Three-dimensional virtual planning for nodule resection in solid organs: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: To systematically review the effects of 3D-imaging virtual planning for nodule resection in the following solid organs: lung, liver, and kidney. METHODS: MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library were searched through September 31, 2020 to include randomized and non-randomized controlled studies that compared outcomes of surgical resection of lung, liver, or kidney nodule resection with and without 3D virtual planning with computed tomography. From each article, the mean operation time (OT), mean estimated blood loss (EBL), mean postoperative hospital stay (POHS), and the number of postoperative events (POE) were extracted. The effect size (ES) of 3D virtual planning vs. non-3D planning was extracted from each study to calculate the pooled measurements for continuous variables (OT, EBL, POHS). Data were pooled using a random-effects model. RESULTS: The literature search yielded 2397 studies and 10 met the inclusion criteria with a total of 897 patients. There was a significant difference in OT between groups with a moderate ES favoring the 3D group (ES,-0.56; 95%CI: 0.91,-0.29; I2 = 83.1%; p < .001). Regarding EBL, there was a significant difference between 3D and non-3D with a small ES favoring IGS (ES,-0.18; 95%CI: 0.33,-0.02; I2 = 22.5%; p = .0236). There was no difference between the 3D and non-3D groups for both POHS (POHS ES,-0.15; 95%CI: 0.39,0.10; I2 = 37.0%; p = .174) and POE (POE odds ratio (OR),0.80; 95%CI:0.54,1.19; I2 = 0.0%; p = .0.973). CONCLUSIONS: 3D-imaging planning for surgical resection of lung, kidney, and liver nodules could reduce OT and EBL with no effects on immediate POHS and POE. Improvements in these perioperative variables could improve medium and long-term postoperative clinical outcomes.

Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery yields better outcomes than thoracotomy for anatomical lung resection in Brazil: a propensity score-matching analysis using the Brazilian Society of Thoracic Surgery database.

OBJECTIVES: The use of video-assisted anatomical lung resection is increasingly widespread for lung cancer and non-neoplastic diseases, showing excellent results. Nonetheless, a comparative analysis of the benefits of this technique has yet to be conducted in Latin America, a region with a completely different case mix from the USA or Europe. The purpose of this study was to compare the outcomes of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) and open thoracotomy (OT) for anatomical lung resection in patients included on the Brazilian Society of Thoracic Surgery (BSTS) database. METHODS: Using propensity score matching, we conducted an analysis of 1355 patients who underwent anatomical lung resection (704 OT and 651 VATS) registered in the BSTS database between August 2015 and December 2016. Propensity score matching was performed using the following baseline characteristics: age at surgery, gender, comorbidities, pulmonary lung function, type of resection and cancer and non-cancer diagnosis. The propensity score-matched sample comprised a well-matched group of 890 patients. The main outcomes tested were mortality, complications and major cardiopulmonary complications based on the European Society of Thoracic Surgeons (ESTS) database definitions and terminology. RESULTS: Standardized differences of means and proportions suggested that an adequate balance had been achieved. Major cardiopulmonary complications were shown to be more frequent in patients who underwent OT (16.0% compared with 9.2% in VATS patients; odds ratio = 1.87, 95% confidence interval 1.25-2.80) and the overall complications rate was higher among patients who underwent OT (30.1% compared with 21.8% in VATS patients; odds ratio = 1.55, 95% confidence interval 1.17-2.05). No statistically significant difference in mortality rate was observed between OT (2.5%) and VATS (1.8%) (odds ratio = 1.38, 95% confidence interval 0.54-3.50). CONCLUSIONS: In Brazil, the rate of complications associated with minimally invasive surgery (VATS) for anatomical lung resection is significantly lower than that of conventional OT.

Anatomic pulmonary resection by video-assisted thoracoscopy: the Brazilian experience (VATS Brazil study).

