Is perioperative COVID-19 really associated with worse surgical outcomes among vaccinated patients?

INTRODUCTION: During the surge of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, studies revealed high complication and morbidity rates following surgical procedures in COVID-19 positive patients. Anesthetic and surgical societies swiftly developed strategies to mitigate these risks, including a recommended postponement of elective surgeries for a minimum of 7 weeks post-COVID infection. Nowadays, with a predominantly vaccinated population, it has become crucial to discern the influencing factors on post-COVID morbidity and mortality and a reevaluation of the existing recommendations pertaining to elective surgery. METHODS: A single-center case-control study was conducted, including patients who underwent surgery between November 2021 and March 2022 and met the inclusion criteria. Eighty COVID-19 positive patients were matched 1:1 with 80 controls, each undergoing an identical intervention within a 2-week time frame. The primary outcome was 30-day postoperative mortality and secondary outcome postoperative complications (respiratory and thromboembolic). RESULTS: At the time of surgery, 88.8% of patients in the case group and 92.5% in the control group had received at least one vaccine dose. Mortality and morbidity did not show a significant difference when comparing the case and control groups (7.5% vs 6.2%, p = 0.755; 11.3% vs 8.9%, p = 0.541 respectively). In the COVID-positive group, mortality was significantly associated with age over 70 years, ASA score over III, RCRI over 1, emergency procedures, and absence of thromboembolic prophylaxis. CONCLUSIONS: In contrast to previously reported findings, we did not observe an increased morbi-mortality in patients with perioperative COVID-19 infection. It may not be necessary to delay elective interventions, except in cases with a high-risk.

Arterial-Ventricular Coupling Impairment is Evidenced in Both Normal and Ischemic Subjects by Applying Cluster Analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Left ventricular (LV) interaction with the arterial system (arterial-ventricular coupling, AVC) is a central determinant of cardiovascular performance and cardiac energetics. Stress Echocardiography (SE) constitutes a valuable clinical tool in both diagnosis and risk stratification of patients with suspected and established coronary artery disease. Cluster Analysis (CA), an unsupervised Machine Learning technique, defines an exploratory statistical method which can be used to uncover natural groups within data. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the capacity of CA to identify uncoupled groups with ischemic condition based on SE baseline information. MATERIAL AND METHODS: CA was applied to SE data acquired at baseline and peak exercise (PE) conditions. Obtained clusters were evaluated in terms of coupling conditions and LV wall motility alterations. RESULTS: Inter cluster significant AVC differences were obtained in terms of baseline data and changes in wall motility, confirmed by CA applied to PE data. CONCLUSION: AVC impairment was evidenced in both normal and ischemic subjects by applying CA.

Long-term follow-up of prophylactic mesh reinforcement after emergency laparotomy. A retrospective controlled study.

BACKGROUND: Prevention of incisional hernias with a prophylactic mesh in emergency surgery is controversial. The present study aimed to analyze the long-term results of prophylactic mesh used for preventing incisional hernia after emergency midline laparotomies. METHODS: This study was a registered (NCT04578561) retrospective analysis of patients who underwent an emergency midline laparotomy between January 2009 and July 2010 with a follow-up period of longer than 2 years. Long-term outcomes and risk factors for the development of incisional hernias between patients who received a prophylactic reinforcement mesh (Group M) and suture (Group S) were compared. RESULTS: From an initial 266 emergency midline laparotomies, 187 patients were included. The median follow-up time was 64.4 months (SD 35). Both groups had similar characteristics, except for a higher rate of previous operations (62 vs. 43.2%; P = 0.01) and operation due to a revision laparotomy (32.5 vs.13%; P = 0.02) in the M group. During follow-up, 29.9% of patients developed an incisional hernia (Group S 36.6% vs. Group M 14.3%; P = 0.002). Chronic mesh infections were diagnosed in 2 patients, but no mesh explants were needed, and no patient in the M group developed chronic pain. Long-term risk factors for incisional hernia were as follows: smoking (HR = 2.47; 95% CI 1.318-4.624; P = 0.05), contaminated surgery (HR = 2.98; 95% CI 1.142-7.8; P = 0.02), surgical site infection (SSI; HR = 3.83; 95% CI 1.86-7.86; P = 0.001), and no use of prophylactic mesh (HR = 5.09; 95% CI 2.1-12.2; P = 0.001). CONCLUSION: Incidence of incisional hernias after emergency midline laparotomies is high and increases with time. High-risk patients, contaminated surgery, and surgical site infection (SSI) benefit from mesh reinforcement. Prophylactic mesh use is safe and feasible in emergencies with a low long-term complication rate. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT04578561. www.clinicaltrials.gov.

[Inherited bleeding disorders in adolescents with excessive menstrual bleeding. Should we evaluate the fibrinolytic pathway?] / Trastornos hereditarios de la coagulación en adolescentes con sangrado menstrual excesivo, ¿debemos evaluar la vía fibrinolítica?

