Autogenous hepatic tissue transplantation into the omentum in a novel ectopic liver regeneration murine model.

BACKGROUND: Liver regeneration involves hyperplasia and hypertrophy of hepatic cells. The capacity of macroscopic liver tissue to regenerate in ectopic sites is unknown. We aim to develop a novel in vivo model of ectopic liver survivability and regeneration and assess its functionality. METHODS: Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 23) were divided into four groups: (1) single-stage (SS) group, wedge liver resection was performed, and the parenchyma was directly implanted into the omentum; (2) double-stage (DS) group, omentum pedicle was transposed over the left hepatic lobe followed by wedge liver resection along with omental flap; (3) Biogel + DS group, rats received intraperitoneal injection of inert polymer particles prior to DS; (4) Biogel + DS + portal vein ligation (PVL) group, Biogel + DS rats underwent subsequent PVL. Hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid scintigraphy assessed bile excretion from ectopic hepatic implants. RESULTS: Histologically, the scores of necrosis (P < 0.001) and fibrosis (P = 0.004) were significantly improved in rats undergoing DS procedure (groups 2, 3, and 4) compared with the SS group. Biogel rats (Biogel + DS and Biogel + DS + PVL) demonstrated statistically increased scores of bile duct neoformation (P = 0.002) compared to those without the particles (SS and DS). Scintigraphy demonstrated similar uptake of radiotracer by ectopic hepatic implants in groups 2, 3, and 4. CONCLUSIONS: Omental transposition provided adequate microcirculation for proliferation of ectopic hepatic cells after liver resection. Inert polymers enhanced the regeneration by promoting differentiation of new bile ducts. The ectopic hepatic implants showed preserved function on scintigraphy. This model provides insights into the capacity of liver parenchyma to regenerate in ectopic sites and the potential as therapeutic target for cell therapy in end-stage liver disease.

Utilisation of radiology rotations in ACGME-accredited general surgery programmes.

BACKGROUND: General surgery (GS) residents are often required to provide immediate preliminary interpretations of radiological images, especially in critical situations. It is unclear whether residents in Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education-accredited GS programmes receive sufficient radiological training to deliver adequate patient care. OBJECTIVES: Determine the utilisation of radiology rotations (RR) during GS residency. METHODS: Between February and March 2015, a pilot voluntary 19-item survey was electronically distributed to GS programme directors (PDs) regarding the availability and value of a RR during GS training. RESULTS: A total of 234 PDs received the questionnaire and the response rate was 36.8% (n=86). Sixty-five (77.4%) PDs expected their trainees to interpret imaging studies in the acute setting; however, only 8.3% of programmes had a dedicated RR. RRs are more prevalent among community-based than university-based programmes (71.4% vs 27.9% p=0.003). The implementation of a RR may be limited due to insufficient number of GS residents in the department (p=0.002). 75.4% of PDs expect GS residents to confirm their findings with a radiologist. In those programmes with RR, most PDs (85.7%) believed that a dedicated rotation improved GS residents' understanding of radiological imaging. CONCLUSION: The majority of PDs are currently not confident that GS residents are capable of interpreting radiological imaging independently; however, the implementation of a mandatory RR in GS residency curriculum yet seems to be controversial. Given the expectation of PDs and the continued need to improve patient care, the integration of a dedicated RR in GS training should be encouraged.

Impact of medical or surgical admission on outcomes of patients with acute cholecystitis.

BACKGROUND: Although acute cholecystitis (AC) is a surgical disease, patients with the condition may be admitted to medical-related services (MS). This may lead to delayed cholecystectomy thereby affecting outcomes and quality of care. METHODS: Between July 2010 and March 2013, 329 patients under 70 years old presented to a community-based tertiary care hospital with AC and underwent same admission cholecystectomy. Outcomes were compared between patients admitted to MS and surgical services (SS). RESULTS: Two hundred fifteen patients (65.3%) were admitted to a MS. Patients under the MS had longer LOS (3.0 days vs. 2.0 days, p < 0.001), waiting time to surgical consultation (7.3 h vs. 5.0 h, p < 0.001) and to cholecystectomy (1.0, 0-2 days vs. 1.0, 0-1 day, p < 0.001), and increased hospital costs ($3685 vs. $4,688, p < 0.001) compared to the SS. Readmission and mortality rates were not significantly different between groups. CONCLUSION: Patients under 70 years old with AC undergoing cholecystectomy admitted to MS had increased LOS, delay to the operation, and hospital costs compared to those admitted to a SS. Admission of patients with AC to a SS needs to be emphasized to reduce costs and improve quality of care.