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to describe the results of anatomic pulmonary resections performed by video-assisted thoracoscopy in Brazil. METHODS: Thoracic surgeons (members of the Brazilian Society of Thoracic Surgery) were invited, via e-mail, to participate in the study. Eighteen surgeons participated in the project by providing us with retrospective databases containing information related to anatomic pulmonary resections performed by video-assisted thoracoscopy. Demographic, surgical, and postoperative data were collected with a standardized instrument, after which they were compiled and analyzed. RESULTS: The surgeons provided data related to a collective total of 786 patients (mean number of resections per surgeon, 43.6). However, 137 patients were excluded because some data were missing. Therefore, the study sample comprised 649 patients. The mean age of the patients was 61.7 years. Of the 649 patients, 295 (45.5%) were male. The majority-521 (89.8%)-had undergone surgery for neoplasia, which was most often classified as stage IA. The median duration of pleural drainage was 3 days, and the median hospital stay was 4 days. Of the 649 procedures evaluated, 598 (91.2%) were lobectomies. Conversion to thoracotomy was necessary in 30 cases (4.6%). Postoperative complications occurred in 124 patients (19.1%), the most common complications being pneumonia, prolonged air leaks, and atelectasis. The 30-day mortality rate was 2.0%, advanced age and diabetes being found to be predictors of mortality. CONCLUSIONS: Our analysis of this representative sample of patients undergoing pulmonary resection by video-assisted thoracoscopy in Brazil showed that the procedure is practicable and safe, as well as being comparable to those performed in other countries. OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever os resultados de ressecções pulmonares anatômicas por videotoracoscopia no Brasil. MÉTODOS: Cirurgiões torácicos (membros da Sociedade Brasileira de Cirurgia Torácica) foram convidados, por correio eletrônico, a participar do estudo. Dezoito cirurgiões participaram do projeto enviando seus bancos de dados retrospectivos referentes a ressecções anatômicas de pulmão por videotoracoscopia. Dados demográficos, cirúrgicos e pós-operatórios foram coletados em um instrumento padronizado e posteriormente compilados e analisados. RESULTADOS: Dados referentes a 786 pacientes foram encaminhados (média de 43,6 ressecções por cirurgião), sendo 137 excluídos por informações incompletas. Logo, 649 pacientes constituíram nossa população estudada. A média de idade dos pacientes foi de 61,7 anos, 295 eram homens (45,5%), e a maioria - 521 (89,8%) - foi submetida à cirurgia por neoplasia, mais frequentemente classificada como estádio IA. A mediana do tempo de drenagem pleural foi de 3 dias, e a do tempo de internação, 4 dias. Dos 649 procedimentos realizados, 598 (91,2%) foram lobectomias. A taxa de conversão para toracotomia foi de 4,6% (30 casos). Complicações pós-operatórias ocorreram em 124 pacientes (19,1%), sendo pneumonia, escape aéreo prolongado e atelectasia as mais frequentes. A mortalidade em 30 dias foi de 2,0%, tendo como preditores idade avançada e diabetes. CONCLUSÕES: A casuística brasileira mostra que as ressecções pulmonares por cirurgia torácica videoassistida são factíveis e seguras, além de comparáveis àquelas de registros internacionais.

Anatomic pulmonary resection by video-assisted thoracoscopy: the Brazilian experience (VATS Brazil study) / Ressecção pulmonar anatômica por videotoracoscopia: experiência brasileira (VATS Brasil)

ABSTRACT Objective: The objective of this study was to describe the results of anatomic pulmonary resections performed by video-assisted thoracoscopy in Brazil. Methods: Thoracic surgeons (members of the Brazilian Society of Thoracic Surgery) were invited, via e-mail, to participate in the study. Eighteen surgeons participated in the project by providing us with retrospective databases containing information related to anatomic pulmonary resections performed by video-assisted thoracoscopy. Demographic, surgical, and postoperative data were collected with a standardized instrument, after which they were compiled and analyzed. Results: The surgeons provided data related to a collective total of 786 patients (mean number of resections per surgeon, 43.6). However, 137 patients were excluded because some data were missing. Therefore, the study sample comprised 649 patients. The mean age of the patients was 61.7 years. Of the 649 patients, 295 (45.5%) were male. The majority-521 (89.8%)-had undergone surgery for neoplasia, which was most often classified as stage IA. The median duration of pleural drainage was 3 days, and the median hospital stay was 4 days. Of the 649 procedures evaluated, 598 (91.2%) were lobectomies. Conversion to thoracotomy was necessary in 30 cases (4.6%). Postoperative complications occurred in 124 patients (19.1%), the most common complications being pneumonia, prolonged air leaks, and atelectasis. The 30-day mortality rate was 2.0%, advanced age and diabetes being found to be predictors of mortality. Conclusions: Our analysis of this representative sample of patients undergoing pulmonary resection by video-assisted thoracoscopy in Brazil showed that the procedure is practicable and safe, as well as being comparable to those performed in other countries.

RESUMO Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever os resultados de ressecções pulmonares anatômicas por videotoracoscopia no Brasil. Métodos: Cirurgiões torácicos (membros da Sociedade Brasileira de Cirurgia Torácica) foram convidados, por correio eletrônico, a participar do estudo. Dezoito cirurgiões participaram do projeto enviando seus bancos de dados retrospectivos referentes a ressecções anatômicas de pulmão por videotoracoscopia. Dados demográficos, cirúrgicos e pós-operatórios foram coletados em um instrumento padronizado e posteriormente compilados e analisados. Resultados: Dados referentes a 786 pacientes foram encaminhados (média de 43,6 ressecções por cirurgião), sendo 137 excluídos por informações incompletas. Logo, 649 pacientes constituíram nossa população estudada. A média de idade dos pacientes foi de 61,7 anos, 295 eram homens (45,5%), e a maioria - 521 (89,8%) - foi submetida à cirurgia por neoplasia, mais frequentemente classificada como estádio IA. A mediana do tempo de drenagem pleural foi de 3 dias, e a do tempo de internação, 4 dias. Dos 649 procedimentos realizados, 598 (91,2%) foram lobectomias. A taxa de conversão para toracotomia foi de 4,6% (30 casos). Complicações pós-operatórias ocorreram em 124 pacientes (19,1%), sendo pneumonia, escape aéreo prolongado e atelectasia as mais frequentes. A mortalidade em 30 dias foi de 2,0%, tendo como preditores idade avançada e diabetes. Conclusões: A casuística brasileira mostra que as ressecções pulmonares por cirurgia torácica videoassistida são factíveis e seguras, além de comparáveis àquelas de registros internacionais.

Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery in swine: an animal model for thoracoscopic lobectomy training.