INTRODUCTION: Heavy Menstrual Bleeding (EMB) is a frequent problem in adolescence. The prevalence of inherited bleeding disorders (IBD) as a cause of EMB is not well established and the involvement of fibri nolytic pathway defects has been poorly explored. OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of IBD and fibrinolysis defects in adolescents with EMBs. PATIENTS AND METHOD: 93 adolescents (11 to 18 years old) were included. Personal and family history of bleeding were obtained through a standard ized questionnaire. The following lab tests were performed: prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), von Willebrand factor quantification, and platelet count and function. Those patients who were not diagnosed with IBD were further evaluated with clot lysis time assay. RESULTS: 41 patients (44%) were diagnosed as IBD (Von Willebrand disease n = 28, platelet func tion defects n=8, mild hemophilia n = 5. Decreased clot lysis time was found in 31 patients. 54% of patients diagnosed with IBD had EMB as the first hemorrhagic manifestation. CONCLUSION: These results support the need to evaluate the coagulation process, including the fibrinolytic pathway in the study of adolescents with EMB.

Trastornos hereditarios de la coagulación en adolescentes con sangrado menstrual excesivo, ¿debemos evaluar la vía fibrinolítica? / Inherited bleeding disorders in adolescents with excessive menstrual bleeding: should we evaluate the fibrinolytic pathway?

Resumen: Introducción: El Sangrado Menstrual Excesivo (SME) es un problema frecuente en la adolescencia. La prevalencia de trastornos hereditarios de la coagulación (THC) como causa del SME no está bien establecida y la participación de defectos de la vía fibrinolítica ha sido poco explorada. Objetivo: Determinar la prevalencia de THC y defectos de la fibrinólisis en adolescentes con SME. Pacientes y Método: Se incluyeron 93 adolescentes, edad 11 a 18 años. Los antecedentes personales y familiares de sangra do se obtuvieron con un cuestionario estandarizado. Se controló exámenes: tiempo de protrom- bina (TP), tiempo de tromboplastina parcial activada (TTPa), estudio del factor Von Willebrand, recuento y función plaquetaria. Los pacientes que no fueron diagnosticados como THC, se evaluaron adicionalmente con el tiempo de lisis del coágulo. Resultados: 41 pacientes (44%) fueron diagnos ticados como THC: Enfermedad de Von Willebrand n = 28, defectos de la función plaquetaria n = 8, hemofilia leve n = 5. Se confirmó disminución del tiempo de lisis del coágulo en 31 pacientes. El 54% de pacientes diagnosticado como THC, tuvo SME como la primera manifestación hemorrágica. Conclusión: Estos resultados apoyan la necesidad de evaluación de la coagulación, incluyendo la vía fibrinolítica, en el estudio de adolescentes con SME.

Abstract: Introduction: Heavy Menstrual Bleeding (EMB) is a frequent problem in adolescence. The prevalence of inherited bleeding disorders (IBD) as a cause of EMB is not well established and the involvement of fibri nolytic pathway defects has been poorly explored. Objective: To determine the prevalence of IBD and fibrinolysis defects in adolescents with EMBs. Patients and Method: 93 adolescents (11 to 18 years old) were included. Personal and family history of bleeding were obtained through a standard ized questionnaire. The following lab tests were performed: prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), von Willebrand factor quantification, and platelet count and function. Those patients who were not diagnosed with IBD were further evaluated with clot lysis time assay. Results: 41 patients (44%) were diagnosed as IBD (Von Willebrand disease n = 28, platelet func tion defects n=8, mild hemophilia n = 5. Decreased clot lysis time was found in 31 patients. 54% of patients diagnosed with IBD had EMB as the first hemorrhagic manifestation. Conclusion: These results support the need to evaluate the coagulation process, including the fibrinolytic pathway in the study of adolescents with EMB.

Primer reporte de un caso de ehrlichiosis monocítica canina en la provincia de Santa Fe, Argentina

La ehrlichiosis monocitica canina (EMC) es una enfermedad causada por la bacteria Ehrlichia canis, de distribución mundial, alta mortalidad en caninos doméstico y síntomas inespecíficos, lo que dificulta su diagnóstico clínico. Ehrlichia canis es transmitida por la garrapata Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato a un hospedador, en Argentina se reconocen dos linajes (tropical y sensu stricto) de dicha especie. El objetivo del presente trabajo es reportar el primer caso confirmado de EMC por E. canis en un canino de la ciudad de Rafaela, Santa Fe, área endémica de R. sanguineus s.s. El 18/02/2019 llegó a la consulta privada un canino con síntomas inespecíficos como hipertermia tarde/noche, depresión, letargia, aplasia, inapetencia y pérdida de peso; más antecedente de parasitismo por garrapatas. La mascota presentaba anemia leve (4.730.000/mm³), enzimas hepáticas aumentadas (AST/ASA/GOT=72 U/l) y esplenomegalia. El test serológico in vitro y PCR para amplificar ADN E. canis fueron positivos, por lo que la mascota recibe tratamiento para EMC con doxiciclina 10 mg/kg/día durante 30 días, antiinflamatorios durante 5 días y protector hepático. A los 60 días de iniciado el tratamiento la mascota recuperó su peso normal y a los 120 días se realiza PCR como monitoreo de la eficacia del tratamiento dando resultado negativo.

Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis (CME) is a disease caused by Ehrlichia canis bacteria. It has a globally distributed and cause high mortality in domestic canines with nonspecific symptoms, which makes clinical diagnosis difficult. Eherlichia canis is transmitted to a host by the tick Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato. In Argentina two lineages of this species are recognized (tropical and sensu stricto). The objective of this work is to report the first confirmed case of CME by E. canis in endemic area of R. sanguineus s.s from Rafaela, Santa Fe. On February 2, 2019 a canine arrived at the private clinic with non-specific symptoms such as late / night hyperthermia, depression, lethargy, aplasia, loss of appetite and weight loss, as well as, antecedent of tick parasitism. The pet had mild anemia (4,730,000/ m³), increased liver enzymes (AST/ASA/GOT = 72 U/l) and splenomegaly. The in vitro serological test and PCR to amplify E. canis DNA were positive, so the dog received treatment for CME with doxycycline 10 mg/kg/day for 30 days, anti-inflammatory for 5 days and liver protector. After 60 days of starting the treatment, the animal regained its normal weight and after 120 days the PCR have given negative result, checking the effectiveness of the treatment.

[Our experience with sirolimus for the treatment of complicated vascular anomalies]. / Nuestra experiencia con la utilización de sirolimus en el tratamiento de anomalías vasculares complejas.

AIM OF THE STUDY: mTOR inhibitors are being used to treat complex vascular anomalies (VA) without response to conventional treatments. We report our results in pediatric patients treated with sirolimus. METHODS: Retrospective review of patients treated with sirolimus between 2014 and 2017, analyzing vascular anomaly type, treatment response and complications. Treatment protocol included patients with complex vascular anomalies, after signing the informed consent. The initial dose was 0.8 mg/m2/12 h, verifying plasmatic levels. Favorable response was defined both in clinical and radiological terms. MAIN RESULTS: Sirolimus was employed in nine patients, median age 14 months old (1 month-14 years), 66% girls. Five complex micro-cystic lymphatic malformations (LM), one multifocal lynphangioendotheliomatosis with thrombocytopenia, one kaposiform lymphangiomatosis, one lymphatic-venous malformation and one kaposiform hemangioendothelioma (KHE) were treated. Median treatment was 4 months (IQR 2-18 months). Resolution or improvement was objectified in four patients (44%). KHE patient presented complete resolution after two months of treatment. Two patients with micro-cystic LM and the one with lymphatic-venous malformation improved after a median treatment of three months. Two patients presented rebound effect after discontinuing treatment. Three patients had hypertransaminasemia and hypercholesterolemia without requiring medical treatment. CONCLUSION: Sirolimus presented mild effects for treatment of complex VA in our study, but was highly resolutive at KHE.

OBJETIVOS: Los inhibidores mTOR se están utilizando para el tratamiento de anomalías vasculares (AV) complejas sin respuesta a tratamientos convencionales. Presentamos nuestros resultados en pacientes pediátricos tratados con sirolimus. METODOS: Análisis retrospectivo de pacientes tratados con Sirolimus, entre 2014 y 2017, describiendo el tipo de anomalía vascular, respuesta al tratamiento y complicaciones derivadas de su empleo. Se incluyeron pacientes con anomalías vasculares complejas, tras firma del consentimiento informado y con dosis inicial de 0,8 mg/m2/12 horas, monitorizando niveles plasmáticos. Se definió respuesta favorable tanto en términos clínicos como radiológicos. RESULTADOS: Recibieron sirolimus 9 pacientes, mediana de edad de 14 meses (RIQ: 1 mes-14 años). El 66% fueron niñas. Se trataron 5 malformaciones linfáticas (ML) microquísticas complejas (en algunas como coadyuvante a otros tratamientos), 1 linfangioendoteliomatosis multifocal con trombopenia, 1 linfangiomatosis kaposiforme, 1 malformación mixta veno-linfática, 1 hemangioendotelioma kaposiforme (HEK). Mediana de tratamiento: 4 meses (2-18 meses). En 6 pacientes (66%) se objetivó resolución o mejoría de las lesiones. El paciente con HEK mostró resolución completa tras 2 meses de tratamiento. En dos pacientes con ML microquística y en el paciente con malformación mixta, se apreció mejoría clínica y disminución del tamaño de las lesiones tras una mediana de tratamiento de 3 meses. Se apreció efecto rebote en dos ML al suspender el tratamiento. Tres pacientes presentaron hipertransaminasemia e hipercolesterolemia, sin precisar tratamiento médico. CONCLUSIONES: En nuestro estudio, objetivamos que el sirolimus tuvo una eficacia moderada en el tratamiento de AV complejas, pero fue resolutivo en el HEK.

