Role of video self-assessment in laparoscopic simulation training: a randomized pilot trial.

BACKGROUND: Residency programs have implemented simulation training to compensate for reduced operating room exposure. Video recording is an educational tool that can be utilized for coaching, telepresence, and self-assessment during simulation training. Data is limited on the utility of video recording and self-assessment for laparoscopic training in Ob/Gyn residency programs.. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the role of video self-assessment as an educational tool in laparoscopic simulation training and to establish the feasibility of our study design for a larger randomized controlled trial. STUDY DESIGN: This was a prospective pilot study with a parallel, randomized, trial design that occurred in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Mount Sinai Hospital. Subject participation took place in a surgical simulation training room. A total of 23 subjects were recruited (7 medical students, 15 residents, 1 fellow) voluntarily. All participants completed the study. All the subjects completed a pretest survey. The surgical simulation room contained a single Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery box trainer and video-recording station. For session #1, each participant performed 2 Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery tasks (A, peg transfer; B, intracorporeal knot tie). Participants were video recorded during session #1 and were randomized to either receive or not receive their video recording. The video group (n=13) and control group (n=10) repeated the Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery tasks 7 to 10 days later (session #2). The primary outcome was percentage change in completion time between sessions. Secondary outcomes were percentage change in peg and needle drops between sessions. RESULTS: The participant characteristics (video vs control) were as follows: average training level (6.15 vs 4.90 years), self-assessment (1=poor, 10=excellent) of surgical skill (4.8 vs 3.7), and laparoscopic skill (4.4 vs 3.5). Training level was inversely correlated with completion time for tasks A and B (r, -0.79 and -0.87; P<.0001). Less experienced trainees required the maximum time allotted for each task in session #1 (A, 3; B, 13). Regarding the primary outcome, the video group improved less than the control group (A, 16.7% vs 28.3%; B, 14.4% vs 17.3%). After controlling for training level (residents only), the video group improved more in the primary outcome (A, 17% vs 7.4%; B, 20.9% vs 16.5%) and secondary outcomes (A, 0.0% vs -194.1%; B, 41.3% vs 37.6%). CONCLUSION: Video self-assessment has a potential role in simulation training for obstetrics-gynecology residents. With key improvements, the feasibility of our study design was demonstrated in preparation for a future definitive trial.

Gender Equity in Academic Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery Departments: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study.

IMPORTANCE: Gender equity in obstetrics and gynecology remains a barrier to career mobility and workplace satisfaction. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate gender equity for academic positions in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery (FPMRS) divisions with an Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education-accredited fellowship in the United States. STUDY DESIGN: This was a cross-sectional observational study of all FPMRS divisions with an Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education-accredited fellowship program in the United States in July 2020 using publicly available demographic and academic data collected from online search engines. Gender equity in academic FPMRS was assessed by gender representation, academic appointment, and research productivity of each attending physician within the division. Research productivity was assessed using both the H-index with career length controlled for with the M-quotient. RESULTS: There were 348 attending physicians from 72 FPMRS divisions (198 female [56.9%], 150 male [43.1%]). A large percentage of female attending physicians were at the assistant professor level (75.8% [94 of 124]) when compared with their male counterparts (24.4% [30 of 124]; P < 0.001). Conversely, there were a larger percentage of male attending physicians (62.2% [56 of 90]) at the professor level when compared with their female counterparts (37.8% [34 of 90]; P < 0.001). There was no difference in research productivity between male and female attending physicians after controlling for career length with the M-quotient (P = 0.65). Only age (odds ratio, 1.14; 95% confidence interval, 1.05-1.24) and the M-quotient (odds ratio, 36.17, 95% confidence interval, 8.57-152.73) were significantly associated with professorship. CONCLUSIONS: Our study found that there are more female attending physicians in FPMRS and that most are assistant professors. Male and female FPMRS attending physicians had similar research productivity with respect to their career lengths. Gender was not a determinant for achieving a "professor" appointment.

Association of Myomectomy With Anti-Müllerian Hormone Levels and Ovarian Reserve.