OBJECTIVES: Minimally invasive thoracic procedures have been increasingly used; however, only a small number of lobectomies are performed by videothoracoscopy, showing the need for training on this technique. The objective of this study is to demonstrate the technique of lobectomy using videothoracoscopy in swine, highlighting the steps to be taken during its use in surgical experimentation. METHODS: During the advanced course on video-assisted and thoracoscopic procedures carried out at IRCAD Latin America, Barretos, Brazil, 40 swine were used for the hands-on course on video-assisted upper left lobectomy. Monopulmonary ventilation was performed by blocking the left main bronchus. Surgical procedures were performed using three ports and the anterior dissection technique (fissureless approach). The pulmonary hilar structures were dissected using conventional open surgery and video-assisted surgical tools. The first structure treated in the approach of the hilar structures was the upper lobe vein, followed by the bronchus and the branches of the pulmonary artery. RESULTS: The mean time required to anaesthetize the animals was 3 h. Intraoperative hypoventilation was observed in 26 animals (65%) and 4 (10%) of them had a poor outcome and died in the last third part of the surgery. Eight (20%) animals had bradycardia, and six responded to the use of atropine. In two (5%), it was not possible to revert the bradycardia and the animals died at the end of the procedures. The surgical procedures had a mean duration of 3 h and the total time of anaesthesia was about 6 h. DISCUSSION: Swine have been frequently used for hands-on training in surgery but there are no reports in the literature describing the anatomical, anaesthetic and technical peculiarities that must be observed during videothoracoscopic lobectomy training in swine. Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery lobectomy using swine is an adequate method to train thoracic surgeons. For surgeons to make the best use of minimally invasive technique training, it is essential that issues related to the anatomy, anaesthesia, monopulmonary ventilation and surgical technique described in this study are taken into account.

Video-assisted thoracoscopic implantation of a diaphragmatic pacemaker in a child with tetraplegia: indications, technique, and results / Implante de marca-passo diafragmático por videotoracoscopia em criança com tetraplegia: indicações, técnica e resultados

We report the case of a child with tetraplegia after cervical trauma, who subsequently underwent diaphragmatic pacemaker implantation. We reviewed the major indications for diaphragmatic pacing and the types of devices employed. We highlight the unequivocal benefit of diaphragmatic pacing in the social and educational reintegration of individuals with tetraplegia.

Relatamos o caso de uma criança tetraplégica após trauma cervical que foi posteriormente submetida a implante de marca-passo diafragmático. Revisamos as principais indicações da estimulação diafragmática e os tipos de dispositivos empregados, assim como apontamos o inequívoco benefício da reinserção socioeducacional desses indivíduos na sociedade.

General thoracic surgery workforce: training, migration and practice profile in Brazil.

OBJECTIVES: This study is aimed at drawing the profile of the Brazilian general thoracic surgeon. This experience has been fruitful in other areas, helping attract manpower and to better serve the interests of other Societies. This is the first survey of this kind in Brazil and in Latin America. METHODS: An electronic invitation was sent to the members of the Brazilian Society of Thoracic Surgery to answer a web-based questionnaire and physicians potentially practising thoracic surgery, with 82 questions including demographic data, medical education, training in general and thoracic surgery, continued professional education, practice profile, research activities and certifications, participation in medical societies, income/compensation and career satisfaction. Quantitative and qualitative analyses are presented. RESULTS: The estimated level of participation was 82% (468). The mean age of the active general thoracic surgeon is 43.2 (range 45.3±11.4) years. Women comprised 8% (37) of respondents, and 60% (277) of the participants had graduated from public medical schools. Four states nationwide trained 88% (391) of the thoracic surgeons. Only 32% (149) of the surgeons work exclusively with thoracic surgery. The public health system is the main provider of income for thoracic surgeons. Only 11 of 27 states have an adequate, although poorly distributed, number of thoracic surgeons. CONCLUSIONS: Although Brazil has a reasonable number of general thoracic surgeons, inequalities in their distribution through the country arise as one of the most concerning problems of the speciality. The results of this study show that leadership actions and consistent government policies are required to improve work conditions and provide efficient workforce planning.

Joint use of cervical mediastinoscopy and video-assisted thoracoscopy for the evaluation of mediastinal lymph nodes in patients with non-small cell lung cancer.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of the joint use of cervical mediastinoscopy and video-assisted thoracoscopy for the sampling of mediastinal lymph nodes in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and candidates for pulmonary resection. METHODS: Sixty-two patients diagnosed with NSCLC were submitted to cervical mediastinoscopy and video-assisted thoracoscopy. The samples obtained (from paratracheal chains, anterior and posterior subcarinal chains, paraesophageal chains and pulmonary ligament) were submitted to frozen section analysis. The following variables were also evaluated: age; gender; weight loss; diagnostic method; tomographic findings; histological type; staging; and location and size of the primary tumor. RESULTS: In 11 patients, mediastinoscopy showed no involvement of the subcarinal chain, whereas such involvement was identified when video-assisted thoracoscopy was used: positive predictive value = 88.89% (95% CI: 51.75-99.72); negative predictive value = 94.34% (95% CI: 84.34-98.82); prevalence = 17.74% (95% CI: 9.2-29.53); sensitivity = 72.73% (95% CI: 39.03-93.98); and specificity = 98.77% (95% CI: 93.31-99.97). In 60% of the patients with involvement of the posterior subcarinal chain, the primary tumor was in the right inferior lobe. (p = 0.029) CONCLUSIONS: The joint use of cervical mediastinoscopy and video-assisted thoracoscopy for the evaluation of posterior mediastinal lymph nodes proved to be an efficacious method. When there is no access to posterior chains by means of ultrasound with transbronchial or transesophageal biopsy, which dispenses with general anesthesia, this should be the method of choice for the correct evaluation of mediastinal lymph nodes in patients with NSCLC.

