Evaluation of the clinical relevance of the Biofire© FilmArray pneumonia panel among hospitalized patients.

PURPOSE: Panel PCR tests provide rapid pathogen identification. However, their diagnostic performance is unclear. We assessed the performance of the Biofire© FilmArray pneumonia (PN)-panel against standard culture in broncho-alveolar lavage (BAL) samples. METHODS: Setting: University Hospital Basel (February 2019 to July 2020), including hospitalized patients with a BAL (± pneumonia). We determined sensitivity and specificity of the PN-panel against standard culture. Using univariate logistic regression, we calculated odds ratios (OR) for pneumonia according to PN-panel and culture status, stratifying by chronic pulmonary disease. We calculated ORs for pneumonia for different pathogens to estimate the clinical relevance. RESULTS: We included 840 adult patients, 60% were males, median age was 68 years, 35% had chronic pulmonary disease, 21% had pneumonia, and 36% had recent antibiotic use. In 1078 BAL samples, bacterial pathogens were detected in 36% and 16% with PN-panel and culture, respectively. The overall sensitivity and specificity of the PN-panel was high, whereas the positive predictive value was low. The OR of pneumonia was 1.1 (95% CI 0.7-1.6) for PN-panel-positive only; 2.6 (95% CI 1.3-5.3) for culture-positive only, and 1.6 (95% CI 1.0-2.4) for PN-panel and culture-positive. The detection rate of Haemophilus influenzae, Staphylococcus aureus, and Moraxella catarrhalis in the PN-panel was high but not associated with pneumonia. CONCLUSION: While sensitivity and specificity of PN-panel are high compared to culture, pathogen detection did not correlate well with a pneumonia diagnosis. Patients with culture-positive BAL had the highest OR for pneumonia-thus the impact of the PN-panel on clinical management needs further evaluation in randomized controlled trials.

SARS-CoV-2 outbreak in a tri-national urban area is dominated by a B.1 lineage variant linked to a mass gathering event.

The first case of SARS-CoV-2 in Basel, Switzerland was detected on February 26th 2020. We present a phylogenetic study to explore viral introduction and evolution during the exponential early phase of the local COVID-19 outbreak from February 26th until March 23rd. We sequenced SARS-CoV-2 naso-oropharyngeal swabs from 746 positive tests that were performed at the University Hospital Basel during the study period. We successfully generated 468 high quality genomes from unique patients and called variants with our COVID-19 Pipeline (COVGAP), and analysed viral genetic diversity using PANGOLIN taxonomic lineages. To identify introduction and dissemination events we incorporated global SARS-CoV-2 genomes and inferred a time-calibrated phylogeny. Epidemiological data from patient questionnaires was used to facilitate the interpretation of phylogenetic observations. The early outbreak in Basel was dominated by lineage B.1 (83·6%), detected first on March 2nd, although the first sample identified belonged to B.1.1. Within B.1, 68·2% of our samples fall within a clade defined by the SNP C15324T ('Basel cluster'), including 157 identical sequences at the root of the 'Basel cluster', some of which we can specifically trace to regional spreading events. We infer the origin of B.1-C15324T to mid-February in our tri-national region. The other genomes map broadly over the global phylogenetic tree, showing several introduction events from and/or dissemination to other regions of the world via travellers. Family transmissions can also be traced in our data. A single lineage variant dominated the outbreak in the Basel area while other lineages, such as the first (B.1.1), did not propagate. A mass gathering event was the predominant initial source of cases, with travel returners and family transmissions to a lesser extent. We highlight the importance of adding specific questions to epidemiological questionnaires, to obtain data on attendance of large gatherings and their locations, as well as travel history, to effectively identify routes of transmissions in up-coming outbreaks. This phylogenetic analysis in concert with epidemiological and contact tracing data, allows connection and interpretation of events, and can inform public health interventions. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04351503.

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass conversion versus primary Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: a propensity score matching analysis.

