Surgery in Bilateral Wilms Tumor-A Single-Center Experience.

The treatment of bilateral Wilms tumors (BWT) involves curing the cancer, preserving long-term renal function, and maintaining a good quality of life. Established methods for achieving these goals include preoperative chemotherapy and nephron-sparing surgery (NSS). This study aimed to evaluate the experience of a single institution in treating patients with BWT. We analyzed cases of BWT treated at the Pediatric Oncology Institute-GRAACC-Federal University of São Paulo over a period of 35 years. Bleeding control was performed with manual compression of the renal parenchyma. Thirty-three patients were included in the study. Thirty cases were synchronous tumors. The mean age at diagnosis was 30.4 months (±22 m) and 66.7% were girls. The median follow-up period was 83 months. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy was the primary approach in most patients (87.9%), with a simultaneous upfront surgical approach performed in 84.8%. Most patients underwent bilateral NSS (70.4%). There were no early complications in this series, but 39.4% had clinical complications. The five-year survival rate was 76%. Therefore, it is clear that the surgical approach to BWT plays a crucial role in achieving good outcomes. However, it is difficult to standardize surgical techniques and technology may have the potential to enhance safety.

Limitations of using the DATASUS database as a primary source of data in surgical research: a scoping review.

OBJECTIVE: DATASUS is the Brazilian Public Unified Health System (SUS) department responsible for providing health data that are used as a primary source of data in several studies on surgery and surgical specialties although its main limitations have not been previously reviewed. The objective of this work is to synthesize information from studies on surgery that used DATASUS systems as a data source and to identify the main gaps in this platform. METHODS: a scoping review was conducted according to the PRISMA-ScR method to identify papers on surgery, and other surgical specialties, that used the DATASUS platform as a primary data source. No restrictions were imposed regarding the type of study or year of publication. Grounded Theory was used to analyze the content of the articles. RESULTS: 248 works were initially analyzed and 47 were included in the final analysis of this study. The original articles included were published between 2009 and 2022 and the majority (12.76%, n=6) were published in the Journal of the Brazilian College of Surgeons. Retrospective studies (40.43%, n=19) were the most common type of study found. Content analysis of the articles identified four predominant domains in the scientific literature about the limitations of using DATASUS in surgical research: lack of data, reliability, precision and data integration. CONCLUSION: the information systems available in DATASUS are the largest source of information about the SUS, but the scientific literature on the quality of data available in these systems remains scarce and studies aimed at measuring this metric are necessary.

Limitations of using the DATASUS database as a primary source of data in surgical research: a scoping review / Limitações do uso da base de dados DATASUS como fonte primária de dados em pesquisas em cirurgia: uma revisão de escopo

ABSTRACT Objective: DATASUS is the Brazilian Public Unified Health System (SUS) department responsible for providing health data that are used as a primary source of data in several studies on surgery and surgical specialties although its main limitations have not been previously reviewed. The objective of this work is to synthesize information from studies on surgery that used DATASUS systems as a data source and to identify the main gaps in this platform. Methods: a scoping review was conducted according to the PRISMA-ScR method to identify papers on surgery, and other surgical specialties, that used the DATASUS platform as a primary data source. No restrictions were imposed regarding the type of study or year of publication. Grounded Theory was used to analyze the content of the articles. Results: 248 works were initially analyzed and 47 were included in the final analysis of this study. The original articles included were published between 2009 and 2022 and the majority (12.76%, n=6) were published in the Journal of the Brazilian College of Surgeons. Retrospective studies (40.43%, n=19) were the most common type of study found. Content analysis of the articles identified four predominant domains in the scientific literature about the limitations of using DATASUS in surgical research: lack of data, reliability, precision and data integration. Conclusion: the information systems available in DATASUS are the largest source of information about the SUS, but the scientific literature on the quality of data available in these systems remains scarce and studies aimed at measuring this metric are necessary.