OBJECTIVE: To assess whether open and minimally invasive myomectomy are associated with changes in postoperative ovarian reserve as measured by serum anti-müllerian hormone (AMH) level. METHODS: This prospective cohort study included patients who were undergoing open abdominal myomectomy that used a tourniquet or minimally invasive (robot-assisted or laparoscopic) myomectomy that used vasopressin. Serum AMH levels were collected before the procedure and at 2 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months after surgery. The mean change in AMH level at each postsurgery timepoint was compared with baseline. The effect of surgical route on the change in AMH level at each timepoint was assessed by using multivariable linear regression. A subanalysis evaluated postoperative changes in AMH levels among the open myomectomy and minimally invasive myomectomy groups individually. RESULTS: The study included 111 patients (mean age 37.9±4.7 years), of whom 65 underwent open myomectomy and 46 underwent minimally invasive myomectomy. Eighty-seven patients contributed follow-up data. Serum AMH levels declined significantly at 2 weeks postsurgery (mean change -0.30 ng/mL, 95% CI -0.48 to -0.120 ng/mL, P=.002). No difference was observed at 3 months or 6 months postsurgery. On multiple linear regression, open myomectomy was significantly associated with a decline in AMH level at 2 weeks postsurgery (open myomectomy vs minimally invasive myomectomy: ß=-0.63±0.22 ng/mL, P=.007) but not at 3 months or 6 months. Subanalysis revealed a significant decline in mean serum AMH levels in the open myomectomy group at 2 weeks (mean change -0.46 ng/mL, 95% CI -0.69 to -0.25 ng/mL, P<.001) postsurgery but not at three or 6 months. In the minimally invasive myomectomy group, no significant differences in mean AMH levels were detected between baseline and any postoperative timepoint. CONCLUSION: Myomectomy is associated with a transient decline in AMH levels in the immediate postoperative period, particularly after open surgery in which a tourniquet is used. Anti-müllerian hormone levels returned to baseline by 3 months after surgery, indicating that myomectomy is not associated with a long-term effect on ovarian reserve, even with the use of a tourniquet to decrease blood loss. FUNDING SOURCE: This study was funded in part by a Roche Diagnostics Investigator-Initiated Study Grant.

Surgical Complications and Hospital Costs in Robot-Assisted Versus Conventional Laparoscopic Hysterectomy With Concurrent Sacrocolpopexy: Analysis of the Nationwide Readmissions Database.

OBJECTIVES: Despite increasing use of robotic technology for minimally invasive hysterectomy with sacrocolpopexy, evidence supporting the benefits of these costly procedures remains inconclusive. This study aimed to compare differences in perioperative complications, 30-day readmissions, and costs between robot-assisted and conventional laparoscopic hysterectomy with concurrent sacrocolpopexy using a large national database. METHODS: Using the 2009-2015 Nationwide Readmissions Database and procedure codes, we identified patients who underwent a robot-assisted or conventional laparoscopic hysterectomy with sacrocolpopexy. We measured in-hospital perioperative complications using diagnosis and procedure codes and measured 30-day readmissions based on patient linkages across hospitalizations. Hospital costs were estimated using charges and cost-to-charge ratios. These outcomes were compared between robot-assisted and conventional laparoscopic procedures using bivariate and multivariable regression analysis. RESULTS: Our weighted sample included a total of 7,675 patients. Major perioperative complications occurred in 6.7% of robot-assisted and 11.2% of conventional laparoscopic procedures (unadjusted P < 0.001; adjusted odds ratio, 0.69; 95% confidence interval, 0.51-0.93; P = 0.02). Hospital costs were higher in robot-assisted than in conventional laparoscopic procedures (respective median costs, $16,367 vs $13,898; P < 0.001), with an adjusted cost ratio of 1.24 (95% confidence interval, 1.17-1.31; P < 0.001). The risk of 30-day readmission was similar between robot-assisted and conventional laparoscopic procedures. CONCLUSIONS: Nationally representative data suggest that, in laparoscopic hysterectomy with sacrocolpopexy, the robot-assisted approach is associated with a lower risk of perioperative complications, despite higher costs, compared with the conventional one. The risk of 30-day readmission was similar between the robot-assisted and conventional laparoscopic approaches.