Utilização conjunta de mediastinoscopia cervical e videotoracoscopia para a avaliação linfática mediastinal em pacientes com carcinoma de pulmão não-pequenas células / Joint use of cervical mediastinoscopy and video-assisted thoracoscopy for the evaluation of mediastinal lymph nodes in patients with non-small cell lung cancer

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a eficácia da utilização conjunta de mediastinoscopia cervical e videotoracoscopia para a amostragem linfonodal mediastinal em pacientes com câncer de pulmão não-pequenas células (CPNPC) candidatos à ressecção pulmonar. MÉTODOS: Uma amostra de 62 pacientes com diagnóstico de CPNPC foi submetida à mediastinoscopia cervical e à videotoracoscopia. As amostras obtidas (das cadeias paratraqueais, cadeia subcarinal anterior e posterior, cadeias paraesofágicas e ligamento pulmonar) foram submetidas a exame de congelação. Foram também avaliadas as seguintes variáveis: idade, sexo, perda ponderal, método diagnóstico, achados tomográficos, tipo histológico, estadiamento, localização e tamanho do tumor primário. RESULTADOS: Em 11 pacientes, a mediastinoscopia não apresentou comprometimento da cadeia subcarinal, enquanto esse envolvimento foi detectado na videotoracoscopia: valor preditivo positivo = 88,89 por cento (IC95 por cento: 51,75-99,72); valor preditivo negativo = 94,34 por cento (IC95 por cento: 84,34-98,82); prevalência = 17,74 por cento (IC95 por cento: 9,2-29,53); sensibilidade = 72,73 por cento (IC95 por cento: 39,03-93,98); e especificidade = 98,77 por cento (IC95 por cento: 93,31-99,97). Em 60 por cento dos pacientes com comprometimento da porção posterior da cadeia subcarinal, o tumor primário estava no lobo inferior direito (p = 0,029). CONCLUSÕES: A utilização conjunta da mediastinoscopia cervical e videotoracoscopia para avaliação linfática mediastinal posterior se mostrou um método eficaz. Quando o acesso às cadeias posteriores não for possível através de ultrassom com biópsia transbrônquica ou transesofágica, que prescinde de anestesia geral, esse deve ser o método de escolha para a correta avaliação linfática mediastinal em pacientes com CPNPC.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of the joint use of cervical mediastinoscopy and video-assisted thoracoscopy for the sampling of mediastinal lymph nodes in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and candidates for pulmonary resection. METHODS: Sixty-two patients diagnosed with NSCLC were submitted to cervical mediastinoscopy and video-assisted thoracoscopy. The samples obtained (from paratracheal chains, anterior and posterior subcarinal chains, paraesophageal chains and pulmonary ligament) were submitted to frozen section analysis. The following variables were also evaluated: age; gender; weight loss; diagnostic method; tomographic findings; histological type; staging; and location and size of the primary tumor. RESULTS: In 11 patients, mediastinoscopy showed no involvement of the subcarinal chain, whereas such involvement was identified when video-assisted thoracoscopy was used: positive predictive value = 88.89 percent (95 percent CI: 51.75-99.72); negative predictive value = 94.34 percent (95 percent CI: 84.34-98.82); prevalence = 17.74 percent (95 percent CI: 9.2-29.53); sensitivity = 72.73 percent (95 percent CI: 39.03-93.98); and specificity = 98.77 percent (95 percent CI: 93.31-99.97). In 60 percent of the patients with involvement of the posterior subcarinal chain, the primary tumor was in the right inferior lobe. (p = 0.029) CONCLUSIONS: The joint use of cervical mediastinoscopy and video-assisted thoracoscopy for the evaluation of posterior mediastinal lymph nodes proved to be an efficacious method. When there is no access to posterior chains by means of ultrasound with transbronchial or transesophageal biopsy, which dispenses with general anesthesia, this should be the method of choice for the correct evaluation of mediastinal lymph nodes in patients with NSCLC.

A influência de sintomas de depressão na frequência de complicações pós-operatórias precoces de pacientes submetidos a cirurgia torácica / The influence of symptoms of depression on the early postoperative complications of thoracic surgical patients