BACKGROUND: Secondary bariatric surgery rates have increased, accounting for approximately 19% of the total bariatric cases in the last years, most commonly conversion of sleeve gastrectomy to gastric bypass. Using the MBSAQIP, we evaluate the outcomes of this procedure compared to the primary RYGB surgery. METHODS: The new variable, conversion of sleeve gastrectomy to RYGB in the 2020 and 2021 MBSAQIP database was analyzed. Patients who underwent primary laparoscopic RYGB and those who underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy to RYGB conversion were identified. Using Propensity Score Matching analysis, the cohorts were matched for 21 preoperative characteristics. We then compared 30-day outcomes and bariatric-specific complications between primary RYGB and conversion from sleeve gastrectomy to RYGB. RESULTS: There were 43,253 primary RYGB procedures performed and 6,833 conversions from sleeve gastrectomy to RYGB. The matched cohorts (n = 5912) for the two groups have similar pre-operative characteristics. Propensity-matched outcomes showed that conversion from sleeve gastrectomy to RYGB was associated with more readmissions (6.9% vs 5.0%, p < 0.001), interventions (2.6% vs 1.7%, p < 0.001), conversion to open (0.7% vs 0.2%, p < 0.001), length of stay (1.79 ± 1.77 days vs 1.62 ± 1.66 days, p < 0.001), and operative time (119.16 ± 56.82 min vs 138.27 ± 66.00, p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in mortality (0.1% vs 0.1%, p = 0.405), and bariatric-specific complications such as anastomotic leak (0.5% vs 0.4%, p = 0.585), intestinal obstruction (0.1% vs 0.2%, p = 0.808), internal hernia (0.2% vs 0.1%, p = 0.285) or anastomotic ulcer (0.3% vs 0.3%, p = 0.731) rates. CONCLUSION: Conversion from sleeve gastrectomy to RYGB is a safe and feasible operation with reasonable outcomes compared with primary RYGB.

Do advances in technology translate to improved outcomes? Comparing robotic bariatric surgery outcomes over two-time intervals utilizing the MBSAQIP database.

BACKGROUND: This study aims to compare outcomes and utilization of robotics in bariatric procedures across two-time intervals, chosen because they correspond to drastic changes in technology utilization-namely, a new platform and a new stapling device. Outcomes of robotic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (rRYGB) and robotic sleeve gastrectomy (rSG) across this changing landscape have not been well studied, despite increasing popularity. METHODS: The MBSAQIP database was analyzed over early (2015-2016) and late (2019-2020) time intervals. Patients who underwent rSG and rRYGB were identified, and the cohorts were matched for 26 preoperative characteristics using Propensity Score Matching Analysis. We then compared 30-day outcomes and bariatric-specific complications between the early and late time frames for rSG and rRYGB. RESULTS: 49,442 rSG were identified: 13,526 cases in the early time frame and 35,916 in the late time frame. The matched cohorts were 13,526 for the two groups. 30-day outcomes showed that in the late time frame, rSG was associated with lower rates of pulmonary complications (0.1% vs 0.3%, p < 0.001), readmissions (2.5% vs 3.6%, p < 0.001), interventions (0.6% vs 1.4%, p < 0.001), reoperations (0.7% vs 1.0%, p = 0.024), length of stay (1.36 ± 1.01 days vs 1.76 ± 1.79 days, p < 0.001), operative time (92.47 ± 41.70 min vs102.76 ± 45.67 min p < 0.001), staple line leaks (0.2% vs 0.4%, p = 0.001) and strictures (0.0% vs 0.2%, p < 0.001). Similarly, 21,933 rRYGB were found: 6,514 cases were identified in the early time frame and 15,419 in the late time frame. The matched cohorts were 6,513 for the two groups. 30-day outcomes revealed that the late time fame rRYGB was associated with lower rates of pulmonary complications (0.1% vs 0.3%, p = 0.012), readmissions (6.3% vs 7.2%, p = 0.050), interventions (2.0% vs 3.1%, p < 0.001), length of stay (1.69 ± 1.46 days vs 2.13 ± 2.12 days p < 0.001), postoperative bleeding (0.4% vs 0.7%, p = 0.001), stricture (0.4% vs 0.8%, p < 0.001) and anastomotic ulcer (0.2% vs 0.4%, p = 0.013). CONCLUSION: Compared to early robotic bariatric surgery outcomes, a significant reduction in pulmonary complications, readmissions, reoperations, interventions and length of stay were seen in 2019-20 after rSG and rRYGB. Potential contributing factors include increased surgical experience and advances in the robotic platform. A significant recent reduction in staple line leaks with faster operative times associated with rSG suggests that stapling technology has had a positive impact on patient outcomes.

