Bishop Flap and Sigma Flap to Repair Surgical Defects in High-Tension Anatomical Regions. / Colgajo obispo y colgajo sigma para defectos quirúrgicos en zonas anatómicas de elevada tensión.

BACKGROUND: The reconstruction of surgical defects in high-tension anatomical regions is challenging due to the ischemia and subsequent necrosis associated with tension closure. Research on new flaps capable of closing these defects exerting less tension would be a tremendous advancement in dermatological surgery. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We conducted a multicenter, retrospective study that used 2 new flaps-the bishop and the sigma ones-to repair surgical defects in high-tension regions such as the scalp, lower extremities, and the nasal pyramid. The bishop flap was used in 9 patients, 5 of whom exhibited their lesion in the nasal pyramid, 2 in the legs and another 2 in the scalp. The sigma flap was used in 6 patients, 5 of whom exhibited scalp lesions and 1 leg lesion. RESULTS: Uneventful and excellent results were obtained in all 15 patients due to infection, dehiscence, or necrosis. CONCLUSIONS: Both the bishop and the sigma flaps are a good alternative to repair surgical defects in high-tension regions such as the scalp, lower extremities, or the nasal pyramid.

[Translated article] Nautilus Flap and Bullfighter Crutch Flap for the Repair of Periorificial Surgical Defects of the Face.

BACKGROUND: Reconstruction of surgical defects located close to eyelid edges, nostrils, or the mouth is challenging, as tension generated by direct closure or skin flaps in these sensitive regions tends to cause distortion. New repair techniques that prevent retraction may significantly improve outcomes. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Retrospective study of the use of 2 novel flap designs-the nautilus flap and the bullfighter crutch flap-to repair surgical defects in the peripalpebral, perivestibular, nasal, and perioral areas. The nautilus flap was used to repair 4 peripalpebral defects and 2 perioral defects, and the bullfighter crutch flap to repair 14 nasal ala defects. RESULTS: Cosmetic and functional outcomes were very satisfactory in all 20 patients, with no cases of ectropion, nasal vestibule collapse, or labial asymmetry. Necrosis did not occur in any of the cases. CONCLUSIONS: The nautilus and bullfighter crutch flaps appear to be excellent choices for reconstructing surgical defects in periorificial areas.

Nautilus Flap and Bullfighter Crutch Flap for the Repair of Periorificial Surgical Defects of the Face. / Colgajo nautilus y colgajo en muleta taurina para defectos quirúrgicos faciales periorificiales.

BACKGROUND: Reconstruction of surgical defects located close to eyelid edges, nostrils, or the mouth is challenging, as tension generated by direct closure or skin flaps in these sensitive regions tends to cause distortion. New repair techniques that prevent retraction may significantly improve outcomes. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Retrospective study of the use of 2 novel flap designs-the nautilus flap and the bullfighter crutch flap-to repair surgical defects in the peripalpebral, perivestibular, nasal, and perioral areas. The nautilus flap was used to repair 4 peripalpebral defects and 2 perioral defects, and the bullfighter crutch flap to repair 14 nasal ala defects. RESULTS: Cosmetic and functional outcomes were very satisfactory in all 20 patients, with no cases of ectropion, nasal vestibule collapse, or labial asymmetry. Necrosis did not occur in any of the cases. CONCLUSIONS: The nautilus and bullfighter crutch flaps appear to be excellent choices for reconstructing surgical defects in periorificial areas.

Multicentre randomized clinical trial of colonic J pouch or straight stapled colorectal reconstruction after low anterior resection for rectal cancer.

BACKGROUND: Colonic J pouch reconstruction has been found to be associated with a lower incidence of anastomotic leakage than straight anastomosis. However, studies on this topic are underpowered and retrospective. This randomized trial evaluated whether the incidence of anastomotic leakage was reduced after colonic J pouch reconstruction compared with straight colorectal anastomosis following anterior resection for rectal cancer. METHODS: This multicentre RCT included patients with rectal carcinoma who underwent low anterior resection followed by colorectal anastomosis. Patients were assigned randomly to receive a colonic J pouch or straight colorectal anastomosis. The main outcome measure was the occurrence of major anastomotic leakage. The incidence of global (major plus minor) anastomotic leakage and general complications were secondary outcomes. Risk factors for anastomotic leakage were identified by regression analysis. RESULTS: Of 457 patients enrolled, 379 were evaluable (colonic J pouch arm 190, straight colorectal arm 189). The incidence of major and global anastomotic leakage, and general complications was 14·2, 19·5 and 34·2 per cent respectively in the colonic J pouch group, and 12·2, 19·0 and 27·0 per cent in the straight colorectal anastomosis group. No statistically significant differences were observed between the two arms. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, male sex (odds ratio 1·79, 95 per cent c.i. 1·02 to 3·15; P = 0·042) and high ASA fitness grade (odds ratio 2·06, 1·15 to 3·71; P = 0·015) were independently associated with the occurrence of anastomotic leakage. CONCLUSION: Colonic J pouch reconstruction does not reduce the incidence of anastomotic leakage and postoperative complications compared with conventional straight colorectal anastomosis. Registration number NCT01110798 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).

