Early ambulation versus prolonged bed rest for incidental durotomies in spine procedures: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Incidental durotomies are frequent complications of spine surgery associated with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak-related symptoms. Management typically involves prolonged bed rest to reduce CSF pressure at the durotomy site. However, early ambulation may be a safer, effective alternative. PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane, and Scopus were systematically searched for studies comparing early ambulation (bed rest ≤ 24 h) with prolonged bed rest (> 24 h) for patients with incidental durotomies in spine surgeries. The outcomes of interest were CSF leak, hypotensive headache, additional surgical repair, pseudomeningocele, and pulmonary complications. Systematic reviews and meta-analysis were performed following the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. We included a total of 704 patients from 6 studies. There was a significant reduction in the incidence of pulmonary complications (RR 0.23; 95% CI 0.08-0.67; p = 0.007) in the early mobilization group. The incidence of CSF leak (RR 1.34; 95% CI 0.83-2.14; p = 0.23), hypotensive headache (RR 0.72; 95% CI 0.27-1.90; p = 0.50), additional repair surgery (RR 1.29; 95% CI 0.76-2.2; p = 0.35), and pseudomeningocele (RR 1.29; 95% CI 0.20-8.48; p = 0.79) did not differ significantly. In patients with incidental durotomy following spinal surgery, early mobilization was associated with a lower incidence of pulmonary complications as compared with prolonged bed rest. There was no significant difference between groups in terms of CSF leak, need for additional repair, pseudomeningocele, and hypotensive headache.

Anterior Approach to Hip Arthroplasty with Early Mobilization Key for Reduced Hospital Length of Stay.

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to explore the preoperative factors related to early mobilization and length of stay (LOS) after total hip arthroplasty and the benefits of the anterior approach over the traditional lateral approach. Materials and Methods: Every patient benefits from information regarding details of the surgery approach, possible intra, and postoperative complications, post-operator medical care, and steps in the early mobilization protocol. The patient underwent a pre-anesthetic evaluation, was checked for preoperatory vital function, and was reevaluated for mobilization at 6, 12, 24, 36, 48, and 96 h after total hip arthroplasty using the anterior versus lateral approach. Results: The result of the statistical calculations indicates the independent negative risk factors for reaching the mobilization target: age with a coefficient of -0.046, p = 0.0154 and lateral approach with a relative risk of 0.3802 (95% CI: 0.15-0.90), p = 0.0298. Statistical data concerning the length of stay (LOS) showed significant differences in the total days spent in the hospital. The patients who were operated on using the lateral approach presented a higher body mass index than those with the anterior approach, but this difference did not reach the threshold of statistical significance. Conclusions: In our study, patient mobilization is crucial to reduce LOS.

Distal Femoral Replacement for Fractures Allows for Early Mobilization with Low Complication Rates: A Multicenter Review.

Periprosthetic fractures around a total knee arthroplasty (TKA), comminuted and intra-articular femur fractures, or fracture nonunions in osteoporotic bone represent technically challenging problems. This is particularly true when the fracture involves a loose femoral component or the pattern results in suboptimal fixation potential. These clinical indications often arise in an older and comorbid patient population in whom a principal goal of treatment includes allowing for early mobilization. Limited data indicate that arthroplasty via distal femoral replacement (DFR) is a reasonable alternative to open reduction and internal fixation, allowing for early ambulation with low complication rates. We performed a retrospective review of trauma and arthroplasty surgeries at three tertiary referral institutions. Adult patients treated for the above with a DFR were included. Patients with active infection, open and/or high-energy injuries and revisions unrelated to fracture were excluded. Patient demographics, treatment details, and outcomes were assessed. Between 2002 and 2017, 90 DFR's were performed for the above indications with a mean follow-up of 24 months. Postoperatively, 80 patients (88%) were allowed to weight bear as tolerated, and at final follow-up, 9 patients (10%) remained dependent on a wheelchair. The average arc of motion at final follow-up was 95 degrees. There were seven (8%) implant-related complications requiring secondary surgeries: two infections, one with associated component loosening; one fracture of the hinge mechanism and one femoral component failure in conjunction with a patellofemoral dislocation (both requiring revision); one case of patellofemoral arthrosis in a patient with an unresurfaced patella; one periprosthetic fracture with associated wound dehiscence; and one case of arthrofibrosis. In each of these cases, only modular components of the DFR were exchanged. All nonmodular components cemented into the femur or tibia were retained. DFR provides a viable reconstruction option in the treatment of acute distal femur fractures, periprosthetic femur fractures, and fracture nonunions. We noted that in an elderly patient population with high comorbidities, the complication and secondary surgery rates remained relatively low, while allowing for immediate weight bearing.