Surgical Outcomes in Benign Gynecologic Surgery Patients during the COVID-19 Pandemic (SOCOVID study).

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To determine the incidence of perioperative coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in women undergoing benign gynecologic surgery and to evaluate perioperative complication rates in patients with active, previous, or no previous severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection. DESIGN: A multicenter prospective cohort study. SETTING: Ten institutions in the United States. PATIENTS: Patients aged >18 years who underwent benign gynecologic surgery from July 1, 2020, to December 31, 2020, were included. All patients were followed up from the time of surgery to 10 weeks postoperatively. Those with intrauterine pregnancy or known gynecologic malignancy were excluded. INTERVENTIONS: Benign gynecologic surgery. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: The primary outcome was the incidence of perioperative COVID-19 infections, which was stratified as (1) previous COVID-19 infection, (2) preoperative COVID-19 infection, and (3) postoperative COVID-19 infection. Secondary outcomes included adverse events and mortality after surgery and predictors for postoperative COVID-19 infection. If surgery was delayed because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the reason for postponement and any subsequent adverse event was recorded. Of 3423 patients included for final analysis, 189 (5.5%) postponed their gynecologic surgery during the pandemic. Forty-three patients (1.3% of total cases) had a history of COVID-19. The majority (182, 96.3%) had no sequelae attributed to surgical postponement. After hospital discharge to 10 weeks postoperatively, 39 patients (1.1%) became infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. The mean duration of time between hospital discharge and the follow-up positive COVID-19 test was 22.1 ± 12.3 days (range, 4-50 days). Eleven (31.4% of postoperative COVID-19 infections, 0.3% of total cases) of the newly diagnosed COVID-19 infections occurred within 14 days of hospital discharge. On multivariable logistic regression, living in the Southwest (adjusted odds ratio, 6.8) and single-unit increase in age-adjusted Charlson comorbidity index (adjusted odds ratio, 1.2) increased the odds of postoperative COVID-19 infection. Perioperative complications were not significantly higher in patients with a history of positive COVID-19 than those without a history of COVID-19, although the mean duration of time between previous COVID-19 diagnosis and surgery was 97 days (14 weeks). CONCLUSION: In this large multicenter prospective cohort study of benign gynecologic surgeries, only 1.1% of patients developed a postoperative COVID-19 infection, with 0.3% of infection in the immediate 14 days after surgery. The incidence of postoperative complications was not different in those with and without previous COVID-19 infections.

Virtual Interviews During COVID-19 Pandemic: A Survey of Applicants to Fellowships in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery.

OBJECTIVES: The objective was to assess female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery (FPMRS) fellowship applicants' perspectives on the effectiveness of the virtual interview format for creating their rank lists. METHODS: This was an anonymous internet-based survey study of applicants to the FPMRS fellowships in the United States, conducted from July 21, 2020, to August 5, 2020. A 34-item questionnaire queried applicants on satisfaction with interviews, comfort with creating a rank list and time, and financial cost of interviews. Applicants were invited to complete the survey via standardized emails distributed via the REDCap secure database. RESULTS: Forty-two (56.7%) of 74 applicants completed the survey. The majority of respondents were somewhat satisfied or very satisfied (92.9%) with the virtual interview process and felt comfortable ranking the programs (83.3%). A total of 9.8% of respondents found virtual interviews somewhat or much better than in-person interviews with regards to being informative and helpful, whereas 61% found them to be about the same. A majority (75.6%) found virtual interviews somewhat or much less stressful compared with in-person interviews. The majority (97.5%) spent less than $2,000 during the application process compared with more than $4,000 (87.8%) that they had anticipated spending if the interviews were in person. CONCLUSIONS: Our data revealed that FPMRS applicants overall had a positive experience with the virtual interview platform and felt comfortable creating a rank list of programs based on those interviews.

Correlation of surgical case volume and fellowship training with performance on simulated procedural tasks.

