Low-Grade Appendiceal Mucinous Neoplasm: What Is the Best Treatment?

BACKGROUND: Low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm (LAMN) is an uncommon tumor of the appendix that is usually diagnosed incidentally after surgery. Although LAMN may be asymptomatic, it can rupture and seed mucin and neoplastic epithelium into the peritoneum, causing pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data from 53 patients were retrospectively analyzed. Age, sex, tumor size, margin status, peritoneal carcinomatosis index, surgical procedures, postoperative results with histologic diagnosis, T stage, recurrence, and mortality of the patients were evaluated. RESULTS: Appendectomy was performed in 37 patients, right hemicolectomy in nine patients, cytoreductive surgery in one patient, and cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in six patients. Recurrence occurred in four patients. Of the patients who developed recurrence, one patient had stage T4a disease, and the other three patients had T4b disease (p<0.001). Eighteen patients had acellular mucin in the serosa and four of these patients developed recurrence (p=0.004). Twelve patients had appendix perforation, and three of these patients had PMP on exploration (p<0.001). The mean survival time was 93.3 months in patients without recurrence and 32 months in patients with recurrence (p=0.021). CONCLUSIONS: Low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasms are rare appendiceal tumors. The appropriate management of this tumor is controversial. T stage, appendix perforation, presence of acellular mucin on the serosa, and surgical margins are risk factors for the development of PMP. Appendectomy is considered sufficient when there are no risk factors for Tis (LAMN) and T3 disease. Right hemicolectomy may be sufficient if there are no risk factors for T4a disease, but cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy seem to be the most appropriate treatments in the presence of the stated risk factors for T4b disease.

The linear symmetries of Hill's lunar problem.

A symmetry of a Hamiltonian system is a symplectic or anti-symplectic involution which leaves the Hamiltonian invariant. For the planar and spatial Hill lunar problem, four resp. eight linear symmetries are well-known. Algebraically, the planar ones form a Klein four-group Z 2 × Z 2 and the spatial ones form the group Z 2 × Z 2 × Z 2 . We prove that there are no other linear symmetries. Remarkably, in Hill's system the spatial linear symmetries determine already the planar linear symmetries.

Faculty perceptions, awareness and use of open educational resources for teaching and learning in higher education: a cross-comparative analysis.

This paper explores faculty's perspectives and use of open educational resources (OER) and their repositories across different countries by conducting a multiple case study to find similarities and differences between academics' awareness, perceptions and use of OER, as well as examining related aspects of institutional policy and quality that may influence individual views. Data were collected through nine expert reports on each country studied (Australia, Canada, China, Germany, Japan, South Africa, South Korea, Spain and Turkey) and were analyzed through qualitative content analysis using thematic coding. Findings show the impact on individual OER adoption with regard to the individual control of diverse factors by faculty members; of institutional policies and quality measures on the externally determined factors (by the institution); and of institutional professional development and provision of incentives in more internally determined factors (by the faculty members themselves). These findings carry implications for higher education institutions around the world in their attempt to boost OER adoption by faculty members.

Galectin-3 levels and inflammatory response in patients undergoing bariatric surgery.

PURPOSE: Obesity, a low-grade systemic inflammatory disease, causes inflammation in metabolic tissues. Galectin-3(Gal-3) is one of the lectin molecules involved in inflammatory processes. We evaluated the possible relationship between Gal-3 level and the metabolic inflammatory process before and after obesity surgery. METHODS: One hundred participants were included in the study and classified as normal weight, overweight, Class I, II, and III obese. Class III obese group underwent bariatric surgery and evaluated in the 3rd and 6th months after surgery. Glucose, insulin, glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), Gal-3, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, adiponectin, and leptin levels were determined. RESULTS: Gal-3 levels were higher in Class III obese compared to the normal weight group. Postoperative leptin and hsCRP levels were decreased significantly, but the decrease in IL-6 and Gal-3 levels were not significant. Postoperative increased adiponectin and IL-10 levels were significant. Gal-3 was found significantly higher in insulin resistant group. The correlation between Gal-3 with BMI, adiponectin, leptin, hsCRP levels, and HOMA-IR was found weak. CONCLUSION: These findings might support the fact that Gal-3 is one of the molecules involved in the linkage between insulin resistance and meta-inflammation in morbid obese.