Introdução: É sabido que a depressão exerce papel deletério no pós-operatório de cirurgias ortopédicas e cardiovasculares. Objetivo: Avaliar a influência de sintomas depressivos sobre a ocorrência de complicações no período pós-operatório precoce de pacientes submetidos a cirurgia torácica não cardíaca. Metodologia: Como desenho foi definido uma série de casos prospectiva. Cenário: hospital universitário terciário. Sujeitos: quarenta e oito pacientes (idade média: 62±9 anos; 29 homens) tratados com toracotomia e ressecção de parênquima pulmonar pneumonectomia (16,6 por cento); lobectomia ou ressecção menor (83,4 por cento). Métodos: candidatos consecutivos a cirurgia torácica não cardíaca a céu aberto tiveram seus níveis de depressão avaliados na semana anterior ao procedimento cirúrgico utilizando-se o Inventário Beck de Depressão (BDI). As equipes cirúrgica e clínica e o paciente eram cegos para o resultado de BDI. As seguintes variáveis foram coletadas e registradas após a realização do procedimento cirúrgico: 1) tempo de permanência em unidade de tratamento intensivo (UTI) superior a três dias; 2) necessidade de ventilação mecânica secundária a insuficiência respiratória; 3) pneumonia; e 4) necessidade de reintervenção cirúrgica. Resultados: houve diferença significativa de 10,2 pontos (IC95 por cento: 20,37 a 0,02) nos índices pré-operatórios de BDI entre pacientes que desenvolveram ou não desenvolveram pneumonia no pós-operatório, 21,0±9,5 e 10,8±8,2, respectivamente (p=0,04). Conclusões: estado depressivo pode afetar negativamente o pós-operatório precoce de pacientes submetidos a cirurgia torácica não cardíaca, levando a um aumento na taxa de pneumonias.

Introduction: It is known that depression plays a deleterious role in the postoperative recovery of patients submitted to orthopedic and cardiovascular surgeries. Aim: To evaluate the influence of depression symptoms on the occurrence of postoperative complications in patients submitted to non-cardiac thoracic surgeries. Methods: The design was a prospective case series. Setting: Tertiary school hospital. Subjects: 48 patients (mean age 62±9 years; 29 males) submitted to thoracotomy and resection of the pulmonary parenchyma pneumonectomy (16.6 percent); lobectomy or smaller resection (83,4 percent). Methods: Consecutive candidates to non-cardiac open thoracic surgery had their levels of depression evaluated one week before the surgical procedure using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). The clinical and surgical teams and the patient were blind to the BID result. The following variables were collected and recorded after the performance of the surgical procedure: 1) time of stay in the intensive care unit (ICU) above 3 days; 2) need for mechanical ventilation secondary to respiratory failure; 3) pneumonia; and 4) need for surgical reintervention. Results: There was a significant difference of 10.2 points (CI95 percent: 20.37 to 0.02) in the BDI preoperative indexes among the patients who developed or did not develop pneumonia in the post-operative period (21.0±9.5 and 10.8±8.2, respectively) (p=0.04). Conclusions: A depressive state may adversely affect the early postoperative recovery of patients submitted to non-cardiac thoracic surgeries, leading to an increase in the rate of pneumonias.

Acesso anterior das lesões da junção cérvicotorácica: série de casos e revisão da literatura / Acceso anterior de las lesiones de la unión cérvicotoracica: serie de casos y revisión de la literatura / Anterior approach to the cervicothoracic junction: case series and literature review

The authors report their experience with the anterior approach to the cervicothoracic junction at C7 to T4 vertebral bodies, how the radiological investigation was performed in order to define the need for manubriotomy, how was the surgical pitfalls and the clinical evaluation. MEethods: prospective cohort study with 14 patients who underwent an anterior approach to the cervicothoracic surgery during the period of January 1996 to January 2009. The patients underwent radiographic evaluation with computed tomography and magnetic resonance before surgery in order to identify when the manubriotomy was necessary. The surgery was usually performed from the left side through an anterior Smith-Robinson approach and manubriotomy when necessary. Mesh and cervical plate system were used for stabilization when corpectomy was performed. Nevertheless, in the cases with discal herniation C7-T1, the reconstruction was done with PEEK and cervical plate system. Results: the mean age was 63 years old (range, 30-77 years) and seven of the patients were men. The majority of cases had metastatic disease (n=8) or disc herniation (n=4). There were two complications related to the surgical procedures: one patient with dysphonia caused by a local hematoma and other one with lung infection. The mean surgical time, bleeding volume, pain intensity, medication intake and length of hospital stay were lower in the cases in which manubriotomy was not necessary. Conclusions: the anterior approach to the cervicothoracic junction is effective and presents low morbidity rate. In cases of injuries involving the C7 vertebral body and C7-T1 intervertebral disc herniation, a transcervical approach without the manubriotomy was indicated; when a T1 and/or T2 corpectomy was necessary, the transmanubrial approach usually was necessary in order to provide a good working space to perform a corpectomy and reconstruction. Performing manubriotomy increases surgical time, bleeding...

Relatar a experiência dos autores no acesso anterior da junção cervicotorácica C7 a T4, em relação à definição de quando é necessária a realização da manubriotomia, quais as particularidades desta cirurgia e a avaliação dos resultados. Métodos: estudo de coorte prospectivo com 14 pacientes tratados cirurgicamente de doenças da transição cervicotorácica durante o período de janeiro de 1996 a janeiro de 2009. Os pacientes foram avaliados no pré-operatório com tomografia computadorizada e ressonância magnética a fim de identificar em quais casos a manubriotomia seria necessária. A cirurgia foi realizada preferencialmente pelo lado esquerdo, utilizando-se a via de acesso anterior de Smith-Robinson e, se houvesse necessidade, combinado à abertura do manúbrio. Quando realizada a corpectomia, foram utilizados Mesh e placa cervical para estabilização, enquanto na cirurgia de hérnia discal C7-T1, a reconstrução foi feita com PEEK e placa cervical. Resultados: a média de idade foi 63 anos, sendo 7 pacientes do sexo masculino. A patologia mais comum foi a doença metastática (n=8) seguida pela hérnia discal C7-T1 (n=4). As complicações relacionadas ao procedimento cirúrgico foram duas: um paciente com disfonia causada por hematoma local e outro caso com infecção pulmonar. O tempo médio da cirurgia, o volume de sangramento, a intensidade da dor, a necessidade de medicação analgésica e o tempo de hospitalização foram menores nos pacientes nos quais a manubriotomia não foi necessária. Conclusão: o acesso anterior à junção cervicotorácica é um acesso rápido e de baixa morbidade. Lesões que envolvem o corpo vertebral de T1 ou o espaço discal de C7-T1 foram abordadas somente pela via cervical sem abertura do manúbrio. As lesões do corpo de T1 e/ou de T2 foram normalmente manejadas com a abertura do manúbrio a fim de se obter um adequado campo de trabalho para ressecção das lesões e estabilização. A abertura do manúbrio aumenta o índice de complicações...