Gastric per-oral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) for the treatment of gastric sleeve stenosis: a feasibility and safety study.

BACKGROUND: Traditional endoscopic treatments have limited success in gastric sleeve stenosis (GSS). Gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) could conceivably obliterate the twist/angulation that causes GSS through a tunneled stricturotomy. We report early outcomes of G-POEM for GSS treatment. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed all patients with GSS treated with G-POEM at our center. The primary end point was clinical success, defined as symptom improvement with resumption of adequate oral intake, without requiring further intervention. RESULTS: 13 patients (mean age 43 ±â€Š10.9 years; 12 female) underwent G-POEM for predominantly helical (11/13, 85 %) GSS. Three (23 %) had concurrent sleeve leak and 10 (77 %) had prior GSS treatment. Two intraoperative complications occurred, with no deviation to the procedure; no major complications occurred. At median follow-up of 175 (interquartile range [IQR] 119-260) days, clinical success was achieved in 10 patients (77 %). Median Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index score in responders decreased from 2.06 (IQR 1.5-2.8) to 0.39 (IQR 0.2-0.5). Three patients (23 %) required surgical revision. CONCLUSIONS: G-POEM was feasible and safe, and may provide an alternative option for those averse to undergoing surgical revision for treatment of GSS.

Transoral outlet reduction: could additional sutures cause more harm?

BACKGROUND: The double purse-string pattern (DPSP) of transoral outlet reduction (TORe) should conceivably result in a more robust scaffolding for the gastrojejunal anastomosis (GJA). However, there is a paucity of literature pertaining to post-TORe stenosis as an adverse event. Our aim was to determine the rate of stenosis, its potential predictors, and other complications of DPSP TORe. METHODS: We performed a retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database of 129 consecutive patients who underwent DPSP TORe between December 2015 and August 2019. RESULTS: The adverse event rate of TORe was 17.1 % (n = 22), with a 13.3 % (n = 17) rate of stenosis. Stenosis was not significantly associated with any baseline characteristics. GJA diameter pre- and post-TORe, the difference between these values, and procedure duration were not predictive of stenosis. Of patients who developed stenosis, 10 (58.8 %) responded to endoscopic balloon dilation and 7 (41.2 %) required stent placement. CONCLUSION: As the DPSP technique is a challenging procedure, with high complication rate and limited benefit, it should not be used for TORe.

Providing complex GI surgical care with minimally invasive approaches: a survey of the practice patterns of Fellowship Council alumni.

INTRODUCTION: The Fellowship Council (FC) oversees 172 non-ACGME surgical fellowships offering 211 fellowship positions per year. These training programs cover multiple specialties including Advanced gastrointestinal (GI), Advanced GI/MIS, Bariatric, Hepatopancreaticobiliary (HPB), Flexible Endoscopy, Colorectal, and Thoracic Surgery. Although some data have been published detailing the practice environments (i.e., urban vs. rural) and yearly total case volumes of FC alumni, there is a lack of granular data regarding the practice patterns of FC graduates. The aim of this study was to gather detailed data on the specific case types performed and surgical approaches employed by recent FC alumni. METHODS: A 21-item survey covering 64 data points was emailed to 835 FC alumni who completed their fellowship between 2013 and 2017. Email addresses were obtained from FC program directors and FC archives. RESULTS: We received 327 responses (39% response rate). HPB, Advanced Colorectal, and Advanced Thoracic alumni appear to establish practices focused on their respective fields. Graduates from Advanced GI, Adv GI/MIS, and Bariatric programs appear to build practices with a mix of several complex GI case types including bariatrics, colorectal, foregut, HPB, and hernia cases. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first large data set to provide granular information on the practice patterns of FC alumni. FC trained surgeons perform impressive volumes of complex procedures, and minimally invasive approaches are extremely prevalent in these practices. Further, many graduates carve out practices with large footprints in robotics and endoscopy.

