Rate adaptive pacing in people with chronic heart failure increases peak heart rate but not peak exercise capacity: a systematic review.

Rate adaptive cardiac pacing (RAP) allows increased heart rate (HR) in response to metabolic demand in people with implantable electronic cardiac devices (IECD). The aim of this work was to conduct a systematic review to determine if RAP increases peak exercise capacity (peak VO2) in line with peak HR in people with chronic heart failure. We conducted a systematic literature search from 1980, when IECD and RAP were first introduced, until 31 July 2021. Databases searched include PubMed, Medline, EMBASE, EBSCO, and the Clinical Trials Register. A comprehensive search of the literature produced a total of 246 possible studies; of these, 14 studies were included. Studies and subsequent analyses were segregated according to comparison, specifically standard RAP (RAPON) vs fixed rate pacing (RAPOFF), and tailored RAP (TLD RAPON) vs standard RAP (RAPON). Pooled analyses were conducted for peak VO2 and peak HR for RAPON vs RAPOFF. Peak HR significantly increased by 15 bpm with RAPON compared to RAPOFF (95%CI, 7.98-21.97, P < 0.0001). There was no significant difference between pacing mode for peak VO2 0.45 ml kg-1 min-1 (95%CI, - 0.55-1.47, P = 0.38). This systematic review revealed RAP increased peak HR in people with CHF; however, there was no concomitant improvement in peak VO2. Rather RAP may provide benefits at submaximal intensities by controlling the rise in HR to optimise cardiac output at lower workloads. HR may be an important outcome of CHF management, reflecting myocardial efficiency.

Isometric Resistance Training to Manage Hypertension: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Hypertension is the primary risk factor for cardiovascular disease and adequate blood pressure control is often elusive. The objective of this work was to conduct a meta-analysis of trial data of isometric resistance training (IRT) studies in people with hypertension, to establish if IRT produced an anti-hypertensive effect. A database search (PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and MEDLINE) identified randomised controlled and crossover trials of IRT versus a sedentary or sham control group in adults with hypertension. RECENT FINDINGS: We included 12 studies (14 intervention groups) in the meta-analyses, with an aggregate of 415 participants. IRT reduced systolic blood pressure (SBP), mean difference (MD) - 7.47 mmHg (95%CI - 10.10, - 4.84), P < 0.01; diastolic blood pressure (DBP) MD - 3.17 mmHg (95%CI - 5.29, - 1.04), P < 0.01; and mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) MD - 7.19 mmHg (95%CI - 9.06, - 5.32), P < 0.0001. Office pulse pressure and resting heart rate was not significantly reduced, neither were 24-h or day-time ambulatory blood pressures (SBP, DBP). Night-time blood pressures, however, were significantly reduced with SBP MD - 4.28 mmHg (95%CI - 7.88, - 0.67), P = 0.02, and DBP MD - 2.22 mmHg (95%CI - 3.55, - 0.88), P < 0.01. IRT does lower SBP, DBP and MAP office and night-time ambulatory SBP and DBP, but not 24-h mean ambulatory blood pressures in people with hypertension.

Clinical management of high-output stoma: a systematic literature review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: High output is a common complication after stoma formation. Although the management of high output is described in the literature, there is a lack of consensus on definitions and treatment. Our aim was to review and summarise the current best evidence. METHODS: MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, BNI, CINAHL, EMBASE, EMCARE, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched from 1 Jan 2000 to 31 Dec 2021 for relevant articles on adult patients with a high-output stoma. Patients with enteroatmospheric fistulas and case series/reports were excluded. Risk of bias was assessed using RoB2 and MINORS. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021226621). RESULTS: The search strategy identified 1095 articles, of which 32 studies with 768 patients met the inclusion criteria. These studies comprised 15 randomised controlled trials, 13 non-randomised prospective trials, and 4 retrospective cohort studies. Eighteen different interventions were assessed. In the meta-analysis, there was no difference in stoma output between controls and somatostatin analogues (g - 1.72, 95% CI - 4.09 to 0.65, p = 0.11, I2 = 88%, t2 = 3.09), loperamide (g - 0.34, 95% CI - 0.69 to 0.01, p = 0.05, I2 = 0%, t2 = 0) and omeprazole (g - 0.31, 95% CI  - 2.46 to 1.84, p = 0.32, I2 = 0%, t2 = 0). Thirteen randomised trials showed high concern of bias, one some concern, and one low concern. The non-randomised/retrospective trials had a median MINORS score of 12 out of 24 (range 7-17). CONCLUSION: There is limited high-quality evidence favouring any specific widely used drug over the others in the management of high-output stoma. Evidence, however, is weak due to inconsistent definitions, risk of bias and poor methodology in the existing studies. We recommend the development of validated core descriptor and outcomes sets, as well as patient-reported outcome measures.