RESUMO Objetivo: o DATASUS é o departamento do SUS responsável por disponibilizar dados de saúde que são empregados como fonte primária de dados em diversos estudos sobre cirurgia e especialidades cirúrgicas, embora principais limitações não tenham sido revisadas anteriormente. O objetivo deste trabalho é sintetizar as informações de estudos sobre cirurgia que utilizaram sistemas do DATASUS como fonte de dados, identificando as principais lacunas. Métodos: uma revisão de escopo foi conduzida de acordo com o método PRISMA-ScR para a identificação de trabalhos sobre cirurgia, e outras especialidade cirúrgicas, que utilizaram a plataforma DATASUS como fonte primária de dados. Nenhuma restrição foi imposta em relação ao tipo de estudo ou ano de publicação. A Teoria Fundamentada em Dados foi utilizada para a análise do conteúdo dos artigos. Resultados: 248 trabalhos foram inicialmente analisados e 47 foram incluídos na análise final deste estudo. Os artigos originais incluídos foram publicados entre 2009 e 2022, maioria (12,76%, n=6) foi publicada na Revista do Colégio Brasileiro de Cirurgiões. Estudos retrospectivos (40,43%, n=19) foram o tipo de estudo mais comum encontrado. A análise dos artigos identificou quatro domínios predominantes na literatura científica acerca das limitações do uso de DATASUS em pesquisas em cirurgia: falta de dados, confiabilidade, precisão e integralização dos dados. Conclusão: os sistemas de informação dispostos no DATASUS constituem a maior fonte de informações sobre o SUS, porém a literatura científica sobre a qualidade dos dados dispostos nestes sistemas permanece escassa e trabalhos direcionados a mensurar essa métrica são necessários.

Prognostic factors in treatment of traumatic femoropopliteal arterial injuries at a Brazilian trauma center.

Background: Despite significant improvements in outcomes, traumatic arterial limb injuries remain a significant cause of limb loss and mortality. Objectives: This study sought to identify predictors of mortality and major amputation in patients undergoing revascularization after femoropopliteal arterial trauma. Methods: This was a retrospective review of a trauma registry from an urban trauma center in Brazil. All patients admitted to our hospital with a femoropopliteal arterial injury from November 2012 to December 2017 who underwent vascular reconstruction were included. Univariate analyses and logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify factors independently associated with the primary outcome of amputation and the secondary outcome of mortality. Results: Ninety-six patients were included. Eleven patients (11.5%) had an amputation and 14 (14.6%) died. In the logistic regression model for amputation, patients with ischemia duration greater than 6 hours were approximately 10 times more likely to undergo an amputation compared to those with ischemia duration less than or equal to 6 hours (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) [95% confidence interval (CI)]: 9.6 [1.2-79.9]). The logistic regression model for mortality revealed that patients with ischemia duration greater than 6 hours were approximately 6 times more likely to die compared to those with ischemia duration less than or equal to 6 hours (AOR [95% CI]: 5.6 [1.3 to 24.7). Conclusions: Ischemia duration remains the most important factor independently associated with limb loss and mortality for patients undergoing femoropopliteal arterial revascularization after traumatic injuries. Physiological status on admission and trauma scores are also important.

Contexto: As lesões arteriais traumáticas de membros ainda permanecem uma causa significativa de perda de membros e mortalidade, apesar de melhorias significativas observadas nos resultados após a ocorrências dessas lesões. Objetivos: Este estudo buscou identificar preditores de mortalidade e amputações em pacientes submetidos à revascularização após trauma arterial femoropoplíteo. Métodos: Esta é uma revisão de um Registro de Trauma Vascular. Todos os pacientes com lesão arterial femoropoplítea internados em nosso hospital de novembro de 2012 a dezembro de 2017 e submetidos a reconstrução vascular foram incluídos. Análises univariadas, seguidas de análises de regressão logística, foram realizadas para identificar fatores independentemente associados com os resultados primários de amputação e mortalidade. Resultados: Foram incluídos 96 pacientes, com média de 27 anos. O Revised Trauma Score (RTS) foi, em média, 7,152; já o Injury Severity Score (ISS) foi, em média, 15. Onze pacientes (11,5%) tiveram amputação, e 14 pacientes (14,6%) morreram. Observou-se que pacientes com o tempo de isquemia maior que 6 horas apresentaram aproximadamente 10 vezes mais chance de amputação do que aqueles com tempo igual ou menor que 6 horas (intervalo de confiança de 95% [IC95%]: 1,2 a 79,9). O tempo de isquemia maior que 6 horas aumentou em aproximadamente 6 vezes a chance de mortalidade (IC95%: 1,26 a 24,77). A instabilidade hemodinâmica aumentou em 9 vezes a chance de mortalidade (IC95%: 2,36 a 36,67). Conclusões: O tempo de isquemia continua sendo o fator mais importante independentemente associado a amputação e óbito em pacientes submetidos à revascularização arterial femoropoplítea após traumas. O estado fisiológico e os escores de trauma são importantes.

Thyroid cancer in children: A multicenter international study highlighting clinical features and surgical outcomes of primary and secondary tumors.