The relationship between thyroidectomy complications and body mass index.

INTRODUCTION: Obesity is a growing public health problem associated with many comorbid diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between body mass index and complications of thyroidectomy. METHODS: Patients who underwent total thyroidectomy between January 2015 and December 2018 were enrolled. Patients were divided into two groups, i.e., BMI <25 (group A) and BMI≥ 25 (group B). Demographics, operative time, and complications were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS: The study included 145 patients (66 in Group A and 79 in Group B). There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of age (p=0.330) and gender (p=0.055). No surgical site infection and bleeding complications were observed in any patients. The mean operative time was 148.4 minutes (90-235) in Group A and 153.4 minutes (85-285) in Group B (p=0.399). Transient hypocalcemia was observed in 25 (37.9%) patients in group A, and 23 (29.1%) patients in Group B (p = 0.291). Permanent hypocalcemia was not observed in any patient in group A, and in 2 patients in Group B (2.5%) (p = 0.501). Transient recurrent nerve palsy was observed in 1 (1.5%) patient in Group A and in 3 (3.8%) patients in Group B (p=0.626). None of the patients had permanent recurrent nerve palsy. Parathyroid autotransplantation was performed on 1 patient (1.5%) in group A and on 7 (8.9%) patients in Group B (p=0.055). CONCLUSION: We think there is no relationship between a high BMI and thyroidectomy complications, and surgery can also be performed safely in this patient group.

The relationship between thyroidectomy complications and body mass index

SUMMARY INTRODUCTION: Obesity is a growing public health problem associated with many comorbid diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between body mass index and complications of thyroidectomy. METHODS: Patients who underwent total thyroidectomy between January 2015 and December 2018 were enrolled. Patients were divided into two groups, i.e., BMI <25 (group A) and BMI≥ 25 (group B). Demographics, operative time, and complications were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS: The study included 145 patients (66 in Group A and 79 in Group B). There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of age (p=0.330) and gender (p=0.055). No surgical site infection and bleeding complications were observed in any patients. The mean operative time was 148.4 minutes (90-235) in Group A and 153.4 minutes (85-285) in Group B (p=0.399). Transient hypocalcemia was observed in 25 (37.9%) patients in group A, and 23 (29.1%) patients in Group B (p = 0.291). Permanent hypocalcemia was not observed in any patient in group A, and in 2 patients in Group B (2.5%) (p = 0.501). Transient recurrent nerve palsy was observed in 1 (1.5%) patient in Group A and in 3 (3.8%) patients in Group B (p=0.626). None of the patients had permanent recurrent nerve palsy. Parathyroid autotransplantation was performed on 1 patient (1.5%) in group A and on 7 (8.9%) patients in Group B (p=0.055). CONCLUSION: We think there is no relationship between a high BMI and thyroidectomy complications, and surgery can also be performed safely in this patient group.