Effectiveness of emergency surgery for five common acute conditions: an instrumental variable analysis of a national routine database.

The effectiveness of emergency surgery vs. non-emergency surgery strategies for emergency admissions with acute appendicitis, gallstone disease, diverticular disease, abdominal wall hernia or intestinal obstruction is unknown. Data on emergency admissions for adult patients from 2010 to 2019 at 175 acute National Health Service hospitals in England were extracted from the Hospital Episode Statistics database. Cohort sizes were: 268,144 (appendicitis); 240,977 (gallstone disease); 138,869 (diverticular disease); 106,432 (hernia); and 133,073 (intestinal obstruction). The primary outcome was number of days alive and out of hospital at 90 days. The effectiveness of emergency surgery vs. non-emergency surgery strategies was estimated using an instrumental variable design and is reported for the cohort and pre-specified sub-groups (age, sex, number of comorbidities and frailty level). Average days alive and out of hospital at 90 days for all five cohorts were similar, with the following mean differences (95%CI) for emergency surgery minus non-emergency surgery after adjusting for confounding: -0.73 days (-2.10-0.64) for appendicitis; 0.60 (-0.10-1.30) for gallstone disease; -2.66 (-15.7-10.4) for diverticular disease; -0.07 (-2.40-2.25) for hernia; and 3.32 (-3.13-9.76) for intestinal obstruction. For patients with 'severe frailty', mean differences (95%CI) in days alive and out of hospital for emergency surgery were lower than for non-emergency surgery strategies: -21.0 (-27.4 to -14.6) for appendicitis; -5.72 (-11.3 to -0.2) for gallstone disease, -38.9 (-63.3 to -14.6) for diverticular disease; -19.5 (-26.6 to -12.3) for hernia; and - 34.5 (-46.7 to -22.4) for intestinal obstruction. For patients without frailty, the mean differences (95%CI) in days alive and out of hospital were: -0.18 (-1.56-1.20) for appendicitis; 0.93 (0.48-1.39) for gallstone disease; 5.35 (-2.56-13.28) for diverticular disease; 2.26 (0.37-4.15) for hernia; and 18.2 (14.8-22.47) for intestinal obstruction. Emergency surgery and non-emergency surgery strategies led to similar average days alive and out of hospital at 90 days for five acute conditions. The comparative effectiveness of emergency surgery and non-emergency surgery strategies for these conditions may be modified by patient factors.

Glue versus mechanical mesh fixation in laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair: meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis of randomized clinical trials.

BACKGROUND: The optimal choice for mesh fixation in laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair (LIHR) has not been well established. This review compared the effects of glue versus mechanical mesh fixation in LIHR on incidence of chronic postoperative inguinal pain (CPIP) and other secondary outcomes, including acute pain, seroma, haematoma, hernia recurrence and other postoperative complications. METHODS: A systematic review of English/non-English studies using MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library, OpenGrey, OpenThesis and Web of Science, and searching bibliographies of included studies was completed. Search terms included laparoscopic, hernia, fibrin glue, Tisseel, Tissucol, cyanoacrylate, Glubran and Liquiband. Only RCTs comparing mechanical with glue-based fixation in adult patients (aged over 18 years) that examined CPIP were included. Two authors independently completed risk-of-bias assessment and data extraction against predefined data fields. All pooled analyses were computed using a random-effects model. RESULTS: Fifteen RCTs met the inclusion criteria; 2777 hernias among 2109 patients were assessed. The incidence of CPIP was reduced with use of glue-based fixation (risk ratio (RR) 0.36, 95 per cent c.i. 0.19 to 0.69; P = 0.002), with moderate heterogeneity that disappeared with sensitivity analysis (8 d.f.) for patient-blinded studies (RR 0.43, 0.27 to 0.86). Trial sequential analysis provided evidence for a relative risk reduction of at least 25 per cent. The incidence of haeamtoma was reduced by using glue-based fixation (RR 0.29, 0.10 to 0.82; P = 0.02) with no significant effects on seroma formation or hernia recurrence (RR 1.07, 0.46 to 2.47; P = 0.88). CONCLUSION: Glue-based mesh fixation appears to reduce the incidence of CPIP and haematoma after LIHR compared with mechanical fixation, with comparable recurrence rates.

Global parental leave in surgical careers: differences according to gender, geographical regions and surgical career stages.