Optimal Surgical Management for Occult Breast Carcinoma: A Meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Occult breast cancer (OBC) represents a rare clinical entity and poses a therapeutic dilemma. Due to limited experience, no optimal treatment approaches have yet been established. METHODS: A meta-analysis was performed using MEDLINE and EMBASE databases to identify all studies investigating the surgical options for OBC: (1) axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) with radiotherapy (XRT); (2) ALND with mastectomy; and (3) ALND alone. Comparative studies including nonoperative management (observation or XRT alone) were excluded. The primary endpoints were locoregional recurrence, distant metastasis, and mortality rates. RESULTS: The literature search yielded 42 publications. Seven studies met the inclusion criteria comprising 241 patients. Among these patients, 94 (39 %) underwent ALND with XRT, 112 (46.5 %) underwent mastectomy, and 35 (14.5 %) underwent ALND alone. Mean follow-up was 61.8 ± 16.2 months (range 5-396 months). Locoregional recurrence (12.7 vs. 9.8 %), distant metastasis (7.2 vs. 12.7 %), and mortality rates (9.5 vs. 17.9 %) were similar between ALND with XRT and mastectomy. ALND with XRT was superior to ALND alone regarding locoregional recurrence (12.7 vs. 34.3 %, p < 0.01) and there was a trend toward improved mortality rates (9.5 vs. 31.4 %, p = 0.09). CONCLUSIONS: There was no difference in survival outcomes between mastectomy and ALND with XRT of patients with OBC. Radiotherapy improves locoregional recurrence and, possibly mortality rates of patients undergoing ALND. Based on this meta-analysis, combined ALND and radiation therapy may appear as the optimal surgical approach in these patients.

A phase 1 clinical trial of vorinostat in combination with decitabine in patients with acute myeloid leukaemia or myelodysplastic syndrome.

Patients with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) or myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) may respond to treatment with epigenetic-modifying agents. Histone deacetylase inhibitors may synergize with hypomethylating agents. This phase 1 dose-escalation study was designed to determine the maximum tolerated dose, recommended phase 2 dose, safety and tolerability of vorinostat plus decitabine in patients with relapsed/refractory AML, newly-diagnosed AML, or intermediate- to high-grade MDS. Thirty-four patients received concurrent therapy with decitabine plus vorinostat and 37 received sequential therapy with decitabine followed by vorinostat. Twenty-nine patients had relapsed/refractory AML, 31 had untreated AML and 11 had MDS. The target maximum administered dose (MAD) of decitabine 20 mg/m(2) daily for 5 d plus vorinostat 400 mg/d for 14 d was achieved for concurrent and sequential schedules, with one dose-limiting toxicity (Grade 3 QTc prolongation) reported in the sequential arm. Common toxicities were haematological and gastrointestinal. Responses were observed more frequently at the MAD on the concurrent schedule compared with the sequential schedule in untreated AML (46% vs. 14%), relapsed/refractory AML (15% vs. 0%) and MDS (60% vs. 0%). Decitabine plus vorinostat given concurrently or sequentially appears to be safe and well-tolerated. Concurrent therapy shows promising clinical activity in AML or MDS, warranting further investigation.

Vorinostat or placebo in combination with bortezomib in patients with multiple myeloma (VANTAGE 088): a multicentre, randomised, double-blind study.