Implementation of an enhanced recovery program for bariatric surgery.

INTRODUCTION: Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) programs have been successfully implemented in several surgical fields; however, there have been mixed results observed in bariatric surgery. Our institution implemented an enhanced recovery program with specific pre-, intra-, and post-operative protocols aimed at patients, nursing staff, and physicians. The aim of the study is to assess the effectiveness of the ERAS program. METHODS: Patients who underwent bariatric surgery prior to the implementation of the enhanced recovery program in the calendar year 2015 were compared to those who had surgery after implementation in 2017. Data for our institution was drawn from the Premier Hospital Database. Poisson and quantile regressions were used to examine the association between ERAS protocol and LOS and cost, respectively. Logistic regression was used to assess the impact of ERAS on 30-day complications and readmissions. RESULTS: 277 bariatric surgical procedures were performed in the pre-ERAS group, compared to 348 procedures post-ERAS. While there was a 25.6% increase in volume, there was no statistical difference between the patient populations or the type of procedure performed between the 2 years. A decrease in length of stay was observed from 2.77 days in 2015 to 1.77 days in 2017 (p < 0.001), while median cost was also cut from $11,739.03 to $9482.18 (p < 0.001). 30-day readmission rate also decreased from 7.94% to 2.86% (p = 0.011). After controlling for other factors, ERAS protocol was associated with decreased LOS (IRR 0.65, p < 0.001), cost (- $2256.88, p < 0.001), and risk of 30-day readmission (OR 0.37, p = 0.011). CONCLUSION: The implementation of a standardized enhanced recovery program resulted in reduced length of stay, cost, and 30-day readmissions. Total costs saved were greater than $800,000 in one calendar year. This study highlights that the value of an enhanced recovery program can be observed in bariatric surgery, benefiting both patients and hospital systems.

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty versus laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: a case-matched study.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) reduces the gastric lumen to a size comparable with that of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). However, there is a paucity of research comparing outcomes between the 2 procedures. Our study compared the 6-month weight loss outcomes and adverse events of ESG with LSG in a case-matched cohort. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed prospectively collected data for patients undergoing ESG or LSG at a single academic center. Weight was recorded at 1 and 6 months postprocedure, and percent total body weight loss (%TBWL) was calculated. Adverse events and new-onset Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) were also recorded. RESULTS: A total of 54 ESG patients were matched with 83 LSG patients by age, sex, and body mass index. The proportion of patients with GERD at baseline was similar in the 2 groups (16.7% in ESG group vs 25.3% in LSG group, P = .27). At the 6-month follow-up, %TBWL (compared with baseline) was significantly lower in the ESG group compared with the LSG group (17.1% ± 6.5% vs 23.6% ± 7.6%, P < .01). ESG patients had significantly lower rates of adverse events compared with LSG patients (5.2% vs 16.9%, P < .05). New-onset GERD was also significantly lower in the ESG group compared with the LSG group (1.9% vs 14.5%, P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: ESG, a minimally invasive same-day procedure, achieved less weight loss at 6 months than LSG, with the caveat that LSG caused more adverse events and new-onset GERD than ESG.

Implementation and evaluation of an algorithm for the management of scabies outbreaks.

BACKGROUND: Infestations with scabies mites are a global burden affecting individuals of all ages, classes and ethnicities. As poor sanitation and overcrowding favor the transmission of this highly contagious disease, epidemic outbreaks are frequently observed among displaced persons and asylum seekers. Due to the growing influx of refugees during the last years, public health authorities in host countries are frequently confronted with the challenge to treat individuals with diagnosed or suspected scabies promptly and effectively to avoid further spreading of the infestation. This study aimed to establish a straightforward and efficient algorithm for rapid screening and treatment of large numbers of patients with confirmed or suspected scabies infestations. METHODS: Forty-eight individuals (58% males, mean age 22.4 yrs.) from Syria with suspected scabies infestation were allocated to 3 colour-coded groups: (1) no signs or symptoms of infestation, (2) itch only, and (3) itch and typical skin lesions. Patients were treated with a single (group 1) or two doses of oral ivermectin at an interval of 7 days (group 2), or with a combination of 2 doses of ivermectin plus 2 applications of permethrin ointment at an interval of 7 days (group 3). Follow-ups were performed 4 weeks after initial treatments. RESULTS: All individuals with signs and/or symptoms of infestation had improved skin lesion; in 10/11 (90.9%) lesion had completely resolved. All individuals with initial itch only (n = 32) reported improvement of its intensity or complete resolution. None of the patients of group 1 developed itch or skin lesions. The algorithm was reapplied in 4 individuals (8.3%) after 4 weeks and the outbreak was completely controlled after 8 weeks. Colour-coding ensured fast flow of information between health-care providers at the interfaces of the algorithm. CONCLUSIONS: Our algorithm proved to be both highly efficient for treatment of large numbers of patients with suspected or diagnosed scabies infestation as well as for prevention of spreading of the disease. Hence, this algorithm is well suited for the management of scabies mass outbreaks.

