The effect of enhanced recovery after lung cancer surgery combined with fine surgical nursing on rehabilitation.

Objectives: To analyse the enhanced recovery after surgery approach combined with fine surgical nursing on recovery time, pain, sleep quality and satisfaction with care after lung cancer surgery. METHODS: The cross-sectional study was conducted at the Nanjing Chest Hospital, China, from October 2019 to March 2022, and comprised non-small cell lung cancer patients undergoing single-port video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery. Patients receiving fine surgical nursing in addition to conventional enhanced recovery after surgery formed the intervention group A, while those receiving the conventional enhanced recovery after surgery care alone formed control group B. Intraoperative blood loss, operative time, extubation time and length of stay values were noted for both the groups using standard scales. Nursing satisfaction and the incidence of adverse reactions in the two groups were also noted. Data was analysed using SPSS 23. RESULTS: Of the 99 patients, 46(46.5%) were in group A; 23(50%) males and 23(50%) females with mean age 70.3±4.8 years and mean body mass index 26.76±2.55kg/m2. There were 53(53.5%) patients in group B: 16(30.2%) males and 37(69.8%) females with mean age 69.9±4.4 years and mean body mass index 25.93±2.40kg/m2 (p>0.05). Intraoperative blood loss, operative time, postoperative extubation time and length of stay in group A were lower than those in group B (p<0.05). Pain and sleep quality values in group A were lower, while health status value was higher than group B (p<0.05). Group A had significantly higher nursing satisfaction compared to group B (p<0.05). Conclusion: The use of enhanced recovery after surgery combined with fine surgical nursing in patients with nonsmall cell lung cancer after video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery promoted postoperative recovery.

Neumotórax catamenial con fuga aérea persistente / Catamenial pneumothorax with persistent air leak

El neumotórax catamenial (NC) es aquel neumotórax espontáneo y recurrente que se presenta en mujeres en edad reproductiva y en relación temporal con la menstruación. Se han descrito múltiples variaciones en cuanto a la relación temporal, aunque suele producirse 24 horas antes del inicio de la menstruación o 72 horas después. Su consideración de patología poco frecuente podría deberse a que sea infradiagnosticada debido a la falta de conocimiento. El diagnóstico de NC no suele ser fácil; depende principalmente de la historia clínica pero también puede ser un diagnóstico quirúrgico o histopatológico. Las estrategias de manejo del NC pueden incluir cualquier combinación de terapia hormonal, pleurodesis, resección de parénquima pulmonar y resección/reparación del diafragma. Se presenta este caso de neumotórax catamenial de manifestación atípica para resaltar la importancia de tener un adecuado conocimiento de esta enfermedad que, por su aparente baja incidencia, puede pasar desapercibida. (AU)

Catamenial pneumothorax is a spontaneous recurrent pneumothorax that occurs in women of reproductive age and in temporal relationship with the menses. It usually occurs within 24 hours before or 72 hours after the start of the menstrual cycle; however, multiple variations have been described in terms of the temporal relationship. To date, it is considered a rare condition; this may be justified by the limited available knowledge on this disease leading to mis-diagnosis. Often, making a diagnosis of catamenial pneumo-thorax is complicated; it mainly depends on the medical history; also, it may be a surgical or histopathological diagnosis. Management strategies for catamenial pneumothorax may include combinations of hormonal therapy, pleurodesis, lung parenchyma resection, and diaphragm resection/repair.The aim of reporting this atypical case of catamenial pneumothorax is to highlight the relevance of having the adequate knowledge on this entity so it does not go unnoticed despite its apparent low incidence. (AU)

Postoperative computed tomography of insufflated lung specimens obtained by video-assisted thoracic surgery: detection and margin assessment of pulmonary nodules / Tomografia computadorizada pós-operatória de espécimes pulmonares insuflados após cirurgia torácica videoassistida: detecção e avaliação de margens de nódulos pulmonares