Background: Thyroid gland malignancies are rare in pediatric patients (0.7% of tumors); only 1.8% are observed in patients aged <20 years, with a higher prevalence recorded in women and adolescents. Risk factors include genetic syndromes, MEN disorders, autoimmune diseases, and exposure to ionizing radiation. Radiotherapy is also associated with an increased risk of secondary thyroid cancer. This study describes the clinical features and surgical outcomes of primary and secondary thyroid tumors in pediatric patients. Methods: Institutional data were collected from eight international surgical oncology centers for pediatric patients with thyroid cancer between 2000 and 2020. Statistical analyses were performed using the GraphPad Prism software. Results: Among 255 total cases of thyroid cancer, only 13 (5.1%) were secondary tumors. Primary thyroid malignancies were more likely to be multifocal in origin (odds ratio [OR] 1.993, 95% confidence interval [CI].7466-5.132, p = 0.2323), have bilateral glandular location (OR 2.847, 95% CI.6835-12.68, p = 0.2648), and be metastatic at first diagnosis (OR 1.259, 95% CI.3267-5.696, p > 0.999). Secondary tumors showed a higher incidence of disease relapse (OR 1.556, 95% CI.4579-5.57, p = 0.4525) and surgical complications (OR 2.042, 95% CI 0.7917-5.221, p = 0.1614), including hypoparathyroidism and recurrent laryngeal nerve injury. The overall survival (OS) was 99% at 1 year and 97% after 10 years. No EFS differences were evident between the primary and secondary tumors (chi-square 0.7307, p = 0.39026). Conclusions: This multicenter study demonstrated excellent survival in pediatric thyroid malignancies. Secondary tumors exhibited greater disease relapse (15.8 vs. 10.5%) and a higher incidence of surgical complications (36.8 vs. 22.2%).

Lessons Learned From Treating 114 Inferior Vena Cava Injuries at a Limited Resources Environment - A Single Center Experience.

BACKGROUND: The inferior vena cava is the most frequently injured vascular structure in penetrating abdominal trauma. We aimed to review inferior vena cava injury cases treated at a limited resources facility and to discuss the surgical management for such injures. METHODS: This was a retrospective study of patients with inferior vena cava injuries who were treated at a single center between January 2011 and January 2020. Data pertaining to the following were assessed: demographic parameters, hypovolemic shock at admission, the distance that the patient had to be transported to reach the hospital, affected anatomical segment, treatment, concomitant injuries, complications, and mortality. Non-parametric data were analyzed using Fisher's exact, Chi-square, Mann-Whitney, or Kruskal-Wallis test, as applicable. The Student's t-test was used to assess parametric data. Moreover, multiple logistic regression analyses (including data of possible death-related variables) were performed. Statistical significance was set at P <0.05. RESULTS: Among 114 patients with inferior vena cava injuries, 90.4% were male, and the majority were aged 20-29 years. Penetrating injuries accounted for 98.2% of the injuries, and the infrarenal segment was affected in 52.7% of the patients. Suturing was perfomed in 69.5% and cava ligation in 29.5% of the patients, and 1 patient with retrohepatic vena cava injury was managed non-operatively. The overall mortality was 52.6% with no case of compartment syndrome in the limbs. A total of 7.9% of the patients died during surgery. CONCLUSION: The inferior vena cava is often injured by penetrating mechanisms, and the most frequently affected segment was the infrarenal segment. A higher probability of death was not associated with injury to a specific anatomical segment. Additionally, cava ligation was not related to an increased probability of compartment syndrome in the leg; therefore, prophylactic fasciotomy was not supported.

Prognostic factors in treatment of traumatic femoropopliteal arterial injuries at a Brazilian trauma center / Fatores prognósticos no tratamento de lesão traumática arterial femoropoplítea em um centro de trauma brasileiro

Abstract Background Despite significant improvements in outcomes, traumatic arterial limb injuries remain a significant cause of limb loss and mortality. Objectives This study sought to identify predictors of mortality and major amputation in patients undergoing revascularization after femoropopliteal arterial trauma. Methods This was a retrospective review of a trauma registry from an urban trauma center in Brazil. All patients admitted to our hospital with a femoropopliteal arterial injury from November 2012 to December 2017 who underwent vascular reconstruction were included. Univariate analyses and logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify factors independently associated with the primary outcome of amputation and the secondary outcome of mortality. Results Ninety-six patients were included. Eleven patients (11.5%) had an amputation and 14 (14.6%) died. In the logistic regression model for amputation, patients with ischemia duration greater than 6 hours were approximately 10 times more likely to undergo an amputation compared to those with ischemia duration less than or equal to 6 hours (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) [95% confidence interval (CI)]: 9.6 [1.2-79.9]). The logistic regression model for mortality revealed that patients with ischemia duration greater than 6 hours were approximately 6 times more likely to die compared to those with ischemia duration less than or equal to 6 hours (AOR [95% CI]: 5.6 [1.3 to 24.7). Conclusions Ischemia duration remains the most important factor independently associated with limb loss and mortality for patients undergoing femoropopliteal arterial revascularization after traumatic injuries. Physiological status on admission and trauma scores are also important.

