. LARS affects almost half of the patients in various post-surgical stages. The LARS score is a practical tool for assessing intestinal function in patient follow-up. The prevalence and risk factors identified contribute to the understanding of the impact of sphincter-conserving surgery on patients' quality of life.

Níveis séricos de magnésio, sua associação com diabetes mellitus tipo 2 e suas complicações/comorbidades com enfâse na doença cardiovascular / Serum magnesium levels and their association with type 2 diabetes mellitus and its complications/comorbidites, especially cardiovascular disease / Niveles séricos de magnesio y su asociación con diabetes mellitus tipo 2, sus complicaciones/comorbilidades con énfasis en la enfermedad cardiovascular

O diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (DM2) é uma doença que apresenta mecanismos fisiopatológicos multifatoriais e complexos, tendo como base a resistência insulínica (RI) e como consequências as doenças cardiovasculares (DCV). A hipomagnesemia tem sido implicada tanto na RI como em complicações micro e macrovasculares, incluindo-se as DCV que são consideradas a causa mais importante de morbimortalidade no DM2. Neste contexto, o presente estudo visa avaliar níveis séricos de magnésio (Mg) em pacientes diabéticos e sua possível associação com complicações crônicas e comorbidades, tendo como ênfase as doenças cardiovasculares; e identificar possível valor do nível sérico a ser considerado em nossa população a fim de rever sua verdadeira aplicabilidade clínica. Trata-se de estudo transversal, descritivo e analítico, envolvendo 99 pacientes com DM2 de ambos os sexos, atendidos em ambulatório público na cidade de Salvador (BA). Utilizou-se como instrumentos de pesquisa questionário de dados sociodemográficos e antropométricos; recordatório alimentar de 24 horas e análise bioquímica do magnésio sérico. Também foram registradas comorbidades e complicações crônicas dos pacientes, tais como hipertensão arterial, doença arterial coronariana, doença arterial obstrutiva periférica, arritmia cardíaca, acidente vascular cerebral, dislipidemia, neuropatia sensitiva periférica, retinopatia e nefropatia diabéticas. Os dados foram expressos por tabelas de forma descritiva e analítica. Os indivíduos foram divididos em dois grupos, magnésio baixo e normal/alto, e suas variáveis foram comparadas por meio de testes de hipóteses. Nossos achados evidenciaram nível sérico médio de magnésio de 1,97 mg% (IC 1,69 a 2,25 mg%) no total da amostra. Entre aqueles com magnésio baixo, níveis subclínicos estavam presentes em 29 sujeitos (29,3%), e níveis de hipomagnesemia em 34 indivíduos (34,3%). O nível médio do Mg no total da amostra diferiu significativamente (p<0,001) do valor normal ideal, mas não diferiu do considerado subclínico (p 0,311). No grupo com hipomagnesemia houve predomínio do sexo feminino e de pacientes com maior escolaridade. Glicemia de jejum foi mais elevada no grupo Mg baixo, e hemoglobina glicada no grupo Mg normal/alto, mas ambos sem diferença estatística. Níveis baixos de vitamina B12 foram encontrados em 12 pacientes (12,1%) e os níveis mais baixos de magnésio estavam presentes nos pacientes com deficiência de vitamina B12 (1,81±0,24 versus 2,01±0,29) com p=0,027. Antidiabéticos orais foram mais utilizados no grupo com Mg baixo. Não houve diferença entre magnésio sérico, ingestão calórica e magnésio e cálcio alimentares. Pacientes com DCV tiveram média de 2,01 mg% (IC 1,69-2,33 mg%) para o Mg. A doença cardiovascular esteve presente em 47,5% da amostra e pacientes com esta morbidade apresentaram 29,8% de prevalência de hipomagnesemia; infarto agudo do miocárdio (IAM) foi mais frequente no grupo com Mg normal/alto. Nossos dados apontam que hipomagnesemia em pacientes diabéticos deve ser considerada em níveis clínicos e subclínicos. Níveis baixos de Mg também estiveram associados à vitamina B12 baixa. Pacientes que apresentaram doenças cardiovasculares associadas também tiveram importante prevalência de hipomagnesemia incluindo níveis subclínicos, com exceção nos casos de IAM, em que níveis do magnésio sérico mantiveram-se no intervalo considerado normal ideal evidenciado por significativa diferença estatística (p<0,005).

Diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM2) is a multifactorial disease with complex physiopathological mechanisms, in which insulin resistance (IR) and its consequences, such as cardiovascular diseases (CVD), form its basis. Hypomagnesemia has been implicated in IR and micro and macrovascular complications, including CVD, which is considered the most important cause of morbidity and mortality in DM2. This study aims to evaluate serum magnesium (Mg) levels in diabetic patients and its possible association with chronic complications and comorbidities (especially cardiovascular diseases) and to find a possible serum level value to be considered in its population to review its true clinical applicability. This cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytical study involved 99 DM2 patients of all sexes who were served in a public outpatient clinic in Salvador-Ba. A sociodemographic and anthropometric data questionnaire, a 24-hour food recall, and serum magnesium analysis were used as research instruments. The comorbidities and chronic complications of patients, such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, peripheral arterial obstructive disease, cardiac arrhythmia, cerebrovascular accident, dyslipidemia, peripheral sensory neuropathy, diabetic retinopathy, and nephropathy, were also recorded. The data were expressed in descriptive and analytical tables. The individuals were divided into two groups, low and normal/high magnesium, and their variables were compared using hypothesis tests. Our findings showed an average serum magnesium level of 1.97 mg% (IC 1.69 to 2.25 mg%) in the whole sample. In those with low magnesium, subclinical levels occurred in 29 subjects (29.3%)and hypomagnesemia, in 34 individuals (34.3%). The median Mg level in the total sample significantly differed (p<0.001) from the ideal normal value, but failed to do in relation to the subclinical value (p=0.311). The hypomagnesemia group showed a predominance of women and patients with higher education. Fasting glucose was higher in the low Mg group and glycated hemoglobin in the normal/high Mg group, both without statistical differences. Low levels of vitamin B12 occurred in 12 patients (12.1%) and the lowest magnesium levels, in patients with vitamin B12 deficiency (1.81±0.24 versus 2.01±0.29) (p=0.027). Oral antidiabetics were more used in the group with low Mg. Serum magnesium, caloric intake, and dietetic magnesium and calcium showed no differences. Patients with CVD had an Mg average of 2.01 mg% (IC 1.69-2.33 mg%). Cardiovascular disease occurred in 47.5% of the sample. Patients with this morbidity had a 29.8% prevalence of hypomagnesemia. Moreover, myocardial infarction occurred more often in the normal/high Mg group. Data suggest that hypomagnesemia in diabetic patients should be considered at clinical and subclinical levels. Low Mg levels were also associated with low vitamin B12. Patients who showed cardiovascular diseases also had a high prevalence of hypomagnesemia, including subclinical levels, except in cases of myocardial infarction, in which serum magnesium levels remained within the normal ideal range, as evinced by its significant statistical difference (p<0.005).

La diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (DM2) es una enfermedad con mecanismos fisiopatológicos multifactoriales y complejos caracterizada por la resistencia a la insulina (RI) y sus consecuencias, como las enfermedades cardiovasculares (ECV). La hipomagnesemia está asociada con la RI y las complicaciones micro y macrovasculares, incluyendo las ECV, que se consideran la principal causa de morbimortalidad por la DM2. En este contexto, este estudio tiene como objetivo evaluar los niveles séricos de magnesio (Mg) en pacientes diabéticos y la posible asociación con complicaciones crónicas y comorbilidades, con énfasis en las enfermedades cardiovasculares; e identificar un posible valor de nivel sérico para considerar en esta población con el fin de revisar su verdadera aplicabilidad clínica. Se trata de un estudio transversal, descriptivo y analítico, en el cual participaron 99 pacientes con DM2 de ambos sexos, atendidos en un centro ambulatorio público en la ciudad de Salvador (Bahía, Brasil). Se utilizaron un cuestionario de datos sociodemográficos y antropométricos, un recordatorio alimentario de 24 horas y un análisis bioquímico del magnesio sérico. También se registraron las comorbilidades y complicaciones crónicas de los pacientes, como hipertensión arterial, enfermedad arterial coronaria, enfermedad arterial obstructiva periférica, arritmia cardíaca, accidente cerebrovascular, dislipidemia, neuropatía sensorial periférica, retinopatía y nefropatía diabética. Los datos se dispusieron en tablas para su análisis y descripción. Los individuos se separaron en dos grupos: bajo magnesio y normal/alto magnesio, y se compararon sus variables mediante pruebas de hipótesis. Los hallazgos evidenciaron un nivel sérico medio de magnesio de 1,97 mg% (IC 1,69 a 2,25 mg%) en el total de la muestra. Los bajos niveles subclínicos de magnesio estaban presentes en 29 sujetos (29,3%), y la hipomagnesemia en 34 individuos (34,3%). El nivel medio de Mg en el total de la muestra tuvo una diferencia significativa (p<0,001) del valor normal ideal, pero no difirió del valor subclínico (p=0,311). En el grupo con hipomagnesemia hubo predominio del sexo femenino y de pacientes con mayor nivel de estudios. La glucemia en ayunas fue más alta en el grupo de bajo Mg, y la hemoglobina glucosilada en el grupo de normal/alto Mg, pero en ninguno de los dos se encontró diferencia estadística. Los bajos niveles de vitamina B12 se encontraron en 12 pacientes (12,1%), y los niveles más bajos de magnesio estaban presentes en los pacientes con deficiencia de vitamina B12 (1,81±0,24 versus 2,01±0,29) con p=0,027. Los antidiabéticos orales se utilizaron más en el grupo con bajo Mg. No hubo diferencia entre el magnesio sérico, la ingesta calórica, el magnesio y el calcio en la dieta. Los pacientes con ECV tuvieron una media de 2,01 mg% (IC 1,69-2,33 mg%) para Mg. La enfermedad cardiovascular estuvo presente en el 47,5% de la muestra, y los pacientes con esta morbilidad tuvieron una prevalencia del 29,8% de hipomagnesemia; el infarto agudo de miocardio (IAM) fue más frecuente en el grupo con normal/alto Mg. Los resultados demuestran que la hipomagnesemia en los pacientes diabéticos debe considerarse en los niveles clínicos y subclínicos. Los bajos niveles de Mg también estuvieron asociados a bajos niveles de vitamina B12. Los pacientes que presentaron enfermedades cardiovasculares asociadas también tuvieron una alta prevalencia de hipomagnesemia, incluidos los niveles subclínicos, con excepción de los casos de IAM en los que los niveles séricos de magnesio se mantuvieron dentro del intervalo considerado normal ideal, evidenciado por una diferencia estadísticamente significativa (p<0,005).

Efecto de la implementación de las recomendaciones del protocolo de recuperación mejorada después de cirugía (ERAS) en cirugía colorrectal en un hospital de referencia del suroccidente colombiano / Effect of the implementation of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol recommendations in colorectal surgery at a reference hospital in Southwestern Colombia