Abstract Objective: To investigate the utility of computed tomography (CT) scans to detect and assess the margin status of pulmonary nodules that were insufflated after being resected by video-assisted thoracic surgery. Materials and Methods: This was a novel multicenter study conducted at two national referral centers for thoracic diseases. Patients suspected of having lung cancer underwent video-assisted thoracic surgery for the resection of pulmonary nodules, which were submitted to postoperative CT. Measurements from the CT scans were compared with the results of the histopathological analysis. Results: A total of 37 pulmonary nodules from 37 patients were evaluated. The mean age of the patients was 65 years (range, 36-84 years), and 27 (73%) were female. A CT analysis of insufflated specimens identified all 37 nodules, and 33 of those nodules were found to have tumor-free margins. The histopathological analysis revealed lung cancer in 30 of the nodules, all with tumor-free margins, and benign lesions in the seven remaining nodules. Conclusion: Postoperative CT of insufflated suspicious lung lesions provides real-time detection of pulmonary nodules and satisfactory assessment of tumor margins. This initial study shows that CT of insufflated lung lesions can be a valuable tool at centers where intraoperative histopathological analysis is unavailable.

Resumo Objetivo: Investigar a utilidade da tomografia computadorizada (TC) para a detecção e avaliação de margens de nódulos pulmonares que foram insuflados após ressecção por cirurgia torácica videoassistida. Materiais e Métodos: Um inédito estudo multicêntrico foi conduzido em dois centros de referência nacional para doenças torácicas. Nódulos foram ressecados por cirurgia torácica videoassistida de pacientes com suspeita de câncer de pulmão e submetidos a TC pós-operatória. As medidas radiológicas da TC foram comparadas com as da análise patológica. Resultados: Um total de 37 pacientes foi avaliado. A idade média foi de 65 anos (variação: 36-84 anos) e 27 indivíduos (73%) eram do sexo feminino. A análise por TC dos espécimes insuflados identificou todas as 37 lesões e 33 delas com margens livres. A análise patológica revelou 30 casos de câncer de pulmão, todos com margens livres, e sete lesões não malignas. Conclusão: A TC pós-operatória de lesões pulmonares insufladas com suspeita de malignidade provê detecção em tempo real de nódulos pulmonares e aceitável avaliação de margens tumorais. Este estudo inicial demonstra que a TC de lesões pulmonares insufladas pode ser uma ferramenta valiosa em centros em que a análise histopatológica intraoperatória é indisponível.

Marking ground glass nodules with pulmonary nodules localization needle prior to video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of marking ground glass nodules (GGNs) with pulmonary nodules localization needle (PNLN) prior to video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). MATERIALS AND METHODS: From June 2020 to February 2021, all patients with GGNs who received CT-guided localization using PNLN before VATS were enrolled. Clinical and imaging data were retrospectively analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 352 consecutive patients with 395 GGNs were included in the study. The mean diameter of GGNs was 0.95 ± 0.48 cm, and the shortest distance from nodules to the pleura was 1.73 ± 0.96 cm. All 395 GGNs were marked using PNLNs. The time required for marking was 7.8 ± 2.2 min. The marking success rate was 99.0% (391/395). The marking failure of four nodules was all due to the unsatisfactory position of PNLNs. No marker dislocation occurred. Marking-related complications included pneumothorax in 63 cases (17.9%), hemorrhage in 34 cases (9.7%), and hemoptysis in 6 cases (1.7%). All the complications were minor and did not need special treatment. Localization and VATS were performed on the same day in 95 cases and on different days in 257 cases. All GGNs were successfully removed by VATS. No patient converted to thoracotomy. Histopathological examination revealed 74 (18.7%) benign nodules and 321 (81.3%) malignant nodules. CONCLUSIONS: It is safe and reliable to perform preoperative localization of GGNs using PNLNs, which can effectively guide VATS to remove GGNs. KEY POINTS: • Preoperative localization of GGNs could effectively guide VATS to remove GGNs. • PNLN was based on the marking principle of hook-wire, through the improvement of its material, specially designed to mark pulmonary nodules. • The application of PNLN to mark GGNs had high success rate, good patient tolerance, and no dislocation. Meanwhile, VATS could be performed 2 to 3 days after marking GGNs with PNLN.