Pancreas Transplantation at a Single Latin-American Center; Overall Results with Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

BACKGROUND: Simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation (SPK) has become the treatment of choice for type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) patients with chronic renal failure. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), was once considered to be a contraindication for pancreas transplantation; however, it has been accepted as a new indication, under strict criteria. Although favorable results have increase the indication for T2DM in developed countries, there have been no reports of long-term results for this indication from Latin American centers. METHODS: From April 2008 to March 2016, patients receiving SPK or pancreas transplant alone (PTA) for T2DM were included and compared with T1DM recipients. Variables were compared between groups with the use of χ2 and t tests; Kaplan-Meier with log rank was used for patient and graft survivals; P < .05 was considered to be significant. RESULTS: A total of 45 SPK and 1 PTA were performed, 35 (76.1%) for T1DM and 11 (24.5%) for T2DM. Mean pre-transplantation C-peptide was significantly higher in the T2DM group (P = .01); HbA1c was higher in the T1DM group (P = .03). No differences were found in weight, body mass index, and pre-transplantation glycemia. Patient survivals for T1DM recipients were 88.2% and 84.8% at 1 and 5 years, respetively, versus 100% and 74.1% for T2DM recipients (P = .87). CONCLUSIONS: Our initial prospective experience in a single Latin American center showed that medium- and long-term outcomes for T1DM and T2DM individuals receiving pancreas transplants are similar, under strict selection criteria.

Pluripatología, polifarmacia, complejidad terapéutica y uso adecuado de la medicación / Polypathology, polypharmacy, medication regimen complexity and drug therapy appropriateness

Los pacientes pluripatológicos suelen ser ancianos y consumen muchos fármacos. La polifarmacia afecta a un 85% de los mismos y no se asocia con mayor supervivencia. Al contrario, los expone a más efectos adversos, como pérdida de peso, caídas, deterioro funcional y cognitivo, y hospitalizaciones. La complejidad del régimen medicamentoso incluye más aspectos que el simple número de medicamentos consumidos. La forma galénica, la frecuencia de las dosis, o la forma de preparar la medicación pueden complicar la comprensión y el seguimiento de las prescripciones. Tanto la polifarmacia como la complejidad terapéutica se asocian con una peor adherencia de los pacientes. Para evitar la polifarmacia, la complejidad y mejorar la adherencia es necesario un uso adecuado de la medicación. Prescribir bien consiste en seleccionar aquellos medicamentos de los que hay claras evidencias para su empleo en la indicación, que son adecuados a las circunstancias del paciente, bien tolerados, coste-efectivos y en los que los beneficios de su uso superan a los riesgos. Para mejorar la prescripción de medicamentos es necesario llevar a cabo de forma periódica revisiones de la medicación, especialmente cuando el paciente cambia de médico y en las transiciones asistenciales. Los criterios de Beers y los STOPP/START (Screening Tool of Older Person's potentially inappropriate Prescriptions/Screening Tool to Alert doctors to the Right Treatment) son herramientas eficaces para ello. La desprescripción en los pacientes pluripatológicos polimedicados atendiendo a sus circunstancias clínicas, pronóstico y preferencias puede contribuir a un uso más adecuado de la medicación (AU)

Polypathological patients are usually elderly and take numerous drugs. Polypharmacy affects 85% of these individuals and is not associated with greater survival. On the contrary, polypharmacy exposes these individuals to more adverse effects, such as weight loss, falls, functional and cognitive impairment and hospitalisations. The complexity of a drug regimen covers more aspects than the simple number of drugs consumed. The galenic form, the dosage and the method for preparing the drug can impede the understanding of and compliance with prescriptions. Both polypharmacy and therapeutic complexity are associated with poorer adherence by patients. To prevent polypharmacy, reduce complexity and improve adherence, the appropriate use of drugs is needed. Proper prescribing consists of selecting drugs that have clear evidence for their use in the indication, which are appropriate for the patient's circumstances, are well tolerated and cost-effective and whose benefits outweigh the risks. To improve the drug prescription, periodic reviews of the drugs need to be conducted, especially when the patient changes doctor and during healthcare transitions. The Beers and STOPP/START (Screening Tool of Older Person's potentially inappropriate Prescriptions/Screening Tool to Alert doctors to the Right Treatment) criteria are effective tools for this improvement. Deprescription for polymedicated polypathological patients that considers their clinical circumstances, prognosis and preferences can contribute to a more appropriate use of drugs (AU)

Polypathology, polypharmacy, medication regimen complexity and drug therapy appropriateness. / Pluripatología, polifarmacia, complejidad terapéutica y uso adecuado de la medicación.