BACKGROUND: High-volume and fellowship-trained surgeons have superior outcomes. However, in gynecology, a large proportion of cases are performed by low-volume surgeons. Simulation has been shown to be useful in assessing surgical skill and may be a useful tool in hospital credentialing and maintenance of privileges. OBJECTIVE: To determine the correlation between a surgical case volume and fellowship training with performance on simulated procedural tasks. STUDY DESIGN: A total of 108 obstetricians and gynecologists with laparoscopic privileges at 2 academic institutions completed a pre-test survey and performed 3 tasks on the LapSim laparoscopic virtual reality simulator. The pre-test survey inquired about the monthly laparoscopic case volume and prior training. Simulations included a basic skills task (peg transfer) followed by a procedural task (salpingectomy) of 2 difficulty levels (low and moderate). Spearman correlation and Wilcoxon tests were used to determine correlations between the survey responses and performance metrics. RESULTS: Participants included 67 generalists (62%) and 41 fellowship-trained specialists (38%). There was an observed weak correlation among surgical volume (more than 6 cases per month), time to completion, and the amount of blood loss when performing the low-difficulty level salpingectomy (r=-0.32, P=.0007 and r=-0.29, P=.002, respectively). The economy of movement (instrument path length) was correlated to high surgical volume (r=-0.35, P=.0002). Compared with generalists, surgeons with fellowship training performed tasks faster (410.8 seconds [interquartile range, 309.7-595.2]) vs 530.2 seconds (interquartile range, 406.2-605.0; P=.0009), more efficiently at 6.1 m (interquartile range, 4.8-7.3) vs 8.1 m (interquartile range, 5.8-10.7; P=.0003), and with less blood loss at 21.7 mL (interquartile range, 11.8-37.7) vs 42.9 mL (interquartile range, 18.1-70.6; P=.002). Regarding the case volume and fellowship background, there was no difference in ovarian diathermy damage. In addition, there was no difference among most performance parameters for the peg transfer task and the moderate-difficulty salpingectomy procedure. CONCLUSION: Surgical experience obtained through higher case volume and fellowship training correlate with higher performance scores during simulated procedural tasks. In a previous study, we found a similar correlation with simulated basic skills tasks. The current study is a continuation of an ongoing quality initiative to establish a summative assessment of laparoscopic surgical skills using virtual reality simulator for the maintenance of credentials among obstetrical and gynecologic surgeons. Future studies will compare the performance metrics from laparoscopic procedures performed on virtual reality simulator with the performance in the operating room and clinical outcomes.

Quality metrics in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Quality improvement and patient safety are relevant to the advancement of clinical care, particularly in the field of minimally invasive gynecologic surgery (MIGS). Although safety and feasibility of MIGS have been established, identification of quality metrics in this field is also necessary. RECENT FINDINGS: Surgical quality improvement has focused on national overarching measures to reduce mortality, surgical site infections (SSIs), and complications. Quality improvement in minimally invasive surgery has additionally led to advancements in postoperative patient recovery and long-term outcomes. Process measures in minimally invasive surgery include use of bundles and enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) programs. However, procedure-specific quality metrics for MIGS outcomes are poorly defined at this time. SUMMARY: Quality metrics in minimally invasive gynecology are well defined for structural measures and select process measures. Creation of relevant benchmarks for outcome measures in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery are needed.

Virtual Interviews During COVID-19: Perspectives of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery Program Directors.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to evaluate female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery (FPMRS) fellowship program directors' opinions regarding the effectiveness of virtual interviews for selecting fellows and their future interview mode preferences. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional online survey of all FPMRS program directors in the United States conducted from April 29, 2020, to May 30, 2020. At the time of this study, there were 73 program directors and 69 obstetrics and gynecology and urology-accredited FPMRS programs nationwide. The primary outcome was to subjectively assess the effectiveness of virtual interviews as compared with in-person interviews for evaluating applicants. RESULTS: Fifty seven (82.6%) of the program directors completed the survey. A total of 80.7% (46/57) of the respondents had participated in interviews for the active match cycle. Of the programs that participated in the interview process, almost all conducted interviews using virtual platforms (97.8%, 45/46). Program directors who conducted interviews virtually found them effective in evaluating applicants (88.9%, 40/45) and were satisfied with the virtual interview process (86.7%, 39/45). A total of 31.1% of respondents (14/45) preferred a virtual platform to an in-person setting for future interviews, and 60% (27/45) reported that they will likely perform future interviews virtually. CONCLUSIONS: Although the pandemic resulted in a sudden reformatting of FPMRS fellowship interviews, most program directors nationally were satisfied with the process and found virtual interviews effective for assessing applicants. More than 50% of FPMRS program directors are likely to consider the virtual format for future interviews.

