A comparison of skin grafts versus local flaps for facial skin cancer from the patient perspective: protocol for a feasibility study.

BRIEF ABSTRACT: This is a protocol to assess feasibility of conducting a prospective cohort study comparing local flaps versus skin grafts for surgical excision of skin cancer from the face. INTRODUCTION: Skin cancer is the most common malignancy worldwide and the face is one of the most common locations of occurrence. Surgical excision is the most popular treatment for small lesions of the face. Defects can be reconstructed using local flaps or skin grafts. There is a paucity of literature evaluating outcomes after skin cancer surgery from the patient's perspective using valid measurement tools. The purpose of this study is to assess the feasibility of conducting a prospective observational cohort study. The primary outcomes include recruitment rates, eligibility rate, compliance of intervention and rate of completion of the primary outcome (FACE-Q scales) at 3 months. Secondary outcomes include examining patient characteristic and FACE-Q score differences between local flaps to skin grafts and adverse events. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: This study is a prospective cohort study consisting of an anticipated 30 patients aged ≥18 years. The study population will consist of a consecutive sample of non-melanoma facial skin cancer patients undergoing a skin graft or local flap. Patients will be followed and evaluated with the FACE-Q questionnaire at 2 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and 1 year post-operation. The following criteria will determine success: patients who meet eligibility criteria >70%; recruitment rate >70%; compliance with intervention >90%; rate of completion of full-scale prospective study primary outcome (FACE-Q at 3 months) >80%; retention rate at 6-month follow-up visit >70%. DISCUSSION: The findings of this study will be used to guide the sample size calculation for a future, large-scale prospective study.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04842279).

Identification of the anatomy of the deep temporal vein using computed tomography imaging: A retrospective cross-sectional review of patient imaging.

PURPOSE: The deep temporal vein (DTV) can be used in free flap procedures when the superficial temporal vein is inadequate. Despite its potential utility, its branching patterns have only been examined in one small anatomic study. The purpose of this study was to examine computed tomography angiography (CTA) images to determine DTV location, variation, and suitability as a microvascular recipient, to provide surgeons with a guide for its use in head and neck defects. METHODS: A retrospective chart review identified 152 patient CTA images (76 female; 76 male) in a single academic center imaging database, selected consecutively from January 2017 to April 2020. Patients under 19 years were excluded; ages ranged from 19 to 80 years (average 51.6 years). Reason for imaging, DTV caliber, laterality, distance to zygomatic arch (ZA [coronal and sagittal]), distance to lateral orbital rim (LOR), and branching pattern were recorded. RESULTS: The predominant reason for imaging was to rule out cerebrovascular accident (96.2%). Average caliber was 3.46 ± 1.29 mm (95% confidence interval [CI] [3.32, 3.61]; range, 1.00-10.8). Bilateral DTVs were observed in 98.7% of patients. Average distance to landmarks were as follows: ZA (coronal), 13.8 ± 5.85 mm (95% CI [13.2, 14.5]; range, 2.7-33.8); ZA (sagittal), 15.1 ± 6.12 mm (95% CI [14.1, 16.1]; range, 2.8-47.2); LOR, 47.1 ± 9.09 mm (95% CI [46.0, 48.1]; range, 10.8-62.9). Seven branching patterns were identified, including a posterior vertical variant that bypasses the superficial temporal fat pad. CONCLUSIONS: The DTV is a "lifeboat" option for head and neck reconstruction. Its average caliber is sufficient for use in microsurgery. Knowledge of both its typical and aberrant courses allow for efficient preoperative planning and surgical dissection. CTA is a useful adjunct when planning to use the DTV for free tissue transfer.

Evaluation of "Spin" in the Abstracts of Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses of Therapeutic Interventions Published in High-Impact Plastic Surgery Journals: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: "Spin" is a form of reporting bias where there is an misappropriated presentation of study results, often overstating efficacy or understating harms. Abstracts of systematic reviews in other clinical domains have been demonstrated to employ spin, which may lead to clinical recommendations that are not justified by the literature. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of spin strategies in abstracts of plastic surgery systematic reviews. METHODS: A literature search was conducted using MEDLINE, Embase, and CENTRAL, to identify all systematic reviews published in the top five plastic surgery journals from 2015-2021. Screening, data extraction, and spin analysis were performed by two independent reviewers. Data checking of the spin analysis was performed by a plastic surgery resident with graduate level training in clinical epidemiology. RESULTS: From an initial search of 826 systematic reviews, 60 systematic reviews and meta-analyses were included in this study. Various types of spin were identified in 73% of systematic review abstracts (n=44). "Conclusion claims the beneficial effect of the experimental treatment despite high risk of bias in primary studies," was the most prevalent type of spin and was identified in 63% of systematic reviews (n=38). There were no significant associations between the presence of spin and study characteristics. CONCLUSIONS: The present study found that 73% of abstracts in plastic surgery systematic reviews contain spin. Although systemic reviews represent the highest level of evidence, readers should be aware of types of "spin" when interpreting results and incorporating recommendations into patient care.