Timing of inpatient medical complications after adult spinal deformity surgery: early ambulation matters.

BACKGROUND: The substantial risk for medical complication after adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery is well known. However, the timing of medical complications during the inpatient stay have not been previously described. Accurate anticipation of complications and adverse events may improve patient counseling and postoperative management. PURPOSE: (1) Describe the rate of medical complication and adverse events by postoperative day after ASD surgery and (2) determine whether early ambulation is protective for complications. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING: Single institution retrospective cohort study. PATIENT SAMPLE: Two hundred thirty-five patients with ASD who underwent posterior-only fusion of the lumbar spine (≥5 levels to the pelvis) between 2013 and 2020. OUTCOME MEASURES: Medical complications, categorized per the International Spine Study Group-AO system (cardiopulmonary [CP], gastrointestinal [GI], central nervous system [CNS], infectious [nonsurgical site], and renal) and adverse events (postoperative blood transfusion, urinary retention, and electrolyte abnormalities). METHODS: Patients were identified from an institutional ASD database. Outcome measures were classified by the first postoperative day the event was recognized. Demographics, year of surgery, surgical factors, radiographic parameters, surgical invasiveness (ASD-S Index), frailty (Modified Frailty Index-5 [mFI-5]), Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), smoking, preoperative opioid use, depression, and post-operative day of ambulation were assessed as risk factors for inpatient medical complications. RESULTS: After exclusions of patients with incomplete medical chart data, 191 patients were available for analysis, mean age 66±10 y, BMI 28±5 kg/m2, PI-LL 24±20°, T1PA 28±13°. Inpatient medical complications occurred in 55 (28.8%) patients; adverse events occurred in 137 (71.7%). Length of stay was higher in patients with medical complications (mean 8.5±3.8 vs. 5.8±2.3 days, p<.001). However, for patients who had an adverse event, but no medical complication, LOS was comparable (p>.05). Most medical complications occurred by POD3 (58% of all complications). Risk (defined as the proportion of patients with that complication out of all inpatients that day) of CNS, CP, and GI complication peaked early in the postoperative course (CNS on POD1 [2.1% risk]; GI on POD2 [3.7%]; CP on POD3 [2.7%]). Risk for infectious and renal complications (infectious POD8 [2.7%]; renal POD7 [0.9%]) peaked later (Figure 1). On univariate analysis, patients with medical complications had higher rates of OSA (9.1% vs. 2.2%, p=.045), ASD-S (45.9 vs. 40.8, p=.04), max coronal cobb (46.9 vs. 36.7°, p=.003), ASA class (2.5 vs. 2.3, p=.01), and POD of ambulation (1.9 vs. 1.3, p=.01). On multivariate logistic regression (c-statistic 0.78), larger coronal cobb and later POD of ambulation were independent risk factors for complications (OR 1.04, 95% CI 1.01-1.07 and OR 2.3, 95% CI 1.2-4.7, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Our data may inform peri-operative management and patient expectations for hospitalization after ASD surgery. Early ambulation may reduce the risk of complications.

Impact of Early Ambulation on the Prognosis of Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Patients.

BACKGROUND: The effect of delayed ambulation on the outcome of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) remains to be clarified.Methods and Results: The long-term and in-hospital outcomes of 887 patients who underwent isolated CABG (455 off-pump cases, 135 urgent cases) were evaluated, with a focus on the timing of first ambulation. In-hospital mortality cases were excluded. Early ambulation (first ambulation within 3 days after operation) was achieved in 339 (38%) patients. In the multivariable logistic regression analysis, longer operation time and urgent case, EuroSCORE II, re-thoracotomy, and respiratory time were associated with delayed (≥4 days) ambulation. Delayed ambulation was associated with a high incidence of postoperative complications, such as pneumonia, and stroke (P<0.01). Following discharge, 22.2% of patients experienced major cardiac events and 13.8% died during the follow-up period (median follow-up 60 months). Cox hazards analysis revealed that delayed ambulation was associated with long-term adverse events (hazard ratio 1.04 per day, P<0.001). With adjustment for preoperative factors, the estimated future risk of adverse events was found to be increased day-by-day during the delay until initial ambulation. CONCLUSIONS: In isolated CABG patients, delayed ambulation was associated with poor outcomes, even in the long-term period. The results support the current guideline recommending early ambulation protocol after cardiac surgery.

Impact of early mobilization on the duration of delirium in elderly hospitalized patients: A retrospective cohort pilot study.