Treatment of Peristomal granulomatosis with a Neem and Red Hypericum Oil application: Case studies.

BACKGROUND: Peristomal granulomatosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of uncertain aetiology, and a high recurrence rate. It frequently occurs in patients with enterostomy and urostomy. The most frequent type affects the mucocutaneous junction, causing bleeding and painful nodular lesions, which complicate management of the ostomy pouching system. Currently, only invasive treatments are available, consisting in cauterisation or surgical removal of the granuloma. Our objective was to evaluate efficacy of a topic mixture oil, composed by a 1:1 of extracts of Neem and Red Hypericum; amongst its many therapeutical properties, it is proven to inhibit the over-granulation process. METHOD: Two clinical cases presenting typical peristomal granulomatosis were selected. On first access after recruitment, the patients underwent an accurate nursing anamnesis, a global assessment was carried out according to the Toven Method and an assessment of peristomal sore skin according to SACS 2.0. Granulomatosis wounds were treated with the oil mixture, applied on a hydrofiber pad, secured over the wound site by means of a transparent film. This allowed the release of active ingredients while ensuring the pouching system secure adhesion. The chosen protocol consisted in 2 dressing changes per week, while monitoring the granulomatosis wound evolution by means of a TOR Form validated data form and documenting progress by taking photographs. RESULTS: Initially a regression of the inflammatory process was observed, with significant decrease of bleeding and pain. Gradually, the proliferating lesions reduced in size (both width and extent), and eventually healed completely. The product was very well tolerated, even when in contact with the stoma mucous membrane. No recurrence signs were observed either at the follow up visit 15 days from end of treatment, and in clinical case N.2 equally none were present two months after treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Compared to conventional methods which are invasive, not resolving, and not tolerated by patients, the product was demonstrated to be an innovative therapeutical solution, easy to apply, with no side effects and well-liked by patients. The excellent results obtained require further confirmation and validation through new studies on a statistically significant number of cases.

Work Related Violence As A Predictor Of Stress And Correlated Disorders In Emergency Department Healthcare Professionals.

AIMS: The aim of the study was to investigate the frequency, type, causes and consequences of violence and aggression experienced by Emergency Department workers during their interactions with patient, their relatives or companions and whether the phenomenon of violence at work is a specific risk factor predicting stress and possible stress related pathologies in emergency health workers. The study proposes a model of effective intervention for the prevention and management of violence and stress. METHODS: A cross-sectional retrospective study was performed with a sample of 323 healthcare workers at Department of Emergency and Acceptance of Level II and the Psychiatric Services of Diagnosis and Care of the University Hospital Policlinico Umberto I, in Rome, Italy, between June 2016 and February 2017. Data collection was conducted by a psychiatrist by means of a questionnaire method administered to each participant and by carrying out individual interviews. The two questionnaires used, both the Health Violence Questionnaire (QVS) and the Workers' Stress Perception Questionnaire (SPQR) were designed ad hoc, after some test sessions intended for the creation of their content. RESULTS: Eighty-seven percent of emergency healthcare workers experienced workplace violence by patients or their relatives. More than half of healthcare workers reported multiple consequences on their emotional sphere, in particular female healthcare professionals and all those who have suffered frequent incidents of violence. Regarding the effects on lifestyle, one third reported an increase in consumption of tobacco, food and sleep disorders and changes from social relationships to social isolation and avoidance of some places. More than one third of healthcare workers reported consequences on their well-being and health, especially the female workers. Distress was associated with frequent workplace violence. Healthcare workers who experienced frequent violence indicated lack of support from hospital administration and ED management as barriers to reporting workplace violence. CONCLUSIONS: The study confirms the diffusion of the workplace violence by patients and/or their relatives against the emergency healthcare professionals, related to the gender, the professional qualification, the role in the organization and the workplace. Almost all male and female healthcare workers reported they had suffered the effects on lifestyle, working habits and wellbeing and health following the workplace violence. Precipitating factors to violent incidents identified by healthcare professionals are consistent with the research literature. Commitment from hospital administrators, ED managers and hospital security is necessary to facilitate improvement and ensure a safer workplace for ED healthcare workers. Our study emphasizes the importance of analyzing, in addition to general job demands, the specific job demands such as the phenomenon of violence, considered a key risk factor, predictor of stress and possible mental disorders in healthcare workers operating in high-risk environments. This study confirms the importance of application of the modified model by Brough and Biggs of integrated multidimensional intervention on the prevention and management of workplace violence and work stress and shall be implemented on all three levels: individual, organizational and situational. The study also highlights the need to implement support strategies for the victims of violence.