RESUMO INTRODUÇÃO: A obesidade é um crescente problema de saúde pública associado a muitas doenças comórbidas. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a relação entre o índice de massa corporal e as complicações da tireoidectomia. MÉTODOS: Os pacientes submetidos a tireoidectomia total entre janeiro de 2015 e dezembro de 2018 foram incluidos. Os pacientes foram divididos em dois como IMC <25 (grupo A) e IMC . 25 (grupo B). Demografia, tempo operatorio e complicacoes revisadas retrospectivamente. RESULTADOS: O estudo incluiu 145 pacientes (66 no grupo A e 79 no grupo B). Não houve diferença significativa entre os dois grupos em termos de idade (p = 0,033) e sexo (p = 0,055). Nenhuma infecção do sítio cirúrgico e complicações hemorrágicas foram observadas em nenhum paciente. O tempo operatório médio foi de 148,4 minutos (90-235) no grupo A e 153,4 minutos (85-285) no grupo B (p = 0,399). Hipocalcemia transitória foi observada em 25 (37,9%) pacientes do grupo A e 23 (29,1%) do grupo B (p = 0,291). Hipocalcemia permanente não foi observada em nenhum paciente do grupo A e em 2 pacientes do grupo B (2,5%) (p = 0,501). Paralisia nervosa recorrente transitória foi observada em 1 (1,5%) paciente no grupo A e em 3 (3,8%) pacientes no grupo B (p = 0,626). Nenhum dos pacientes apresentou paralisia nervosa recorrente permanente. O autotransplante de paratireóide foi realizado em 1 paciente (1,5%) no grupo A e em 7 (8,9%) pacientes no grupo B (p = 0,055). CONCLUSÃO:: Acreditamos que não há relação entre um IMC alto e as complicações da tireoidectomia e a cirurgia pode ser realizada com segurança também neste grupo de pacientes.

Assessment of prophylactic antibiotic usage habits of the general surgeons in Turkey.

INTRODUCTION: One of the most important aspects of inappropriate antibiotic use among general surgeons in Turkey is the use of surgical antibiotic prophylaxis (SP). In order to shed light on the current situation, we conducted a survey of general surgeons in our country. Our aim was to evaluate the approach taken by our general surgeons in prescribing SP, while providing data pertinent to the effectiveness of the 'Rational Drug Use' (AIK) national action plan. METHODOLOGY: A questionnaire on the subject of personal SP usage and compliance with guidelines was distributed amongst general surgeons between 2018-2019. The questions related to individual approaches taken by surgeons when treating patients with either clean or clean-contaminated wounds. Results of the questionnaires were collated and compliance with ASHP guidelines was evaluated. RESULTS: A total of 317 completed questionnaires were evaluated. According to the questionnaire results, the rate of total compliance with ASHP guidelines was 26.8%. The compliance rate for preoperative SP was 69.7% in the clean wound group and 54.6% in the clean-contaminated wound group. Although 96.5% of the participants reported correct timing for the first dose of SP, this number dropped to 79.5% apropos the adminstration of further doses of prophylaxis. The percentage of surgeons prescribing continued antibiotics at discharge for clean and clean-contaminated cases was 22.7% and 38.5%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study indicate that inappropriate use of SP is widespread in our country, and that antibiotics continue to be prescribed at discharge.

Evaluation of Antibiotic Prophylaxis and Discharge Prescriptions in the General Surgery Department.

Introduction Although there are international guidelines for surgical antibiotic prophylaxis (SP), the use of inappropriate SP is still a common problem. Most studies investigated SP applications in clean and clean-contaminated cases. However, antibiotics in the discharge prescriptions of these cases have not been adequately investigated. In this study, we aimed to examine the antibiotics in SP applications and discharged prescriptions together and to find out the causes of inappropriate use. Materials and methods We retrospectively evaluated the data of patients admitted to our general surgery wards between 2014 and 2015. Patients with clean or clean-contaminated wound category operations were included. The patients were evaluated in terms of convenience of SP (choice of antibiotics, compliance with an indication for SP, timing of the first dose, SP>24 hours, and discharge prescription). In addition, to interpret the results, a questionnaire has been performed for the surgeons in the same clinics. Results A total of 1205 patients with clean and clean-contaminated wound class operation were enrolled in this study. The total accuracy rate of SP was 7.1%. SP application with the correct indication and timing of the first dose was compatible with guidelines: 55.6% and 81.9%, respectively. SP was applied >24 hours at 60.2% and antibiotic prescribing carried out after discharge at 80.6% of patients. According to questionnaire results, the use of SP over 24 hours and the prescription of antibiotics during discharge were: drain usage, hyperthermia, leukocytosis, surgeons feeling of comfort, avoidance of patients, and their relatives' reactions. Conclusion The total accuracy rate of SP rate was low in the present study and in surgeons prescribing the SP after discharge. In light of the present study, we suggest that discharge prescriptions should also be reviewed in clinics who have a high inappropriate surgical antibiotic prophylaxis rate.