Development of delirium during hospitalization impairs the activities of daily living in elderly hospitalized patients. In clinical practice, early mobilization from bed is recommended to reduce delirium incidence and hospitalization stay. However, the effects of early mobilization on elderly inpatients with delirium have not been established yet. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between early mobilization and the duration of delirium in elderly inpatients with delirium. This retrospective cohort pilot study examined 45 participants (23 males, 22 females; mean age: 84.5 ±â€…6.6 years), who developed delirium during hospitalization. Of the participants, 28 were surgically treated and 17 were non-surgically treated. We classified early or delayed mobilization based on the median number of days until the start of mobilization and compared after propensity score matching to adjust for baseline characteristics. Additionally, we examined the correlation between the number of days until the start of mobilization and the duration of delirium. The duration of delirium was significantly shorter in the early mobilization group, particularly in terms of sitting on the bed and wheelchair use than that in the delayed mobilization group {median: 4.0 [interquartile range (IQR): 2.0-6.0] vs 8.0 [IQR: 7.0-14.5] days, P = .013; median: 3.0 [IQR: 2.0-5.5] vs 11.0 [IQR: 7.5-14.5] days, P = .004, respectively}. Moreover, the duration of delirium significantly positively moderate correlated with the time until the start of sitting on the bed and wheelchair use (Spearman r = 0.527; P = .012, Spearman r = 0.630; P = .002, respectively). The results of this study suggest that early mobilization from sitting on the bed or wheelchair use after hospitalization or surgery may shorten the duration of delirium. Because the sample size of this pilot study is small, careful interpretation is needed, and further research is warranted.

Association of position change and back massage and early ambulation with post-transfemoral coronary angiography complications.

INTRODUCTION: Transfemoral coronary angiography (TFCA) may be associated with postoperative complications, such as oozing, bleeding, ecchymosis, hematoma, and back pain. Thus, nursing practice must help enhance patient safety post-TFCA. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the association of position change and back massage (PCBM) and early ambulation (EA) with the development of post-TFCA complications. METHODS: This study adopted a randomized controlled trial design and was conducted at the coronary care unit of a university hospital in Egypt. A sample of 185 patients undergoing TFCA was evaluated during the first 6 h post-TFCA and randomly assigned to either the PCBM (n = 92) or EA (n = 93) group, with the latter receiving the intervention after the first 3 h post-TFCA. The patients were assessed using the Post-transfemoral Coronary Angiography Complication assessment tool. RESULTS: Comparing the two groups based on post-TFCA complications, the PCBM group had a lower frequency of bleeding, ecchymosis, hematoma and severe lower back pain whereas the EA group had a lower frequency of oozing, all of which were statistically significant (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: PCBM post-TFCA can lower the frequency of significant vascular complications. RECOMMENDATION: Adopting PCBM may be valuable in post-TFCA nursing practice.

Early identification of patients at risk for delayed recovery of ambulation after elective abdominal surgery.

BACKGROUND: Recovery of preoperative ambulation levels 1 month after surgery represents an important patient-centered outcome. The objective of this study is to identify clinical factors associated with the inability to regain baseline preoperative ambulation levels 28 days postoperatively. METHODS: This is a prospective cohort study enrolling patients scheduled for elective inpatient abdominal operations. Daily ambulation (steps/day) was measured with a wristband accelerometer. Preoperative steps were recorded for at least 3 full calendar days before surgery. Postoperatively, daily steps were recorded for at least 28 days. The primary outcome was delayed recovery of ambulation, defined as inability to achieve 50% of preoperative baseline steps at 28 days postoperatively. RESULTS: A total of 108 patients were included. Delayed recovery (< 50% of baseline preoperative steps/day) occurred in 32 (30%) patients. Clinical factors associated with delayed recovery after multivariable logistic regression included longer operative time (OR 1.37, 95% CI 1.05-1.79), open operative approach (OR 4.87, 95% CI 1.64-14.48) and percent recovery on POD3 (OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.56-0.96). In addition, patients with delayed ambulation recovery had increased rates of postoperative complications (16% vs 1%, p < 0.01) and readmission (28% vs 5%, p < 0.01). CONCLUSION: After elective inpatient abdominal operations, nearly one in three patients do not recover 50% of their baseline preoperative steps 28 days postoperatively. Factors that can be used to identify these patients include longer operations, open operations and low ambulation levels on postoperative day #3. These data can be used to target rehabilitation efforts aimed at patients at greatest risk for poor ambulatory recovery.