BACKGROUND: There is a lack of information regarding the provision of parental leave for surgical careers. This survey study aims to evaluate the experience of maternity/paternity leave and views on work-life balance globally. METHODS: A 55-item online survey in 24 languages was distributed via social media as per CHERRIES guideline from February to March 2020. It explored parental leave entitlements, attitude towards leave taking, financial impact, time spent with children and compatibility of parenthood with surgical career. RESULTS: Of the 1393 (male : female, 514 : 829) respondents from 65 countries, there were 479 medical students, 349 surgical trainees and 513 consultants. Consultants had less than the recommended duration of maternity leave (43.8 versus 29.1 per cent), no paid maternity (8.3 versus 3.2 per cent) or paternity leave (19.3 versus 11.0 per cent) compared with trainees. Females were less likely to have children than males (36.8 versus 45.6 per cent, P = 0.010) and were more often told surgery is incompatible with parenthood (80.2 versus 59.5 per cent, P < 0.001). Males spent less than 20 per cent of their salary on childcare and fewer than 30 hours/week with their children. More than half (59.2 per cent) of medical students did not believe a surgical career allowed work-life balance. CONCLUSION: Surgeons across the globe had inadequate parental leave. Significant gender disparity was seen in multiple aspects.

Suture fixation versus self-gripping mesh for open inguinal hernia repair: a systematic review with meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Morbidity following open inguinal hernia repair is mainly related to chronic pain. ProGrip™ is a self-gripping mesh which aims to reduce rates of chronic pain. The aim of this study is to perform an update meta-analysis to consolidate the non-superiority hypothesis in terms of postoperative pain and recurrence and perform a trial sequential analysis. METHODS: Systematic review of randomised controlled trials performed according to PRISMA guidelines. Pooled odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using the Mantel-Haenszel (M-H) method. The primary outcome measure was postoperative pain and secondary outcomes were recurrence, operative time, wound complications, length of stay, re-operation rate, and cost. Trial sequential analysis was performed. RESULTS: There were 14 studies included in the quantitative analysis with 3180 patients randomised to self-gripping mesh (1585) or standard mesh (1595). At all follow-up time points, there was no significant difference in the rates of chronic pain between the self-gripping and standard mesh (risk ratio, RR 1.10, 95% confidence interval, CI 0.83-1.46). There were no significant differences in recurrence rates (RR 1.13, CI 0.84-2.04). The mean operating time was significantly shorted in the ProGrip™ mesh group (MD - 7.32 min, CI - 10.21 to - 4.44). Trial sequential analysis suggests findings are conclusive. CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis has confirmed no benefit of a ProGrip™ mesh when compared to a standard sutured mesh for open inguinal hernia repair in terms of chronic pain or recurrence. No further trials are required to address this clinical question.

International classification of abdominal wall planes (ICAP) to describe mesh insertion for ventral hernia repair.

BACKGROUND: Nomenclature for mesh insertion during ventral hernia repair is inconsistent and confusing. Several terms, including 'inlay', 'sublay' and 'underlay', can refer to the same anatomical planes in the indexed literature. This frustrates comparisons of surgical practice and may invalidate meta-analyses comparing surgical outcomes. The aim of this study was to establish an international classification of abdominal wall planes. METHODS: A Delphi study was conducted involving 20 internationally recognized abdominal wall surgeons. Different terms describing anterior abdominal wall planes were identified via literature review and expert consensus. The initial list comprised 59 possible terms. Panellists completed a questionnaire that suggested a list of options for individual abdominal wall planes. Consensus on a term was predefined as occurring if selected by at least 80 per cent of panellists. Terms scoring less than 20 per cent were removed. RESULTS: Voting started August 2018 and was completed by January 2019. In round 1, 43 terms (73 per cent) were selected by less than 20 per cent of panellists and 37 new terms were suggested, leaving 53 terms for round 2. Four planes reached consensus in round 2, with the terms 'onlay', 'inlay', 'preperitoneal' and 'intraperitoneal'. Thirty-five terms (66 per cent) were selected by less than 20 per cent of panellists and were removed. After round 3, consensus was achieved for 'anterectus', 'interoblique', 'retro-oblique' and 'retromuscular'. Default consensus was achieved for the 'retrorectus' and 'transversalis fascial' planes. CONCLUSION: Consensus concerning abdominal wall planes was agreed by 20 internationally recognized surgeons. Adoption should improve communication and comparison among surgeons and research studies.