Olanzapine for the Prevention of Postdischarge Nausea and Vomiting after Ambulatory Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Postdischarge nausea and vomiting after ambulatory surgery is a common problem that is not adequately addressed in current practice. This prospective, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled study was designed to test the hypothesis that oral olanzapine is superior to placebo at preventing postdischarge nausea and vomiting. METHODS: In a single-center, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, the authors compared a single preoperative dose of olanzapine 10 mg to placebo, in adult female patients 50 years old or less, undergoing ambulatory gynecologic or plastic surgery with general anesthesia. All patients received standard antiemetic prophylaxis with dexamethasone and ondansetron. The primary composite outcome was nausea and/or vomiting in the 24 h after discharge. Secondary outcomes included severe nausea, vomiting, and side effects. RESULTS: A total of 140 patients were randomized and evaluable. The primary outcome occurred in 26 of 69 patients (38%) in the placebo group and in 10 of 71 patients (14%) in the olanzapine group (relative risk, 0.37; 95% CI, 0.20 to 0.72; P = 0.003). Severe nausea occurred in 14 patients (20%) in the placebo group and 4 patients (6%) in the olanzapine group (relative risk, 0.28; 95% CI, 0.10 to 0.80). Vomiting occurred in eight patients (12%) in the placebo group and two patients (3%) in the olanzapine group (relative risk, 0.24; 95% CI, 0.05 to 1.10). The median score for sedation (scale 0 to 10, with 10 being highest) in the 24 h after discharge was 4 (interquartile range, 2 to 7) in the placebo group and 6 (interquartile range, 3 to 8) in the olanzapine group (P = 0.023). CONCLUSIONS: When combined with ondansetron and dexamethasone, the addition of olanzapine relative to placebo decreased the risk of nausea and/or vomiting in the 24 hafter discharge from ambulatory surgery by about 60% with a slight increase in reported sedation.

Resident simulation training improves operative time of the retropubic midurethral sling procedure for stress incontinence.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: Our aim was to assess whether immediate preoperative resident simulation training decreases operative time and improves resident proficiency when performing a retropubic midurethral sling (MUS) procedure. METHODS: This prospective cohort study took place over 8 months at the Icahn School of Medicine, New York, USA. During the first 4 months, all retropubic MUS procedures were performed by residents who underwent immediate preoperative simulation training. The cases completed during the following 4 months were performed by residents who had not received preoperative simulation training. During the 8-month period, residents completed self-assessment questionnaires upon completion of the surgery and attendings evaluated the residents using the Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) global rating scale. Operative time between the two periods were compared using two-sample Student's t test. Comparative analysis between groups was performed based on the OSATS scores using the Wilcoxon rank-sum nonparametric test. RESULTS: There were 22 cases in the simulation group (SG) and 20 in the no simulation group (NSG). SG mean operative time was 12.6 min and NSG mean operative time was 14.6 min (p = 0.12). The SG mean OSATS score was 30.4 versus NSG of 27.8 (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that preoperative simulation significantly improves operative performance of the retropubic MUS procedure among residents and also improves their confidence in the operating room. There was a decrease in mean operative time of 2 min in the SG, but the difference was not statistically significant. This data is consistent in demonstrating improved surgical performance and resident confidence with simulation training.