Comparing digital replantation versus revision amputation patient reported outcomes for traumatic digital amputations of the hand: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: Adults with traumatic digital amputation (TDA) of the hand may be managed with replantation or revision amputation. To date, there is no systematic review evaluating patient reported outcomes (PROs) comparing replantation versus revision amputation. METHODS: Three databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PubMed) were systematically searched in duplicate from inception until June 13, 2019 using Covidence software. Studies comparing replantation versus revision amputation outcomes were considered for inclusion. Methodological quality was assessed using Methodologic Index for Nonrandomized Studies (MINORS) criteria. Data were pooled in a random-effects meta-analysis model using Revman software. Certainty of evidence was evaluated using Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE). RESULTS: Of 4350 studies identified, 12 retrospective cohort studies met inclusion criteria and compared TDA outcomes for replantation (n = 717; 82.9% male; mean age 40.3) versus revision amputation (n = 1046; 79.8% male; mean age 41.7). The overall replantation survival rate was 85.3%. The average MINORS score was 57% (13.75/24). Replantation of the thumb had a superior Michigan Hand Questionnaire (MHQ) score (+11.88, 95% CI [7.78-15.99], I2 = 21%) compared with revision amputation. Replantation of single non-thumb digits had a superior MHQ score (+5.31, 95% CI [3.10-7.51], I2 = 67%) and Disability of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score (-5.16, 95% CI [-8.27 to -2.06], I2 = 0%) compared with revision amputation. Most patients in the meta-analysis were from Asian populations (87.9%). CONCLUSION: There is low-quality evidence that thumb replantation achieves superior PROs compared with revision amputation, which may be clinically important. Replantation of single non-thumb digits also yielded superior PROs, which is likely not clinically important and based on very low-quality evidence. Future studies with populations outside Asia are required to determine if PROs vary based on cultural differences toward digital amputation.

Use of the subscapular system by maintaining unilateral decubitus placement without repositioning in microvascular free tissue transplantation.

BACKGROUND: In microvascular free-tissue harvest and transfer, the need for repositioning from lateral decubitus position and the inability to use a two-team approach are major drawbacks of the subscapular system. We present our experience with the subscapular system for upper and lower extremity reconstruction using a two-team approach without need for repositioning. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective chart review for all patients undergoing free flap transplant based on the subscapular system to the upper or lower extremity at our microsurgical facility from January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2011. Only cases not requiring intraoperative repositioning were included. Sixty-four patients underwent the two-team approach (37 upper extremity and 27 lower extremity transplants). Flap types included latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous, partial superior latissimus, dorsal thoracic fascia, serratus, scapular bone, and thoracodorsal artery perforator, either alone or as chimeric flaps. All patients were placed in the lateral decubitus position for the duration of the surgery. RESULTS: The ipsilateral subscapular system was used in 16% of cases for lower extremity defects, where the anterior tibial vessels served as recipient vessels. The contralateral subscapular system was used in all remaining cases for upper extremity or the vast majority for lower extremity (84%) defects, where either the superficial femoral, genicular, popliteal, sural, or posterior tibial vessels served as recipient vessels. With the exception of one partial flap loss secondary to infection, all flaps survived. CONCLUSIONS: Proper lateral decubitus positioning allows for a two-team approach without compromising safety or outcomes.