Introducción. La implementación del protocolo de recuperación mejorada después de cirugía (ERAS) ha demostrado mejorar los desenlaces en cirugía colorrectal. En Colombia su implementación es escasa y se tiene poca evidencia de sus beneficios. Por esa razón, el objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el efecto de la implementación del protocolo ERAS en los pacientes sometidos a cirugía colorrectal en un hospital de referencia en el suroccidente colombiano. Métodos. Estudio observacional con abordaje de emulación de experimento clínico ideal. Se incluyeron pacientes adultos sometidos a cirugía colorrectal mayor entre los años 2021 y 2023. Se midió días de estancia hospitalaria, ingreso a unidad de cuidado intensivo (UCI) y la presencia de complicaciones globales, reintervenciones o reingreso hospitalario a 30 días. Se realizó un análisis univariado y multivariado para medir el efecto de la implementación del protocolo ERAS en los desenlaces. Resultados. En total,132 pacientes cumplieron los criterios de inclusión, 79 pacientes en el período previo a la implementación de ERAS y 53 pacientes con el protocolo ERAS. En el análisis multivariado, se encontró una reducción relativa del 77 % para ingreso a UCI, del 57 % de complicaciones globales, del 67 % en el reingreso hospitalario y del 92 % para reintervenciones quirúrgicas tras el alta en los pacientes ERAS. Conclusiones. La implementación de las recomendaciones ERAS en nuestra institución demostró mejorar los resultados clínicos en pacientes sometidos a cirugía colorrectal mayor. En Colombia, se necesita de estudios multicéntricos que permitan evidenciar la plausibilidad y beneficios de estas recomendaciones en otras instituciones.

Introduction. Implementation of the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol has been shown to improve outcomes in colorectal surgery. In Colombia, its implementation is scarce and there is limited evidence of its benefits. For this reason, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of ERAS protocol implementation in patients undergoing colorectal surgery in a reference hospital in Southwestern Colombia. Methods. Observational study with ideal clinical experiment emulation approach. Adult patients undergoing major colorectal surgery between 2021 and 2023 were included. Days of hospital stay, admission to the intensive care unit (ICU), and the presence of overall complications, reinterventions, or hospital readmission within 30 days were measured. A univariate and multivariate analysis was performed to measure the effect of the implementation of the ERAS protocol on the outcomes. Results. A total of 132 patients met the inclusion criteria, 79 patients in the period prior to ERAS implementation and 53 patients with the ERAS protocol. In the multivariate analysis, a relative reduction of 77% for ICU admissions, 57% for overall complications, 67% for hospital readmission, and 92% for surgical reinterventions after discharge in ERAS patients was found. Conclusions. Implementation of ERAS recommendations at our institution was shown to improve clinical outcomes in patients undergoing major colorectal surgery, In Colombia, multicenter studies are needed to demonstrate the plausibility and benefits of these recommendations in other institutions.

Risk factors for complications in total hip arthroplasty. / Factores de riesgo para complicaciones en artroplastia total de cadera.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Hip arthroplasty represents a significant advancement in the treatment of refractory chronic joint pain, improving quality of life and functionality. The objective of this study is to identify the risk factors associated with local and systemic complications in patients treated with total hip arthroplasty. METHODS: Observational, analytical, retrospective cohort study, which included 304 participants treated with total hip replacement. Comparison of variables between two groups was performed; 38 participants in the group with complications and 266 participants in the group without complications. RESULTS: The mean age in the complication group was 66 years (SD 18.7) and in the uncomplicated group it was 67,1 years (SD 15.1) (p 0,686). Female sex was observed in 73.3% of the group with complications and 65% in the group without complications. (p 0.292). Risk factors were: hip fracture as an indication for arthroplasty RR 1.33 [95% CI 1.004;1.775 p 0.047], coronary heart disease RR 1.31 [95% CI 1.067;1.616 p 0.010] and surgical bleeding equal to or greater than 400 cc RR 1.11 [95% CI 1.012;1.218 p 0.028]. CONCLUSIONS: The risk factors for complications in total hip arthroplasty were: hip fracture as the indication for arthroplasty, coronary artery disease, and surgical bleeding equal to or greater than 400 cc.

The textbook outcome for cholecystectomy: Is it a good quality tool for a low-morbidity procedure?