Optimal Interval of Time from Operative Hysteroscopy to Embryo Transfer in an In Vitro Fertilization Cycle.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: Data are limited regarding optimal timing between operative hysteroscopy and embryo transfer (ET). This study aimed to assess whether the time interval from operative hysteroscopy to ET affects implantation and clinical pregnancy rates. DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study (Canadian Task Force classification II-2). SETTING: Private academic center. PATIENTS: All patients who had operative hysteroscopy followed by a day 5 ET from 2012 to 2017. INTERVENTION: Interval of time from operative hysteroscopy to ET. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: The interval of time from hysteroscopy to ET was calculated, and linear regression analyses were performed to assess the impact on clinical outcome. A subanalysis of patients who underwent subsequent single, euploid, frozen ET(s) was performed. A total of 318 patients were included. Indications for hysteroscopy included polypectomy (n = 205), myomectomy (n = 36), lysis of adhesions (n = 46), septum resection (n = 19), and retained products of conception (n = 12). The mean interval of time from hysteroscopy to ET was 138.4 ± 162.7 days (range, 20-1390). There was no significant difference in mean interval of time between procedure and subsequent ET when comparing patients who achieved and did not achieve implantation. Patients stratified by interval of time from operative hysteroscopy to ET had similar clinical outcomes. The time interval from hysteroscopy had no impact on odds of implantation (odds ratio [OR], 1.001; 95% confidence interval [CI], .999-1.002; p = .49), ongoing pregnancy (OR, 1.001; 95% CI, .999-1.002; p = .42), or early pregnancy loss (OR, .997; 95% CI, .994-1.000; p = .07) (adjusted for oocyte age, recipient age, endometrial thickness, use of preimplantation genetic testing, use of donor egg, fresh vs frozen ET, ET count). Similar results were observed in the subanalysis restricted to euploid single frozen ETs from autologous cycles. CONCLUSION: The time interval from operative hysteroscopy to subsequent ET does not impact the likelihood of successful clinical outcome. Patients who have undergone operative hysteroscopy do not need to delay fertility treatment.

Use of Paracervical Block Before Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Some patients who undergo laparoscopic hysterectomy request overnight admission for pain management, thus increasing costs for a surgery that is safe for same-day discharge. We wanted to evaluate whether a paracervical block of bupivacaine with epinephrine before laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy would decrease overnight admission rates, postoperative pain, and pain medication requirement. METHODS: This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group trial (Canadian Task Force classification I) at an academic medical center. Patients undergoing laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy were randomized to a 20-mL paracervical injection of either 0.25% bupivacaine with epinephrine or 20 mL normal saline before skin incision. All providers, except the circulating nurse, were blinded. The primary outcome was overnight hospital admission rate. Secondary outcomes included postoperative pain medication use and pain scores. Analysis included t test, χ2, Wilcoxon, and ANOVA. RESULTS: One hundred thirty-two patients were enrolled-68 in the treatment group and 64 in the placebo group. Demographics were similar between groups. The unplanned overnight admission rate was 34% for the treatment group and 27% for the placebo group (P = .25). After discharge, the treatment group used on average 8.5 tablets of narcotics, whereas the placebo group used 11.7 tablets (P = .07). The treatment group took 13.1 tablets of nonnarcotic analgesics compared to 11.2 in the placebo group (P = .57). Both groups reported similar pain scores. CONCLUSION: Paracervical block with bupivacaine and epinephrine before laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy did not decrease overnight admission rate or affect postoperative pain. Postoperative opiate use was minimally decreased.

Detection of endometrial precancer by a targeted gynecologic cancer liquid biopsy.

Endometrial cancer is the most common gynecologic malignancy in industrialized countries, and both its incidence and its associated mortality are increasing. The "liquid biopsy" is becoming an important transformative precision oncology tool, but barriers intrinsic to blood sampling have limited its use in early cancer detection. We hypothesized that using a more targeted sample for analysis-namely, a uterine lavage-should provide a more sensitive and specific diagnostic test for endometrial cancer. Using a custom 12-gene endometrial cancer panel, molecular analysis of uterine lavage fluid from an asymptomatic 67-yr-old female without histopathologic evidence of premalignant lesions or cancer in her uterine tissue revealed two oncogenic PTEN mutations. Ten months later, the patient returned with postmenopausal bleeding and a single microscopic focus of endometrial cancer. DNA isolated and sequenced from laser-capture microdissected tumor tissue revealed the same two PTEN mutations. These mutations were unlikely to occur by chance alone (P < 3 × 10-7). This illustrative case provides the first demonstration that future, tumor-specific mutations can be identified in an asymptomatic individual without clinical or pathologic evidence of cancer by using already established sequencing technologies but targeted sampling methods. This finding provides the basis for new opportunities in early cancer screening, detection, and prevention.