Robot-assisted versus laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy: a propensity score-matched comparative analysis using the 2015-2016 MBSAQIP database.

BACKGROUND: Robotic-assisted bariatric surgery is part of the armamentarium in many bariatric centers. However, limited data correlate the robotic benefits to with clinical outcomes. This study compares 30-day outcomes between robotic-assisted and laparoscopic procedures for Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG). METHODS: Using the 2015-2016 Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) database, patients between18- and 65-year-old were included. To adjust for potential confounders, 1:1 propensity-score matching (PSM) was performed using 22 preoperative characteristics. Second PSM analysis was performed adding operative time and conversion rate. RESULTS: 269,923 patients underwent SG (n = 190,494) or RYGB (n = 79,429). The operative time was significantly longer in the Robotic-assisted compared to laparoscopic approach either for SG (102.58 ± 46 vs. 73.38 ± 36; P < 0.001) or for RYGB (158.29 ± 65 vs. 120.17 ± 56; P < 0.001). In the SG cohort (12,877 matched cases), the robotic approach showed significant reduction of postoperative bleeding (0.16% vs. 0.43%; P < 0.001) and strictures (0.19% vs. 0.33%; P = 0.04) with similar results in the other 30-day outcomes in both analyses. Similarly, for the RYGB cohort (5780 matched cases), the robotic approach showed significantly fewer requirements for blood transfusions (0.64% vs. 1.16%; P = 0.004) with no statistically different results for the other's outcomes. Conversely, when adding operative time and conversion rate to the PSM analysis, the robotic platform showed significantly shorter length of stay (2.12 ± 1.9 vs. 2.30 ± 3.1 days; P < 0.001), reduction of anastomotic leak (0.52% vs. 0.92%; P = 0.01), renal complications (0.16% vs. 0.38%; P = 0.004), and venous thromboembolism (0.24% vs. 0.52%; P = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings show that postoperative bleeding and blood transfusion are significantly reduced with the robotic platform, and after correcting for all factors including operative time, the robotic-assisted approach is associated with better postoperative outcomes especially for RYGB.

Lung health in era of climate change and dust storms.

Dust storms are strong winds which lead to particle exposure over extensive areas. These storms influence air quality on both a local and global scale which lead to both short and long-term effects. The frequency of dust storms has been on the rise during the last decade. Forecasts suggest that their incidence will increase as a response to the effects of climate change and anthropogenic activities. Elderly people, young children, and individuals with chronic cardiopulmonary diseases are at the greatest risk for health effects of dust storms. A wide variety of infectious and non-infectious diseases have been associated with dust exposure. Influenza A virus, pulmonary coccidioidomycosis, bacterial pneumonia, and meningococcal meningitis are a few examples of dust-related infectious diseases. Among non-infectious diseases, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, sarcoidosis and pulmonary fibrosis have been associated with dust contact. Here, we review two molecular mechanisms of dust induced lung disease for asthma and sarcoidosis. We can also then further understand the mechanisms by which dust particles disturb airway epithelial and immune cells.

CTRP7 deletion attenuates obesity-linked glucose intolerance, adipose tissue inflammation, and hepatic stress.