ANTECEDENTES: La nomenclatura de la inserción de una malla para la reparación de una hernia incisional ventral (ventral hernia, VH) es inconsistente y confusa. En la literatura indexada se usan varios términos, tales como 'inlay', 'sublay', y 'underlay' que pueden referirse a los mismos planos anatómicos. Este hecho frustra las comparaciones de técnicas quirúrgicas e invalida los metaanálisis que comparan resultados quirúrgicos en función del plano de inserción de la malla. En consecuencia, el objetivo de este estudio fue establecer una clasificación internacional de los planos de la pared abdominal (International Classification of Abdominal Wall Planes, ICAP). MÉTODOS: Se realizó un estudio Delphi, en el que participaron 20 cirujanos de pared abdominal reconocidos internacionalmente. Se identificaron diferentes términos que describían los planos de la pared abdominal anterior mediante la revisión de la literatura y el consenso de expertos. La lista inicial incluía 59 términos posibles. Los panelistas completaron un cuestionario que sugería una lista de opciones para los planos individuales de la pared abdominal. El consenso sobre un término fue predefinido cuando dicho término había sido seleccionado por ≥ 80% de panelistas. Se eliminaron los términos con una puntuación < 20%. RESULTADOS: La votación comenzó en agosto de 2018 y se completó en enero de 2019. Durante la Ronda 1, 43 (73%) términos fueron seleccionados por < 20% de los panelistas y se sugirieron 37 términos nuevos, dejando 53 términos para la Ronda 2. Cuatro planos alcanzaron un consenso en la Ronda 2 con los términos 'onlay', 'inlay', 'pre-peritoneal' e 'intra-peritoneal'. Treinta y cinco (66%) términos fueron seleccionados por < 20% de los panelistas y fueron eliminados. Después de la Ronda 3, se logró un consenso para 'anterectus' (ante-recto), 'interoblique' (inter-oblicuo), 'retrooblique' (retro-oblicuo) y 'retromuscular'. Se alcanzó un consenso por defecto para los planos 'retrorectus' (retro-recto) y 'transversalis fascial' (fascial transverso). CONCLUSIÓN: La ICAP ha sido desarrollada por el consenso de 20 cirujanos reconocidos internacionalmente. Su implementación debería mejorar la comunicación y la comparación entre cirujanos y estudios de investigación.

Meta-analysis of the demographic and prognostic significance of right-sided versus left-sided acute diverticulitis.

AIM: The aim of this work was to compare demographic factors, outcomes and prognosis for right-sided versus left-sided acute colonic diverticulitis. METHOD: We searched MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, CENTRAL, Scopus and unpublished literature to identify all observational studies comparing demographic factors and outcomes of right-sided versus left-sided acute colonic diverticulitis (PROSPERO registration number CRD42020180075). We used the QUIPS tool to assess the risk of bias of included studies. Random effects modelling was applied to calculate pooled outcome data. RESULTS: Analysis of 2933 patients from nine studies suggests that right-sided diverticulitis affects younger patients [mean difference (MD) -14.16 (-17.19, -11.14), P < 0.00001] and more male patients [odds ratio (OR) 1.33 (1.04, 1.71), P = 0.02] compared with left-sided diverticulitis. Smoking [OR 2.23 (1.50, 3.32), P < 0.0001], alcohol consumption [OR 1.85 (1.26, 2.71), P = 0.002] and comorbidity [OR 0.21 (0.15, 0.30), P < 0.00001] were more common in patients with right-sided diverticulitis. The risk of complicated diverticulitis was lower in the right-sided group [OR 0.21 (0.08, 0.55), P = 0.001]. More patients in the right-sided diverticulitis group had modified Hinchey Stage I disease [OR 10.21 (3.34, 31.22), P < 0.0001] while more patients in the left-sided group had Stage II [OR 0.19 (0.10, 0.38), P < 0.00001], Stage III [OR 0.08 (0.01, 0.54), P = 0.009] or Stage IV disease [OR 0.02 (0.00, 0.08), P < 0.00001]. Right-sided diverticulitis was associated with a lower risk of recurrence [OR 0.49 (0.25, 0.98), P = 0.04], failure of conservative management [OR 0.14 (0.04, 0.43), P = 0.0006], the need for emergency surgery [OR 0.13 (0.05, 0.36), P < 0.00001] and a shorter length of hospital stay [MD -1.70 (-3.08, -0.33), P = 0.02]. CONCLUSION: Right-sided acute diverticulitis predominantly affects younger male patients compared with left-sided disease and is associated with favourable outcomes as indicated by the lower risk of complications, failure of conservative management, need for emergency surgery, recurrence and shorter length of hospital stay. More studies are required to compare the postoperative outcomes in patients with right-sided and left-sided diverticulitis undergoing emergency surgery.