Correction: Evaluation of Antibiotic Prophylaxis and Discharge Prescriptions in the General Surgery Department.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.7759/cureus.4793.].

A new antibiotic stewardship program approach is effective on inappropriate surgical prophylaxis and discharge prescription.

INTRODUCTION: This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of a new antimicrobial stewardship program (ASP) on surgical antibiotic prophylaxis (SP) and antibiotics in discharge prescriptions used as a continuation of SP. METHODOLOGY: The study included elective patients with clean and clean-contaminated wounds. The accuracy of the assigned SP was evaluated according to international guidelines. Primary outcome measures comprised appropriateness of prophylactic antibiotic indication, correct timing of initial dose, discontinuation of SP within 24 hours, and antibiotic prescription at discharge. A secondary outcome measure was to determine whether the effect of ASP was sustained long-term. RESULTS: The total compliance rate for all stages of SP increased from 8% to 52.1% after the intervention (p < 0.05). When analyzed according to individual SP components, it was found that although ASP did not change first dose timing rates, it did affect the rates of prophylactic antibiotic indication, discontinuation of SP within 24 hours and antibiotic prescription at discharge, with statistical significance (p < 0.05). In addition, ASP continued to increase its effectiveness throughout the 3rd year. CONCLUSIONS: Based on the findings of our study, it seems clear that the modified ASP introduced in our general surgery clinic can be used effectively and simply; in addition, this ASP increases its efficacy with time.

Reliability of fine needle aspiration biopsy in large thyroid nodules.

OBJECTIVE: Fine needle aspiration biopsy provides one of the most important data that determines the treatment algorithm of thyroid nodules. Nevertheless, the reliability of fine needle aspiration biopsy is controversial in large nodules. The aim of this study was to evaluate the adequacy of fine needle aspiration biopsy in thyroid nodules that are four cm or greater. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We retrospectively examined 219 patients files who underwent thyroidectomy for thyroid nodules that were greater than four centimeter between May 2007 and December 2012. Seventy-four patients with hyperthyroidism, and 18 patients without preoperative fine needle aspiration cytology were excluded from the study. Histopathologic results after thyroidectomy were compared with preoperative cytology results, and sensitivity and specificity rates were calculated. RESULTS: False-negativity, sensitivity and specificity rates of fine needle aspiration biopsy of thyroid nodules were found to be 9.7%, 55.5%, and 85%, respectively. Within any nodule of the 127 patients, 28 (22.0%) had thyroid cancer. However, when only nodules of at least 4 cm were evaluated, thyroid cancer was detected in 22 (17.3%) patients. CONCLUSION: In this study, fine needle aspiration biopsy of large thyroid nodules was found to have a high false-negativity rate. The limitations of fine-needle aspiration biopsy should be taken into consideration in treatment planning of thyroid nodules larger than four centimeters.

Treatment of pilonidal disease by phenol application.

The literature indicates various approaches regarding the properties of phenol, the target patient group, and the complication and recurrence rates. Although phenol is most frequently used to treat the fistulated form of the disease, it can also be applied for other types. The overall success and complication rates of the application is reported as 62-95% and 0%-2%, respectively. Phenol treatment in pilonidal disease can be used more frequently as an alternative method with acceptable success, complication, and recurrence rates.

Predictive Value of Preoperative Neutrophil Lymphocyte Ratio in Determining the Stage of Gastric Tumor.

