Blood loss quantification during major abdominal surgery: prospective observational cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Blood loss during major abdominal surgery is an essential parameter in the evaluation of strategies aimed at reducing perioperative bleeding. However, blood loss quantification remains unreliable and inaccurate. The aim of this study was to compare several methods of blood loss quantification-visual estimation by surgeon and anesthesiologist, the gravimetric method, the calculation method with spectrophotometric measurement. The spectrophotometric measurement is considered as the most accurate method. METHODS: The study was designed as a prospective observational cohort single-center study. We analyzed 61 patients who underwent elective liver or pancreatic resection. The anesthesiologists' and surgeons' estimate of blood loss was based on a visual assessment. The gravimetric method was based on weighing the suction canister and surgical drapes before and after use. The basis of calculation method was anthropometric and hematological parameters, we used López-Picado's formula. The spectrophotometric method was based on the spectrophotometric determination of hemoglobin mass in the lost blood. We compared the methods using paired t-test, non-parametric Wilcoxon test and Bland-Altman analysis. RESULTS: Visual estimation by surgeons and anesthesiologists, gravimetric measurement, and calculation method were significantly different from spectrophotometric measurement at the significance level α = 0.05. All methods overestimated blood loss which was measured by spectrophotometric method. The estimate by surgeons was the closest to the spectrophotometric measurement, difference 68.7 ml (95% confidence interval [CI]: -129.3--8.2). CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that the estimate of blood loss by surgeons and anesthesiologists, as well as gravimetric method and calculation method are all significantly inaccurate in real surgical setting. We did not confirm the commonly accepted assumption that surgeons underestimate the blood loss. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The study was registered under the title " Blood Loss Quantification During Major Abdominal Surgery" at ClinicalTrials.gov with the registration number NCT05316649. Date of the first registration was 20/3/2022.

Navigating the complexities of developing a classification of esophagogastric junction tumors suitable for preoperative setting.

Despite the worldwide decrease in the incidence of gastric cancer, the proportion of occurrence of carcinomas of the esophagogastric junction and proximal third of stomach is on the rise. The cause of this development is believed to lie in an increasing incidence of reflux esophagitis with Barrett´s metaplasia and successful eradication of Helicobacter pylori infection. The aim of this work is to present various views on the definition of the esophagogastric junction itself and to give an overview of tumor classification schemes being used (Fig. 2, Ref. 54). Keywords: gastric cancer, esophagogastric junction, definition, classification.

The effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on gene expression: microarray analysis on wound healing.

Background: Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO2) therapy can have a positive effect on wound healing, angiogenesis and blood flow. No prior study has described the effects of HBO2 therapy and gene expression of this process. The goal of our research was to show the effects of HBO2 and its impact at the molecular level on angiogenesis, proliferation, differentiation, oxidative stress, inflammation, and extracellular matrix formation. Live animal subjects were used for simulating the process of wound healing under standard conditions and under the influence of HBO2. Methods: Two experimental groups were created using injured rabbits (N=24), one group (N=12) treated with hyperbaric therapy twice a day and one (N=12) with standard wound care management. Wounds were surgical, uninfected, and in healthy animal test subjects. We compared the whole genomic analysis of the transcriptome with the use of microarray technology at three intervals during treatment. Results: The induction of the wounds in rabbit skin increased expression of hundreds of genes in both treatment groups. The numbers of elevated and decreased genes gradually reduced as the wound healed. Gene expression analysis showed elevated expression of several genes associated with inflammation in both groups of injured animals. Genes connected to the process of angiogenesis, proliferation, differentiation, oxidative stress and extracellular matrix formation were without statistically significant changes. Conclusion: The evidence did not support that HBO2 had any significant effect on gene expression during wound healing. Additionally, there was no evidence to support that there were changes in gene expression in either treatment group.

[Esophagogastric junction and its tumours - comments to definition and classification]. / Ezofagogastrická junkce a její nádory - poznámky k definici a klasifikaci.

In spite of the worldwide decreasing incidence of gastric cancer the number of esophagogastric junction and proximal third of stomach carcinomas has been gradually growing up. The reason of that is an increasing incidence of reflux esophagitis with Barrett´s metaplasia and a successful eradication of Helicobacter pylori infection. The aim of this work is to provide various views on definition of the esophagogastric junction and to give an overview of tumours classification schemes being used.

Asymptomatic Bochdalek's Hernia in an Adult: A Case Report.