Coronavirus pandemic and colorectal surgery: practical advice based on the Italian experience.

AIM: The current COVID-19 pandemic is challenging healthcare systems at a global level. We provide a practical strategy to reorganize pathways of emergency and elective colorectal surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHOD: The authors, all from areas affected by the COVID-19 emergency, brainstormed remotely to define the key-points to be discussed. Tasks were assigned, concerning specific aspects of colorectal surgery during the pandemic, including the administrative management of the crisis in Italy. The recommendations (based on experience and on the limited evidence available) were collated and summarized. RESULTS: Little is known about the transmission of COVID-19, but it has shown a rapid spread. It is prudent to stop non-cancer procedures and prioritize urgent cancer treatment. Endoscopy and proctological procedures should be performed highly selectively. When dealing with colorectal emergencies, a conservative approach is advised. Specific procedures should be followed when operating on COVID-19-patients, using dedicated personal protective equipment and adhering to specific rules. Some policies are described, including minimally-invasive surgery. These policies outline the strict regulation of entry/ exit into theatres and operating building as well as advice on performing procedures safely to reduce risk of spreading the virus. It is likely that a reorganization of health system is required, both at central and local levels. A description of the strategy adopted in Italy is provided. CONCLUSION: Evidence on the management of patients needing surgery for colorectal conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic is currently lacking. Lessons learnt from healthcare professionals that have managed high volumes of surgical patients during the pandemic could be useful to mitigate some risks and reduce exposure to other patients, public and healthcare staff.

Single centre experience of bilateral gracilis flap perineal reconstruction following extra-levator abdominoperineal excision.

AIM: A variety of tissue flaps have been described for the closure of perineal wounds following abdominoperineal excision of the rectum (APE) or exenteration for locally advanced/recurrent rectal cancer and salvage surgery for anal cancer. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the utility of the bilateral pedicled gracilis muscle flaps (BPGMFs) as a reconstruction option in these patients. This is of particular benefit when using a laparoscopic approach for the abdominal component of the operation, avoiding disruption of the abdominal wall and risk of herniation with other reconstruction options, e.g. vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flaps. METHOD: This is a retrospective single centre case series of patients who underwent reconstruction of perineal defects using BPGMFs using a novel weave technique, from January 2008 to August 2017. RESULTS: There were 25 patients (16 female), with a median follow-up of 19 months (3-102). The indications for BPGMFs were cancer resection (21) and perineal hernia (4). The median length of stay was 14 days (6-60). All-cause mortality was 36% within the follow-up period. A healed perineal wound was achieved in 72% of patients within 30 days (84% of patients received neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy). The overall donor site complication rate was 20% (including infection, dehiscence, numbness, haematoma and seroma) and 28% for the perineal site (including infection, dehiscence and prolapse). CONCLUSIONS: BPGMFs provide an important option for reconstruction of the perineum particularly with a minimally invasive approach or with two stomas.

Exercise therapy and autonomic function in heart failure patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

A large body of evidence exists indicating that autonomic imbalance is characteristic of heart failure, with several parameters of autonomic function associated with adverse clinical outcomes. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the effects of exercise training on parameters of autonomic function in patients with heart failure and where possible quantify the size of the effect. We conducted database searches (PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Trials Register to 31 March 2017) for exercise-based rehabilitation trials in heart failure; using search terms, exercise training, autonomic function, heart rate recovery, heart rate variability and muscle sympathetic nerve activity. Pooled data indicated a statistically significant increase in heart rate recovery at 1 min (HRR1) in exercise compared to control groups, mean difference 5.90 bpm (95%CI 5.12, 6.69; p < 0.00001). Pooled data also indicated that exercise training improved the short-term heart rate variability (HRV) parameters of root mean square of successive differences between normal heart beats (RMSSD (ms)) [mean difference 10.44 (95%CI 0.60, 20.28, p = 0.04)] and high-frequency normalised units (HFnu) [mean difference 7.72 (95%CI 3.32, 12.12, p = 0.0006), which are predominantly reflective of parasympathetic activity. Analyses also indicated a statistically significant decrease in muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) bursts/minute (mean difference - 11.09 (95%CI - 16.18, - 6.00; p < 0.0001) and MSNA bursts/100 heart beats (mean difference - 15.44 (95%CI - 20.95, -9.92; p < 0.00001) in exercise groups compared to controls. With improvements in HRR, HRV and MSNA, exercise training appears to facilitate an improvement in parasympathetic tone and reduction in sympathetic activity.

Effect of aerobic and resistance training on inflammatory markers in heart failure patients: systematic review and meta-analysis.