Resumo Contexto As lesões arteriais traumáticas de membros ainda permanecem uma causa significativa de perda de membros e mortalidade, apesar de melhorias significativas observadas nos resultados após a ocorrências dessas lesões. Objetivos Este estudo buscou identificar preditores de mortalidade e amputações em pacientes submetidos à revascularização após trauma arterial femoropoplíteo. Métodos Esta é uma revisão de um Registro de Trauma Vascular. Todos os pacientes com lesão arterial femoropoplítea internados em nosso hospital de novembro de 2012 a dezembro de 2017 e submetidos a reconstrução vascular foram incluídos. Análises univariadas, seguidas de análises de regressão logística, foram realizadas para identificar fatores independentemente associados com os resultados primários de amputação e mortalidade. Resultados Foram incluídos 96 pacientes, com média de 27 anos. O Revised Trauma Score (RTS) foi, em média, 7,152; já o Injury Severity Score (ISS) foi, em média, 15. Onze pacientes (11,5%) tiveram amputação, e 14 pacientes (14,6%) morreram. Observou-se que pacientes com o tempo de isquemia maior que 6 horas apresentaram aproximadamente 10 vezes mais chance de amputação do que aqueles com tempo igual ou menor que 6 horas (intervalo de confiança de 95% [IC95%]: 1,2 a 79,9). O tempo de isquemia maior que 6 horas aumentou em aproximadamente 6 vezes a chance de mortalidade (IC95%: 1,26 a 24,77). A instabilidade hemodinâmica aumentou em 9 vezes a chance de mortalidade (IC95%: 2,36 a 36,67). Conclusões O tempo de isquemia continua sendo o fator mais importante independentemente associado a amputação e óbito em pacientes submetidos à revascularização arterial femoropoplítea após traumas. O estado fisiológico e os escores de trauma são importantes.

Diagnostic Errors in Wilms' Tumors: Learning From Our Mistakes.

Aim: This study aimed to analyze clinical characteristics and image findings in patients initially diagnosed with renal masses and treated on the Société Internationale d'Oncologie Pédiatrique (SIOP) 2001 protocol for Wilms tumor (WT) that eventually were diagnosed with different pathologies. Methods: We reviewed the preoperative symptoms, laboratory tests, and images of patients who were initially treated for WT and proved to have other diagnoses. Data from these patients were compared to those of the last 10 patients with WT and the last 10 patients with neuroblastoma (NBL) treated at a single institution. Results: From June 2001 to December 2020, we treated 299 patients with NBL and 194 with WT. Five patients treated with preoperative chemotherapy for WT were postoperatively diagnosed with NBL (one patient had bilateral renal masses and one with multifocal xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis). Three underwent nephrectomy, two biopsies only, and one adrenalectomy due to intraoperative characteristics. Regarding clinical presentation, abdominal mass or swelling was very suggestive of WT (p = 0.011); pain, although very prevalent in the study group (67%), was not statistically significant, as well as intratumoral calcifications on computed tomography (CT) (67%). Urinary catecholamines were elevated in all patients mistreated for WT with the exception of the patient with pyelonephritis in which it was not collected. Conclusion: Some pathologies can be misdiagnosed as WT, especially when they present unspecified symptoms and dubious images. Diagnostic accuracy was 98.1%, which highlights the quality of the multidisciplinary team. Abdominal mass or swelling is highly suggestive of WT, especially in the absence of intratumoral calcifications on CT. If possible, urinary catecholamines should be collected at presentation as they help in the differential diagnosis of NBL.

Comparative angiotomographic study of swine vascular anatomy: contributions to research and training models in vascular and endovascular surgery.

BACKGROUND: Medium and large animal models allow researchers to evaluate the efficacy and safety of cardiovascular procedures in systems that resemble human anatomy and can be used to simulate scenarios for training purposes. Although porcine models have been used extensively, many physiological and anatomical features remain unknown or only superficially described. OBJECTIVES: To describe the normal porcine vascular anatomy on computed tomography scans, compare it to human vascular anatomy, and discuss the application of porcine models for open and endovascular procedures. METHODS: Three male Landrace pigs underwent computed tomography. The vascular anatomy of the neck, thorax, abdomen, and limbs was analyzed and described; relevant similarities and differences between porcine and human vascular anatomies and the implications for vascular procedures in pigs are highlighted. RESULTS: The carotid territory, aortic arch, and terminal aorta branches all show marked differences in pigs compared to their human counterparts. Compressions of both left renal and common iliac veins were detected, analogous to those seen in human Nutcracker and May-Thurner syndromes. Vascular measurements (diameters, lengths, and angles) of several different porcine territories are presented. CONCLUSIONS: The data presented should be useful for planning preclinical trials and basic research and for refining surgical training using porcine models in vascular fields.