Relatar la experiencia de los autores en el acceso anterior de la unión cérvicotoracica C7 a T4, en relación a la definición de cuánto es necesaria la realización de la manubriotomía, cuáles las particularidades de esta cirugía y la evaluación de los resultados. Métodos: estudio de cohorte prospectivo de 14 pacientes que fueron tratados quirúrgicamente de enfermedades de la transición cérvicotoracica, durante el periodo de Enero de 1996 a Enero de 2009. Los pacientes fueron evaluados en el pre operatorio con tomografía computadorizada y resonancia magnética, a fin de identificar en cuáles casos la manubriotomía sería necesaria. La cirugía fue realizada preferiblemente por el lado izquierdo utilizando la vía de acceso anterior de Smith-Robinson y en caso de necesidad, sería combinado con una abertura del manubrio. Cuando realizada la corpectomía fueron utilizados Mesh y placa cervical para estabilización, mientras que en la cirugía de hernia discal C7-T1 la reconstrucción fue hecho con PEEK y placa cervical. Resultados: la edad promedio fue de 63 años, siendo siete de sexo masculino. La patología más común fue la enfermedad metastásica (n=8), seguida por la hernia discal C7-T1 (n=4). Las complicaciones relacionadas al procedimiento quirúrgico fueron dos: un paciente con disfonía causada por hematoma local y otro caso con infección pulmonar. El tiempo promedio de cirugía, el volumen de sangramiento, la intensidad del dolor, la necesidad de medicación analgésica y el tiempo de hospitalización fueron menores en los pacientes en que la manubriotomía no fue necesaria. Conclusión: el acceso anterior a la unión cérvicotoracica es un acceso rápido y de baja morbilidad. Lesiones que envuelven el cuerpo vertebral de T1 o el espacio discal de C7-T1 fueron abordadas solamente por la vía cervical sin abertura del manubrio. Las lesiones del cuerpo de T1 y/o de T2 fueron normalmente manejadas con abertura del manubrio a fin de obtener un adecuado...

Extralobar pulmonary sequestration with hemothorax secondary to pulmonary infarction.

Pulmonary sequestration is an uncommon condition that accounts for 0.5-6% of all pulmonary malformations and is typically diagnosed in childhood. Of the two forms of pulmonary sequestration, intralobar and extralobar, the latter is less frequently encountered. The current report describes the case of a 32-year-old female patient with chest and abdominal pain. Imaging (chest X-rays and CT scans of the chest) revealed consolidation and pleural effusion. The initial thoracocentesis revealed hemothorax. Subsequent diagnostic video-assisted thoracoscopy revealed extralobar pulmonary sequestration. Consequently, the therapeutic decision was to make the conversion to thoracotomy in order to resect the lesion and safely ligate the intercostal vascular pedicle.

Sequestro extralobar com hemotórax secundário a infarto pulmonar / Extralobar pulmonary sequestration with hemothorax secondary to pulmonary infarction

O sequestro pulmonar é uma malformação incomum, representando 0,5-6 por cento de todas as malformações pulmonares, sendo geralmente diagnosticado na infância. Dos dois tipos de sequestro pulmonar, intralobar e extralobar, este último é o menos freqüente. O presente relato descreve o caso de um paciente do sexo feminino, de 32 anos, com quadro de dor toracoabdominal e achados de radiografia e TC de tórax revelando consolidação e derrame pleural. A conduta inicial com toracocentese evidenciou hemotórax. A seqüência diagnóstica através da videotoracoscopia permitiu o diagnóstico de sequestro extralobar e a consequente conduta de conversão para toracotomia para ressecção da lesão com ligadura segura do pedículo vascular intercostal.

Pulmonary sequestration is an uncommon condition that accounts for 0.5-6 percent of all pulmonary malformations and is typically diagnosed in childhood. Of the two forms of pulmonary sequestration, intralobar and extralobar, the latter is less frequently encountered. The current report describes the case of a 32-year-old female patient with chest and abdominal pain. Imaging (chest X-rays and CT scans of the chest) revealed consolidation and pleural effusion. The initial thoracocentesis revealed hemothorax. Subsequent diagnostic video-assisted thoracoscopy revealed extralobar pulmonary sequestration. Consequently, the therapeutic decision was to make the conversion to thoracotomy in order to resect the lesion and safely ligate the intercostal vascular pedicle.

Anterior surgical management of the cervicothoracic junction lesions at T1 and T2 vertebral bodies.