Is Immobilization Necessary for Early Return to Work Following Distal Biceps Repair Using a Cortical Button Technique?: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Improvements in surgical fixation to repair distal biceps tendon ruptures have not fully translated to earlier postoperative mobilization; it is unknown whether earlier mobilization affords earlier functional return to work. This parallel-arm randomized controlled trial compared the impact of early mobilization versus 6 weeks of postoperative immobilization following distal biceps tendon repair. METHODS: One hundred and one male participants with a distal biceps tendon rupture that was amenable to a primary repair with use of a cortical button were randomized to early mobilization (self-weaning from sling and performance of active range of motion as tolerated during first 6 weeks) (n = 49) or 6 weeks of immobilization (splinting for 6 weeks with no active range of motion) (n = 52). Follow-up assessments were performed by a blinded assessor at 2 and 6 weeks and at 3, 6, and 12 months. At 12 months, distal biceps tendon integrity was verified with ultrasound. The primary outcome was return to work. Secondary outcomes were pain, range of motion, strength, shortened Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (QuickDASH) score, and tendon integrity. Intention-to-treat analysis was performed. A linear mixed model for repeated measures was used to compare pain, range of motion, strength, and QuickDASH between the groups over time; return to work was assessed with use of independent t tests. RESULTS: The groups were similar preoperatively (p ≥ 0.16). The average age (and standard deviation) was 44.7 ± 8.6 years. Eighty-three participants (82%) were followed to 12 months. There were no differences between the groups in terms of return to work (p ≥ 0.83). Participants in the early mobilization group had significantly more passive forearm supination (p = 0.04), with passive forearm pronation (p = 0.06) and active extension and supination (p = 0.09) trending toward significantly greater range of motion in the early mobilization group relative to the immobilization group. Participants in the early mobilization group had significantly better QuickDASH scores over time than those in the immobilization group (p = 0.02). There were no differences between the groups in terms of pain (p ≥ 0.45), active range of motion (p ≥ 0.09), or strength (p ≥ 0.70). Two participants (2.0%, 1 in each group) had full-thickness tears on ultrasound at 12 months (p = 0.61). Compliance was not significantly different between the groups (p = 0.16). CONCLUSIONS: Early motion after distal biceps tendon repair with cortical button fixation is well tolerated and does not appear to be associated with adverse outcomes. No clinically important group differences were seen. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Varying but reduced use of postoperative mobilization restrictions after primary total hip arthroplasty in Nordic countries: a questionnaire-based study.

Background and purpose - Mobilization has traditionally been restricted following total hip arthroplasty (THA) in an attempt to reduce the risk of dislocation and muscle detachment. However, recent studies have questioned the effect and rationale underlying such restrictions. We investigated the use of postoperative restrictions and possible differences in mobilization protocols following primary THA in Denmark (DK), Finland (FIN), Norway (NO), and Sweden (SWE). Patients and methods - All hospitals performing primary THA in the participating countries were identified from the latest national THA registry report. A questionnaire containing questions regarding standard surgical procedure, use of restrictions, and postoperative mobilization protocol was distributed to all hospitals through national representatives for each arthroplasty registry. Results - 83% to 94% (n = 167) of the 199 hospitals performing THA in DK, FIN, NO, and SWE returned correctly filled out questionnaires. A posterolateral approach was used by 77% of the hospitals. 92% of the hospitals had a standardized mobilization protocol. 50%, 41%, 19%, and 38% of the hospitals in DK, FIN, NO, and SWE, respectively, did not have any postoperative restrictions. If utilized, restrictions were applied for a median of 6 weeks. Two-thirds of all hospitals have changed their mobilization protocol within the last 5 years-all but 2 to a less restrictive protocol. Interpretation - Use of postoperative restrictions following primary THA differs between the Nordic countries, with 19% to 50% allowing mobilization without any restrictions. There has been a strong tendency towards less restrictive mobilization over the last 5 years.

Early intervention (mobilization or active exercise) for critically ill adults in the intensive care unit.