Chronic low-grade inflammation and cellular stress are important contributors to obesity-linked metabolic dysfunction. Here, we uncover an immune-metabolic role for C1q/TNF-related protein 7 (CTRP7), a secretory protein of the C1q family with previously unknown function. In obese humans, circulating CTRP7 levels were markedly elevated and positively correlated with body mass index, glucose, insulin, insulin resistance index, hemoglobin A1c, and triglyceride levels. Expression of CTRP7 in liver was also significantly upregulated in obese humans and positively correlated with gluconeogenic genes. In mice, Ctrp7 expression was differentially modulated in various tissues by fasting and refeeding and by diet-induced obesity. A genetic loss-of-function mouse model was used to determine the requirement of CTRP7 for metabolic homeostasis. When fed a control low-fat diet, male or female mice lacking CTRP7 were indistinguishable from wild-type littermates. In obese male mice consuming a high-fat diet, however, CTRP7 deficiency attenuated insulin resistance and enhanced glucose tolerance, effects that were independent of body weight, metabolic rate, and physical activity level. Improved glucose metabolism in CTRP7-deficient mice was associated with reduced adipose tissue inflammation, as well as decreased liver fibrosis and cellular oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum stress. These results provide a link between elevated CTRP7 levels and impaired glucose metabolism, frequently associated with obesity. Inhibiting CTRP7 action may confer beneficial metabolic outcomes in the setting of obesity and diabetes.

Pharyngeal collapsibility during sleep is elevated in insulin-resistant females with morbid obesity.

Insulin resistance is associated with sleep apnoea, leading us to hypothesise that it is also associated with elevations in pharyngeal collapsibility, even in the absence of sleep apnoea.90 bariatric patients were characterised for sleep apnoea, pharyngeal collapsibility and insulin resistance. Patients with a respiratory disturbance index (RDI) >10 events·h(-1), diabetes mellitus, tonsillar hypertrophy and pulmonary disease were excluded. The remaining 14 females underwent collapsibility measurements (passive critical pressure, Pcritp ) during non-rapid eye movement sleep. The homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) index, a measure of insulin resistance, was derived from measurements of fasting glucose and insulin levels, and compared to Pcritp Groups with high Pcritp compared to low Pcritp did not differ in age, body mass index or RDI. HOMA and insulin were elevated in the high Pcritp group compared to the low Pcritp group (p<0.02). Pcritp correlated with HOMA (Spearman's ρ=0.565, 95% CI 0.104-0.862; p=0.035) and insulin (Spearman's ρ=0.609 95% CI 0.196-0.835; p=0.021).Obese insulin-resistant subjects without frank diabetes or sleep apnoea demonstrate preclinical elevations in pharyngeal collapsibility, which may increase their susceptibility to sleep apnoea. Our findings suggest that insulin resistance could play a significant role in sleep apnoea pathogenesis by generating requisite elevations in pharyngeal collapsibility.

Early hospital readmission after bariatric surgery.

BACKGROUND: With the rise in bariatric procedures being performed nationwide and the growing focus on quality and outcome measures, reducing early hospital readmission (EHR) rates has garnered great clinical interest. The aim of this study was to identify the incidence, reasons, and risk factors for EHR after bariatric surgery. METHODS: Using American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) dataset (2012-2013), patients with a diagnosis of obesity and body mass index ≥35 who underwent bariatric surgery were identified. EHR was defined as at least one hospitalization within 30 days of bariatric procedure. The association between readmission and patient factors was assessed using multivariable logistic regression analysis. In addition, reasons for readmission were sought. RESULTS: A total of 36,042 patients were identified. The overall EHR rate was 4.70 % [laparoscopic (lap) adjustable band 1.87 %, lap gastric bypass (GBP) 5.94 %, open GBP 7.86 %, and sleeve gastrectomy 3.73 %], and it occurred at the median of 11 days postoperatively. The rate of EHR significantly decreased from 2012 to 2013 (5.15 vs. 4.32 %, p < 0.001). The median age and BMI were 44 years and 44.7 kg/m(2), respectively, 78.99 % were female, and 70.78 % were white. The most common reason for readmission was nausea/vomiting (12.95 %), followed by abdominal pain (11.75 %) and dehydration (10.54 %). On multivariable analysis, factors most strongly associated with readmission were procedure type (lap band: reference; open GBP: OR 3.78, 95 % CI 2.47-5.80; lap GBP 3.18, 2.39-4.22; sleeve gastrectomy: 2.03, 1.52-2.71; all p < 0.001), steroid use (1.82, 1.33-2.48, p < 0.001), pre-discharge complication (1.64, 1.20-2.24, p < 0.001), and black population (1.51, 1.34-1.71, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Bariatric centers should consider implementing standardized protocols for outpatient monitoring of patients identified to be at high risk of experiencing early readmission, which in turn would decrease overall costs and improve quality of care.