Bochdalek's hernia is the most common congenital malformation of the diaphragm with a defect in its posterolateral part. Its clinical manifestation in adulthood is rare. It is often an incidental finding, and its diagnosis may be challenging. A high index of suspicion is necessary, especially in cases presenting with cardiopulmonary or abdominal symptoms and an ambiguous finding on the initial chest X-ray. We present a case of an asymptomatic 50-year-old male patient with a bulky left-sided Bochdalek's hernia. Surgical treatment was indicated, and a direct suture of the defect after reduction of the herniated greater omentum, transverse colon, and tail of the pancreas was performed from the upper midline laparotomy. The postoperative course was uneventful, and the patient was discharged on the fifth postoperative day. The management of adult patients with these kinds of hernias in both acute and chronic settings is discussed, and some recommendations are mentioned to minimize unnecessary pitfalls.

Exogenous surfactant for lung contusion causing ARDS: A systematic review of clinical and experimental reports.

This systematic review aimed to summarize the available data on the treatment of pulmonary contusions with exogenous surfactants, determine whether this treatment benefits patients with severe pulmonary contusions, and evaluate the optimal type of surfactant, method of administration, and drug concentration. Three databases (MEDline, Scopus, and Web of Science) were searched using the following keywords: pulmonary surfactant, surface-active agents, exogenous surfactant, pulmonary contusion, and lung contusion for articles published between 1945 and February 2023, with no language restrictions. Four reviewers independently rated the studies for inclusion, and the other four reviewers resolved conflicts. Of the 100 articles screened, six articles were included in the review. Owing to the limited number of papers on this topic, various types of studies were included (two clinical studies, two experiments, and two case reports). In all the studies, surfactant administration improved the selected ventilation parameters. The most frequently used type of surfactant was Curosurf® in the concentration of 25 mg/kg of ideal body weight. In most studies, the administration of a surfactant by bronchoscopy into the segmental bronchi was the preferable way of administration. In both clinical studies, patients who received surfactants required shorter ventilation times. The administration of exogenous surfactants improved ventilatory parameters and, thus, reduced the need for less aggressive artificial lung ventilation and ventilation days. The animal-derived surfactant Curosurf® seems to be the most suitable substance; however, the ideal concentration remains unclear. The ideal route of administration involves a bronchoscope in the segmental bronchi.

Perioperative intrapelvic hyaluronate application as prophylaxis against complications following rectal anastomotic dehiscence: An experimental study.

PURPOSE: The aim of this experimental study was to test the method of prevention of postoperative complications, especially infectious, in partial dehiscence following stapler anastomosis in rectal surgeries. METHODS: The method includes the application of a hyaluronic acid-based gel in combination with triclosan, which has antibacterial properties. The gel was applied to the space around the rectum with an artificial, precisely defined dehiscence so that the dehiscence was separated from the rest of pelvis and the peritoneal cavity to avoid the spread of infection. The study included 30 female pigs. The rectosigmoid colon was mobilized and transected completely. Anastomosis was constructed with circular staplers. A perforator was then used to create precisely defined artificial dehiscence. Subsequently the lesser pelvis was filled with hyaluronic gel such that the site of artificial dehiscence was covered completely. RESULTS: All animals survived for 14 days until the second-look revision with no signs of failure in the anastomosis healing, local inflammation, and sepsis or postoperative complications, such as chills, refusal of liquid or feed, abdominal distension, and bowel obstruction. CONCLUSION: Hyaluronic acid applied as a precursor solution around the rectal anastomosis fills the lesser pelvis perfectly. It prevents the leakage of intestinal contents in the lesser pelvis. Triclosan as an antibacterial substance prevents the spread of inflammation in the pelvis or even in the abdominal cavity.

A positive fluid balance does not deteriorate tissue metabolism during fluid resuscitation of sepsis.