INTRODUCTION: Cholelithiasis is the most common hospital diagnosis of the digestive system, and its treatment, if symptomatic, is laparoscopic cholecystectomy. There is a growing need for comprehensive determination of postoperative outcomes and the efficiency of healthcare facilities. The "textbook outcome"(TO) indicates the quality of care commonly used in oncological procedures, obtained by adding several postoperative parameters, which informs whether a perfect result has been obtained. The main objective of this study is to determine the TO for cholecystectomy and to see the factors that influence its achievement. METHODS: Retrospective observational unicentric cohort study on patients who underwent cholecystectomy between 2018-2020. We defined TO as those patients who met the following premises: Clavien-Dindo complications < III, postsurgical stay less than the 75th percentile (<3 days), and no readmissions or mortality in the first ninety days. Perioperative characteristics were analyzed, and the patients were divided into two groups according to whether or not they achieved TO. We defined criteria for difficult cholecystectomy according to the operative report. RESULTS: The percentage of TO was 72% (342/475) (82.6% in elective surgery and 60.5% in urgent surgery). The univariate analysis showed that the following factors are associated with achieving TO: female sex, age <63 years, ASA risk < III, elective surgery, laparoscopic approach, and not difficult cholecystectomy. After multivariate analysis ASA < III (OR 2.39 CI95% 1.37-4.16), elective surgery (OR 2.77 CI95% 1.64-4.67), laparoscopic approach (OR 5.71 CI95% 2.89-11.30) and not to be difficult cholecystectomy (OR 0.42 CI95% 0.259-0.71) remained statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: The TO is a healthcare quality tool that is simple to perform, easily interpretable, and helpful for evaluating quality in healthcare and comparing centers. It applies not only to oncological procedures but also to cholecystectomy.

Sentimentos da mulher frente a gestação de alto risco / Sentimientos de la mujer frente al embarazo de alto riesgo / Women's feelings facing High-Risk pregnancy

Resumo Introdução: A gestação configura-se como um acontecimento único e memorável para a vida de uma mulher. A gravidez de alto risco é uma experiência estressante em razão dos riscos a que estão submetidos a mãe e o bebê e devido às mudanças que afetam negativamente o seu equilíbrio emocional. Objetivo: Identificar os sentimentos vivenciados pela gestante frente à gravidez de alto risco. Método: Descritivo e exploratório com abordagem qualitativa, com amostra por conveniência composta por mulheres com gestação de alto risco, selecionadas de acordo com a disponibilidade do serviço de internamento, até a saturação das entrevistas. A coleta dos dados foi realizada em um período de dois meses através de entrevistas guiadas por um roteiro. Os dados foram analisados por meio da técnica de análise de conteúdo segundo Minayo. Resultados: Fizeram parte 37 mulheres. Os resultados foram oeganizados nas categorias: Como se deu o diagnóstico de alto risco; Sentimentos ao descobrir que a gestação é/era de risco; Sentimentos em relação ao apoio familiar acerca da gestação de alto risco. Os sentimentos relatados pelas gestantes e puérperas que conviveram com a gravidez de alto risco, deixam evidentes os impactos que este evento traz não somente na saúde física sobretudo para a emocional, deixando as gestantes fragilizadas. Conclusão: Assim, o estudo nos permitiu perceber que os sentimentos vivenciados nesse processo podem interfir na vida dessas mulheres, e de forma negativa. Mas, que apesar dessa situação, estas expressam sentimentos ambíguos, pois mesmo com o risco gestacional, muitas mostram-se felizes pela dádiva de ser mãe.

