Influence of complications following immediate breast reconstruction on breast cancer recurrence rates.

BACKGROUND: The rate of immediate breast reconstruction is rising. Postoperative infections are more frequent in patients who undergo reconstruction. The inflammatory response to a postoperative infection can increase the risk of tumour recurrence in other forms of cancer through the release of proinflammatory mediators. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between complications and breast cancer recurrence in patients undergoing immediate reconstruction. METHODS: This was a review of a prospectively maintained database of all patients who had immediate breast reconstruction between 2004 and 2009 at Galway University Hospital, a tertiary breast cancer referral centre serving the west of Ireland. All patients had a minimum follow-up of 5 years. Outcomes assessed included the development of wound complications and breast cancer recurrence. The data were evaluated by univariable and multivariable Cox regression analysis. RESULTS: A total of 229 patients who underwent immediate reconstruction were identified. The overall 5-year recurrence-free survival rate was 85·6 per cent. Fifty-three patients (23·1 per cent) had wound complications, of whom 44 (19·2 per cent) developed a wound infection. There was a significantly greater risk of developing systemic recurrence among patients who experienced a postoperative wound complication compared with those without a complication (hazard ratio 4·94, 95 per cent c.i. 2·72 to 8·95; P < 0·001). This remained significant after adjusting for Nottingham Prognostic Index group in the multivariable analysis. The 5-year recurrence-free survival rate for patients who had a wound complication was 64 per cent, compared with 89·2 per cent in patients without a complication (P < 0·001). CONCLUSION: This study has demonstrated that wound complications after immediate breast reconstructive surgery have significant implications for patients with breast cancer. Strategies are required to minimize the risk of postoperative wound complications in patients with breast cancer undergoing immediate reconstruction.

Arthrodesis of Little Finger Distal Interphalangeal Joint in Flexion to Regain Sporting Ability.

BACKGROUND: Finger injuries are common in the sport of hurling. Injury to the little finger distal interphalangeal joint (DIPJ) often occurs when a high dropping ball impacts on the outstretched finger. The little finger contributes to approximately 15% of grip strength. Injury therefore results in reduced grip strength and may impair the ability of players to grip or catch a ball. METHODS: Six elite hurlers with post-traumatic arthritis of their non-dominant little finger DIPJ underwent arthrodesis in 30 degrees of flexion. Kirchner wires were inserted for up to 8 weeks to achieve fusion of the joint. Patients were evaluated after recovery using a dynamometer to assess grip strength, the DASH questionnaire and a sport specific questionnaire. RESULTS: All arthrodeses achieved bony union without complication. All patients reported a resolution of their pain and recovery in their ability to catch & retain a ball. Measurements of grip strengths were comparable between hands. DASH scores improved by up to 47 points. All scores were less than 5 at final follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Grip strength decreases when fingers are immobilized in full extension. In sports that require catching or gripping a ball or a bat, arthrodesis of the DIP joint in flexion can improve grip strength and hand function. Fusion in 30 degrees of flexion for hurlers results in restoration of function and resolution of pain. Little finger DIPJ arthrodesis is a valid method of treating posttraumatic arthritis in ball and bat sports.

Clinical and economic benefit of general practitioner integration to a symptomatic breast service.

BACKGROUND: Integration of general practitioners (GPs) into a tertiary care team is a model used internationally to assist with provision of patient care. Symptomatic breast clinics have seen significant increases in attendances and consequential staffing issues. We wished to analyze the integration of GPs into a tertiary breast care team and establish whether their inclusion is a cost-effective approach. METHODS: A prospectively maintained database was used to identify 1614 new and 1453 review patients seen in the clinic between September and December 2013. The triple assessment clinical, radiological, and biopsy scores of patients assessed by GPs were compared to those assessed by registrars and to the overall number of patients seen. A cost analysis was performed based on the hourly rates of GPs and registrars. RESULTS: 1614 new patients seen over the 4-month period. GPs reviewed a mean of 153.6 new patients and registrars reviewed a mean of 97.8. Registrars reviewed patients who were allocated higher 'S' scores, with 46 % of patients allocated an S4 and 21 % of patients allocated an S5 score. GPs reviewed a mean of 115.6 return patients and registrars reviewed a mean of 110.1 return patients. The weekly cost of employing 3 GPs for 15 h was €835. This compares favorably to the cost of employing a full-time registrar. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that GPs can play a substantial role in the provision of a symptomatic breast service. In addition, the incorporation of GPs in this setting can prove cost-effective.