BACKGROUND: We aimed to assess efficacy and tolerability of vorinostat in combination with bortezomib for treatment of patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma. METHODS: In our randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 3 trial, we enrolled adults (≥18 years) at 174 university hospitals in 31 countries worldwide. Eligible patients had to have non-refractory multiple myeloma that previously responded to treatment (one to three regimens) but were currently progressing, ECOG performance statuses of 2 or less, and no continuing toxic effects from previous treatment. We excluded patients with known resistance to bortezomib. We randomly allocated patients (1:1) using an interactive voice response system to receive 21 day cycles of bortezomib (1·3 mg/m(2) intravenously on days 1, 4, 8, and 11) in combination with oral vorinostat (400 mg) or matching placebo once-daily on days 1-14. We stratified patients by baseline tumour stage (International Staging System stage 1 or stage ≥2), previous bone-marrow transplantation (yes or no), and number of previous regimens (1 or ≥2). The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS) in the intention-to-treat population. We assessed adverse events in all patients who received at least one dose of study drug. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number 00773747. FINDINGS: Between Dec 24, 2008, and Sept 8, 2011, we randomly allocated 317 eligible patients to the vorinostat group (315 of whom received at least one dose) and 320 to the placebo group (all of whom received at least one dose). Median PFS was 7·63 months (95% CI 6·87-8·40) in the vorinostat group and 6·83 months (5·67-7·73) in the placebo group (hazard ratio [HR] 0·77, 95% CI 0·64-0·94; p=0·0100). 312 (99%) of 315 patients in the vorinostat group and 315 (98%) of 320 patients in the placebo group had adverse events (300 [95%] adverse events in the vorinostat group and 282 [88%] in the control group were regarded as related to treatment). The most common grade 3-4 adverse events were thrombocytopenia (143 [45%] patients in the vorinostat group vs 77 [24%] patients in the placebo group), neutropenia (89 [28%] vs 80 [25%]), and anaemia (53 [17%] vs 40 [13%]). INTERPRETATION: Although the combination of vorinostat and bortezomib prolonged PFS relative to bortezomib and placebo, the clinical relevance of the difference in PFS between the two groups is not clear. Different treatment schedules of bortezomib and vorinostat might improve tolerability and enhance activity. FUNDING: Merck.

Investigation of outcomes following transcatheter edge to edge repair of the mitral valve versus medical management alone in patients with cardiogenic shock and mitral regurgitation.

Study objective: Assessing if Transcatheter Edge to Edge Repair (TEER) with Mitraclip™ in patients with moderate to severe mitral regurgitation (MR) and cardiogenic shock (CS) improves outcomes compared to medical management alone. Design: A single-center, retrospective study was performed in an urban tertiary referral center. Setting: Rush University Medical Center, United States. Participants: Adult patients presenting with CS and moderate to severe MR between 2012 and 2021 were included. Interventions: Undergoing Mitral TEER with Mitraclip versus medical management alone. Main outcome measures: Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) defined as cardiovascular death, heart failure admission, stroke, and myocardial infarction assessed at 30 days, 6 months, and 1 year. The secondary outcome was a change in New York Heart Association (NYHA) classification at 30 days and 6 months. Results: There were 28 patients included in the medical management and 33 in the mitral valve TEER groups. There was a decreased MACE in the intervention group at 30 days (24.2 % vs. 46.4 %, p ≤0.001) and 6 months (27 % vs. 75 %, p = 0.002), though not at 1 year (29.4 % vs. 41.7 %, p = 0.42). At 30 days, more patients in the mitral valve TEER group improved to NYHA classes I/II compared to medical management alone (10 [35.7 %] vs. 16 [50 %], p = 0.043). There were no differences in NYHA classes I/II at 6 months (7 [43.7 %] vs. 13 [54.2 %], p = 0.63). Conclusion: Mitral valve TEER using the Mitraclip™ system improves mid-term cardiovascular compared to medical management alone in patients with CS but does not improve mortality.

A Case of Ruptured Giant Sinus of Valsalva Aneurysm Into the Right Ventricle in a Patient With Both Atrial and Ventricular Septal Defects.