Endoscopic management of bariatric surgical complications.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Bariatric surgery is recognized as the most effective treatment against obesity as it results in significant weight reduction and a high rate of remission of obesity-related comorbidities. However, bariatric surgery is not uncommonly associated with complications and an endoscopic approach to management is preferred over surgical reintervention. This review illustrates the latest developments in the endoscopic management of bariatric surgical complications. RECENT FINDINGS: For successful management of complications, precipitating and perpetuating factors must be addressed in addition to directing therapy at the target pathology. Endoscopy is well tolerated even in the acute postoperative setting when performed carefully with CO2 insufflation. Chronic proximal staple-line leaks/fistulas frequently do not respond to primary closure with diversion therapy, and a new technique of stricturotomy has been reported to improve outcomes. Innovations in the field of transoral endoscopic instruments have led to the development of a single-session entirely internal endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography by creating a gastrogastric anastomosis. SUMMARY: Endoscopy allows for early diagnosis and prompt institution of therapy and should, therefore, be the first-line intervention in the management of complications of bariatric surgery in patients who do not need urgent surgical intervention. Computed tomography-guided drainage may be necessary in patients with drainable fluid collections. VIDEO ABSTRACT: http://links.lww.com/COG/A11.

Decreased Escitalopram Concentrations Post-Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery.

BACKGROUND: There is a high coincidence between obesity and psychiatric disorders including depression. Depressive disorders are commonly treated with antidepressants, including the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor Lexapro (escitalopram). Although candidates for elective Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery may be treated with escitalopram, drug dosing strategies are typically not adjusted postoperatively. Therefore, studies are needed to better characterize escitalopram drug concentrations in a postsurgical setting. METHODS: Turbulent flow-liquid chromatographic-tandem mass spectrometric methods were used to quantify escitalopram concentrations in serum in study participants approved for RYGB. Blood was collected from study subjects 2 weeks before surgery, and 2 and 6 weeks postoperatively, to assess the impact of RYGB on systemic drug concentrations. RESULTS: Twelve samples from 4 study participants were collected and analyzed for serum escitalopram concentrations. Two weeks post-RYGB, although there were minimal changes in each participant's body mass index (<5%), drug concentrations were 33% (4%-71%) decreased as compared with presurgical serum concentrations. There were further decreases in drug concentrations 6 weeks postsurgery. All clinical laboratory values were within normal reference intervals. CONCLUSIONS: RYGB significantly alters the gastrointestinal tract and impacts escitalopram drug concentrations, even shortly after surgery.

The effect of warm-up on surgical performance: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: The concept of warming-up before a performance has been accepted across many disciplines including sports and music. In contrast, it is uncommon for a surgeon to "warm-up" prior to operating. OBJECTIVE: To date, few studies from various specialties have attempted to answer this question whether warm-up improved the intraoperative performance of the surgeon. However, there has not been a systematic review of these studies. The aim of our systematic review is to assess the effect of warming-up preoperatively on the laparoscopic performance of the surgeon. METHODS: Pubmed and scopus were searched to identify all published prospective observational studies, which involved either residents, fellows or attending surgeons. We excluded case reports, reviews, non-English studies, and medical student participation. Study risk of bias were assessed regarding sequence generation, allocation concealment, blinding, incomplete outcome data, selective outcome reporting, and other biases, using a validated Cochrane Collaboration's tool. RESULTS: Out of 241 studies, 6 met the inclusion criteria. All included studies were randomized with half of them being randomized controlled studies and the rest randomized crossover studies. The total number of operative cases was 196, including 98 warm-up and 98 non warm-up. The total number of participants was 87, with the largest number in a single study being 38 and the average sample size of all studies was 14. All six studies assessed various aspects of laparoscopic surgical performances. Significant improvement in the intraoperative laparoscopic performance was observed with warming-up preoperatively in five out of six studies (p < 0.05). The sixth study failed to reach statistical significance (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Warming-up before an operative procedure improve a trainee's technical, cognitive, and psychomotor performance. Further studies are necessary to assess the ways in which warm-up could impact a surgeon's performance, and to identify the optimal timing and duration of warm-up prior to operating.