Lesions of the cervicothoracic junction have a high propensity for causing instability and present unique challenges in the surgical treatment. Several surgical approaches to this region have been described in the literature. We report our experience in the surgical treatment of six patients with unstable lesions involving the cervicothoracic junction at T1 and T2 vertebral bodies. The patients underwent an anterior left Smith-Robinson approach and manubriotomy. Mesh and cervical plate system were used for stabilization and reconstruction of the region. No complication related to the surgical procedure was observed. In our experience, in injuries involving the T1 and T2 vertebral bodies, the transmanubrial approach offers good working room to remove the lesions and anterior reconstruction.

Anterior surgical management of the cervicothoracic junction lesions at T1 and T2 vertebral bodies / Manejo cirúrgico via anterior das lesões da junção cérvico-torácica nos corpos vertebrais de T1 e T2

Lesions of the cervicothoracic junction have a high propensity for causing instability and present unique challenges in the surgical treatment. Several surgical approaches to this region have been described in the literature. We report our experience in the surgical treatment of six patients with unstable lesions involving the cervicothoracic junction at T1 and T2 vertebral bodies. The patients underwent an anterior left Smith-Robinson approach and manubriotomy. Mesh and cervical plate system were used for stabilization and reconstruction of the region. No complication related to the surgical procedure was observed. In our experience, in injuries involving the T1 and T2 vertebral bodies, the transmanubrial approach offers good working room to remove the lesions and anterior reconstruction.

Lesões da junção cérvico-torácica têm alta tendência em causar instabilidade e apresentam grandes desafios ao tratamento cirúrgico. Diversas abordagens cirúrgicas a esta região foram descritas na literatura. Relatamos nossa experiência no tratamento cirúrgico de seis pacientes com lesões instáveis envolvendo a junção cérvico-torácica em corpos vertebrais de T1 e T2. Os pacientes foram submetidos a uma abordagem anterior de Smith-Robinson pela esquerda e manubriotomia. Mesh e placa cervical foram utilizados para estabilização e reconstrução da região. Nenhuma complicação relacionada ao procedimento cirúrgico foi observada. Em nossa experiência, em lesões que envolvem os corpos vertebrais de T1 e T2, a abordagem transmanubrial oferece bom campo de trabalho para remoção das lesões e estabilização anterior.

Cisto pericárdico gigante em paciente octagenário / Giant pericardium cyst in octagenario patient

Os cistos pericárdicos são, essencialmente, malformações congênitas, e raramente podem ser adquiridos. Possuem uma incidência muito pequena na população, 1:100.000 nascimentos, sendo assintomáticos na maioria das vezes, mas podem se manifestar através dos sintomas de dispnéia e dor torácica. São mais comuns em adultos na quarta e quinta década de vida e sua apresentação radiológica é de uma lesão arredondada próximo à silhueta cardíaca. Apresenta paredes finas bem demarcadas com conteúdo líquido mucoso em seu interior. Neste artigo, apresentamos o caso de um paciente de 80 anos com dispnéia aos pequenos esforços e dor torácica localizada. Após raio-X e TC de tórax observou-se uma massa mediastinal sugestiva de cisto pericárdico. Encaminhado à cirurgia torácica para ressecção do cisto, houve remissão total dos sintomas (AU)

The pericardium cysts are essentially congenital malformations, and rarely can be acquired. They appear in small incidence in the population, 1:100.000 births, being asymptomatic most of the time, however they can manifest themselves through dyspnea and thoracic pain. They are more common in adults in the fourth and fifth decades of life and its radiological presentation is of a rounded lesion next to the cardiac silhouette. It presents well demarcated fine walls with a mucous liquid in its interior. In this article we present the case of an eighty years old patient with dyspnea at the small effort and with a localized thoracic pain. After X-rays and CT, a mass in the mediastinum, suggestive of a pericardium cyst was observed. The patient was directed to a thoracic surgery for cyst resection and there was a total remission of the symptoms (AU)

A respeito de um caso de quilotórax bilateral e quiloascite espontâneos: aspectos clínicos e cirúrgicos / About a case of espontaneous bilateral chylothorax and chyloascitis: clinical and surgical aspects

Efusão quilosa pleural ou quilotórax significa acúmulo quiloso no espaço pleural, geralmente como ruptura secundária dos ductos linfáticos torácicos, que pode ser promovida por vários estímulos, desde trauma, doenças malignas até causas idiopáticas. É definido como uma efusão de linfa na cavidade pleural, podendo ter origem no tórax ou na cavidade abdominal, ou em ambos. É de aspecto leitoso, inodoro, branco, de pH alcalino com gravidade específica acima de 1012, bacteriostático, não irritativo à pleura. É opalescente, formado quando triglicérides de cadeia longa da dieta são transformados em quilomícrons de baixa densidade lipoprotéica secretados no intestino. O quilo é transportado através do ducto torácico e drenado na veia subclávia esquerda. O diagnóstico é baseado em análise clínica da efusão pleural contendo quilomícrons e níveis de triglicérides maior que 110 mg/dL como indicativo praticamente certo de efusão pleural quilosa. A conduta depende da causa e das circunstâncias individuais. Um relato de quilotórax bilateral e quiloascite espontâneos é apresentado com ótima evolução através de tratamento conservador com a utilização de dieta enteral oligomérica, rica em aminoácidos, com glutamina e mínima oferta de triglicérides de cadeia média e octeotride