Sinus of Valsalva aneurysm (SOVA) is a rare cardiac defect. In most cases, SOVA presents as an incidental finding during cardiac imaging. A dreadful complication of SOVA is spontaneous rupture, most commonly occurring into the right side of the heart resulting in an abrupt or insidiously progressive congestive heart failure. Ruptured SOVA is associated with poor prognosis with high mortality unless timely surgical intervention is deemed. We present a 23-year-old female who presented with a continuous heart murmur and exertional dyspnea. Transesophageal echocardiogram showed a ruptured 1.8 cm sinus of Valsalva aneurysm of the non-coronary cusp to the right ventricle, which resulted in a significant left-to-right shunt and pulmonary hypertension. Associated cardiac defects included ostium secundum atrial septal defect, peri-membranous ventricular septal defect, and moderate aortic and mitral valve insufficiency. The patient underwent successful surgical correction with significant resolution of the shunt and normalization of the pulmonary pressure. Despite being rare, SOVA can rupture spontaneously, resulting in decompensated heart failure. SOVA should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a continuous heart murmur. Early recognition and timely surgical intervention are pivotal in these cases to prevent further clinical deterioration or even death. LEARNING POINTS: Sinus of Valsalva aneurysms (SOVA) are usually silent until acute rupture. Rupture most commonly occurs into either the right ventricle or right atrium. A new continuous murmur is the most striking physical finding; it is always significant and must prompt urgent echocardiography to facilitate timely diagnosis and treatment. Ruptured SOVA has a poor prognosis with high mortality unless timely surgical intervention is deemed.

Rheumatic mitral valve repair or replacement in the valve-in-valve era.

OBJECTIVE: For degenerative mitral disease, repair is superior to replacement; however, the best operative strategy for rheumatic mitral disease remains unclear. We evaluated the association between decision-making in choosing repair versus replacement and outcomes across 2 decades of rheumatic mitral surgery. METHODS: Patients undergoing isolated, first-time rheumatic mitral surgery were identified. Era 1 (1997-2008) and Era 2 (2009-2018) were distinguished by intraoperative assessment of anterior leaflet mobility/calcification (Era 2) in deciding between mitral repair versus replacement. Primary outcome was a composite of death, reoperation, and severe valve dysfunction. RESULTS: Among 180 patients, age was 59 ± 14 years, and ejection fraction was 58% ± 10%. A higher proportion in Era 1 (n = 56) compared with Era 2 (n = 124) had preoperative atrial fibrillation (68% vs 46%; P = .006); the groups were otherwise similar. Primary indication was mitral stenosis in 69% (124 out of 180; pure = 35, mixed = 89) and did not differ by era (P = .67). During Era 1, 70% (39 out of 56) underwent repair, compared with 33% (41 out of 124) during Era 2 (P < .001). Freedom from death, reoperation, or severe valve dysfunction at 5 years was higher in Era 2 (72% ± 9%) than Era 1 (54% ± 13%; P = .04). Five-year survival was higher in Era 2 than Era 1, but did not differ between repair versus replacement. Five-year cumulative incidence of reoperation with death as a competing risk did not differ by era, but was higher after repair than replacement. CONCLUSIONS: Careful assessment of anterior leaflet mobility/calcification to determine mitral repair or replacement was associated with improved outcomes. This decision-making strategy may alter the threshold for rheumatic mitral replacement in the current valve-in-valve era.

Supraventricular Tachycardia and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome Overlap: A Retrospective Study.

Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) and supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) are disease states with distinctive features but overlapping clinical manifestations. Currently, studies on the presence of underlying SVT in patients with POTS are lacking. This retrospective study analyzed 64 patients [mean age: 43 years; 41 (61%) women] who had a POTS diagnosis and were found to have concomitant SVT during rhythm monitoring from September 1, 2013 to September 30, 2019 at our Syncope and Autonomic Disorders Clinic. The outcomes assessed were changes in disease severity, frequency of symptoms, heart rate, and blood pressure between before and after SVT ablation. The most frequent types of SVT noted on the electrophysiologic study were atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (57.81%), atrial flutter (29.68%), atrioventricular reentrant tachycardia (9.37%), atrial tachycardia (1.56%), and junctional tachycardia (1.56%). After SVT ablation, all 64 patients experienced an improvement in symptoms. Palpitations and lightheadedness experienced the most improvement after the procedure (72% vs. 31%; p < 0.001 and 63% vs. 22%; p < 0.001, respectively). There was a significant improvement in the resting heart rate (81.1 ± 12.8 vs. 75.8 ± 15.6 bpm; p < 0.002), but the orthostatic tachycardia on standing persisted (93.6 ± 16.5 vs. 77.3 ± 19.8 bpm; p = 0.14). Underlying SVT in patients with POTS can be missed easily. A strong suspicion and long-term ambulatory cardiac rhythm monitoring can help in diagnosing the condition.