Management of Adrenal Tumors in Pediatric Patients.

Pediatric adrenal tumors are uncommon entities that are frequently occult and identified incidentally or by recognizing symptoms related to hormone overproduction. They often have a genetic underpinning, arise from the medulla or cortex, can be malignant or benign, and require precise diagnostic algorithms. However, pseudotumors must also be a diagnostic consideration. Therapeutic interventions and plans are tumor dependent, but surgery is a cornerstone of treatment. Ongoing surveillance after treatment, regardless of malignant determination, is of utmost importance as well.

Image-guided study of swine anatomy as a tool for urologic surgery research and training.

PURPOSE: To describe the anatomy of the swine urinary system using computed tomography and to discuss the role of this animal as an experimental model for urological procedures. METHODS: Three male Landrace pigs underwent computed tomography and the anatomy of the urinary system and renal circulation was analyzed and described. RESULTS: In all animals, 2 kidneys, 2 ureters and one bladder were identified. Each kidney presented a single renal artery vascularization, with a mean diameter on the right of 4.45 and 5.31 mm on the left (p < 0.0001) and single renal vein drainage, with a mean diameter on the right of 5.78 and 5.82 mm on the left (p = 0.0336). The average renal length was 9.85 cm on the right and 10.30 cm on the left (p < 0.0001). The average renal volume was 113.70 cm3 on the right and 109.70 cm3 on the left (p < 0.0001). The average length of the ureter was 19.78 cm on the right and 22.08 cm on the left (p < 0.0001). The average bladder volume was 423.70 cm3. CONCLUSIONS: The data obtained show similarities with human anatomy, suggesting the viability of the swine model for planning preclinical trials, basic research, refinement in experimental surgery and surgical training for urological procedures.

Management of Pediatric Tumors With Vascular Extension.

Background: Pediatric tumors can present with vascular extension to the inferior vena cava and right atrium, which impacts the surgical strategy and can be challenging during surgical treatment. Wilms tumor (WT) is the most common retroperitoneal tumor that can present with vascular extension, but also adrenal tumors, clear cell tumors from the kidney, and hepatoblastomas can present with this situation. Surgical aims include obtaining complete tumor resection without risk for patients, to avoid severe bleeding, cardiac arrest, and embolization, and to avoid cardiac bypass if possible. Objective: To describe and discuss the surgical strategies to deal with pediatric tumors with vascular extension and propose a protocol. Method: Retrospectivly review the experience of treating patients with vascular extension in a single institution, describing different scenarios and a decision making fluxogram based on the preoperative evaluation regarding the surgical techniques and the need for cardiac bypass that are adequate for each situation. Image studies are important to guide the surgical strategy. Depending on the quality of image available, computerized tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be enough to give the information needed for surgical decisions. Ultrasonography (US) with Doppler is helpful to confirm diagnosis and describes factors to guide the adequate surgical strategy, like the upper level extension and presence or absence of blood flow around the thrombus. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy is indicated in most cases, in order to reduce the upper level of extension (and avoid the need for cardiac bypass) and to lower the risk of embolization. The approach is based on the upper level of the thrombus and can include cavotomy or cavectomy, sometimes with cardiac bypass and cardiac arrest with hypothermia, when the thrombus reaches the diaphragmatic level or above. Pathology analysis of the thrombus can guide staging and the need for radiotherapy postoperatively. Results: A decision making fluxogram protocol is presented focusing on the surgical treatment of such condition. Conclusion: Surgery strategy is highly impacted by the presence of vascular extension in pediatric tumors. Surgeons should be aware of potential complications and how to prevent them. Such cases should be treated in reference centers.

Estudo de anatomia comparada suína por angiotomografia: contribuições para modelos de pesquisa e treinamento em cirurgia vascular e endovascular / Comparative angiotomographic study of swine vascular anatomy: contributions to research and training models in vascular and endovascular surgery