Polypathological patients are usually elderly and take numerous drugs. Polypharmacy affects 85% of these individuals and is not associated with greater survival. On the contrary, polypharmacy exposes these individuals to more adverse effects, such as weight loss, falls, functional and cognitive impairment and hospitalisations. The complexity of a drug regimen covers more aspects than the simple number of drugs consumed. The galenic form, the dosage and the method for preparing the drug can impede the understanding of and compliance with prescriptions. Both polypharmacy and therapeutic complexity are associated with poorer adherence by patients. To prevent polypharmacy, reduce complexity and improve adherence, the appropriate use of drugs is needed. Proper prescribing consists of selecting drugs that have clear evidence for their use in the indication, which are appropriate for the patient's circumstances, are well tolerated and cost-effective and whose benefits outweigh the risks. To improve the drug prescription, periodic reviews of the drugs need to be conducted, especially when the patient changes doctor and during healthcare transitions. The Beers and STOPP/START (Screening Tool of Older Person's potentially inappropriate Prescriptions/Screening Tool to Alert doctors to the Right Treatment) criteria are effective tools for this improvement. Deprescription for polymedicated polypathological patients that considers their clinical circumstances, prognosis and preferences can contribute to a more appropriate use of drugs.

Contribution of dopamine to mitochondrial complex I inhibition and dopaminergic deficits caused by methylenedioxymethamphetamine in mice.

Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) causes a persistent loss of dopaminergic cell bodies in the substantia nigra of mice. Current evidence indicates that MDMA-induced neurotoxicity is mediated by oxidative stress probably due to the inhibition of mitochondrial complex I activity. In this study we investigated the contribution of dopamine (DA) to such effects. For this, we modulated the dopaminergic system of mice at the synthesis, uptake or metabolism levels. Striatal mitochondrial complex I activity was decreased 1 h after MDMA; an effect not observed in the striatum of DA depleted mice or in the hippocampus, a dopamine spare region. The DA precursor, L-dopa, caused a significant reduction of mitochondrial complex I activity by itself and exacerbated the dopaminergic deficits when combined with systemic MDMA. By contrast, no damage was observed when L-dopa was combined with intrastriatal injections of MDMA. On the other hand, dopamine uptake blockade using GBR 12909, inhibited both, the acute inhibition of complex I activity and the long-term dopaminergic toxicity caused by MDMA. Moreover, the inhibition of DA metabolism with the monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor, pargyline, afforded a significant protection against MDMA-induced complex I inhibition and neurotoxicity. Taken together, these findings point to the formation of hydrogen peroxide subsequent to DA metabolism by MAO, rather than a direct DA-mediated mitochondrial complex I inhibition, and the contribution of a peripheral metabolite of MDMA, as the key steps in the chain of biochemical events leading to DA neurotoxicity caused by MDMA in mice.

Quistes mesentéricos en la edad pediátrica: ¿qué son en realidad? / Mesenteric cysts in children

OBJETIVOS: Los quistes mesentéricos (QM) son tumores quísticos benignos, integrados en el tejido del mesenterio o del epiplón. Hemos revisado los casos de QM no enterógeno. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Revisión de historias clínicas y biopsias de los casos intervenidos de QM en el periodo 2002-2012. RESULTADOS: Encontramos a 7 pacientes, edad media de 5,3 a˜nos (rango 3-11). El diagnóstico fue ecográfico en todos, salvo en uno. Todos presentaron dolor abdominal; 5 (71,4%) vómitos; 4 (57%) distensión abdominal; 3 (42,8%) fiebre; ninguno presentó obstrucción abdominal completa, aunque 2 pacientes (28,6%) presentaron suboclusión. El quiste fue pediculado o sésil en todos menos en uno, que englobaba raíz de mesocolon y retroperitoneo. La histología de todos ellos reveló malformación linfática. No hubo recurrencias. CONCLUSIONES: Los quistes mesentéricos en niños son en su mayoría malformaciones linfáticas del mesenterio, con clínica muy variada. En el 50-60% están integrados en el mesenterio y requieren resección del asa afectada y anastomosis