Reporting Outcomes and Outcome Measures in Open Rhinoplasty: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Comparative studies have shown little statistical difference in outcomes following rhinoplasty, demonstrating near equivalent results across all surgical techniques. Cross-study comparisons of these trials are difficult because variation in outcome reporting prevents statistical pooling and analysis. OBJECTIVES: The authors sought to identify all outcomes and outcome measures used to evaluate postoperative results in rhinoplasty. METHODS: An extensive computerized database search of MEDLINE and EMBASE was performed; all trials involving n ≥ 20 patients, aged 18 years and older undergoing a primary, open rhinoplasty procedure, were included for review. RESULTS: Of the 3235 citations initially screened, 72 studies met the stated inclusion criteria. A total of 53 unique outcomes and 55 postoperative outcome measures were identified. Outcomes were divided into 6 unique domains: objective signs, subjective symptom severity, physical function related to activities of daily living, patient satisfaction, surgeon satisfaction, and quality of life. The identified outcome measures consisted of 5 nasal-specific, author-reported instruments; 5 nasal specific, patient-reported instruments; 5 patient-reported, generic instruments; and 40 author-generated instruments. Of the outcome measures identified, the Rhinoplasty Outcomes Evaluation, Sino-Nasal Outcome Test-22, and FACE-Q were the only instruments to demonstrate adequate validity, reliability, and responsiveness to change in patients who underwent a rhinoplasty procedure. CONCLUSIONS: There is heterogeneity in the outcomes and outcome measures employed to assess postsurgical outcomes following rhinoplasty. A standardized core outcome set is urgently needed to make it possible for future investigators to compare results of various techniques in rhinoplasty surgery.

The success of salvage procedures for failing digital replants: A retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: The success of salvage procedures for failing digital replants (FR) is poorly documented. We sought to evaluate the success of salvage procedures for FR and factors contributing to successes and failures of replants. METHODS: Adult patients who presented to our center between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2015, suffered ≥1 digital amputation(s), and underwent digital replantation were included. Preoperative, perioperative, and postoperative details were recorded. Digits were monitored postoperatively via nursing and physician assessments. The presumed reason for failure, details, and outcomes of salvage attempts were recorded for FR. Length of hospital stay and complications were also recorded. RESULTS: Fifty-two patients and 83 digits were included. Fifty-two digits (63%) were compromised (arterial ischemia in 15 digits; venous congestion in 37 digits) and 48 digits had salvage therapy. Twenty-one FR (44%) were salvaged via operative (1 of 2; 50%), nonoperative (19 of 43; 44%), and combined (1 of 3; 33%) therapies. FR patients were more likely than those with successful replants to receive a blood transfusion (52 vs. 23%; p = .009) with more transfused units (3.45 ± 3.30 vs. 0.86 ± 0.95; p = .001). Length of stay was prolonged for FR patients (9 [range: 2-22] vs. 7 [range: 3-19] days; p = .039). Ultimately, 59% (49 of 83) of replants were successful, where 25% (21 of 83) were successfully salvaged. CONCLUSION: Nonoperative and operative salvage therapies improve the rate of replant survival. We suggest close postoperative monitoring of all replants and active salvage interventions for compromised replants in the postoperative period.

A strategy for the successful management of dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans.

BACKGROUND: Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a rare, locally invasive soft tissue sarcoma with extensive subclinical involvement. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines recommend immediate reconstruction in most cases. Our study reviewed the methods of treatment of DFSP at our institution, examined the types of closure used after surgical excision, and analyzed the prevalence of positive margins on permanent pathology after immediate closure after conventional non-Mohs excision of DFSP. METHODS: The charts of 25 patients treated with surgical excision and 16 with Mohs surgery from 1990 to 2009 for lesions consistent with DFSP were reviewed for clinical variables including disease state, tumor site, closure type, permanent pathology margin status, disease recurrence/persistence, and excisional margin size. RESULTS: The trunk, followed by the head and neck, were the most common sites for DFSP. No patients had distant metastasis at diagnosis or experienced recurrence in either the surgical excision or the Mohs surgery group. Twelve (48%) patients were found to have positive margins after initial surgical resection. All lesions treated with Mohs surgery had clear histological margins at completion. Average margin size for surgical excision patients was 2.33 cm (range, 0.75-4.5 cm), and 1.36 cm (range, 0.74-2.55 cm) for Mohs excision. The average duration of follow-up was 107.9 months. CONCLUSIONS: The extent of DFSP is difficult to determine intraoperatively with traditional surgical excision, which leads to a higher rate of positive margins. Considering this difficulty and the complications of reconstruction with positive margins, we believe that reconstruction after tumor resection should be dependent on definitive pathologic clearance of the tumor.

Establishing expert consensus on the evaluation of pediatric upper extremity function.