OBJECTIVE: Hypovolemia has occurs frequently in sepsis. Due to pathologically increased permeability of the capillaries, the fluid leaks to the interstitium. An adequate fluid therapy is the corner stone to achieve circulatory stabilization and sufficient tissue perfusion; on the other hand, according to the data from the literature a tissue swelling is associated with a risk of deteriorated function of the tissues. The study aimed to examine the effect of a positive fluid balance on muscular metabolism. METHODS: The experimental study employed the model of sepsis in the domestical pig. Ten animals were randomly distributed into a control and a septic group. Sepsis was induced by intravenous administration of E. coli, followed by fluid resuscitation by crystaloids. Microdialysis samples were withdrawn at one-hour intervals for a period of 24 hours and values of lactate, pyruvate, glycerol, and glucose. RESULTS: Pearson's method revealed positive correlations between the lactate/pyruvate ratio and cumulative fluid balance in the septic group (R=0.292, p<0.001) and negative correlations in the control group (R=-0.279, p<0.05). In both groups, however, there was a gradual significant decrease in glycerol values. CONCLUSION: Fluid resuscitation results in positive fluid balance in both septic and control animals. This leads to circulatory stabilization of septic animals, but not a decrease in the anaerobic share of glycolysis. A positive fluid balance in control animals does not result in alteration of muscular aerobic glycolysis. Decreasing glycerol levels in both groups give evidence that a positive fluid balance does not exert a negative impact on cell metabolism.

Primary Gastric Lymphoma Invading Spleen, Pancreas, and Transverse Colon.

Primary gastric lymphoma is a relatively rare tumour which is not primarily indicated on for surgical treatment. We present a case of locally advanced primary gastric lymphoma with penetration to the surrounding organs that had to be managed surgically. The proximal gastrectomy with splenectomy, distal pancreatectomy, and left colectomy was performed. We reached R0 resection, and patient was recovered well.

Gene Expression of Antioxidant Enzymes in the Resected Intestine in Crohn's Disease.

INTRODUCTION: The inflammatory process in Crohn's disease (CD) is closely associated with the formation of reactive oxygen species. Antioxidant enzymes can play an important role in the outcome of CD and may influence postoperative recurrence in these patients. The aim of our study was to evaluate gene expression of intracellular antioxidant enzymes in surgically resected intestinal specimens of patients with CD, both in macroscopically normal and in inflamed tissue. METHODS: A total of 28 patients referred for elective bowel resection were enrolled in the study. Full-thickness small intestinal specimens were investigated. Gene expression of antioxidant enzymes - superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), glutathione reductase (GSR) - was evaluated both in macroscopically normal and inflamed samples. RESULTS: There were significantly lower levels of SOD1 mRNA (p = 0.007) and GSR mRNA (p = 0.027) in inflamed tissue compared to macroscopically normal areas. No significant differences were found between affected and non-affected intestinal segments in mRNA for SOD2, SOD3 and GPX. CONCLUSIONS: Our pilot data clearly showed that the gene expression of major antioxidant enzymes is not a uniform mechanism in the pathogenesis of Crohn's disease. Topically decreased gene expression of SOD1 and GSR might facilitate the segmental tissue injury caused by reactive oxygen species.

Combined Therapy of Locally Advanced Oesophageal and Gastro-Oesophageal Junction Adenocarcinomas: State of the Art and Aspects of Predictive Factors.

The following main treatment approaches are currently used in locally advanced adenocarcinomas of the oesophagus and gastrooesophageal junction (GOJ): preoperative chemoradiotherapy and surgery, and perioperative chemotherapy and surgery. While preoperative chemoradiotherapy is used primarily in oesophageal tumours, perioperative chemotherapy is the treatment of choice in Western countries for gastric cancer. The optimal treatment strategy for GOJ adenocarcinoma is still not clear. In comparison to other malignancies, biomarkers are used as predictive factors in distal oesophageal and GOJ adenocarcinomas in a very limited way, and moreover, only in metastatic stages (e.g., HER2 status, or microsatellite instability status). The aim of the article is to provide an overview of current treatment options in locally advanced adenocarcinomas of oesophagus and GOJ based on the latest evidence, including the possible potential of predictive biomarkers in optimizing treatment.

Proximal Gastrectomy in a Case of Giant Gastric Liposarcoma and a 5-Year Follow-Up.

Even though liposarcomas account for 10-20% of all mesenchymal malignancies, they are extremely rarely located in the stomach. We report the case of a female patient with gastric liposarcoma. CT revealed a giant hypoechogenic tumour subcardially on the posterior gastric wall. Endoscopic tumour resection by piecemeal technique was done, and a lipoma was confirmed on histopathological examination. A recurrent bleeding tumour was proven 6 weeks later. The patient underwent an open proximal gastrectomy with pyloroplasty, and liposarcoma was surprisingly revealed in the resected specimen, finally. Five years later, our patient had been without recurrence or any somatic difficulties. The CT finding of a submucosal fatty tumour with heterogeneous density within the gastric wall should raise the suspicion for liposarcoma. The goal is the surgical removal of the tumour with sufficient margins ensuring R0 resection.