BACKGROUND: Survivors of critical illness often experience a multitude of problems that begin in the intensive care unit (ICU) or present and continue after discharge. These can include muscle weakness, cognitive impairments, psychological difficulties, reduced physical function such as in activities of daily living (ADLs), and decreased quality of life. Early interventions such as mobilizations or active exercise, or both, may diminish the impact of the sequelae of critical illness. OBJECTIVES: To assess the effects of early intervention (mobilization or active exercise), commenced in the ICU, provided to critically ill adults either during or after the mechanical ventilation period, compared with delayed exercise or usual care, on improving physical function or performance, muscle strength and health-related quality of life. SEARCH METHODS: We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase and CINAHL. We searched conference proceedings, reference lists of retrieved articles, databases of trial registries and contacted experts in the field on 31 August 2017. We did not impose restrictions on language or location of publications. SELECTION CRITERIA: We included all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-RCTs that compared early intervention (mobilization or active exercise, or both), delivered in the ICU, with delayed exercise or usual care delivered to critically ill adults either during or after the mechanical ventilation period in the ICU. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two researchers independently screened titles and abstracts and assessed full-text articles against the inclusion criteria of this review. We resolved any disagreement through discussion with a third review author as required. We presented data descriptively using mean differences or medians, risk ratios and 95% confidence intervals. A meta-analysis was not possible due to the heterogeneity of the included studies. We assessed the quality of evidence with GRADE. MAIN RESULTS: We included four RCTs (a total of 690 participants), in this review. Participants were adults who were mechanically ventilated in a general, medical or surgical ICU, with mean or median age in the studies ranging from 56 to 62 years. Admitting diagnoses in three of the four studies were indicative of critical illness, while participants in the fourth study had undergone cardiac surgery. Three studies included range-of-motion exercises, bed mobility activities, transfers and ambulation. The fourth study involved only upper limb exercises. Included studies were at high risk of performance bias, as they were not blinded to participants and personnel, and two of four did not blind outcome assessors. Three of four studies reported only on those participants who completed the study, with high rates of dropout. The description of intervention type, dose, intensity and frequency in the standard care control group was poor in two of four studies.Three studies (a total of 454 participants) reported at least one measure of physical function. One study (104 participants) reported low-quality evidence of beneficial effects in the intervention group on return to independent functional status at hospital discharge (59% versus 35%, risk ratio (RR) 1.71, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.11 to 2.64); the absolute effect is that 246 more people (95% CI 38 to 567) per 1000 would attain independent functional status when provided with early mobilization. The effects on physical functioning are uncertain for a range measures: Barthel Index scores (early mobilization: median 75 control: versus 55, low quality evidence), number of ADLs achieved at ICU (median of 3 versus 0, low quality evidence) or at hospital discharge (median of 6 versus 4, low quality evidence). The effects of early mobilization on physical function measured at ICU discharge are uncertain, as measured by the Acute Care Index of Function (ACIF) (early mobilization mean: 61.1 versus control: 55, mean difference (MD) 6.10, 95% CI -11.85 to 24.05, low quality evidence) and the Physical Function ICU Test (PFIT) score (5.6 versus 5.4, MD 0.20, 95% CI -0.98 to 1.38, low quality evidence). There is low quality evidence that early mobilization may have little or no effect on physical function measured by the Short Physical Performance Battery score at ICU discharge from one study of 184 participants (mean 1.6 in the intervention group versus 1.9 in usual care, MD -0.30, 95% CI -1.10 to 0.50), or at hospital discharge (MD 0, 95% CI -1.00 to 0.90). The fourth study, which examined postoperative cardiac surgery patients did not measure physical function as an outcome.Adverse effects were reported across the four studies but we could not combine the data. Our certainty in the risk of adverse events with either mobilization strategy is low due to the low rate of events. One study reported that in the intervention group one out of 49 participants (2%) experienced oxygen desaturation less than 80% and one of 49 (2%) had accidental dislodgement of the radial catheter. This study also found cessation of therapy due to participant instability occurred in 19 of 498 (4%) of the intervention sessions. In another study five of 101 (5%) participants in the intervention group and five of 109 (4.6%) participants in the control group had postoperative pulmonary complications deemed to be unrelated to intervention. A third study found one of 150 participants in the intervention group had an episode of asymptomatic bradycardia, but completed the exercise session. The fourth study reported no adverse events. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: There is insufficient evidence on the effect of early mobilization of critically ill people in the ICU on physical function or performance, adverse events, muscle strength and health-related quality of life at this time. The four studies awaiting classification, and the three ongoing studies may alter the conclusions of the review once these results are available. We assessed that there is currently low-quality evidence for the effect of early mobilization of critically ill adults in the ICU due to small sample sizes, lack of blinding of participants and personnel, variation in the interventions and outcomes used to measure their effect and inadequate descriptions of the interventions delivered as usual care in the studies included in this Cochrane Review.

European guidelines on perioperative venous thromboembolism prophylaxis: Surgery in the elderly.