Computed tomography-guided cyanoacrylate injection for localization of multiple ipsilateral lung nodules.

OBJECTIVES: To retrospectively assess the clinical effectiveness of CT-guided cyanoacrylate localization for multiple ipsilateral small pulmonary nodules (SPNs) and to determine the independent predictors for pneumothorax. METHODS: In total, 81 patients with 169 lesions undergoing CT-guided cyanoacrylate localization for multiple ipsilateral SPNs between September 2016 and July 2020 were enrolled (group M). Another 284 patients who received single SPN localization during the same period served as the control group (group S). Propensity score analysis was performed to minimize selection bias. Possible independent predictors for pneumothorax were evaluated using multivariate logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: Multiple ipsilateral SPN localization was successfully performed in all 81 patients. The incidences of successful targeting during localization and surgery were 100% and 98.8%, respectively. Seventy-seven patients (95.1%) underwent the procedure on the day before the surgery. Propensity matching created 81 pairs of patients. There were no significant differences in the incidence of successful targeting during localization and surgery, localization-related pain score, and additional morphine use between the two groups. However, group M was associated with a significant longer localization procedural time (p < 0.001) and a higher incidence of pneumothorax (p < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, position change was significantly associated with a sevenfold increase in the risk for pneumothorax (p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: CT-guided cyanoacrylate injection for multiple ipsilateral SPN localization was safe and reliable, and allowed a flexible surgical schedule, despite a lengthy procedure and an increased incidence of pneumothorax. Avoiding position change may help to reduce the occurrence of pneumothorax. KEY POINTS: • Compared to single SPN localization, multiple ipsilateral SPN localization using cyanoacrylate injection achieved comparable safety, reliability, and comfort. • CT-guided cyanoacrylate localization for multiple ipsilateral SPNs allowed a flexible surgical schedule. • Position change was the only independent risk factor for pneumothorax during the multiple ipsilateral SPN localization.

Maximal Thymectomy via Mini Sternotomy with Pleural Preservation.

Gaurav PatelBackground There are different surgical techniques used for maximal thymectomy. Each technique has its own advantages and disadvantages. We propose a mini sternotomy with pleural preservation approach for complete maximal thymectomy. Methods Over time range of 5 years, 32 patients with diagnosis of thymoma with or without myasthenia gravis (MG) underwent maximal thymectomy by mini sternotomy in our institute. Patient records were examined for the following parameters: age, sex, preoperative medication, symptoms of MG as per Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America grading system, operating time, duration of postoperative ventilation, length of stay in the intensive care unit, overall length of hospitalization, and postoperative complications. Results The mean age of patients in our study was 43.66. Sex ratio in this study was almost equal. Sixty-nine percent of patients were stage I thymoma according to Masaoka staging. Size of the tumor ranged from 3 to 8 cm with mean size being 4.54 cm. Complete resection with negative tumor margins was possible in all the cases. Four patients had intraoperative pleural injury out of which two patients required intercostal tube insertion. We did not have any serious postoperative complications with no perioperative mortality. Conclusions Mini sternotomy allows maximal removal of thymus through a less invasive approach and is associated with a significantly smoother postoperative course, less overall complications, and good clinical outcome. It is a simple technique that can be performed by any thoracic and surgical oncologists especially in Indian subcontinent where facilities of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery and robotic video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery are not available in all areas and are expensive.