STUDY DESIGN: Consensus statement. INTRODUCTION: There is a lack of consensus in the literature on the measures of pediatric upper extremity (UE) function for musculoskeletal conditions. PURPOSE: To establish expert consensus on utility, satisfaction and importance of functional outcome measures in children with UE musculoskeletal conditions, across International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) domains. METHODS: Using Delphi Consensus Methodology, expert panelists completed three rounds of questionnaires. RESULTS: Agreement on Body Functions and Structure, Activity, and Participation outcome measures was determined (α, ICC range = 0.86-0.96). Mean satisfaction of measures in the respective domains was between 6.93 and 7.94. The Activity domain had lowest satisfaction, however there was consensus it was the most important. DISCUSSION: Consensus on relative importance, but low satisfaction in the Activity domain suggests a need for better outcomes in this domain. CONCLUSIONS: Findings report the status of outcome measure utility and use in pediatric UE function. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 5.

Estimating the Minimal Clinically Important Difference on the Visual Analogue Scale for Carpometacarpal Thumb Joint Osteoarthritis.

BACKGROUND: The minimal clinically important difference (MCID) is the smallest perceived treatment effect that patients deem clinically significant. There is currently no agreement on an appropriate MCID for the pain visual analogue scale (VAS) in the context of thumb osteoarthritis (OA). METHODS: We approximated MCIDs using a distribution-based approach that pooled standard deviations (SDs) associated with baseline mean values of the pain VAS (0-100 mm). We extracted the data from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) included in a systematic review of adults with long-term OA of the thumb. We excluded RCTs that did not report baseline SD values. The MCIDs were derived at 0.4 and 0.5 SDs of the pooled SD and compared with previously published MCIDs for the pain VAS in OA. RESULTS: A total of 403 patients were pooled from 7 RCTs for the analysis. The mean baseline VAS pain score was 5.6 cm. We derived an MCID of 0.72 cm at 0.4 SDs and 0.91 cm at 0.5 SDs using baseline SDs. We found that MCIDs derived from a distribution-based approach approximated published MCIDs for the VAS for pain for OA in the knee and hip. CONCLUSION: The authors propose that a change of 0.7 to 0.9 cm on the VAS is clinically meaningful in the context of long-term OA of the thumb.

Targeted Muscle Reinnervation and Regenerative Peripheral Nerve Interfaces Versus Standard Management in the Treatment of Limb Amputation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Introduction: Painful neuromas are a common postoperative complication of limb amputation often treated with secondary reinnervation. Surgical reinnervation include Targeted Muscle Reinnervation (TMR) and Regenerative Peripheral Nerve Interface (RPNI), and can be primary and secondary. The aim of this review is to assess the effects of primary TMR/RPNI at the time of limb amputation on the incidence and intensity of post-operative neuroma and pain. Methods: This review was registered a priori on PROSPERO (CRD42021264360). A search of the following databases was performed in June 2021: Medline, EMBASE, and CENTRAL. Unpublished trials were searched using clinicaltrials.gov. All randomized and non-randomized studies assessing amputation with a reinnervation strategy (TMR, RPNI) were included. Outcomes evaluated included the incidences of painful neuroma, phantom limb pain (PLP), residual limb pain (RLP), as well as severity of pain, and Pain intensity, behavior, and interference (PROMIS). Results: Eleven studies were included in this systematic review, and five observational studies for quantitative synthesis. Observational study evidence suggests that TMR/RPNI results in a statistically significant reduction in incidence, pain scores and PROMIS scores of PLP and RLP. Decreased incidence of neuromas favored primary TMR/RPNI, but this did not achieve statistical significance (p = 0.07). Included studies had moderate to critical risk of bias. Conclusion: The observational data suggests that primary TMR/RPNI reduces incidence, pain scores and PROMIS scores of PLP and RLP. Going forward, randomized trials are warranted to evaluate this research question, particularly to improve the certainty of evidence.