Neurologic injury and patient displacement in gynecologic laparoscopic surgery using a beanbag and shoulder supports.

OBJECTIVE: To quantify the incidence of peripheral neuropathy in gynecologic laparoscopic surgery using a combination of beanbag, eggcrate foam, and shoulder supports; and to assess patient displacement during surgery in a steep Trendelenburg position and determine variables correlated with displacement. METHODS: A retrospective study included all gynecologic laparoscopic surgeries performed by one high-volume surgeon at a US center between September 15, 2007, and September 15, 2012. Data included neurologic deficits or extremity pain, any other complications, and-for the final study year-surgical time as well as patient and beanbag displacement. RESULTS: Among 967 patients, no long-term neuropathy was reported, 6 (0.6%) patients had transient shoulder pain beyond the first 24 hours (resolved by initial postoperative visit), and 7 (0.7%) were lost to follow-up. No neurologic complications were reported. Median beanbag and total patient displacement were 0 cm (interquartile range 0-0) and 0 cm (interquartile range 0-2), respectively. Patient displacement relative to the table was correlated with the total surgical time (P=0.025) and patient weight (P=0.023). The median displacement was greater in hysterectomy than non-hysterectomy procedures (P=0.003). CONCLUSION: Use of beanbags with shoulder supports and convoluted foam armboard pads was associated with minimal patient displacement and risk of arm and leg neurologic injury.

Comparison of the Memory Foam Pad Versus the Bean Bag with Shoulder Braces in Preventing Patient Displacement during Gynecologic Laparoscopic Surgery.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To compare the amount of patient displacement when a memory foam pad is used versus a bean bag with shoulder braces. The secondary aim was to evaluate for postoperative extremity symptoms including pain, numbness, and weakness. DESIGN: A prospective randomized pilot study (Canadian Task Force classification I). SETTING: A single academic institution. PATIENTS: Women ≥18 years of age undergoing laparoscopic or robotic gynecologic surgery. INTERVENTIONS: Patients were randomized to be positioned on the memory foam pad (group A) or the bean bag with shoulder braces (group B) preoperatively. The patients' positions were measured before and after the procedure, and the displacement was recorded. Patients were followed postoperatively and questioned regarding upper extremity or lower extremity weakness, numbness, and pain. Demographic characteristics were collected using the electronic medical record. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Forty-three patients were included in the study (22 in group A and 21 in group B). The demographic and intraoperative characteristics of the patients were similar in both groups. The patients in group A moved a mean distance of 3.80 ± 3.32 cm, whereas those in group B moved a mean distance of 1.07 ± 1.93 cm (p = .002). A Pearson correlation coefficient did not yield a correlation between patient displacement and age, body mass index, length of surgery, or pathology weight. In group A, 2 patients had lower extremity numbness, and 1 patient had upper extremity numbness. In group B, 1 patient had upper extremity pain, and 1 patient had both upper and lower extremity numbness. These patients had complete resolution of their symptoms within the first 2 weeks postoperatively, with the exception of 1 patient in group A whose lower extremity numbness resolved 3 months postoperatively. CONCLUSION: Positioning patients on the bean bag with shoulder braces resulted in significantly less displacement during gynecologic laparoscopic surgery when compared with the memory foam pad. All postoperative extremity numbness, weakness, and pain were temporary and resolved completely in our cohort. A larger study would be necessary to determine the true incidence of peripheral nerve injuries because these are rare complications of laparoscopic surgeries.

Transdermal light neuromodulation: Optogenetics in the murine urinary tract.