Resumo Contexto Modelos com animais de médio e grande porte permitem que pesquisadores avaliem a eficácia e a segurança de procedimentos cardiovasculares em sistemas que se assemelham à anatomia humana e podem ser usados para simular cenários para fins de treinamento. Embora modelos suínos tenham sido extensivamente utilizados, muitos fatores fisiológicos e anatômicos permanecem desconhecidos ou apenas superficialmente descritos. Objetivos Descrever a anatomia vascular do suíno por tomografia computadorizada, compará-la à anatomia humana e discutir a aplicação dos modelos porcinos em procedimentos abertos e endovasculares. Métodos Três porcos machos da raça Landrace foram submetidos a tomografia computadorizada. A anatomia vascular de pescoço, tórax, abdome e membros foi analisada e descrita; foram destacadas similaridades e divergências relevantes entre a anatomia vascular de suínos e de humanos e as implicações em procedimentos vasculares nos suínos. Resultados O território carotídeo, o arco aórtico e os ramos terminais da aorta em suínos apresentaram diferenças marcantes quando comparados aos de humanos. Foram detectadas compressões de veias renal e ilíaca comum, ambas à esquerda, semelhantes às encontradas nas síndromes humanas de Nutcracker e May-Thurner. Medidas vasculares (diâmetro, comprimento e ângulos) de diferentes topografias de suínos foram fornecidas. Conclusões Os dados fornecidos podem ser úteis para o planejamento de ensaios pré-clínicos e pesquisa básica, bem como para o refinamento do treinamento cirúrgico usando modelos suínos no campo da cirurgia vascular.

Abstract Background Medium and large animal models allow researchers to evaluate the efficacy and safety of cardiovascular procedures in systems that resemble human anatomy and can be used to simulate scenarios for training purposes. Although porcine models have been used extensively, many physiological and anatomical features remain unknown or only superficially described. Objectives To describe the normal porcine vascular anatomy on computed tomography scans, compare it to human vascular anatomy, and discuss the application of porcine models for open and endovascular procedures. Methods Three male Landrace pigs underwent computed tomography. The vascular anatomy of the neck, thorax, abdomen, and limbs was analyzed and described; relevant similarities and differences between porcine and human vascular anatomies and the implications for vascular procedures in pigs are highlighted. Results The carotid territory, aortic arch, and terminal aorta branches all show marked differences in pigs compared to their human counterparts. Compressions of both left renal and common iliac veins were detected, analogous to those seen in human Nutcracker and May-Thurner syndromes. Vascular measurements (diameters, lengths, and angles) of several different porcine territories are presented. Conclusions The data presented should be useful for planning preclinical trials and basic research and for refining surgical training using porcine models in vascular fields.

Pediatric trauma primary survey performance among surgical and non-surgical pediatric providers in a Brazilian trauma center.

INTRODUCTION: Trauma is the leading cause of death and disability among Brazilian children and adolescents. Trauma protocols such as those developed by the Advanced Trauma Life Support course are widely taught, but few studies have assessed the degree to which the use of protocolized trauma assessment improves outcomes. This study aims to quantify the adherence of trauma assessment protocols among different types of frontline trauma providers. METHODS: A prospective observational study of pediatric trauma care in one of the busiest Latin American trauma centers was conducted during 6 months. Trauma primary survey assessments were observed and adherence to each step of a standardized primary assessment protocol was recorded. Adherence to the assessment protocol was compared among different types of providers, the time of presentation and severity of injury. The relationship between protocol adherence and clinical outcomes including mortality, length of hospital stay, admission to pediatric intensive care unit, use of blood components, mechanical ventilation and number of imaging exams performed in the first 24 hours were also assessed. RESULTS: Emergency department evaluations of 64 patients out of 274 pediatric admissions were observed over a period of 6 months. 50% of the primary assessments were performed by general surgeons, 34.4% by residents in general surgery and 15.6% by pediatricians. There was an average adherence rate of 34.1% to the trauma protocol. Adherence among each specific step included airway: 17.2%; breathing: 59.4%; circulation: 95.3%; disability: 28.8%; exposure: 18.8%. No differences between specialties were observed. Patients with a more thorough primary assessment underwent fewer CT scans (receiver operating characteristic curve area: 0.661; p=0.027). CONCLUSIONS: Our study demonstrates that trauma assessment protocol adherence among trauma providers is low. Thorough initial assessment reduced the use of CT scans suggesting that standardized pediatric trauma assessments may be a way to reduce unnecessary radiological imaging among children. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV. STUDY TYPE: Pediatric and global trauma.

Image-guided study of swine anatomy as a tool for urologic surgery research and training

Abstract Purpose: To describe the anatomy of the swine urinary system using computed tomography and to discuss the role of this animal as an experimental model for urological procedures. Methods: Three male Landrace pigs underwent computed tomography and the anatomy of the urinary system and renal circulation was analyzed and described. Results: In all animals, 2 kidneys, 2 ureters and one bladder were identified. Each kidney presented a single renal artery vascularization, with a mean diameter on the right of 4.45 and 5.31 mm on the left (p < 0.0001) and single renal vein drainage, with a mean diameter on the right of 5.78 and 5.82 mm on the left (p = 0.0336). The average renal length was 9.85 cm on the right and 10.30 cm on the left (p < 0.0001). The average renal volume was 113.70 cm3 on the right and 109.70 cm3 on the left (p < 0.0001). The average length of the ureter was 19.78 cm on the right and 22.08 cm on the left (p < 0.0001). The average bladder volume was 423.70 cm3. Conclusions: The data obtained show similarities with human anatomy, suggesting the viability of the swine model for planning preclinical trials, basic research, refinement in experimental surgery and surgical training for urological procedures.