Introduction: Les névromes douloureux sont une complication postopératoire courante de l'amputation d'un membre qui est souvent traitée par réinnervation secondaire. La réinnervation chirurgicale inclut la réinnervation musculaire ciblée (TMR) et l'interface nerveuse périphérique régénérative (RPNI) qui peuvent être primaires ou secondaires. Le but de cette revue était d'évaluer les effets de la TMR/RPNI primaires au moment de l'amputation du membre sur l'incidence et l'intensité du névrome et de la douleur postopératoire. Méthodes: Cette revue a été enregistrée a priori sur PROSPERO (CRD42021264360). Une recherche a été réalisée en juin 2021 dans les bases de données suivantes : MEDLINE, EMBASE et CENTRAL. Les essais non publiés ont été recherchés à l'aide du site clinicaltrials.gov. Toutes les études randomisées et non randomisées évaluant l'amputation avec stratégie de réinnervation (TMR, RPNI) ont été incluses. L'évaluation des résultats a inclus l'incidence des névromes douloureux, des douleurs du membre fantôme (PLP), de douleur résiduelle du membre (RLP) ainsi que la sévérité de la douleur, l'intensité de la douleur, le comportement et l'interférence (PROMIS). Résultats: Onze études ont été incluses dans cette revue systématique et cinq études observationnelles pour la synthèse quantitative. Les données probantes d'étude observationnelle suggèrent que la TMR/RPNI entraîne une réduction statistiquement significative de l'incidence, des scores de douleur et des scores PROMIS des PLP et RLP. La baisse de l'incidence des névromes favorisait les TMR/RPNI primaires, mais sans atteindre la signification statistique (P = 0,07). Les études incluses comportaient des risques de biais modérés à critiques. Conclusion: Les données observationnelles suggèrent que les TMR/RPNI réduisent l'incidence, les scores de douleur et les scores PROMIS de PLP et RLP. La réalisation d'essais randomisés est justifiée pour aller de l'avant et évaluer cette question de recherche, en particulier pour améliorer la certitude des données probantes.

Upper Extremity Infection Related to Intravenous Drug Use: Considering the True Cost of the COVID-19 Pandemic and Lockdown.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic caused significant morbidity and mortality in people who inject drugs (PWID). Upper extremity soft tissue infections are frequently associated with intravenous drug use (IVDU) due to poor compliance with aseptic technique. In Canada, multiple safe injection sites providing clean injection supplies closed, leaving many PWID with no alternatives to inject safely. It was hypothesized that these closures will correspond with increased morbidity and mortality among PWID. The main objective of this study was to determine the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the incidence of upper extremity infections in PWID. METHODS: This was a retrospective chart review study. The primary outcome of interest was the frequency of upper extremity infections in PWID. Data were filtered to include only those patients presenting to the emergency department between March to June of 2019 and 2020. Chi-squared analysis was used to compare the number of IVDU patients among patients with upper extremity skin infections between these time periods. RESULTS: The number of IVDU patients treated for upper extremity infections in Hamilton significantly increased during the pandemic, relative risk = 2.0 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.3-2.9, P = .0012,) while total upper extremity infections numbers have decreased overall. During the pandemic, PWID made up a larger proportion of upper extremity infections (χ2 = 10.444, P = .00123). Demographic data such as age and sex of IVDU patients presenting with upper extremity infection was not significantly affected by the pandemic. CONCLUSIONS: The effect of the pandemic on accessing harm reduction services has led to evident increases in morbidity as described by this study. Further research on the impact of closures in PWID is needed to quantify these harms and work toward mitigation strategies.

Immobilization of the Wrist After Dorsal Wrist Ganglion Excision: A Systematic Review and Survey of Current Practice.

BACKGROUND: Postoperative care after dorsal wrist ganglion (DWG) excision is highly varied. The effect of immobilization of the wrist on patient outcomes has not yet been examined. METHODS: A systematic review of the literature was performed to determine whether wrist immobilization after DWG surgical excision is beneficial. A survey of hand surgeons in Canada was performed to sample existing practice variations in current immobilization protocols after DWG excision. RESULTS: A systematic review yielded 11 studies that rigidly immobilized the wrist (n = 5 open excision, n = 5 arthroscopic excision, n = 1 open or arthroscopic excision), 10 studies that used dressings to partially limit wrist motion (n = 5 open, n = 5 arthroscopic), 1 study (open) that did either of the above, and 2 studies (arthroscopic) that did not restrict wrist motion postoperatively. This ranged from 48 hours to 2 weeks in open DWG excision and 5 days to 3 weeks in arthroscopic DWG excision. The survey of Canadian hand surgeons had a similarly divided result of those who chose to immobilize the wrist fully (41%), partially (14%), or not at all (55%). Most surgeons surveyed who immobilized the wrist postoperatively did so for 1 to 2 weeks. CONCLUSION: The systematic review and survey of Canadian hand surgeons reveal that hand surgeons are divided regarding the need to immobilize the wrist after DWG excision. In terms of functional outcome, there is no compelling data to suggest 1 strategy is superior. The time frame for immobilization when undertaken was short at 2 weeks or less.The systematic review is registered in the PROSPERO database (PROSPERO 2016:CRD42016050877).