OBJECTIVES: Mesenteric cysts (MC) are benign cystic tumors that grow within mesentery or omentum tissue. We have reviewed the cases of MC reported and operated on in our centre. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective review of clinical records of MC cases during the period 2002-2012 RESULTS: A total of 7 patients were found. Mean age was 5.3 years (range 3-11). Abdominal ultrasound was the diagnostic tool in all cases, except for one, which was diagnosed during laparotomy. All presented abdominal pain, 5 (71.4%) vomiting, 4 (57%) gross abdominal distension, 3 (42.8%) fever, and none presented complete abdominal obstruction, although 2 patients (28.6%) had slight sub-occlusion symptoms. All MC were pedicled or sesil, except for our last case, which extended into the retroperitoneum. All specimens were reported as Limphatic Malformation. None recurred. CONCLUSIONS: MC in children are mostly Lymphatic Malformations of mesentery or omentum origin, and clinical presentation varies from chronic abdominal pain to sudden-onset peritonitis or volvulus. About 50-60% require intestinal resection and anastomosis

Infección de herida quirúrgica neonatal: encuesta multicéntrica sobre medidas profilácticas / Neonatal surgical site infection: multicentric survey on prophylactic measures

Objetivos. La infección de herida quirúrgica (IHQ) es una causa frecuente de morbimortalidad en Neonatología. Existen factores de riesgo conocidos: tipo de cirugía (sucia/contaminada/limpia), prematuridad, duración de intervención, hipoalbuminemia, infección previa, ventilación mecánica prolongada y contaminación de vía central. Otros factores perioperatorios no han sido estudiados en neonatos, sí en adultos. Desarrollamos una encuesta sobre las actitudes y las medidas, intraoperatorias y de manejo de herida. Pretendemos dilucidar si existe consenso sobre la profilaxis de IHQ neonatal. Métodos. Encuesta con 22 ítems, basada en la guía de prevención de la IHQ en adultos (Surgical Infection Society, 2008). Cada ítem cuestiona temas sobre hábitos perioperatorios, intra y postoperatorios, relacionados con el manejo de la herida quirúrgica en el neonato, y consta de dos preguntas, según sea cirugía sucia/urgente o limpia/contaminada. Las opciones de respuesta son 4: siempre, con frecuencia, raramente y nunca. Enviamos la encuesta a cirujanos pediátricos españoles mediante correo electrónico en el primer trimestre del 2012. Resultados. Se enviaron 159 encuestas. 51 (32%) respondieron. 69% emplean clorhexidina para preparar campo, 25% usan povidona iodada. Solo el 51% refirió dejar actuar siempre un minuto el antiséptico. 69% nunca usan bisturí eléctrico en piel para ampliar herida. No hubo respuestas unánimes en cuanto al uso de paños adhesivos protectores del campo, la irrigación de planos con suero o antisépticos durante el cierre, el empleo de drenajes, cambio de guantes y/o material al iniciar el cierre (cirugía sucia). El 72% y el 82% nunca emplean cianocrilato como cierre o apósito en neonatos, respectivamente. En cirugía sucia, 43% suturan piel con intradérmica y 49% con puntos sueltos. Conclusiones. La distribución de respuestas refleja la falta de consenso sobre los aspectos de la técnica quirúrgica y el manejo perioperatorio que podrían estar relacionados con la profilaxis de IHQ neonatal

Objectives. Surgical site infection (SSI) has a considerable impact on neonatal morbidity. There are known risk factors such type of surgery (clean/contaminated), prematurity, surgical length, hypoalbuminemia, previous infection, prolonged mechanical ventilation, and so on. Many perioperative factors have not been studied, opposite to adults. We have developed a survey on intraoperative attitudes and measures, as surgical wound management in Neonates among pediatric surgeons, to seek for a wider consense. Methods. Multi-response survey with 22 items, based on the Surgical Infection Society NIH 2008 clinical guideline. Each item poses a question on perioperative attitudes, surgical aspects and wound management. Each question is subdivided in two categories, depending on urgency and type of surgery (clean/contaminated) Results. 159 surveys were sent. Among those, we received back 51 (32%). 69% of the interviewed surgeons use clorhexidin to prepare surgical field, 25% use Iodine solutions. 69% never use diathermy to incise skin. There was no agreement on the use of sterile plastic adhesive drapes, intra-cavity lavage, changing surgical gloves/material, or wound irrigation during closure. 82% never use cyanocrilate dressing. Intracuticular skin suture and simple stitches were used indistinctly. Wound management and dressings were not uniform and depended on each pediatric unit. Conclusions. The survey reflects the lack of consensus regarding prophylactic measures and wound management among pediatric surgeons who care after surgical neonates

[Neonatal surgical site infection: multicentric survey on prophylactic measures]. / Infección de herida quirúrgica neonatal: encuesta multicéntrica sobre medidas profilácticas.