Preoperative warm-up the key to improved resident technique: a randomized study.

BACKGROUND: The ACGME has required that a skills lab be incorporated into the surgical residency curriculum. While the value of warm-up is generally accepted in other areas requiring complex motor skills, there is little evidence to support the benefits of warm-up prior to performing surgery. We are conducting this study in an attempt to identify whether a warm-up period prior to operating impacts operative technique. METHODS: All general surgery residents and MIS fellows were included in this IRB-approved randomized study. Participants were randomized to either warm-up or no warm-up groups. Participants randomized to the warm-up group completed a 10 min practice session in the simulation lab within 1 h of starting the case, using an FLS training box. At the conclusion of the operation, the participant was evaluated by the attending surgeon using the validated global rating scales of Reznick and Vassiliou. The attending surgeons were blinded to the use of pre-procedure warm-up. The results of the questionnaire were analyzed using student's t test with p < 0.05 for significance. RESULTS: Pilot data were obtained after completing 40 cases that were randomized to warm-up (19) or no warm-up (21). There was a statistically significant improvement in depth perception (p = 0.02), bimanual dexterity (p = 0.01), and efficiency of movements (p = 0.03) for those randomized to warm-up. There was statistical improvement when we preformed a composite scoring of the attending evaluations for each of the Reznick (p = 0.008) and the Vassiliou (p = 0.01) global rating scales. CONCLUSIONS: Preoperative warm-up significantly improves depth perception, bimanual dexterity, and efficiency of movements, as well as improvement in composite scores as judged by the attending surgeon. The lack of self-perceived improvement by the residents may be a reflection of the high standards and intense self-critique that is common among surgical trainees. We believe that our findings, while preliminary, reflect that surgical performance can be enhanced through structured warm-up activities.

Endoscopic suturing for transoral outlet reduction increases weight loss after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Weight regain or insufficient loss after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is common. This is partially attributable to dilatation of the gastrojejunostomy (GJ), which diminishes the restrictive capacity of RYGB. Endoluminal interventions for GJ reduction are being explored as alternatives to revision surgery. We performed a randomized, blinded, sham-controlled trial to evaluate weight loss after sutured transoral outlet reduction (TORe). METHODS: Patients with weight regain or inadequate loss after RYGB and GJ diameter greater than 2 cm were assigned randomly to groups that underwent TORe (n = 50) or a sham procedure (controls, n = 27). Intraoperative performance, safety, weight loss, and clinical outcomes were assessed. RESULTS: Subjects who received TORe had a significantly greater mean percentage weight loss from baseline (3.5%; 95% confidence interval, 1.8%-5.3%) than controls (0.4%; 95% confidence interval, 2.3% weight gain to 3.0% weight loss) (P = .021), using a last observation carried forward intent-to-treat analysis. As-treated analysis also showed greater mean percentage weight loss in the TORe group than controls (3.9% and 0.2%, respectively; P = .014). Weight loss or stabilization was achieved in 96% subjects receiving TORe and 78% of controls (P = .019). The TORe group had reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure (P < .001) and a trend toward improved metabolic indices. In addition, 85% of the TORe group reported compliance with the healthy lifestyle eating program, compared with 53.8% of controls; 83% of TORe subjects said they would undergo the procedure again, and 78% said they would recommend the procedure to a friend. The groups had similar frequencies of adverse events. CONCLUSIONS: A multicenter randomized trial provides Level I evidence that TORe reduces weight regain after RYGB. These results were achieved using a superficial suction-based device; greater levels of weight loss could be achieved with newer, full-thickness suturing devices. TORe is one approach to avoid weight regain; a longitudinal multidisciplinary approach with dietary counseling and behavioral changes are required for long-term results. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00394212.