Elevated levels of pro-inflammatory markers are evident in patients with heart failure and are associated with disease severity and prognosis. Exercise training has been shown to reduce circulating levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and other pro-inflammatory markers in healthy and clinical populations. The aim of the systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the effect of aerobic (AT) and resistance training (RT) interventions on circulating concentrations of inflammatory markers; tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), fibrinogen, soluble intercellular adhesion molecule (sICAM) and soluble vascular adhesion molecule (sVCAM) in heart failure patients. We conducted database searches (PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Trials Register to 30 June 2017) for exercise-based trials in heart failure, using the following search terms: exercise training, inflammation, tumour necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin 6, C-reactive protein, fibrinogen, soluble intercellular adhesions molecule-1, soluble vascular adhesion molecule-1. Twenty studies, representing 18 independent trials, were included in the review. Pooled data of six studies indicated a minimally favourable effect of exercise training on circulating TNF-α [SMD 0.42 (95% CI 0.15, 0.68), p = 0.002)]. However, together the pooled and descriptive analyses failed to provide strong evidence for a reduction in other pro-inflammatory markers. However, given the complexity of heart failure and the pathways involved in the immune and inflammatory process, large prospective trials considering aetiology, comorbidities and local skeletal muscle inflammation are required to elucidate on the anti-inflammatory effect of exercise in this population.

Optimizing collaborator recruitment and maintaining engagement via social media during large multicentre studies: lessons learned from the National Audit of Small Bowel Obstruction (NASBO).

AIM: The National Audit of Small Bowel Obstruction was a UK-wide study active in early 2017. A Twitter© account was used to interact with collaborators and the public throughout the study to assess whether the use of social media improved study engagement and to establish which Tweet signature styles achieved the highest levels of reach and engagement. METHOD: Twitter© analytics for @NASBO2017 covering June 2016-May 2017 were reviewed. The number of impressions, Tweet engagements and the engagement rate were analysed according to study stage. RESULTS: A total of 176 Tweets were made over the study period. The median number of impressions achieved by a Tweet was 533 (75-2709). 3863 engagements were made with National Audit of Small Bowel Obstruction Tweets with a median number of 10 (0-159) per Tweet. The average overall Tweet engagement rate was 3.3% (0%-14.2%). Tweets with most impressions either used images or tagged institutions (e.g. Royal Colleges, professional bodies). The number of impressions and engagement with the Tweets increased over the study period, due to the incremental growth of the National Audit of Small Bowel Obstruction Twitter© account and the identification of successful Tweet styles. CONCLUSIONS: Social media provided a major contribution to a successful concerted policy of maintaining collaborator engagement during the National Audit of Small Bowel Obstruction. The use of images and videos and tagging of relevant professional bodies aided the reach and engagement of each Tweet. These data can be used to inform engagement strategies for future collaborative projects.

Closure of the perineal defect after abdominoperineal excision for rectal adenocarcinoma - ACPGBI Position Statement.

BACKGROUND: Perineal wound morbidity is common following abdominoperineal excision of the rectum (APE). There is no consensus on the optimum perineal reconstruction method after APE, and in particular 'extra-levator APE' (ELAPE). METHODS: A systematic review of the PubMed, Embase and Cochrane databases was performed. This position statement formulated clinical questions and graded the evidence to make recommendations. RESULTS: Perineal wound complications may be higher following ELAPE compared to 'conventional APE (cAPE)' however there is insufficient evidence to recommend cAPE over ELAPE with regards to the impact upon perineal wound healing. The majority of cAPE studies have used primary closure with varying complication rates reported. Where concerns regarding perineal wound healing exist, myocutaneous flap closure may be considered as an alternative method. There is minimal available evidence on perineal mesh reconstruction following cAPE. Primary closure, mesh use and myocutaneous flap reconstruction following ELAPE has been reported although variations in definitions and low-quality of available evidence limit comparison. There is insufficient evidence to recommend one particular method of perineal closure after ELAPE. Primary perineal closure is likely to have a higher risk of perineal herniation. Myocutaneous flaps and biological mesh have been effectively used in ELAPE closure. There is insufficient evidence to support one particular type of flap or mesh. Perineal wound complication rates are significantly increased when neo-adjuvant radiotherapy is delivered, regardless of surgical technique. There is no evidence that laparoscopy reduces APE perineal wound complications. CONCLUSION: This position statement updates clinicians on current evidence around perineal closure after APE surgery.