: The risk for postoperative venous thromboembolism (VTE) is increased in patients aged more than 70 years and in elderly patients presenting with co-morbidities, for example cardiovascular disorders, malignancy or renal insufficiency. Therefore, risk stratification, correction of modifiable risks and sustained perioperative thromboprophylaxis are essential in this patient population. Timing and dosing of pharmacoprophylaxis may be adopted from the non-aged population. Direct oral anti-coagulants are effective and well tolerated in the elderly; statins may not replace pharmacological thromboprophylaxis. Early mobilisation and use of non-pharmacological means of thromboprophylaxis should be exploited. In elderly patients, we suggest identification of co-morbidities increasing the risk for VTE (e.g. congestive heart failure, pulmonary circulation disorder, renal failure, lymphoma, metastatic cancer, obesity, arthritis, post-menopausal oestrogen therapy) and correction if present (e.g. anaemia, coagulopathy) (Grade 2C). We suggest against bilateral knee replacement in elderly and frail patients (Grade 2C). We suggest timing and dosing of pharmacological VTE prophylaxis as in the non-aged population (Grade 2C). In elderly patients with renal failure, low-dose unfractionated heparin (UFH) may be used or weight-adjusted dosing of low molecular weight heparin (Grade 2C). In the elderly, we recommend careful prescription of postoperative VTE prophylaxis and early postoperative mobilisation (Grade 1C). We recommend multi-faceted interventions for VTE prophylaxis in elderly and frail patients, including pneumatic compression devices, low molecular weight heparin (and/or direct oral anti-coagulants after knee or hip replacement) (Grade 1C). : This article is part of the European guidelines on perioperative venous thromboembolism prophylaxis. For details concerning background, methods, and members of the ESA VTE Guidelines Task Force, please, refer to:Samama CM, Afshari A, for the ESA VTE Guidelines Task Force. European guidelines on perioperative venous thromboembolism prophylaxis. Eur J Anaesthesiol 2018; 35:73-76.A synopsis of all recommendations can be found in the following accompanying article: Afshari A, Ageno W, Ahmed A, et al., for the ESA VTE Guidelines Task Force. European Guidelines on perioperative venous thromboembolism prophylaxis. Executive summary. Eur J Anaesthesiol 2018; 35:77-83.

Postoperative delirium: A preventable complication in the elderly surgical patient.

Postoperative delirium (POD) is an acute organic cerebral disturbance of consciousness and attention in combination with additional cognitive symptoms. It usually develops shortly after surgery and lasts for some hours up to some days. It worsens clinical outcomes, prolongs the hospital stay and leads to negative trajectories of cognitive, emotional and functional outcomes up to month if not years after surgery. There are several known predisposing and precipitating factors. Several of them are influenceable. Offering optimal and safe care for an elderly surgery patient requires a team based approach. Strategies for reducing POD incidence include early detection of risk factors, adaptation of surgical and anaesthesiologic techniques, avoiding certain drugs, optimisation of haemostasis, continuously monitoring of the patients' cognitive status as well as early mobilization and careful management of eventual early signs of POD. If POD is prevented, it's negative trajectories may be likewise anticipated.

Thoracic Epidural Anesthesia and Prophylactic Three Times Daily Unfractionated Heparin Within an Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Pathway for Colorectal Surgery.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common cause of preventable harm. Perioperative thoracic epidural analgesia (TEA) presents a challenge to optimal VTE prophylaxis. Our primary aim was to characterize missed doses of VTE prophylaxis associated with epidural catheter placement and removal. Our secondary aim was to measure the effect of an enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathway on the rate of TEA-associated missed VTE prophylaxis. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed a prospectively collected database of 1264 colorectal surgery patients at a single academic center. Missed preoperative doses between TEA patients and non-TEA patients were compared. Missed postoperative unfractionated heparin (UFH) doses associated with epidural removal were compared before and after implementation of an ERAS program. Other data collected included demographic data, surgical indication, and thrombohemorrhagic complications. RESULTS: Of the 445 TEA patients, 12.6% missed their preoperative heparin doses compared with 8.4% of patients without epidurals (P = 0.017). Of the TEA patients prescribed 3 times daily UFH, 22.5% missed one or more doses associated with epidural removal. The percent of patients missing at least one dose of UFH on epidural removal dropped from 28.1% before ERAS to 17.9% after the ERAS program (P = 0.023). Seven patients developed VTEs. There were zero epidural hematomas. CONCLUSIONS: Thoracic epidural analgesia was associated with a 1.5-fold increased risk of missed dose of preoperative VTE prophylaxis, which was not affected by implementation of an ERAS program. The implementation of an ERAS program reduced missed doses associated with epidural removal. This study highlights the challenge posed by providing VTE prophylaxis in the setting of perioperative neuraxial analgesia.

Early Protected Weightbearing After Ankle Fractures in Patients With Diabetes Mellitus.