BACKGROUND Neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is an indicator of the inflammatory state, and its increase has been shown to be a negative prognostic factor for many malignancies. The aim of this study was to determine whether there was a relationship between NLR and tumor aggressiveness in gastric cancer patients and to investigate the prognostic significance of NLR. MATERIAL AND METHODS The medical records of 189 patients with gastric cancer between January 2009 and January 2014 were examined for the presence of metastasis, tumor staging, tumor differentiation grade, and preoperative NLR value. RESULTS Of the 189 patients, 61 were female (32.2%) and 128 were male (67.7%). Eight-eight patients had NLR values of four or higher. A comparison of the high NLR value group and the low NLR value group found no statistically significant difference for clinicopathological features of age, gender, type of operation, of degree of differentiation; differences ranged from 20.7% to 46.2%, p<0.001. CONCLUSIONS Increase in NLR has been associated with poor prognosis in univariate analysis and variations of this parameter have also been shown to be correlated with tumor progression. NLR values should be considered as a useful follow-up parameter.

Oncoplastic reduction mammoplasty for breast cancer in women with macromastia: Oncological long-term outcomes.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the long-term results of tumorectomy and concomitant bilateral oncoplastic reduction mammoplasty (ORM) for early stage breast cancer patients with macromastia in terms of local disease control and long-term oncological results. PATIENTS AND METHOD: Data of 82 patients with macromastia undergoing ORM for breast cancer between 1996 and 2011 were retrospectively examined and evaluated with regard to oncological results. RESULTS: The median age was 50 years. The median follow-up was 121 months (range 28-212 months). The median breast volume was 1402 cm3 and the median weight of excised breast material was 679 g. The median surgical margin was 16 mm. Ten-year local recurrence rate was 8.7%. The 10-year overall survival rate was 82.2% and the disease-free survival rate was 73.2%. Early and late complication rates were 12.2% and 14.6%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: From the standpoint of local disease control and long-term observation, ORM can be considered a very safe and acceptable treatment for early stage breast cancer in women with macromastia.

Oncoplastic reduction mammoplasty for breast cancer in women with macromastia: long term aesthetic, functional and satisfaction outcomes.

AIM OF THE STUDY: Despite the increase in studies concerning oncoplastic reduction mammoplasty (ORM), data showing long-term aesthetic and patient satisfaction for ORM in patients with macromastia remain limited. Therefore, this study evaluated the long-term results of tumorectomy and concomitant bilateral ORM for early-stage breast cancer patients with macromastia in terms of cosmesis, patient satisfaction, and functional outcomes. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective data of patients with macromastia undergoing ORM for breast cancer between 1996 and 2011 were examined and evaluated regarding the aesthetic results, patient satisfaction, and functional outcomes. RESULTS: The median age of the 82 patients was 50 years. The median follow-up was 120 months (range: 28-212 months). The median breast volume was 1402 cm(3), and the median weight of the excised breast material was 679 g. A good or excellent evaluation of the cosmetic outcome was as follows: self-evaluation: 84.1% at the early-stage, 80.3% at the later stage; panel evaluation: 75.4% at the late-stage. Median patient satisfaction rates were 9.1% for early-stage disease and 8.8% for late-stage disease. Reduced mobility and intertrigo improved by three-fold during the post-operative period. CONCLUSIONS: ORM for early-stage breast cancer in women with macromastia results in good cosmesis in both the early-stage and long-term, and is quite acceptable for use in patients. Patients reacted favorably to the prospect of having their breast cancer and macromastia treated in a single session, and positive results continued over the long-term.

The effect of sleeve gastrectomy on serum irisin levels in patients with morbid obesity.

INTRODUCTION: Irisin, a recently identified myokine, is associated with increased energy expenditure and has a potential role in obesity. Therefore, we investigated circulating irisin levels in morbidly obese patients undergoing sleeve gastrectomy (SG). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Thirty morbidly obese patients undergoing SG and 30 healthy subjects were included. All participants were evaluated at baseline and again at three months post-SG. Body weight and height, the lipid profile, and plasma glucose, HbA1c, insulin, and irisin levels were measured at each visit. RESULTS: The two groups had similar mean age and sex distribution. Serum irisin was significantly lower in the morbidly obese subjects compared with the controls (p = 0.003) and negatively correlated with BMI, body weight, insulin levels, and HOMA-IR (p = 0.006, p = 0.011, p = 0.046, p = 0.048, respectively). When the morbidly obese patients were re-evaluated three months post-SG, their weight and BMI had significantly decreased (both p = 0.001). Similarly, the insulin, HbA1c, HDL-cholesterol, and HOMA-IR values significantly decreased (p = 0.001, p = 0.028, p = 0.006, and p = 0.001, respectively). However, irisin levels remained unchanged (p = 0,267). CONCLUSION: Although the irisin levels were significantly lower in the morbidly obese subjects, they did not change after SG-induced weight loss. (Endokrynol Pol 2016; 67 (5): 481-486).