Resumen Introducción: El embarazo se considera un evento único y memorable en la vida de una mujer. El embarazo de alto riesgo es una experiencia estresante debido a los riesgos a los que están expuestas tanto la madre como su bebé y a los cambios que afectan negativamente su equilibrio emocional. Objetivo: Identificar los sentimientos experimentados por las mujeres embarazadas frente a un embarazo de alto riesgo. Metodología: Descriptivo y exploratorio con enfoque cualitativo, con una muestra a conveniencia compuesta por mujeres con embarazos de alto riesgo, seleccionadas según la disponibilidad del servicio de hospitalización, hasta la saturación de las entrevistas. La recopilación de datos se llevó a cabo durante un período de dos meses a través de entrevistas guiadas. Los datos fueron analizados utilizando la técnica de análisis de contenido según Minayo. Resultados: Participaron 37 mujeres y los resultados se organizaron en las siguientes categorías: cómo se realizó el diagnóstico de alto riesgo; sentimientos al descubrir que el embarazo era de riesgo; sentimientos con respecto al apoyo familiar en relación con el embarazo de alto riesgo. Los sentimientos relatados por las mujeres embarazadas y posparto que vivieron un embarazo de alto riesgo evidencian los impactos que tiene este evento no solo en la salud física sino, especialmente, en el bienestar emocional, pues deja a las mujeres embarazadas en un estado de vulnerabilidad. Conclusión: El estudio nos permitió darnos cuenta de que los sentimientos experimentados en este proceso pueden interferir en la vida de estas mujeres de manera negativa. Sin embargo, a pesar de esta situación, muchas de ellas expresan sentimientos ambiguos, porque, incluso con el riesgo gestacional, están agradecidas por el regalo de la maternidad.

Abstract Introduction: Pregnancy is considered a unique and memorable event in a woman's life. High-risk pregnancy is a stressful experience due to the risks to which the mother and the baby are exposed, and due to the changes that negatively affect their emotional balance. Objective: To identify the feelings experienced by pregnant women facing high-risk pregnancy. Method: Descriptive and exploratory, employing a qualitative approach, the study featured a convenience sample of women with high-risk pregnancies, selected based on inpatient service availability, until interview saturation was achieved. Data collection was conducted over a two-month period through scripted interviews. Data analysis was performed utilizing Minayo's content analysis technique. Results: Thirty-seven women participated in the study. The results were categorized as follows: How the high-risk diagnosis was determined; Feelings upon discovering the pregnancy was high-risk; Feelings regarding family support regarding the high-risk pregnancy. The feelings reported by pregnant and postpartum women who experienced high-risk pregnancies clearly reveal the impacts this event has, not only on physical health, but especially on emotional well-being, leaving the pregnant women in a vulnerable state. Conclusion: The study allowed us to realize that the feelings experienced in this process can negatively interfere in the lives of these women. However, despite this situation, many of them express mixed feelings, because even with the gestational risk, they are grateful for the gift of motherhood.

Tomografía computarizada en el posoperatorio de cirugía abdominal mayor / Computed tomography scan after major abdominal surgery

RESUMEN Antecedentes: las cirugías abdominales mayores pueden presentar complicaciones posoperatorias graves cuya detección temprana resulta importante para su tratamiento. Objetivo: determinar la utilidad del uso de la tomografía computarizada (TC) para el diagnóstico temprano de las complicaciones de cirugía abdominal mayor. Materiales y métodos: estudio retrospectivo observacional descriptivo, mediante revisión de historias clínicas de pacientes operados de cirugía abdominal mayor en un Hospital Privado. Se agruparon los pacientes según presentaban o no síntomas sospechosos de complicación posoperatoria. Los primeros se clasificaron en 3 grupos: sin TC, con TC con hallazgos positivos y con TC sin hallazgos patológicos. Resultados: se analizaron 154 pacientes, con un promedio de edad de 61,3 ± 12,5 años; 83 (54%) fueron varones. Sobre 48 pacientes (31%) con síntomas sospechosos de complicaciones, fueron reoperados 6 sin TC, pero con síntomas muy evidentes, 7 con signos tomográficos positivos y 14/41 del grupo con TC negativa. Todos tuvieron hallazgos que justificaron la intervención. Hubo 27 casos (17,5%) con complicaciones IIIb según Clavien-Dindo y 3 pacientes (2%) fallecieron. Conclusión: la tomografía computarizada tuvo valor para confirmar una complicación, pero no para descartarla. Los parámetros clínicos cobran especial importancia en los pacientes sintomáticos sin hallazgos patológicos en la TC posoperatoria.