Denervation as a Treatment for Arthritis of the Hands: A Systematic Review of the Current Literature.

Joint denervation has been proposed as a less invasive option for surgical management of hand arthritis that preserves joint anatomy while treating pain and decreasing postoperative recovery times. The purpose of this systematic review was to investigate the efficacy and safety of surgical joint denervation for osteoarthritis in the joints of the hand. EMBASE, MEDLINE, and PubMed databases were searched from January 2000 to March 2019. Studies of adult patients with rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis of the hand who underwent joint denervation surgery were included. Two reviewers performed the screening process, data abstraction, and risk of bias assessment (Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies). This review followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines and was registered with PROSPERO (#125811). Ten studies were included, 9 case series and 1 cohort study, with a total of 192 patients. In all studies, joint denervation improved pain and hand function at follow-up (M = 36.8 months, range = 3-90 months). Pooled analysis of 3 studies on the first carpometacarpal joint showed a statistically significant (P < .001) reduction in pain scores from baseline (M = 6.61 ± 2.03) to postoperatively (M = 1.69 ± 1.27). The combined complication rate was 18.8% (n = 36 of 192), with neuropathic pain or unintended sensory loss (8.8%, n = 17 of 192) being the most common. This review suggests that denervation may be an effective and low-morbidity procedure for treating arthritis of the hand. Prospective, comparative studies are required to further understand the outcomes of denervation compared with traditional surgical interventions.

The Effects of Tranexamic Acid in Breast Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Tranexamic acid (TXA) is used in trauma and surgical settings. Its role in reducing postoperative blood loss in breast surgery remains unclear. The primary objective of this study was to determine the effect of TXA on postoperative blood loss in breast surgery. METHODS: Searches of the PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases were performed from inception to April 3, 2020. Inclusion criteria were any retrospective reviews, prospective cohort studies, and randomized controlled trials that administered TXA (topical or intravenously) in the context of breast surgery. Quality of studies were evaluated using the risk of bias in randomized trials tool and the risk of bias in nonrandomized studies of interventions tool. Data were pooled, and a meta-analysis was performed. RESULTS: In total, seven studies were included, representing 1226 patients (TXA, 632 patients; control, 622 patients). TXA was administered as follows: topically (20 mL of 25 mg/mL TXA intraoperatively; n =258 patients), intravenously (1 to 3 g perioperatively; n = 743 patients), or both (1 to 3 g daily up to 5 days postoperatively; n = 253 patients). TXA administration reduced hematoma formation in breast surgery (risk ratio, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.32 to 0.73), with no effect on drain output (mean difference, -84.12 mL; 95% CI, -206.53 to 38.29 mL), seroma formation (risk ratio, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.60 to 1.40), or infection rates (risk ratio, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.46 to 2.21). No adverse effects were reported. CONCLUSION: The use of TXA in breast surgery is a safe and effective modality with low-level evidence that it reduces hematoma rates without affecting seroma rates, postoperative drain output, or infection rates.

Opioid Consumption After Upper Extremity Surgery: A Systematic Review.

There is currently an overprescription of opioids, which may result in abuse and diversion of narcotics. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate opioid prescription practices and consumption by patients after upper extremity surgery. This review was registered a priori on Open Science Framework (osf.io/6u5ny) and adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. A search strategy was performed using MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases (from their inception to October 17, 2021). Prospective studies investigating opioid consumption of patients aged 18 years or older undergoing upper extremity surgeries were included. The Risk of Bias in Nonrandomized Studies of Interventions and Risk of Bias 2.0 tools were used for quality assessment. In total, 21 articles met the inclusion criteria, including 7 randomized controlled trials and 14 prospective cohort studies. This represented 4195 patients who underwent upper extremity surgery. Most patients took less than half of the prescribed opioids. The percentage of opioids consumed ranged from 11% to 77%. There was moderate to severe risk of bias among the included studies. This review demonstrated that there is routinely excessive opioid prescription relative to consumption after upper limb surgery. Additional randomized trials are warranted, particularly with standardized reporting of opioid consumption and assessment of patient-reported outcomes.