The traditional protocol for treatment after ankle fracture in the diabetic patient involves a period of prolonged non-weightbearing to reduce the incidence of complications. The goal of the present study was to identify the risk factors and complications associated with early protected weightbearing after closed ankle fractures in patients with diabetes. The data from 73 diabetic patients with operatively and nonoperatively treated ankle fractures were retrospectively reviewed. All patients were allowed to begin protected weightbearing in a cast or removable boot at 2 weeks after the index injury or surgery. The mean follow-up period was 51 (range of 26 to 480) weeks. Complications occurred in 25% of the operative cases and 8% of the nonoperative cases. In both categories, the complication rate was less than that from existing reports using prolonged non-weightbearing. Wound dehiscence was the most common complication in the operatively treated patients (18.8%). A statistically significant difference was found in the complications rates for the patients aged >60 years (p = .0403). No statistically significant differences were identified according to hemoglobin A1c, the presence of peripheral neuropathy, smoking status, fracture type, or the presence of end-stage renal disease. The results of the present study suggest that early protected weightbearing after closed ankle fractures in diabetic patients is fairly safe, with an acceptable complication rate. However, the patients selected for early weightbearing had low comorbidity profiles, which might have accounted, in part, for the low complication rate.

Early thromboembolic events ≤1week after fast-track total hip and knee arthroplasty.

INTRODUCTION: Thromboembolic events (TEE) are serious complications after total hip (THA) and knee arthroplasty (TKA), with reported in-hospital incidences of about 0.5-1% for venous thromboembolic events (VTE) and 0.2% for myocardial infarctions (MI) and stroke. However, little data exist on in-hospital TEE when using a standardized fast-track protocol with early mobilization. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A large detailed cohort study in primary unilateral THA and TKAs on "early" (in-hospital or after discharge but within 1week of surgery) and 30-days TEEs, including prospective recording of patient characteristics, complete follow-up through the Danish National Patient Register, and detailed evaluation on disposing factors and consequences of "early" TEEs through review of medical records. RESULTS: In 13,775 procedures with a median LOS of 2days, 43 (0.32%; 95% CI: 0.23-0.42) "early" and 90 (0.65%; 95% CI: 0.53-0.80) 30-day TEEs were recorded. "Early" TEEs consisted of 9 (0.07%; 95% CI: 0.04-0.13) MI, 10 (0.08% 95% CI: 0.04-0.13) strokes, 13 (0.09%; 95% CI: 0.05-0.16) pulmonary embolisms and 11 (0.08%; 95% CI: 0.04-0.15) deep venous thromboses. Most TEEs were in patients with irreversible dispositions (e.g. previous TEE, high age and cardiac disease), but 5 of 9 MIs were associated with postoperative anemia. All in-hospital VTE (n: 16) occurred while patients received recommended thromboprophylaxis. CONCLUSIONS: Incidence of "early" TEEs after fast-track THA and THA is low, but MIs may be further reduced by improving perioperative treatment of anemia. Further research is needed regarding interventions for prevention of "early" TEE in disposed patients.

[Assessment of Feasibility of Early Ambulation and Food-intake on the Operative Day after Lung Resection].

To decrease the risk of morbidity, we have started an early ambulation and food-intake program conducted on the same day as pulmonary resection. This protocol was developed with consideration of the characteristics of lung surgery and conducted through an interdisciplinary team-approach. The assessment of feasibility and clinical effectiveness of this protocol was evaluated in 64 consecutive patients. No apparent adverse effect relating to this protocol was recorded. Fifty-five of 64 patients( 80%) were able to accomplish ambulation to the up-right standing position. Thirty-four of 64 patients( 53%) were able to consume more than half the amount of their hospital supper. No patients, including 5 patients who had had a past-history of postoperative delirium after their previous surgery, developed postoperative delirium after conducting this protocol. This protocol, which consisted of extraordinary early ambulation and food-intake on the operative day, was done safely and is expected to have some benefit as a postoperative management protocol for lung surgery.

Mobility therapy and central or peripheral catheter-related adverse events in an ICU in Brazil / Realização de fisioterapia motora e ocorrência de eventos adversos relacionados a cateteres centrais e periféricos em uma UTI brasileira

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether mobility therapy is associated with central or peripheral catheter-related adverse events in critically ill patients in an ICU in Brazil. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of the daily medical records of patients admitted to the Clinical Emergency ICU of the University of São Paulo School of Medicine Hospital das Clínicas Central Institute between December of 2009 and April of 2011. In addition to the demographic and clinical characteristics of the patients, we collected data related to central venous catheters (CVCs), hemodialysis (HD) catheters and indwelling arterial catheters (IACs): insertion site; number of catheter days; and types of adverse events. We also characterized the mobility therapy provided. RESULTS: Among the 275 patients evaluated, CVCs were used in 49%, HD catheters were used in 26%, and IACs were used in 29%. A total of 1,268 mobility therapy sessions were provided to patients while they had a catheter in place. Catheter-related adverse events occurred in 20 patients (a total of 22 adverse events): 32%, infection; 32%, obstruction; and 32%, accidental dislodgement. We found that mobility therapy was not significantly associated with any catheter-related adverse event, regardless of the type of catheter employed: CVC-OR = 0.8; 95% CI: 0.7-1.0; p = 0.14; HD catheter-OR = 1.04; 95% CI: 0.89-1.21; p = 0.56; or IAC-OR = 1.74; 95% CI: 0.94-3.23; p = 0.07. CONCLUSIONS: In critically ill patients, mobility therapy is not associated with the incidence of adverse events involving CVCs, HD catheters, or IACs. .