OBJECTIVES: Surgical site infection (SSI) has a considerable impact on neonatal morbidity. There are known risk factors such type of surgery (clean/contaminated), prematurity, surgical length, hypoalbuminemia, previous infection, prolonged mechanical ventilation, and so on. Many perioperative factors have not been studied, opposite to adults. We have developed a survey on intraoperative attitudes and measures, as surgical wound management in Neonates among pediatric surgeons, to seek for a wider consense. METHODS: Multi-response survey with 22 items, based on the Surgical Infection Society NIH 2008 clinical guideline. Each item poses a question on perioperative attitudes, surgical aspects and wound management. Each question is subdivided in two categories, depending on urgency and type of surgery (clean/contaminated). RESULTS: 159 surveys were sent. Among those, we received back 51 (32%). 69% of the interviewed surgeons use clorhexidin to prepare surgical field, 25% use Iodine solutions. 69% never use diathermy to incise skin. There was no agreement on the use of sterile plastic adhesive drapes, intra-cavity lavage, changing surgical gloves/material, or wound irrigation during closure. 82% never use cyanocrilate dressing. Intracuticular skin suture and simple stitches were used indistinctly. Wound management and dressings were not uniform and depended on each pediatric unit. CONCLUSIONS: The survey reflects the lack of consensus regarding prophylactic measures and wound management among pediatric surgeons who care after surgical neonates.

OBJETIVOS: La infección de herida quirúrgica (IHQ) es una causa frecuente de morbimortalidad en Neonatología. Existen factores de riesgo conocidos: tipo de cirugía (sucia/contaminada/limpia), prematuridad, duración de intervención, hipoalbuminemia, infección previa, ventilación mecánica prolongada y contaminación de vía central. Otros factores perioperatorios no han sido estudiados en neonatos, sí en adultos. Desarrollamos una encuesta sobre las actitudes y las medidas, intraoperatorias y de manejo de herida. Pretendemos dilucidar si existe consenso sobre la profilaxis de IHQ neonatal. METODOS: Encuesta con 22 ítems, basada en la guía de prevención de la IHQ en adultos (Surgical Infection Society, 2008). Cada ítem cuestiona temas sobre hábitos perioperatorios, intra y postoperatorios, relacionados con el manejo de la herida quirúrgica en el neonato, y consta de dos preguntas, según sea cirugía sucia/urgente o limpia/contaminada. Las opciones de respuesta son 4: siempre, con frecuencia, raramente y nunca. Enviamos la encuesta a cirujanos pediátricos españoles mediante correo electrónico en el primer trimestre del 2012. RESULTADOS: Se enviaron 159 encuestas. 51 (32%) respondieron. 69% emplean clorhexidina para preparar campo, 25% usan povidona iodada. Solo el 51% refirió dejar actuar siempre un minuto el antiséptico. 69% nunca usan bisturí eléctrico en piel para ampliar herida. No hubo respuestas unánimes en cuanto al uso de paños adhesivos protectores del campo, la irrigación de planos con suero o antisépticos durante el cierre, el empleo de drenajes, cambio de guantes y/o material al iniciar el cierre (cirugía sucia). El 72% y el 82% nunca emplean cianocrilato como cierre o apósito en neonatos, respectivamente. En cirugía sucia, 43% suturan piel con intradérmica y 49% con puntos sueltos. CONCLUSIONES: La distribución de respuestas refleja la falta de consenso sobre los aspectos de la técnica quirúrgica y el manejo perioperatorio que podrían estar relacionados con la profilaxis de IHQ neonatal.

[Neonatal use of propranolol for segmental facial hemangiomas]. / Uso neonatal del propranolol en hemangiomas segmentarios faciales.

INTRODUCTION: Segmental cervico facial hemangiomas are defined as those longer than 5 cm, affecting a specific facial area. These lesions can be eventually associated with the PHACE syndrome. Our aim is to propose neonatal treatment with propranolol, showing its efficacy/safety, given the scarce evidence on its neonatal use. CLINICAL OBSERVATION: After written informed consent, four patients with segmental facial hemangioma were treated with propranolol in the neonatal period. Adverse effects were registered during initial admission. Three of the four patients had PHACE syndrome. Propranolol was effective in 100% of patients, showing hemangioma´s involution without any adverse effect. COMMENTS: In our series, propranolol was effective and showed no side effects in the neonatal period. If propranolol benefits are greater than its risks, administration of the lowest effective dose is recommended, under hospital surveillance, starting shortly after diagnosis, in order to achieve improved efficacy.

INTRODUCCION: Los hemangiomas cérvico-faciales son considerados segmentarios cuando afectan a un área específica de la cara y miden más de 5 cm y, en ocasiones, forman parte del síndrome de PHACE. Nuestro objetivo es proponer el tratamiento de dichos hemangiomas con propranolol en etapa neonatal, mostrando su eficacia/seguridad dado que existe poca evidencia al respecto. OBSERVACION CLINICA: Revisamos 4 pacientes diagnosticados de hemangioma segmentario facial. Los neonatos fueron tratados de forma hospitalaria inicial con propranolol, tras firma de consentimiento informado, y fueron ingresados para control de aparición de complicaciones. Tres de los cuatro casos clínicos fueron diagnosticados de síndrome de PHACE. El propranolol fue efectivo en el 100% de los pacientes, demostrando involución de los hemangiomas. COMENTARIOS: En nuestra serie el propranolol fue eficaz sin evidenciar complicaciones en el período neonatal. Si los beneficios del propranolol sobrepasan los riesgos, se recomienda administrar la menor dosis eficaz, de forma hospitalaria y precoz para obtener mejores resultados.