Randomized clinical trial of percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation versus sham electrical stimulation in patients with faecal incontinence.

BACKGROUND: The aim was to assess the effects of percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS) in the treatment of faecal incontinence (FI) by means of an RCT. METHODS: Patients aged over 18 years with FI were included in a multicentre, single-blinded RCT. The primary endpoint was reduction in the median or mean number of FI episodes per week. Secondary endpoints were changes in measures of FI severity, and disease-specific and generic quality of life. Outcomes were compared between PTNS and sham stimulation after 9 weeks of treatment. RESULTS: A higher proportion of patients in the PTNS (13 of 29) than in the sham (6 of 30) group showed a reduction of at least 50 per cent in the median number of FI episodes/week (incidence rate ratio (IRR) 2·40, 95 per cent c.i. 1·10 to 5·24; P = 0·028), but not in the mean number of episodes/week (10 of 29 versus 8 of 30; IRR 1·42, 0·69 to 2·92; P = 0·347). The absolute median number of FI episodes per week decreased in the PTNS but not in the sham group (IRR 0·66, 0·44 to 0·98; P = 0·041), as did the mean number (IRR 0·65 (0·45 to 0·97); P = 0·034). Scores on the Cleveland Clinic Florida faecal incontinence scale decreased significantly in both groups, but more steeply in the PTNS group (mean difference -1·3, 95 per cent c.i. -2·6 to 0·0; P = 0·049). The aggregated mental component score of Short Form 36 improved in the PTNS but not in the sham group (mean difference 5·1, 0·5 to 9·6; P = 0·028). CONCLUSION: PTNS may offer a small advantage in the clinical management of FI that is insufficiently responsive to conservative treatment. The key challenge will be to identify patients who may benefit most from this minimally invasive surgical procedure. Registration number: NCT00974909 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).

Canakinumab for the treatment of TNF-receptor associated periodic syndrome.

INTRODUCTION: TNF-receptor-associated periodic syndrome is an autoinflammatory disorder caused by mutations in TNF receptor superfamily 1A gene. The molecular pathogenesis of TRAPS remains unclear; it is known that a key role is played by mutations in TNFRSF1A that induce the hypersecretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines as well as IL-1ß, resulting in uncontrolled inflammatory reactions. Furthermore, TNFRSF1A gene mutations result in intracellular stress ultimately leading to increased production of interleukin-1ß, but the exact mechanism referred to in the connection between TNFRSF1A mutation and increased release of IL-1ß, is still under study. This explains why IL-1 inhibition treatment can be effective in treating TRAPS patients. The purpose of this review is to discuss the safety and efficacy of canakinumab, a high-affinity human monoclonal anti IL-1ß antibody. Areas covered: The data obtained from case reports, case series, Phase II study and a phase III randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled trial have been analyzed. Efficacy and safety profiles of canakinumab are discussed. Expert commentary: Was discussed an overview of treatment options in TRAPS patients. The understanding of pathogenesis of TNF-receptor-associated periodic syndrome led to realize why TRAPS patients respond to IL-1 inhibition. Canakinumab became approved for the treatment in TRAPS patients very recently.

T1 colon cancer in the era of screening: risk factors and treatment.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to identify risk factors for lymph node positivity in T1 colon cancer and to carry out a surgical quality assurance audit. METHODS: The sample consisted of consecutive patients treated for early-stage colon lesions in 15 colorectal referral centres between 2011 and 2014. The study investigated 38 factors grouped into four categories: demographic information, preoperative data, indications for surgery and post-operative data. A univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to analyze the significance of each factor both in terms of lymph node (LN) harvesting and LN metastases. RESULTS: Out of 507 patients enrolled, 394 patients were considered for analysis. Thirty-five (8.91%) patients had positive LN. Statistically significant differences related to total LN harvesting were found in relation to central vessel ligation and segmental resections. Cumulative distribution demonstrated that the rate of positive LN increased starting at 12 LN harvested and reached a plateau at 25 LN. CONCLUSIONS: Some factors associated with an increase in detection of positive LN were identified. However, further studies are needed to identify more sensitive markers and avoid surgical overtreatment. There is a need to raise the minimum LN count and to use the LN count as an indicator of surgical quality.

Repair of transperineal recto-urethral fistula using a fibrin sealant haemostatic patch.