ABSTRACT Background: Major abdominal surgeries may present serious postoperative complications that require early diagnosis. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the usefulness of computed tomography (CT) for the early diagnosis of major abdominal surgery complications. Material and methods: We conducted a retrospective, observational and descriptive study using data obtained from the medical records of patients undergoing major abdominal surgery in a private hospital. Patients were divided into two groups according to the presence or absence of symptoms suggesting a postoperative complication. Patients with symptoms were classified into 3 groups: without CT, with CT with positive findings and with CT without abnormal findings. Results: A total of 154 patients were analyzed; mean age was 61.3 ± 12.5 years and 83 (54%) were male. Of 48 patients (31%) with symptoms suggestive of complications, 6 had very evident symptoms and were re-operated without CT, 7 had positive findings on CT and CT was negative in 14/41. All the patients had findings that supported the decision to re-operate. There were 27 cases (17.5%) with grade 3b complications of the Clavien-Dindo classification and 3 patients (2%) died. Conclusion: Computed tomography was useful to confirm a complication, but not to rule it out. Clinical parameters remain of utmost importance in patients with symptoms and absence of abnormal findings in post-operative CT.

Reducing urinary tract infection rates in post-operative surgical patients: A quality improvement intervention.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: The Scarborough Health Network joined the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS NSQIP) in fiscal year 2017-2018 with interest in tracking surgical outcomes in General and Vascular Surgery patients. Results of the ACS NSQIP program revealed poor outcomes in 30-day urinary tract infection (UTI) rates in this population group. Results were in the lowest quartile compared to peer hospitals. To improve patient care, SHN initiated a multi-pronged quality improvement plan (QIP). METHODS: The QIP focused on several improvements: (1) clarify the current state and conduct a root cause analysis, (2) determine a plan to encourage early removal of catheters in post-surgical patients, (3) enhance team communication in the pre-operative, operative and post-operative care environments, and (4) improve education around UTI prevention and treatment. RESULTS: This study demonstrates the success of the quality improvement plan to improve a peri-operative complication in surgical patients. By 2019, SHN saw a significant decrease in UTI rates, and became a top decile performer in ACS NSQIP. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates the feasibility and success of implementing a quality improvement project, and its methods can be adapted at other hospital sites to improve patient care.

[Medical-surgical complications and their impact on patients' return to work whilst follow-up major lower-limb amputations in Hospital del Trabajador in Santiago (HTS)]. / Complicaciones médico-quirúrgicas y su impacto en el retorno laboral durante el seguimiento de pacientes con amputación mayor de extremidades inferiores en el Hospital del Trabajador de Santiago (HTS).

INTRODUCTION: The presence of different complications whilst follow-up amputee patients reaches 10-80%. The main objective of this research is to assess the impact of these in the return-to-work of lower-limb traumatic amputation cases. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective cohort research was carried out. Clinic-demographic variables information was recollected in order to assess its linkage to different medical-surgical complications and functional outcomes. Survival curves were created to evaluate the return-to-work of patients with and without complications. RESULTS: A total of 46 patients, on average aged 45.7 years old (91.3% men, 71.7% without comorbidities), were included on this research. The most frequent level of amputation was transtibial (65.2%). Residual limb pain, phantom pain, dermatological-infectious complications and painful neuroma were registered in 80.4%, 58.7%, 50% y 30.4% of the cases respectively. Half of the patients had returned to their workplace after 2years of post-surgical follow-up. The return-to-work rates were significantly lower in patients suffering from residual limb pain (p=0.0083) and from painful neuroma (p=0.0051). CONCLUSION: Complications are frequent during traumatic-amputee patients' follow-up and, some of them, may impact on the return-to-work rate.