Chest wall lump: lipoma or intramuscular myxoma?

Intramuscular myxomas (IM) of the chest wall are extremely rare. We present the case of a 58-year-old African-American female who was initially diagnosed with having a chest wall lipoma. After re-evaluation, the lesion was consistent with an intercostal myxoma versus myxoid sarcoma. Preoperative imaging could not exclude malignancy. Given the diagnostic uncertainty, she underwent primary wide local resection and placement of polypropylene mesh for chest wall reconstruction. Histopathological examination revealed an intramuscular myxoma without sarcomatous changes arising from the 8th intercostal muscle bundle.

Robotic Cholecystectomy Is a Safe Educational Alternative to Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy During General Surgical Training: A Pilot Study.

OBJECTIVE: The role of robotic surgery in general surgery (GS) continues to expand. Several programs have integrated robotic-based simulators and models into surgical education; however, residents' robotic experience in the operating room is currently limited. We sought to assess the safety and feasibility of robotic cholecystectomy (RC) when independently performed by GS chief residents. METHODS: From June 2016 to October 2018, RC and laparoscopic cholecystectomies (LC) performed independently by chief residents on a resident staff surgical service were prospectively included. Patient demographics, intraoperative variables, and postoperative complications were analyzed and compared between both cohorts. RESULTS: A total of 20 RC and 70 LC were included. Patient characteristics, indications for surgery, and comorbidities were similar in both groups. RC was more likely to be performed electively (95% vs. 17.1%, p < 0.001). No difference in operative time, estimated blood loss, intraoperative bile duct injury, or conversion to open was observed. Patients undergoing LC had an overall longer mean length of hospital stay (2.7 days ± 2.1 vs. 0.8 days ± 0.4, p < 0.001); however, length of hospital stay was similar between RC and LC performed electively (p = 0.946). No difference in postoperative complications and 30-day readmission was observed. CONCLUSIONS: RC can be safely and independently performed by GS residents with similar outcomes as LC. Efforts should be directed toward creating a platform to bridge competent simulator skills into safe performance in the operating suite. The integration of robotic training into the core GS curriculum should be encouraged.

Gag Reflex-Mediated Restoration of Sinus Rhythm during TEE Probe Insertion for Atrial Fibrillation: A Word of Caution.

It is recommended to attempt vagal maneuvers as initial therapy in various types of supraventricular tachycardia. While various forms of vagal techniques have been described, a gag reflex-mediated vagal technique, to the best of our knowledge, has not been. We present a case of gag reflex-mediated restoration of sinus rhythm in a patient with atrial fibrillation and rapid ventricular response upon transesophageal probe insertion. This case is unique due to the mechanism of vagally mediated cardioversion. It emphasizes that operators must be cautious regarding the risk of embolization of a potential thrombus from vagal-mediated cardioversion with unknown thrombus burden.

A single, shared origin for all three coronary arteries from the right coronary cusp: a case report.

BACKGROUND: Anomalous coronary arteries occur in less than 1% of the population and have been implicated in sudden cardiac and exercise-related death. The most common variant involves the left circumflex artery arising from a separate ostium than the left coronary artery. This case demonstrates a rare variation in which all three coronary arteries arise from a shared, single, ostium originating from the right coronary cusp. CASE PRESENTATION: We report the case of a 63-year-old Caucasian man with a history of myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, and atrial fibrillation who presented for syncope. Inpatient ischemic workup, including coronary angiography, demonstrated a rare coronary anomaly which included all three coronary arteries arising from a shared, single, ostium originating from the right coronary cusp. Our patient was treated conservatively with an option for coronary bypass if symptomatic. CONCLUSION: Surgical management is indicated in high-risk patients, but the optimal management for a nonmalignant, shared origin for all three coronary arteries has not been explored in detail.