Development and validation of a questionnaire to assess the knowledge of mechanical ventilation in urgent care among students in their last-year medical course in Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: To develop and validate a questionnaire to assess the knowledge of mechanical ventilation among final-year medical students in Brazil. METHODS: A cross-sectional study conducted between October 2015 and October 2017 involving 554 medical students was carried out to develop a questionnaire for assessing knowledge on mechanical ventilation. Reproducibility was evaluated with the intraclass correlation coefficient, internal consistency was evaluated with Cronbach's alpha, and construct validation was evaluated with a tetrachoric exploratory factor analysis. To compare the means of the competences among the same type of assessment tool, the nonparametric Friedman test was used, and the identification of the differences was obtained with Dunn-Bonferroni tests. RESULTS: The final version of the questionnaire contained 19 questions. The instrument presented a clarity index of 8.94±0.83. The value of the intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.929, and Cronbach's alpha was 0.831. The factor analysis revealed five factors associated with knowledge areas regarding mechanical ventilation. The final score among participants was 24.05%. CONCLUSION: The instrument has a satisfactory clarity index and adequate psychometric properties and can be used to assess the knowledge of mechanical ventilation among final-year medical students in Brazil.

The use of computed tomography for penetrating heart injury screening. / O uso da tomografia computadorizada na triagem da lesão cardíaca penetrante.

OBJECTIVE: to determine if computed tomography represents a safe option for penetrating heart injury screening. METHODS: retrospective transversal study which confronted tomographic findings with the ones detected in surgical exploration in patients that had undergone surgery because of suspected cardiac trauma from January, 2016 to January, 2018. RESULTS: seventy-two cases were analysed; 97.2% of them were males, and the most prevalent age range was 20 to 29 years; 56.9% of them presented injuries caused by firearm shots and 43.1% by cutting weapons. In 20 cases, computed tomography suggested heart injury, confirmed in 13 cases during surgery. Sensitivity of computed tomography was 56.5%, reaching a specificity of 85.7%. CONCLUSION: computed tomography must not be adopted as a routine for the screening of penetrating heart injuries.

OBJETIVO: determinar se a tomografia computadorizada representa uma opção segura para triagem de lesões cardíacas penetrantes. MÉTODOS: estudo transversal retrospectivo, que confrontou os achados tomográficos com os detectados na exploração cirúrgica em pacientes operados por suspeita de trauma cardíaco no período de janeiro de 2016 a janeiro de 2018. RESULTADOS: setenta e dois casos foram analisados; 97,2% eram do sexo masculino e a faixa etária mais prevalente foi de 20 a 29 anos; 56,9% apresentaram ferimentos por projéteis de arma de fogo e 43,1% por arma branca. Em 20 casos, a tomografia computadorizada foi sugestiva de lesão cardíaca, confirmada em 13 casos durante a cirurgia. A sensibilidade da tomografia computadorizada foi de 56,5% e a especificidade de 85,7%. CONCLUSÃO: a tomografia computadorizada não deve ser adotada rotineiramente para triagem de ferimentos cardíacos penetrantes.

O uso da tomografia computadorizada na triagem da lesão cardíaca penetrante / The use of computed tomography for penetrating heart injury screening

RESUMO Objetivo: determinar se a tomografia computadorizada representa uma opção segura para triagem de lesões cardíacas penetrantes. Métodos: estudo transversal retrospectivo, que confrontou os achados tomográficos com os detectados na exploração cirúrgica em pacientes operados por suspeita de trauma cardíaco no período de janeiro de 2016 a janeiro de 2018. Resultados: setenta e dois casos foram analisados; 97,2% eram do sexo masculino e a faixa etária mais prevalente foi de 20 a 29 anos; 56,9% apresentaram ferimentos por projéteis de arma de fogo e 43,1% por arma branca. Em 20 casos, a tomografia computadorizada foi sugestiva de lesão cardíaca, confirmada em 13 casos durante a cirurgia. A sensibilidade da tomografia computadorizada foi de 56,5% e a especificidade de 85,7%. Conclusão: a tomografia computadorizada não deve ser adotada rotineiramente para triagem de ferimentos cardíacos penetrantes.