Closed Incision Negative Pressure Therapy Versus Traditional Dressings for Low Transverse Abdominal Incisions Healing by Primary Closure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Background: Closed incision negative pressure therapy (ciNPT) devices may reduce wound healing complications when applied to closed surgical incisions. The aim of this review was to assess the effects of ciNPT versus standard dressings in patients undergoing primary closure of high tension, lower transverse abdominal incisions. Methods: This review was registered a priori on PROSPERO (CRD42021252048). A search of the following databases was performed in February 2021: Medline, EMBASE, and CENTRAL. Unpublished trials were searched using clinicaltrials.gov. All randomized and nonrandomized studies comparing ciNPT to standard dressings were included. Two independent reviewers performed screening and data extraction. Outcomes evaluated the incidence of wound dehiscence, surgical site infection, total abdominal complications, time to drain removal, and seroma formation. Main Results: Ten studies were included in quantitative and narrative synthesis. Observational study evidence suggests ciNPT likely reduces the incidence of wound dehiscence (odds ratio [OR] 0.57 [0.44-0.96], P = .03) and total abdominal complications (OR 0.34 [0.21-0.54], P < .01). Decreased incidence of seroma formation favored ciNPT (OR 0.65 [0.24-1.76], P = .40); however, this did not achieve significance. Randomized and non-randomized study evidence was very uncertain about the effect of ciNPT on the remaining outcomes. Conclusions: The current best randomized study evidence is very uncertain about the effect of ciNPT on these outcomes. Observational study evidence suggests ciNPT likely results in a statistically significant reduction in abdominal wound dehiscence and total abdominal complications. Additional randomized trials are warranted to limit the impact of bias on the overall certainty of the evidence.

Historique : Les dispositifs de traitement par pression négative sur des plaies d'incision fermées (TPNPIf) pourraient réduire les complications liées à la cicatrisation des plaies lorsqu'ils sont appliqués à des incisions chirurgicales fermées. La présente analyse visait à évaluer les effets du TPNPIf par rapport aux pansements habituels après la suture primitive d'incisions abdominales transversales basses. Méthodologie : La présente analyse a été enregistrée à l'avance dans PROSPERO (CRD42021252048). Les chercheurs ont fouillé les bases de données Medline, EMBASE et CENTRAL en février 2021. Ils ont extrait les études non publiées à l'aide de clinicaltrials.gov. Ils ont inclus toutes les études randomisées et non randomisées comparant les TPNPIf aux pansements habituels. Deux réviseurs indépendants ont procédé à la sélection et à l'extraction des données. Comme mesures de résultats, les chercheurs ont évalué l'incidence de déhiscence des plaies, d'infection au foyer de l'opération, de complications abdominales totales, de période jusqu'au retrait du drain et de formation de sérome. Principaux Résultats : Dix études ont été incluses dans la synthèse quantitative et narrative. Selon les données tirées d'études observationnelles, le TPNPIf réduit probablement l'incidence de déhiscence des plaies [RC 0,57 (0,44, 0,96), P = ,03] et les complications abdominales totales [RC 0,34 (0,21, 0,54), P < ,01]. La diminution de l'incidence de formation de sérome favorisait le TPNPIf [RC 0,65 (0,24 à 1,76), P = ,40], mais n'était pas statistiquement significative. La certitude établie par les données des études randomisées et non randomisées était très faible quant à l'effet du TPNPIf sur les autres résultats. Conclusions : Selon les meilleures données sur les études randomisées actuelles, l'effet du TPNPIf sur les résultats est très incertain. Selon les données sur les études observationnelles, le TPNPIf entraîne probablement une réduction statistiquement significative de la déhiscence des plaies abdominales et des complications abdominales totales. D'autres études aléatoires devront être réalisées pour réduire les répercussions des biais sur la certitude globale des données probantes.

A novel device for minimally invasive harvest of the sural nerve.

The sural nerve is ideal for autologous nerve reconstruction. Traditional open harvest techniques result in a large prominent scar, delayed ambulation and poor patient satisfaction. Accordingly, we have designed a neurotome device to exclusively harvest the sural nerve as a safe and effective alternative to traditional techniques. Five patients underwent sural nerve harvest using our neurotome device. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed the preservation of histological nerve architecture when compared to nerves harvested by traditional open technique. Patients who underwent traditional open harvest of the sural nerve were asked to fill out a questionnaire to assess patient satisfaction. Ninety-three percent preferred a shorter scar, 20% complained of difficult ambulation, while 50% found troubling sensory deficits. Patients undergoing sural nerve harvest by our novel technique were satisfied with the cosmetic results and had less difficulty in ambulation. To optimize operative technique, cadaveric dissection of 15 limbs was done to further define the anatomic relationship of the sural nerve to the short saphenous vein. Minimally invasive harvest of sural nerve through our novel technique yields good cosmetic and functional results.