Uniportal thoracoscopic decortication in the treatment of chronic tuberculous empyema / 中华胸心血管外科杂志

Objective:To investigate the surgical procedure and outcome of uniportal thoracoscopic decortication in the treatment of chronic tuberculous empyema.Methods:From March 2019 to December 2019, the clinical data of 53 patients with chronic tuberculous empyema, who underwent uniportal thoracoscopic decortication in the Surgical Department of Wuhan Pulmonary Hospital were retrospectively analyzed. There were 40 males and 13 females. Age ranged from 16 to 69, averaged 36 years old.36 cases were on the right side and 17 cases on the left side, 38 cases were complicated with pulmonary tuberculosis. All cases had been diagnosed as tuberculous empyema by pathogeny and pathology test in preoperative or postoperative, and received tuberculosis management treatment between 2 and 12 months prior to surgery.The surgical procedure and clinical efficacy of uniportal thoracoscopic decortication were expounded in treatment of chronic tuberculous empyema.Results:Among the 53 patients, 49(92.45%) cases underwent uniportal thoracoscopic decortication, and 4(7.55%) cases changed to thoracotomy. The duration of surgery was 100-370 min, mean(234.53±56.06)min. Intraoperative hemorrhage was 50-1 400 ml, median value 300(175.0, 402.5)ml. Catheter retention time was 3-22 days, median value 8(6.00, 11.25)days. The incidence of surgical complications was 1.89%(1/53), the cure rate was 92.45%(49/53).Conclusion:If the perioperative evaluation and treatment are appropriate, and the operator is experienced, the uniportal thoracoscopic decortication is feasible, safe and effective in the therapy of chronic tuberculous empyema.

Lung nodule localization in hybrid room before minimally invasive thoracic surgery: series of 20 cases and literature review

ABSTRACT Objective To describe an experience in the preoperative localization of small pulmonary nodules and ground-glass lesions to guide minimally invasive thoracic surgery; in addition, a literature review was conducted, including the main advantages and disadvantages of the different agents used, and site marking in a hybrid operating room. Methods A retrospective search was conducted in a Interventional Radiology Department database, between March 2015 and May 2019, to identify patients undergoing preoperative percutaneous marking of lung injuries measuring up to 25mm. Results A total of 20 patients were included and submitted to descriptive analysis. All patients were marked in a hybrid room, at the same surgical-anesthetic time. Most often used markers were guidewire, Lipiodol® and microcoils. Despite one case of coil displacement, two cases of pneumothorax, and one case of hypotension after marking, all lesions were identified and resected accordingly from all patients. Conclusion Preoperative percutaneous localization of lung injuries in hybrid room is an effective and a safe technique, which can have decisive impact on surgical resection. The choice of marker and of the operating room scenario should be based on availability and experience of service. Multidisciplinary discussions with surgical teams, pathologists, and interventional radiologists are crucial to improve outcome of patients.

A Brazilian randomized study: Robotic-Assisted vs. Video-assisted lung lobectomy Outcomes (BRAVO trial) / Estudo brasileiro randomizado: desfechos da lobectomia pulmonar robótica vs. videoassistida (estudo BRAVO)

ABSTRACT Objective: To compare 90-day morbidity in patients undergoing lung lobectomy performed by either robotic-assisted thoracic surgery (RATS) or video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS). Intraoperative complications, drainage time, length of hospital stay, postoperative pain, postoperative quality of life, and readmissions within 90 days were also compared. Methods: This was a two-arm randomized clinical trial including patients with lung lesions (primary lung cancer or lung metastasis) who were candidates for lung lobectomy. Patients with comorbidities that precluded surgical treatment were excluded. All patients followed the same postoperative protocol. Results: The overall sample comprised 76 patients (39 in the VATS group and 37 in the RATS group). The two groups were similar regarding gender, age, BMI, FEV1 in % of predicted, and comorbidities. Postoperative complications within 90 days tended to be more common in the VATS group than in the RATS group, but the difference was not significant (p = 0.12). However, when only major complications were analyzed, this tendency disappeared (p = 0.58). Regarding postoperative outcomes, the VATS group had a significantly higher number of readmissions within 90 days than did the RATS group (p = 0.029). No significant differences were found regarding intraoperative complications, drainage time, length of hospital stay, postoperative pain, and postoperative quality of life. Conclusions: RATS and VATS lobectomy had similar 90-day outcomes. However, RATS lobectomy was associated with a significant reduction in the 90-day hospital readmission rate. Larger studies are necessary to confirm such a finding. (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02292914 [http://www.clinicaltrials.gov/])