Effect of exercise training on liver function in adults who are overweight or exhibit fatty liver disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Exercise training has been shown to have beneficial effects on liver function in adults overweight or with fatty liver disease. To establish which exercise programme characteristics were likely to elicit optimal improvements. DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised, controlled trials. DATA SOURCES: PubMed, CINAHL and Cochrane controlled trials registry searched (1966 to 2 October 2015). ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR SELECTING STUDIES: Exercise intervention, with or without dietary intervention, versus usual care in adults undertaking, exercise training, who were overweight, obese or exhibited fatty liver disease (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or non-alcoholic steatohepatitis). RESULTS: We included 21 randomised controlled trials, totalling 1530 participants. Exercise intervention studies with total exercise programme workload >10 000 kcal produced significant improvements in intrahepatic fat, -3.46% (95% CI -5.20% to -1.73%), p<0.0001, I2=73%; effect size (standardised mean difference, SMD) -1.77 (-3.11 to -0.42), p=0.01, I2=77%. When data from only exercise studies were pooled, there was a reduction in fasting free fatty acids (FFAs) -74.15 µmol/L (95% CI -118.47 to -29.84), p=0.001, I2=67% with a large effect size (SMD) -0.94 (-1.36 to -0.52), p<0.0001, I2=0%. When data from only exercise studies were pooled, there was a significant reduction in insulin MD -1.88 UL (95% CI -3.43 to -0.34), p=0.02, I2=31%. The liver enzymes, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and γ-glutamyl transpeptidase, were not significantly altered with exercise. CONCLUSIONS: Exercise training reduces intrahepatic fat and FFAs while increasing cardiorespiratory fitness. An aggregate exercise programme energy expenditure (>10 000 kcal) may be required to promote reductions in intrahepatic fat.

Incisional hernia following closure of loop ileostomy: The main predictor is the patient, not the surgeon.

BACKGROUND: Incisional hernia at the ileostomy site occurs in 0-48% of patients undergoing loop ileostomy closure. Risk factors for ileostomy-site hernia are not currently well understood. We explored the predictive value of patient and clinical factors for ileostomy-site hernias. METHOD: Loop ileostomy reversals undertaken between 1st January 2009 and 31st December 2013 were retrospectively evaluated. Preoperative patient data (BMI, age, gender, blood pressure, diabetes), surgical variables (preoperative ileostomy marking, intraoperative management (suture type, closure method), postoperative complications (≤30 days), approach, urgency, and chemotherapy, hospital stay, stoma closure interval, follow-up duration) were collected. Patients were followed up by clinical examination and postoperative imaging. RESULTS: 193 loop ileostomy reversals were identified. Operative indications included: colorectal cancer (n = 102, 52.8%); inflammatory bowel disease (n = 47, 24.3%); diverticulosis (n = 20, 10.4%); assorted indications (n = 19, 9.8%); and inflammatory fistulae (n = 5, 2.6%). Median duration of clinical follow-up was 20.5 months (0-69). Hernia occurred in 26 patients (13.5%), detected at a median of eight months post-reversal. Radiological follow-up occurred in 72% of patients and, as a reference standard, in 100% of patients diagnosed with a hernia. Concordance between clinical and radiological findings was 88.5%. Postoperative complications predicted higher hernia risk. BMI and preoperative blood pressure were significant hernia predictors. Differences in the type of suture material to close the defect (absorbable vs. non-absorbable) and stoma skin closure method (primary vs. secondary intention healing) were non-predictive of hernia. CONCLUSION: Whilst BMI and patient comorbidity are the major hernia predictors, variability in surgical practice does not constitute a significant risk factor for ileostomy-site incisional hernia.

Effect of exercise on diastolic function in heart failure patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Diastolic dysfunction contributes to the development and progression of heart failure. Conventional echocardiography and tissue Doppler imaging are widely utilised in clinical research providing a number of indices of diastolic function valuable in the diagnosis and prognosis of heart failure patients. The aim of this meta-analysis was to quantify the effect of exercise training on diastolic function in patients with heart failure. Exercise training studies that investigate different indices of diastolic function in patients with heart failure have reported that exercise training improves diastolic function in these patients. We sought to add to the current literature by quantifying, where possible, the effect of exercise training on diastolic function. We conducted database searches (PubMed, EBSCO, EMBASE, and Cochrane Trials Register to 31 July 2016) for exercise based rehabilitation trials in heart failure, using the search terms 'exercise training, diastolic function and diastolic dysfunction'. Data from six studies, with a total of 266 heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) participants, 144 in intervention groups and 122 in control groups, indicated a significant reduction in the ratio of early diastolic transmitral velocity (E) to early diastolic tissue velocity (E') (E/E' ratio) with exercise training, exercise vs. control mean difference (MD) of -2.85 (95% CI -3.66 to -2.04, p < 0.00001). Data from five studies in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) patients, with a total of 204 participants, 115 in intervention groups and 89 in control groups, also demonstrated a significant improvement in E/E' in exercise vs. control MD of -2.38 (95% CI -3.47 to -1.28, p < 0.0001).