The effectiveness of simultaneous oncoplastic breast surgery in patients with locally advanced breast cancer.

BACKGROUND: Oncological outcomes of the oncoplastic breast surgery in patients with locally advanced breast cancer (LABC) are not well defined. This study examined the effects of oncoplastic techniques for LABC in terms of localized control and survival. We also evaluated the esthetic results of patients who had undergone oncoplastic breast conservation surgery (OBCS) and their satisfaction with the outcome. METHODS: The files and Medula (Probel Co.) database records of the patients were studied retrospectively. The esthetic evaluation was conducted by a panel. A validated satisfaction study was also performed. RESULTS: In total, 42 LABC cases (median age 48 years; range 33-69 years) were included. The median observation period was 61 months (range 26-151 months). Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) was administered in 32 (76%) cases, and a pathologic complete response was observed in 7 (16.7%) cases. The median T size during the post-NACT pathological study was 27 mm (range 0-44 mm). Oncoplastic reduction surgery was performed in 13 cases, a glandular flap in 7, Grisotti flap in 5, and latissimus dorsi flap in 3 cases. The median specimen weight was 198 g (range 103-812 g), and the mean surgical margin length was 8.7 mm (range 5-17 mm). The margin was positive in 7.1% of cases, and the local repetition rate was 14.6%. The total survival rate was 86.6%, and disease-free survival was 59.6%. The rate of excellent and good ratings by the esthetic assessment panel was 79.4%. The satisfaction rate was 88.2%. The early and delayed complication rate was 16.7%. CONCLUSIONS: Oncoplastic techniques are suitable and safe for patients undergoing OBCS. These techniques do not pose a risk to oncological local control. No survival or follow-up problems were detected during the 5-year follow-up period, the esthetic results were acceptable, and the satisfaction rate was high.

Metaplastic Breast Carcinoma: Analysis of Clinical and Pathologic Characteristics - A Case Series.

OBJECTIVE: Metaplastic breast cancer (MBC) is a rare type of breast cancer that is considered to be clinically aggressive. The clinical significance and prognostic risk factors of MBC are limited. This study comprises a retrospective analysis of the clinical and pathologic findings of a series of patients treated for MBC. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The files of 657 patients who underwent surgery because of breast cancer at our clinic were examined and the data found on 11 patients who were diagnosed as having MBC were analyzed. RESULTS: With a median age of 56 years, all patients were postmenopausal and presented with a palpable mass on physical examination. Symptoms of ulceration and skin involvement were seen in only one patient. Eight patients were diagnosed as having squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and 3 had both SCC and osseous differentiation. The median diameter was 3.8 cm (max. 14 cm; min. 1.5 cm). Lymph node metastasis was detected in 5 (45%) patients. Progesterone (PR) and estrogen (ER) were both negative in 11 (100%) patients and 10 (90.9%) patients, respectively, and CerbB2 was negative in 7 (63.6%) patients. Patients were followed up for a median period of 15 months (range, 6-40 months); at the end of which, 10 patients survived and one died of cardiac arrest at 7 months post-operatively. No instances of local recurrence or distant organ metastasis were found in any patients. The overall patient survival rate was 90%. CONCLUSION: There is no consensus on the clinical significance or best treatment approach for metaplastic carcinoma. In our study, patients with MBC were of advanced age, had tumors with large margins, high negativity for hormone receptors, and moderate- to well-differentiated histology.