[Mesenteric cysts in children]. / Quistes mesentéricos en la edad pediátrica: ¿qué son en realidad?

OBJECTIVES: Mesenteric cysts (MC) are benign cystic tumors that grow within mesentery or omentum tissue. We have reviewed the cases of MC reported and operated on in our centre. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective review of clinical records of MC cases during the period 2002-2012 RESULTS: A total of 7 patients were found. Mean age was 5.3 years (range 3-11). Abdominal ultrasound was the diagnostic tool in all cases, except for one, which was diagnosed during laparotomy. All presented abdominal pain, 5 (71.4%) vomiting, 4 (57%) gross abdominal distension, 3 (42.8%) fever, and none presented complete abdominal obstruction, although 2 patients (28.6%) had slight sub-occlusion symptoms. All MC were pedicled or sesil, except for our last case, which extended into the retroperitoneum. All specimens were reported as Limphatic Malformation. None recurred. CONCLUSIONS: MC in children are mostly Lymphatic Malformations of mesentery or omentum origin, and clinical presentation varies from chronic abdominal pain to sudden-onset peritonitis or volvulus. About 50-60% require intestinal resection and anastomosis.

Rápida respuesta de hemangioma hepático multifocal al tratamiento con propranolol / Rapid response of a multifocal liver hemangioma to propranolol treatment

No disponible

Modulation of the ASK1-MKK3/6-p38/MAPK signalling pathway mediates sildenafil protection against chemical hypoxia caused by malonate.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: PD5 inhibitors have recently been reported to exert beneficial effects against ischaemia-reperfusion injury in several organs. However, there are few studies regarding their neuroprotective effects in brain ischaemia. The present study was designed to assess the effects of sildenafil against chemical hypoxia induced by malonate. Intrastriatal injection of malonate produces energy depletion and striatal lesions similar to that seen in cerebral ischaemia through mechanisms that involve generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH: Volume lesion was analysed by cytochrome oxidase histochemistry. Generation of reactive species was determined by in situ visualization of superoxide production and nitrotyrosine measurement. Protein levels were determined by Western blot after subcellular fractionation. KEY RESULTS: Sildenafil, given 30 min before malonate, significantly decreased the lesion volume in the rat. This protective effect cannot be attributed to any effect on ROS production but to the inhibition of downstream pathways. Thus, malonate induced the activation of apoptosis signal-regulating kinase-1 (ASK1) and two MAPK kinases, MKK3/6 and MKK7, which lead to an increased phosphorylation of JNK and p38 MAPK, effects that were blocked by sildenafil. Selective inhibitors of p38 and JNK (SB203580 or SP600125, respectively) were used in combination with malonate in order to evaluate the plausible implication of these pathways in the protection afforded by sildenafil. While inhibition of p38 provided a significant protection against malonate-induced neurotoxicity, inhibition of JNK did not. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: Sildenafil protects against the chemical hypoxia induced by malonate through the regulation of the ASK1-MKK3/6-p38/MAPK signalling pathway.

Sildenafil restores cognitive function without affecting ß-amyloid burden in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Inhibitors of phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) affect signalling pathways by elevating cGMP, which is a second messenger involved in processes of neuroplasticity. In the present study, the effects of the PDE5 inhibitor, sildenafil, on the pathological features of Alzheimer's disease and on memory-related behaviour were investigated. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH: Sildenafil was administered to the Tg2576 transgenic mouse model of Alzheimer's disease and to age-matched negative littermates (controls). Memory function was analysed using the Morris water maze test and fear conditioning tasks. Biochemical analyses were performed in brain lysates from animals treated with saline or with sildenafil. KEY RESULTS: Treatment of aged Tg2576 animals with sildenafil completely reversed their cognitive impairment. Such changes were accompanied in the hippocampus by a reduction of tau hyperphosphorylation and a decrease in the activity of glycogen synthase kinase 3ß (GSK3ß) and of cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (CDK5) (p25/p35 ratio). Moreover, sildenafil also increased levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and the activity-regulated cytoskeletal-associated protein (Arc) in the hippocampus without any detectable modification of brain amyloid burden. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: Sildenafil improved cognitive functions in Tg2576 mice and the effect was not related to changes in the amyloid burden. These data further strengthen the potential of sildenafil as a therapeutic agent for Alzheimer's disease.