BACKGROUND: Optogenetics is a biologic technique that uses light to control living neurons, which have been genetically modified to express light-sensitive ion-channels. OBJECTIVES: Using an adenovirus to modify the sciatic nerves of mice, we aim to demonstrate peripheral neuromodulation of bladder pain using transdermal light. STUDY DESIGN: This pilot study is divided into: A) Confirmation and Application and B) Behavioral Step. A) Six mice were injected with AAV6-hSyn-ChR2(H134R)-eYFP virus into their sciatic nerves. This encoded an excitatory opsin, enabling light-inducible stimulation. At 4-6 weeks after injection, we induced foot pain responses with an activating blue 475 nm wavelength of light. B) Two optogenetically primed mice and two control mice underwent anesthesia and capsaicin was instilled into their bladders via catheter. The catheters were removed and the mice awoke in a chamber that exposed them to either blue 475 nm light or no light. Groin licking was scored in a binary fashion by two blinded observers. RESULTS: A) All six mice exhibited pain response to 475 nm blue light either by licking of foot or avoidance of light. B) The optogenetically primed mice had a 48% reduction in bladder pain behavior when exposed to blue 475 nm light whereas the control mice had a 18% reduction. CONCLUSION: To our knowledge this is the first demonstration of the application of optogenetics to modulate sensation in the lower urinary tract. It suggests that the process of priming peripheral nerves for optogenetic modulation is possible and can be used to study bladder pain response in mice.

Predictors of laparoscopic simulation performance among practicing obstetrician gynecologists.

BACKGROUND: While simulation training has been established as an effective method for improving laparoscopic surgical performance in surgical residents, few studies have focused on its use for attending surgeons, particularly in obstetrics and gynecology. Surgical simulation may have a role in improving and maintaining proficiency in the operating room for practicing obstetrician gynecologists. OBJECTIVE: We sought to determine if parameters of performance for validated laparoscopic virtual simulation tasks correlate with surgical volume and characteristics of practicing obstetricians and gynecologists. STUDY DESIGN: All gynecologists with laparoscopic privileges (n = 347) from 5 academic medical centers in New York City were required to complete a laparoscopic surgery simulation assessment. The physicians took a presimulation survey gathering physician self-reported characteristics and then performed 3 basic skills tasks (enforced peg transfer, lifting/grasping, and cutting) on the LapSim virtual reality laparoscopic simulator (Surgical Science Ltd, Gothenburg, Sweden). The association between simulation outcome scores (time, efficiency, and errors) and self-rated clinical skills measures (self-rated laparoscopic skill score or surgical volume category) were examined with regression models. RESULTS: The average number of laparoscopic procedures per month was a significant predictor of total time on all 3 tasks (P = .001 for peg transfer; P = .041 for lifting and grasping; P < .001 for cutting). Average monthly laparoscopic surgical volume was a significant predictor of 2 efficiency scores in peg transfer, and all 4 efficiency scores in cutting (P = .001 to P = .015). Surgical volume was a significant predictor of errors in lifting/grasping and cutting (P < .001 for both). Self-rated laparoscopic skill level was a significant predictor of total time in all 3 tasks (P < .0001 for peg transfer; P = .009 for lifting and grasping; P < .001 for cutting) and a significant predictor of nearly all efficiency scores and errors scores in all 3 tasks. CONCLUSION: In addition to total time, there was at least 1 other objective performance measure that significantly correlated with surgical volume for each of the 3 tasks. Higher-volume physicians and those with fellowship training were more confident in their laparoscopic skills. By determining simulation performance as it correlates to active physician practice, further studies may help assess skill and individualize training to maintain skill levels as case volumes fluctuate.

A pilot study of cardiac electrophysiology catheters to map and pace bladder electrical activity.

AIMS: This is a pilot study to evaluate the feasibility of using diagnostic cardiac electrophysiology catheters for recording intrinsic urinary bladder electrical activity and for electrical pacing capture of bladder tissue. METHODS: During cystoscopy, a curved quadripolar catheter was introduced and contact was made with the right and left halves of the dome and trigone in adult female patients undergoing cystoscopy. Electrical activity was recorded, using a commercially available cardiac electrophysiologic recording system, before and during pacing at 0.5-3.0 Hz. RESULTS: Apparent spontaneous electrical depolarizations were detected in both the trigone and the dome. The amplitude of these depolarizations was in the microVolt range. During pacing, local electrical capture was noted in the trigone, but not in the dome. CONCLUSIONS: Spontaneous low-amplitude electrical activity was detected in the bladder through the use of commercially available cardiac electrophysiology equipment. While these low-level signals could represent noise, the voltage, and morphology resemble detrusor muscle action potentials previously seen in animal studies. Pacing induced local electrical capture in the trigone but not the dome.