AIM: Recto-urethral fistula (RUF) is a rare complication of radical prostatectomy. We report a transperineal approach using a fibrin sealant haemostatic patch. METHOD: Five consecutive patients who developed RUF following radical prostatectomy had a direct transperineal repair with a haemostatic patch (TachoSil®) and were assessed at a median follow-up of 35.5 (21-45) months. RESULTS: There were no early postoperative complications. The average length of hospital stay was 5 (4-7) days. One patient developed recurrence 4 weeks after removal of the urethral catheter. Following healing in four patients the stoma was reversed at a median interval of 3 months, and 9.5 (7-10) months following the prostatic surgery. In the four patients with successful closure there was no case of recurrence or anorectal or urinary dysfunction at a median follow-up of 35.5 (21-45) months. CONCLUSION: Direct transperineal repair of RUF reinforced with a fibrin haemostatic patch of TachoSil is safe and effective.

Gerontecnología: rapid review y tendencias mundiales / Gerontechnology: rapid review and global trends

La actual transición demográfica y epidemiológica por la que atraviesan varias regiones en el mundo, incluyendo México, están desafiando la sustentabilidad de los sistemas de salud, conduciendo al desarrollo de nuevos enfoques de atención para la población de adultos mayores (AM). La estrategia central está enfocada en un envejecimiento saludable donde el aumento de la esperanza de vida sea libre de discapacidad. La gerontecnología pretende contribuir a la disminución de los problemas de los AM que conllevan las transiciones del envejecimiento apoyando el cumplimiento de la estrategia central. La realización de rapid review en gerontecnología demuestra que Holanda y E.U.A. encabezan la lista de países promotores de investigaciones y desarrollos gerontecnológicos a nivel mundial, con 14 y 10 publicaciones respectivamente. México aporta a la generación de conocimientos en el campo con una publicación. A nivel mundial la tendencia es la generación de grupos multidisciplinarios con profesionales de las ciencias de Sociología, Demografía (Gerontología) en conjunto con profesionales de las áreas de Comunicación e Informática (Tecnología); teniendo como principal objetivo el Apoyo y Organización en los cuidados de los adultos mayores en los dominios de Vivienda y Actividades de la Vida Diaria.

Current demographic and epidemiological transitions being experienced by several regions in the world, including Mexico, are challenging the sustainability of health systems, leading to the development of new approaches to care for the elderly population. The core strategy is focused on healthy aging where increased life expectancy is free of disability. Gerontechnology intended to help reduce the problems of seniors that involve transitions of aging by supporting the implementation of the core strategy. Conducting rapid review in gerontechnology shows that the Netherlands and United States top the list of countries promoting research and gerontechnologic developments worldwide, with 14 and 10 publications respectively. Mexico contributes to the generation of knowledge in the field with one publication. Worldwide the trend is the generation of multidisciplinary groups with science professionals on Sociology, Demography (Gerontology) in conjunction with professionals in the areas of Communication and Information Technology (Technology); having as main objective the support and organization in care of the elderly in the domains of Housing and Activities of Daily Living.

[Gender differences in the use of tumour markers]. / Diferencias de género en el uso de marcadores tumorales.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Gender is one of the factors that can influence the use of health resources. The use of tumour markers is widespread, due to the importance of these in monitoring cancer development. The aim of this study is to analyse the influence of gender on the use of tumour markers, and to investigate whether there are differences in their use. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A longitudinal, retrospective and descriptive study, with a 2-year follow-up, was conducted in the catchment area of the University Hospital of Padua. An analysis was performed on 23,059 analytical requests for tumour markers. A descriptive and frequency analysis was performed on all variables. The statistical analysis was performed using Chi squared, Student t and Mann-Whitney U to test for significance. RESULTS: The number of requests for women (1.5) was lower than men (1.6). In patients with tumour pathology, the number of requests was higher than in patients without tumour disease. In the analysis by disease and gender, the difference remained significant. As regards the number of tumour markers per request, the difference between genders was also significant: 2.13 in males versus 2.85 in women. Similar results were obtained when requests for tumour markers linked to gender-related diseases were eliminated. CONCLUSIONS: There are differences in the use of tumour markers by gender with the number of requests for male patients being higher than for females. However, the number of tumour markers per request is greater in women than in men.

Case report of cholesteatoma recurrence with Bezold's abscess presenting as a deep neck infection.

Cervical masses are a common clinical finding, but differential diagnosis is often challenging. Acute neck swellings are often due to deep cervical space infections that have originated at oral or oropharyngeal sites. Deep neck infections originating elsewhere are not rare; however, they are difficult to diagnose, and their origins remain obscure in 20% of cases. Neck swellings that originate in the middle ear are very rare, with only a few reported in the scientific literature. Here we report an atypical case of Bezold's abscess caused by the recurrence of a middle ear cholesteatoma. In patients with neck swelling and a history of primary cholesteatoma of the middle ear, otolaryngologists should consider regional recurrence of disease a possibility even several years after the primary surgery.