Initial chest X-ray in multiple trauma patients: Still works!

OBJECTIVE: Blunt thoracic aortic injury is life-threatening injury. High suspicion on this clinical condition can be made by initial chest X-ray on emergency department. The aim of study was to detect which other signs, except widened mediastinum, are specific for rupture of the thoracic aorta. METHODS: To the study were included all Triage positive patients primary headed from the scene of injury to the Trauma center Level I from January to December 2014 and which have performed chest X-ray on emergency department followed by CT of chest, abdomen and pelvis. On chest X-ray were evaluated diameter of superior mediastinum, deviation of trachea, deviation of left and right main bronchus, aortic arch, fracture of first or second rib on the left side and obliteration of aortopulmonary space. RESULTS: Totally n=208 patients were enrolled to the study. Seven patients had blunt thoracic aortic injury on CT angiography. All these patients had widened superior mediastinum more than 80 mm (p=0.021). Six patients with blunt thoracic aortic injury had obliteration of aortic arch (p=0.0001) and obliteration of aortopulmonary space (p=0.0001). CONCLUSION: All patients after high energy trauma with widened mediastinum together with obliteration of aortic arch and obliteration of aortopulmonary space on initial chest X-ray without initial CT, must be indicated to the CT after initial stop the bleeding procedures for the exclusion of traumatic rupture of thoracic aorta.

Histopathologic Features are more Important Prognostic Factors than Primary Tumour Location in Gastro-oesophageal Adenocarcinoma Treated with Preoperative Chemoradiation and Surgery.

The aim of present study was to evaluate the impact of primary tumour location and other factors on the outcome of preoperative chemoradiation followed by surgery in adenocarcinomas of distal oesophagus, gastro-oesophageal junction and stomach. We retrospectively reviewed the institutional patient database. The therapeutic response was re-evaluated as a percentage of residual tumor cells in surgical resection specimens. Overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were assessed. The effect primary tumour location, clinical and pathological TNM stage, and histopathological factors (histological type, grade, angioinvasion, perineural invasion, tumour response) on treatment outcome were evaluated. A total of 108 patients underwent preoperative chemoradiation for adenocarcinoma of distal oesophagus, gastro-oesophageal junction or stomach. The median prescribed dose of radiation was 45 Gy. The concurrent chemotherapy consisted of 5-fluorouracil +/- cisplatin +/- taxanes. R0 resection was achieved in 80 patients (74%). The complete response was observed in 19%. The median follow-up was 50.8 months. Three-year and 5-year OS and DFS were 36.2% and 25.3%; and 28.1% and 23.7%, respectively. Pretreatment T-stage, pathological N-stage, radicality of resection, histological subtype, grade, angioinvasion and perineural invasion, were identified as statistical significant OS predictors in univariate analysis; pathological N-stage, radicality of resection and angioinvasion, in multivariate analysis. The primary tumor location did not influence the prognosis. The pathologic response to chemoradiation had borderline significance. In conclusion, no prognostic impact of primary tumour location, in contrast to other investigated factors, was evident in the present study. The most important predictors of prognosis were angioinvasion status and pN-stage.

Glued versus stapled anastomosis of the colon: an experimental study to determine comparative resistance to intraluminal pressure.

BACKGROUND: This study compared the resistance of glued versus stapled anastomosis of the colon to intraluminal pressures at different times during healing. METHODS: Forty seven female domestic pigs, mean weight of 30.7 kg, were used. Maximum physiological luminal pressures, i.e. the pressure resisted by a catheter inserted into the intestinal lumen via a puncture without it being released and without injury to the surrounding intestinal wall, was performed in 5 control animals. The remaining 42 animals were divided into 3 groups of 14 animals each based on time from anastomosis construction. Each group was divided into 2 subgroups with stapled or glued anastomoses. Intraluminal pressure was measured on the first, third, and fifth day post-surgery. RESULTS: The maximum pressures resisted by anastomoses were significantly higher than the physiological pressures in all groups. At all time points, stapled anastomoses resisted higher intraluminal pressures than glued ones. However, glued anastomoses resisted pressures significantly higher than physiological pressure. As healing advanced, glued anastomoses neared the resistance to intraluminal pressures of stapled anastomoses. CONCLUSION: Healing with absorbable synthetic glue was as good as with staples. Glued anastomoses resisted pressures that were statistically significantly higher than physiological intraluminal colon pressures but lower than stapled ones.

Elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy in a 75-year-old woman with situs viscerum inversus totalis.

Situs viscerum inversus totalis is a rare disorder presenting with complete transposition of thoracic and abdominal viscera. It is associated with certain organ anomalies, but it is not a predisposing factor to cholecystolithiasis. To date, fewer than 100 cholecystectomies in patients with situs inversus have been published worldwide. We report a case of a 75-year-old woman referred to our hospital with abdominal pain in the left hypochondrium. Situs inversus totalis and acute calculous cholecystitis were diagnosed and successfully conservatively treated with antibiotics. The patient underwent elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy 3 months later. The procedure and postoperative course were uneventful and the patient recovered well. The clinical presentation of these patients with cholecystolithiasis may be confusing and vague and the correct diagnosis delayed. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the gold standard in the treatment even though the operation requires some modifications in operating theatre arrangement and position of the surgical team. Most surgeons are right-handed, and to operate laparoscopically in the "mirror image" anatomical situation using mainly the left hand for dissection may be stressful, uncomfortable and more time-consuming. Some recommendations to overcome this issue have been published. In conclusion, the above-mentioned anomaly may cause some risk and delay of the exact diagnosis, but it is not dangerous in itself. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a safe procedure, even in the case of acute cholecystitis, if performed by an experienced laparoscopic surgeon. The most dangerous is always an incautious and too self-confident surgeon.

Suture-free anastomosis of the colon. Experimental comparison of two cyanoacrylate adhesives.

BACKGROUND: We explored the potential of two cyanoacrylate tissue adhesives for constructing colonic anastomoses. METHOD: The study involved 12 female domestic pigs. The animals were divided into two equal groups. In both groups, the sigmoid colon was transected. An intestinal anastomosis was constructed with a modified circular stapler (all staples were withdrawn) and cyanoacrylate tissue adhesives. Glubran 2 was used in group A and Dermabond was applied in group B. Fourteen days after the first operation, a follow-up surgery was performed in both groups. The glued section of the colon was resected, processed with the standard paraffin technique and stained with haematoxylin-eosin. The finished specimens were examined under light microscopy. Assessments were made for the presence of fibroblasts, neutrophils, giant polynuclear cells, neovascularisation and collagen deposits. Adhesions, anastomotic dehiscence, peri-anastomotic inflammation and intestinal healing were assessed peri-operatively. RESULTS: All anastomoses in group A healed with no signs of pathology. In group B, fibrotic adhesions and stenoses tended to occur in areas surrounding the anastomoses. Histological examinations confirmed increased fibrosis. CONCLUSION: The tissue adhesive Glubran 2 appears to be (under experimental conditions) a promising synthetic adhesive for colonic anastomosis construction; conversely, the tissue adhesive Dermabond was unsuitable for suture-free anastomosis construction.

Nanofiber micro-dispersed oxidized cellulose as a carrier for topical antimicrobials: first experience.

BACKGROUND: Micro-dispersed oxidized cellulose, already used for hemostasis, might be helpful for introduction of an antimicrobial drug. AIM: To examine the effect of topically applied gentamicin attached to a new biodegradable carrier formed by micro-dispersed oxidized cellulose in microfiber and nanofiber form for treatment of acute wound infection and to assess the influence of this carrier on healing. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A model of a full-thickness infected dermal wound was created in 12 female domestic pigs. The effectiveness of topical gentamicin delivered with micro-dispersed oxidized cellulose carrier was tested in acute wound infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, or Escherichia coli. RESULTS: The effectiveness of nanofiber micro-dispersed oxidized cellulose with gentamicin was proved according to culture findings. When assessed macroscopically, 100% of wounds treated by the nanofiber product had no signs of local infection. When microfiber micro-dispersed oxidized cellulose was used, cultures demonstrated residual bacteria in 94.4% of treated incisions despite the absence of clinically recognized infection. CONCLUSIONS: Micro-dispersed oxidized cellulose carrier with a sufficient concentration of an attached antibiotic appears to be effective for the treatment of full-thickness skin infections. The positive influence of the product on the healing of a dermal incision was shown, and a good hemostatic effect was confirmed.