ABSTRACT Objective: to determine if computed tomography represents a safe option for penetrating heart injury screening. Methods: retrospective transversal study which confronted tomographic findings with the ones detected in surgical exploration in patients that had undergone surgery because of suspected cardiac trauma from January, 2016 to January, 2018. Results: seventy-two cases were analysed; 97.2% of them were males, and the most prevalent age range was 20 to 29 years; 56.9% of them presented injuries caused by firearm shots and 43.1% by cutting weapons. In 20 cases, computed tomography suggested heart injury, confirmed in 13 cases during surgery. Sensitivity of computed tomography was 56.5%, reaching a specificity of 85.7%. Conclusion: computed tomography must not be adopted as a routine for the screening of penetrating heart injuries.

Development and validation of a questionnaire to assess the knowledge of mechanical ventilation in urgent care among students in their last-year medical course in Brazil

OBJECTIVE: To develop and validate a questionnaire to assess the knowledge of mechanical ventilation among final-year medical students in Brazil. METHODS: A cross-sectional study conducted between October 2015 and October 2017 involving 554 medical students was carried out to develop a questionnaire for assessing knowledge on mechanical ventilation. Reproducibility was evaluated with the intraclass correlation coefficient, internal consistency was evaluated with Cronbach's alpha, and construct validation was evaluated with a tetrachoric exploratory factor analysis. To compare the means of the competences among the same type of assessment tool, the nonparametric Friedman test was used, and the identification of the differences was obtained with Dunn-Bonferroni tests. RESULTS: The final version of the questionnaire contained 19 questions. The instrument presented a clarity index of 8.94±0.83. The value of the intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.929, and Cronbach's alpha was 0.831. The factor analysis revealed five factors associated with knowledge areas regarding mechanical ventilation. The final score among participants was 24.05%. CONCLUSION: The instrument has a satisfactory clarity index and adequate psychometric properties and can be used to assess the knowledge of mechanical ventilation among final-year medical students in Brazil.

Vascular trauma in the Amazon: updating the challenge. / Trauma vascular na Amazônia: atualizando o desafio.

OBJECTIVE: to evaluate the epidemiological data of patients operated on due to vascular trauma at a referral hospital in Pará state, to determine the variables that increase the risk of death, and to make a comparative analysis with the results previously published by the same institution. METHODS: an analytical retrospective study was performed through data collection from patients operated due to vascular injuries, between March 2013 and March 2017. Demographic and epidemiological data, such as the mechanism and topography of the lesion, distance between the trauma site and the hospital, and type of treatment and complications, were analyzed. Multivariate analysis and logistic regression studies were performed, to evaluate significant dependence between some variables and death occurrence. RESULTS: two hundred and eighty eight patients with 430 lesions were studied; 92.7% were male, 49.7% were between 25 and 49 years old; 47.2% of all injuries were caused by firearm projectiles; 47.2% of the lesions were located in the upper limbs, 42.7% in the lower limbs, 8% in the cervical region, 3.1% in the thoracic region, and 0.7% in the abdominal region; 52.8% of the patients were hospitalized for seven days or less. Amputation was required in 6.9% of patients and there was mortality in 7.93% of the cases. CONCLUSION: distances greater than 200km were associated with prolonged hospitalization and greater probability of limb amputation. Significant correlation between death occurrence and arterial injury, vascular injury in the cervical region, and vascular injury in the thoracic region was found.

OBJETIVO: avaliar dados epidemiológicos dos pacientes operados por trauma vascular em hospital de referência para traumatismos vasculares do Estado do Pará, determinar as variáveis que aumentam o risco de óbito e fazer uma análise comparativa com os resultados previamente publicados pela mesma instituição. MÉTODOS: estudo retrospectivo analítico realizado através da coleta de dados de pacientes operados por lesões vasculares, entre março de 2013 e março de 2017. Foram analisados dados demográficos e epidemiológicos, como o mecanismo e topografia da lesão, distância entre o local do trauma e o hospital, tipo de tratamento e complicações. Foi feito ainda o estudo de uma matriz de correlação com regressão logística entre as variáveis e a ocorrência de óbito. RESULTADOS: foram estudados 288 pacientes, com 430 lesões; 92,7% era do sexo masculino, 49,7% entre 25 e 49 anos de idade; 47,2% das lesões foi ocasionada por projéteis de arma de fogo; 47,2% das lesões situava-se nos membros superiores, 42,7% nos membros inferiores, 8% em região cervical, 3,1% torácicas e 0,7% abdominais; 52,8% dos pacientes teve hospitalização por sete dias ou menos. Amputação foi necessária em 6,9% e a mortalidade foi 7,93%. CONCLUSÃO: distâncias superiores a 200km foram associadas à internação prolongada e maior probabilidade de amputação de membros. Foi encontrada correlação significativa entre a ocorrência de óbito e o fato de haver lesão arterial, lesão vascular na topografia cervical e lesão vascular na topografia torácica.