The effect of exercise training on clinical outcomes in patients with the metabolic syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Purpose: to establish if exercise training improves clinical outcomes in people with metabolic syndrome (MetS). Registered with PROSPERO international prospective register of systematic reviews ( https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/Identifier:CRD42017055491 ). DATA SOURCES: studies were identified through a MEDLINE search strategy (1985 to Jan 12, 2017), Cochrane controlled trials registry, CINAHL and SPORTDiscus. STUDY SELECTION: prospective randomized or controlled trials of exercise training in humans with metabolic syndrome, lasting 12 weeks or more. RESULTS: We included 16 studies with 23 intervention groups; 77,000 patient-hours of exercise training. In analyses of aerobic exercise studies versus control: body mass index was significantly reduced, mean difference (MD) -0.29 (kg m-2) (95% CI -0.44, -0.15, p < 0.0001); body mass was significantly reduced, MD -1.16 kg (95% CI -1.83, -0.48, p = 0.0008); waist circumference was significantly reduced MD -1.37 cm (95% CI -2.02, -0.71, p < 0.0001), peak VO2 was significantly improved MD 3.00 mL kg-1 min-1 (95% CI 1.92, 4.08, p < 0.000001); systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure were significantly reduced, MD -2.54 mmHg (95% CI -4.34, -0.75, p = 0.006), and, MD -2.27 mmHg (95% CI -3.47, -1.06, p = 0.0002) respectively; fasting blood glucose was significantly reduced MD -0.16 mmol L-1 (95% CI -0.32, -0.01, p = 0.04); triglycerides were significantly reduced MD -0.21 mmol L-1 (95% CI -0.29, -0.13, p < 0.00001); and low density lipoprotein was significantly reduced MD -0.03 mmol L-1 (95% CI -0.05, -0.00, p = 0.02). In analyses of combined exercise versus control: waist circumference, MD -3.80 cm (95% CI -5.65, -1.95, p < 0.0001); peak VO2 MD 4.64 mL kg-1 min-1 (95% CI 2.42, 6.87, p < 0.0001); systolic blood pressure MD -3.79 mmHg (95% CI -6.18, -1.40, p = 0.002); and high density lipoprotein (HDL) MD 0.14 (95% CI 0.04, 0.25, p = 0.009) were all significantly improved. We found no significant differences between outcome measures between the two exercise interventions. CONCLUSIONS: Exercise training improves body composition, cardiovascular, and, metabolic outcomes in people with metabolic syndrome. For some outcome measures, isolated aerobic exercise appears optimal.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of the role of metronidazole in post-haemorrhoidectomy pain relief.

AIM: Conventional haemorrhoidectomy is still considered the reference standard for the management of severe or recurrent haemorrhoids. Pain is reported by patients to be the most common postoperative complication. Although the literature lacks a consensus on its effectiveness, metronidazole is often used to reduce postoperative pain. We have performed a meta-analysis of all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that investigated the use of metronidazole for pain relief after haemorrhoidectomy. METHOD: A systematic review was undertaken in accordance with the PRISMA protocol using the MESH headings 'haemorrhoidectomy', 'hemorhoidectomy', 'hemorrhoidectomy', 'haemorrhoid', 'metronidazole', 'Flagyl® ' 'antibiotic' and 'pain'. The search returned 421 articles of which eight were RCTs suitable for inclusion in the review with a total population of 437 patients. The outcomes of interest were postoperative pain intensity on days 1, 2 and 7 and on first defaecation as measured using a visual analogue scale. RESULTS: The meta-analysis demonstrated a significant reduction in postoperative pain for patients treated with metronidazole with a reduced mean difference for the metronidazole group on day 1 of -1.42 (95% CI: -2.14 to -0.69, P = 0.0001), on day 2 of -1.43 (95% CI: -2.45 to -0.40, P = 0.006) and on day 7 of -2.40 (95% CI: -3.10 to -1.71, P < 0.00001). Pain on first defaecation was likewise reduced with a mean difference of -1.38 (95% CI: -2.15 to -0.60, P = 0.0005). Limitations of this study include variation in the grade of haemorrhoids treated and variability in the quality of included studies. CONCLUSION: Metronidazole is a cheap, safe and effective intervention for reducing postoperative pain following conventional haemorrhoidectomy.