OBJETIVO: Verificar se a realização de fisioterapia com foco na reabilitação motora está associada a eventos adversos em cateteres centrais e periféricos em uma UTI brasileira. MÉTODOS: Análise retrospectiva das fichas de evolução diária dos pacientes internados, de dezembro de 2009 a abril de 2011, na UTI de Emergências Clínicas do Instituto Central do Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo. Além das características clínicas e demográficas dos pacientes, foram coletados dados referentes aos cateteres venoso central (CVC), de hemodiálise (HD) e de pressão arterial invasiva (PAi), tais como sítio de inserção, tempo de permanência e eventos adversos relacionados, bem como à caracterização da fisioterapia motora realizada. RESULTADOS: De um total de 275 pacientes, 49% utilizaram CVC, 26%, cateter de HD e 29%, cateter de PAi em algum momento da internação. Um total de 1.268 sessões de fisioterapia motora ocorreu enquanto o paciente apresentava algum tipo de cateter inserido. Os eventos adversos relacionados à inserção dos dispositivos ocorreram em 20 pacientes, totalizando 22 ocorrências: 32% de infecção, 32% de obstrução e 32% de retirada acidental. Neste estudo, verificou-se que não existe relação entre eventos adversos nos cateteres e a realização de fisioterapia motora: fisioterapia motora e CVC - OR = 0,8; IC95%: 0,7-1,0; p = 0,14; fisioterapia motora e cateter de HD - OR = 1,04; IC95%: 0,89-1,21; p = 0,56; e fisioterapia motora e cateter de PAi - OR = 1,74; IC95%: 0,94-3,23; p = 0,07. CONCLUSÕES: A realização de fisioterapia motora em pacientes críticos não está relacionada à incidência de eventos adversos em CVC, cateteres de HD e cateteres de PAi. .

Fall-related admissions after fast-track total hip and knee arthroplasty - cause of concern or consequence of success?

BACKGROUND: Total hip (THA) and knee arthroplasty (TKA) are common procedures in elderly persons, who are at potential increased risk of postoperative fall due to loss of muscle strength and impaired balance. Fast-track surgery with early mobilization and opioid-sparing analgesia have improved outcomes after these procedures, but early mobilization and short hospitalization length of stay (LOS) could potentially increase the risk of falls after discharge. We investigated injuries, circumstances, and the timing of fall-related hospital admissions 90 days after fasttrack THA and TKA. METHODS: This was a prospective, descriptive multicenter study on fall-related hospital admissions, in 5145 elective fast-track THA and TKA patients, with complete 90-day follow up through the Danish National Patient registry and medical charts. RESULTS: Of 83 (1.6%) fall-related hospital admissions, 43 (51.8%) were treated in the Emergency Room and 40 (48.2%) were admitted to a regular ward. The median LOS after surgery was 3 days (interquartile range [IQR]: 2-3) in fallers versus (vs) 2 days (IQR: 2-3) (P=0.022) in patients without falls. Injuries were classified as "none" or minor in 39.8%, moderate in 9.6%, and major in 50.6%. Most falls (54.8%) occurred within 1 month of discharge. Falls due to physical activity (12.0%) and extrinsic factors (14.5%) occurred later than did surgery-related falls (73.5%), contributing to 40% of all falls >30 days after discharge. In multivariate analysis, age (odds ratio [OR]: 1.05; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.0-1.08) (P=0.001), living alone (OR: 2.09; 95% CI: 1.20-3.62) (P=0.009), and psychiatric disease (OR: 2.80; 95% CI: 1.42-5.50) (P=0.001) were associated with surgery-related falls, whereas the use of a walking aid (OR: 1.20; 95% CI: 0.67-2.16) (P=0.544) and LOS ≤4 days (OR:1.19; 95% CI: 0.52-1.28) (P=0.680) was not. CONCLUSION: Hospital admissions due to falls are most frequent within the first month after fast-track THA and TKA. The overall incidence of surgery-related falls amongst these patients is low, declines after the first month, and is related to patient characteristics rather than short LOS. The effect of interventions aimed at surgery-related falls should focus on the first 30 days after surgery and differentiate between the causes of falling.