Outcomes of Management of Recurrent Dupuytren Contracture: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: With numerous treatment modalities available, it is unclear whether the treatment of recurrent Dupuytren disease is as effective as its initial treatment. We aimed to investigate the outcomes of management of recurrent Dupuytren contracture. METHODS: Adhering to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, CINAHL, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched from their inception to April 2020. Studies of patients aged above 18 years undergoing treatment for recurrent Dupuytren contractures were included. The Risk Of Bias In Non-randomized Studies-of Interventions tool was used for quality assessment. The study was registered with Open Science Foundation. RESULTS: A systematic review identified 12 studies: 311 patients with 224 affected digits-index (n = 5; 2.2%), long (n = 17; 7.6%), ring (n = 57; 25.4%), small (n = 112; 50%), and unspecified (n = 33; 14.7%); of these, there were 76 metacarpophalangeal joints (MCPJ; 45.5%), 90 proximal phalangeal joints (PIPJ; 53.9%), and 1 distal interphalangeal joint (0.6%). Previous treatment included the following: percutaneous needle aponeurotomy (n = 103 of 311 patients; 33.1%), collagenase clostridium histolyticum-injection (CCH; n = 75 of 311; 24.1%), limited fasciectomy (LF) ± skin graft (n = 83 of 311; 26.7%), fasciotomy (n = 1 of 311; 0.3%), and unspecified (n = 64 of 311; 20.6%). Recurrence was treated by percutaneous needle aponeurotomy (n = 68 of 311 patients; 21.9%); CCH injection (n = 53 of 311; 17.0%); aponeurotomy or dermofasciectomy or LF (n = 176 of 311; 56.6%); ray/digit amputation (n = 8 of 311; 2.6%); and PIPJ arthrodesis (n = 6 of 293; 2.0%). Range of motion was improved by 23.31° (95% confidence interval [CI] = 13.13°-33.50°; I2 = 67%; P = .05) and 15.49° (95% CI = 2.67°-28.31°; I2 = 76%; P = .01) for MCPJ and PIPJ, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: There is low level of evidence that both surgical and nonsurgical treatments provide clinically important improvements for recurrent Dupuytren contracture.

Video-assisted self-reflection of resuscitations for resident education and improvement of leadership skills: A pilot study.

INTRODUCTION: One of the most challenging aspects of Emergency Medicine (EM) residency is mastering the leadership skills required during a resuscitation. Use of resuscitation video recording for debriefing is gaining popularity in graduate medical education. However, there are limited studies of how video technology can be used to improve leadership skills in the emergency department. We aim to evaluate the utility of video-assisted self-reflection, compared with self-reflection alone, in the setting of resuscitation leadership. METHODS: This was a prospective, randomized, controlled pilot study conducted in 2018 at an urban level 1 trauma center with a three-year EM residency program. The trial included postgraduate year (PGY) 2 and 3 residents (n = 10). Each resident acted as an individual team leader for a live real-time resuscitation in the emergency department. The authors classified a patient as a resuscitation if there was an immediate life- or limb-threatening disease process or an abnormal vital sign with an indication of hypoperfusion. Each resident was recorded as the team leader twice. Both control and intervention groups produced written self-reflection after their first recording. The intervention group viewed their resuscitation recording while completing the written reflection. After their reflection, all participants were recorded for a second resuscitation. Two faculty experts, blinded to the study, scored each video using the Concise Assessment of Leader Management (CALM) scale to measure the leadership skills of the resident team leader. RESULTS: Five PGY­3 and five PGY­2 residents participated. The weighted kappa between the two experts was 0.45 (CI 0.34-0.56, p < 0.0001). The median gain score in the control group was -1.5 (IQR) versus 0.5 in the intervention group (IQR). DISCUSSION: Video-assisted self-reflection showed positive gain score trends in leadership evaluation for residents during a resuscitation compared with the non-video assisted control group. This tool would be beneficial to implement in EM residency.