Chylous pleural effusion or chylothorax means chyle accumulation in the pleural space generally as a secondary disruption of thoracic lymphatics, that can be promoted by various stimulants, since trauma, malignancies, to idiopathic causes. Is defined as an effusion of limphin pleural cavity. Chyle may have its origin in the thorax or in the abdomen, or both. Is a milky, white, alkaline pH with a specific gravity above 1012, bacteriostatic and nonirritating to thepleural space, opalescent fluid formed when long-chain triglycerides in the diet are transformed into chylomicrons and very-low-density lipoproteins and secreted into intestinal lacteals. The chyle is transported through the thoracic duct and drained into the left subclavian vein. Diagnosis is based on a chemical analysis of the pleural effusion presenting chylomicrons, pleural triglyceride with levels greater than 110 mg/dL being nearly always indicative of a chylous pleural effusion. Management depends on the underlying cause and the individual circumstances. A case report of spontaneous chylothorax and chyloascitis is presented successfullytreated by conservative means, using oligomeric enteral feeding, rich in amino acids with minimum quantity of medium-chain-triglycerides, glutamine, and octeotride

Estudo sobre a eficácia da aerostasia pulmonar, em modelo animal, utilizando diferentes tipos de suturas / Study about the ability of the pulmonary aerostasia, in animal model, using differents parenchymal pulmonary types of the sutures

INTRODUÇAO: A busca de um modelo perfeito de aerostasia pulmonar, após cirurgias que envolvam ressecções parciais, permanece um desafio para a prática da cirurgia torácica. OBJETIVO: Avaliar e comparar, em um modelo animal (suínos), a eficácia de quatro diferentes tipos de sutura pulmonar em manter aerostasia. MÉTODO: Estudo experimental, ex vivo, em pulmões de suínos, realizado no biotério da Universidade de Caxias do Sul. Quatro tipos de sutura pulmonares foram avaliadas: tipo 1, sutura manual com fios cirúrgicos absorvíveis; tipo 2, grampeador exclusivo; tipo 3, grampeador recoberto por pericárdio bovino e tipo 4, grampeador recoberto por cola biológica. As suturas foram submetidas a níveis crescentes de pressão, que variaram de 10cmH2O a 60cmH2O. O teste do borracheiro avaliou o hermetismo das suturas. RESULTADOS: A média de pressão em que se observou perda do hermetismo pulmonar foi de 29cmH2O no tipo 1 (n = 10); 38,5cmH2O no tipo 2 (n = 10); 44cmH2O no tipo 3 (n = 10) e 51,4cmH2O no tipo 4 (n = 10). A comparação entre as médias mostrou diferença estatística apenas entre as suturas tipo 1 e as suturas tipo 3 e 4, p = 0,04 e p < 0,01. CONCLUSAO: As suturas pulmonares com grampeadores revestidos por pericárdio bovino ou recobertos por cola biológica, quando comparadas às suturas que utilizaram fio cirúrgico isoladamente, mostraram maior eficácia em manter aerostasia pulmonar em pulmões de suínos. No entanto, não há diferença na eficácia em manter aerostasia pulmonar de suínos, quando se utilizaram suturas com grampeadores isolados ou revestidos por pericárdio bovino ou cola biológica.

Cricotireoidotomia modificada: opção para remoção das secreções traqueobrônquicas / Modified crichothyroidotomy: an alternative for tracheobronchial secretions removal

Introdução: As medidas naturais para remoção das secreções traqueobrônquicas, como nebulizações, drenagem postural e fisioterapia respiratória, nem sempre são efetivas. Objetivo: Avaliar uma técnica cirúrgica alternativa, a cricotireoidotomia modificada, para aspiração das secreções traqueobrônquicas. Método: A cricotireoidotomia modificada consiste na introdução de uma sonda uretral nº 8, 10 ou 12, na membrana cricotireoidiana para estimular a tosse e aspirar secreções. Foi feito um estudo descritivo dos benefícios e complicações imediatas e tardias do uso dessa técnica em 45 pacientes com secreções traqueobrônquicas excessivas inadequadamente removidas pelos métodos habituais. Resultados: As complicações cirúrgicas imediatas foram sangramento local (10 pacientes), desvio de orofaringe (três), enfisema subcutâneo (um) e dificuldade de introdução (um). O tempo médio de permanência do cateter foi de 14 ± 16 dias. Em todos os casos o cateter provocou tosse e permitiu a aspiração das secreções com facilidade. A intercorrência mais freqüente (17 pacientes) foi a expulsão do cateter por tosse, seu manuseio inadequado nas aspirações e movimentação dos pacientes. Conclusão: Esta é uma técnica simples, com baixa morbidade, sendo uma alternativa efetiva para a aspiração de secreções traqueobrônquicas

Tratamento cirúrgico do penumotórax espontâneo primario episódio / Surgical treatment of primary spontaneous pneumothorax on the first episode

A indicaçäo de toracotomis axilar com pleurodese abrasiva em pacientes portadores de pneumotorax espontâneo primário no primeiro ou no segundo episódio mostrou baixos índices de morbidade, recidiva zero, além de curto período de permanência dos drenos pleurais e de hospitalizaçäo, comprovando sua eficácia terapêutica. A possibilidade de indicá-lo como primeiro método terapêutico para pacientes portadores de PEP deve ser considerada.