Interpretation of Basic Clinical Images: How Are Surgical Residents Performing Compared to Other Trainees?

BACKGROUND: During medical training students, residents, and fellows learn how to accurately interpret basic radiographic images. This skill is mostly utilized by physicians in the acute and critical care settings. It is unclear whether surgical residents' interpretation skills differ from that of other trainees. METHODS: A 30-question online quiz was developed to evaluate trainees' skills in interpreting images using various radiologic modalities. The participating cohort included (1) medical students (MS), (2) general surgery residents (GST), internal medicine residents and fellows (IMT), and radiology trainees (RT). The impact of residency specialty and level of training on performance was evaluated. RESULTS: A total of 69 postgraduate trainees and 19 MS enrolled in the online quiz. The average score was 67.6% (±16.6). GST scored higher than IMT (74.2% ± 10.7% vs. 67.9% ± 11.3%, p = 0.038); however, they were equally proficient to RT. MS had the lowest interpretation accuracy rates compared to postgraduate trainees (57.4% ± 16.8%, p < 0.001). On different radiographic modalities, junior GST performance was comparable to MS, JR-IMT, and Junior Radiology Trainees (JR-RT). On computed tomography (CT) body, GST (83.1% ± 15.7%) scored higher than IMT (70.3% ± 17.7%, p = 0.026) and MS (61.7% ± 23.4%, p < 0.001). Similar findings were demonstrated on ultrasound modality. A difference in performance was not evident for X-rays, CT head, and tubes/lines localization images. CONCLUSIONS: GST were able to correctly interpret 74.2% of basic clinical images. Although superior in the evaluation of pathologies seen on CT body and ultrasound, GST have comparable performance to other trainees in X-rays, tube/line localization images, and CT head. Integration of radiology education in surgical training may enhance performance and potentially improve patient care.

Histologic and Histomorphometric Analysis at 26 Months of a Bovine Hydroxyapatite Maxillary Sinus Graft: A Case Report.

A variety of biomaterials are used when performing sinus augmentation techniques. Bovine hydroxyapatite (BH) has already been demonstrated to present osteoconductive properties. The aim of this article is to provide a histologic and histomorphometric analysis, at 26 months, of a bone specimen extracted from a BH maxillary sinus graft. Histomorphometric results showed 64.4% bone density and 24.4% biomaterial density. Histologic analysis revealed marked bone formation and high osteoconductive properties in the BH particles, with no associated signs of inflammation. Resorption appeared minimal. BH seems to present high biocompatibility and osteoconductive properties.

An Unforeseeable Complication; Posterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy after Penetrating Injury to the Heart.

Trauma surgeons are currently encountering unusual adverse events after traumatic injuries. Ischemic optic neuropathy is a rare complication that may occur in trauma and burn patients that present in extremis and require massive resuscitation. A 29-year-old male patient sustains a penetrating injury to the heart that required primary repair. He remained hemodynamically stable and required a limited amount of resuscitative fluids and products. Postoperatively, the patient develops acute painless bilateral loss of vision. These findings were consistent with posterior ischemic optic neuropathy. Ischemic optic neuropathy are uncommon entities that arise in trauma patients who require massive resuscitation. Given the limited treatment options, early diagnosis is key in limiting the hemodynamic insult to the optic nerve.

A dose exploration, phase I/II study of administration of continuous erythropoietin receptor activator once every 3 weeks in anemic patients with multiple myeloma receiving chemotherapy.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Continuous erythropoietin receptor activator (C.E.R.A.) is an innovative agent with unique erythropoietin receptor activity and a prolonged half-life, which has the potential for administration at extended dosing intervals. The objectives of this dose-finding study were to evaluate the hemoglobin (Hb) dose-response, pharmacokinetics, and safety of repeated doses of C.E.R.A. given once every 3 weeks to anemic patients with multiple myeloma (MM) receiving chemotherapy. DESIGN AND METHODS: This was an exploratory two-stage, open-label, parallel-group, multicenter study. Patients received C.E.R.A. doses of 1.0, 2.0, 3.5, 4.2, 5.0, 6.5, or 8.0 mg/kg once every 3 weeks by subcutaneous injection initially for 6 weeks, followed by a 12-week optional extension period. The primary outcome measures were the average Hb level and its change from baseline over the initial 6-week period, based on values of the slope of the linear regression analysis and the area under the curve. Rates of Hb response (defined as an increase in Hb of > or =2 g/dL without transfusion) and blood transfusion were also evaluated. RESULTS: Sixty-four patients entered the study. Dose-related increases in Hb levels were observed during the initial 6-week treatment period for C.E.R.A. doses of 1.0-4.2 mg/kg, with a similar response observed at higher doses. At least 70% of patients receiving 2.0-8.0 mg/kg of C.E.R.A. had Hb responses during the 18-week study. The elimination half-life of C.E.R.A. was found to be long (6.3-9.7 days [151.2-232.8 hours]). All doses were generally well tolerated. INTERPRETATION AND CONCLUSIONS: Based on its unique, long elimination half-life, C.E.R.A. has been demonstrated to be an effective and well-tolerated treatment of anemia given once every 3 weeks to patients with multiple myeloma receiving chemotherapy.

Assessing surgical residents' imaging interpretation skills.

PURPOSE: During general surgery (GS) training, residents are expected to accurately interpret radiologic images. Objective evidence evaluating residents' ability to provide accurate interpretation of imaging studies is currently lacking. METHODS: A 30-item web-based test was developed using images from different radiologic modalities. Residents from 6 ACGME accredited GS programs participated. Residents from 1 radiology program served as a control group. RESULTS: 74 GS residents (GSR) enrolled in the online test. The mean score for GSR was 75% (±9) and 83% (±6) for RR (p = 0.006). Residents correctly answered 63% x-rays, 74%, CT(head), 84% CT(body), 69% ultrasound, and 88% tube/line localization questions. Senior residents were more proficient than junior residents at interpreting CT (body) and ultrasound images. CONCLUSION: GS residents were able to accurately interpret 75% of basic radiology images. In an effort to improve patient care, programs should consider integrating radiological education during surgical training.

VANTAGE 095: An International, Multicenter, Open-Label Study of Vorinostat (MK-0683) in Combination With Bortezomib in Patients With Relapsed and Refractory Multiple Myeloma.

BACKGROUND: The present global, open-label, single-arm, multicenter, phase IIb study was designed to determine the efficacy and tolerability of oral vorinostat combined with standard doses of bortezomib in patients with multiple myeloma considered refractory to novel myeloma agents. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Eligible patients were age ≥ 18 years, had received ≥ 2 previous regimens, had disease refractory to ≥ 1 previous bortezomib-containing regimen, and had received ≥ 1 dose of an immunomodulatory drug (thalidomide or lenalidomide)-based regimen. The patients received 21-day cycles of bortezomib (1.3 mg/m(2) intravenously on days 1, 4, 8, and 11) plus oral vorinostat (400 mg/d on days 1-14). Oral dexamethasone, 20 mg, on the day of and the day after each dose of bortezomib could be added for patients with progressive disease after 2 cycles or no change after 4 cycles. The primary endpoint was the objective response rate. RESULTS: The objective response rate was 11.3% (95% confidence interval, 6.6%-17.7%), and the median duration of response was 211 days (range, 64-550 days). The median overall survival duration was 11.2 months (95% confidence interval, 8.5-14.4 months), with a 2-year survival rate of 32%. The frequently reported adverse events were thrombocytopenia (69.7%), nausea (57.0%), diarrhea (53.5%), anemia (52.1%), and fatigue (48.6%); the overall safety profile was consistent with that of bortezomib and vorinostat. CONCLUSION: The combination of vorinostat and bortezomib is active in patients with multiple myeloma refractory to novel treatment modalities and offers a new therapeutic option for this difficult-to-treat patient population (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT00773838).