RESUMO Objetivo: Comparar a morbidade em 90 dias de pacientes submetidos à lobectomia pulmonar por robotic-assisted thoracic surgery (RATS, cirurgia torácica robótica) ou por video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS, cirurgia torácica videoassistida). Complicações intraoperatórias, tempo de drenagem, tempo de internação hospitalar, dor pós-operatória, qualidade de vida pós-operatória e reinternações em 90 dias também foram comparados. Métodos: Ensaio clínico randomizado, com dois braços, incluindo pacientes com lesões pulmonares (câncer de pulmão primário ou metástase pulmonar) candidatos à lobectomia pulmonar. Foram excluídos pacientes com comorbidades que impossibilitassem o tratamento cirúrgico. Todos os pacientes seguiram o mesmo protocolo pós-operatório. Resultados: A amostra total foi composta por 76 pacientes (39 no grupo VATS e 37 no grupo RATS). Os dois grupos foram semelhantes quanto a sexo, idade, IMC, VEF1 em % do previsto e comorbidades. Complicações pós-operatórias em 90 dias tenderam a ser mais frequentes no grupo VATS do que no grupo RATS, mas a diferença não foi significativa (p = 0,12). No entanto, quando analisadas apenas as complicações maiores, essa tendência desapareceu (p = 0,58). Quanto aos desfechos pós-operatórios, o grupo VATS apresentou um número significativamente maior de reinternações em 90 dias do que o grupo RATS (p = 0,029). Não foram encontradas diferenças significativas quanto a complicações intraoperatórias, tempo de drenagem, tempo de internação hospitalar, dor pós-operatória e qualidade de vida pós-operatória. Conclusões: A lobectomia por RATS e a lobectomia por VATS apresentaram desfechos em 90 dias semelhantes. No entanto, a lobectomia por RATS foi associada a uma redução significativa na taxa de reinternação hospitalar em 90 dias. Estudos maiores são necessários para confirmar esse achado. (Identificador ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02292914 [http://www.clinicaltrials.gov/])

Evaluation of pain and opioid consumption in local preemptive anesthesia and the erector spine plane block in thoracoscopic surgery: A randomized clinical trial / Avaliação da dor e consumo de opioides em anestesia preemptiva local e do plano eretor da espinha em cirurgia torácica videotoracoscópica: Um ensaio clínico randomizado

ABSTRACT Objective: assess pain and opioid consumption in patients undergoing anesthetic techniques of spinal erector plane block and local anesthetic block in video-assisted thoracic surgery in the immediate postoperative period. Methods: ninety-two patients undergoing video assisted thoracic surgery were randomized to receive ESPB or BAL before starting the surgical procedure. Using the numerical verbal scale, the primary outcome assessed was the patient's pain in the immediate postoperative period (POI). The secondary outcome comprises the assessment of opioid consumption in the IPP by quantifying the medication used in an equianalgesic dose of morphine expressed in milligrams, in the immediate post-anesthetic recovery period, 6h, 12h, and 24h after surgery. Results: the EVN scores in the LBA and ESPB group in the POI had a mean of 0,8 (±1,89) vs 0,58 (±2,02) in the post-anesthesia care room (REPAI), 1,06 (±2,00) vs 1,30 (±2,30) in 6 hours of POI, 0,84 (±1,74) vs 1,19 (±2,01) within 12 hours of POI and 0,95 (±1,88) vs 1 ( ±1,66) within 24 hours of POI, all with p>0.05. Mean opioid consumption in the BAL and ESPB groups in the POI was 12.9 (± 10.4) mg vs 14.9 (±10.2) mg, respectively, with p = 0.416. Sixteen participants in the ESPB group and seventeen in the BAL group did not use opioids during the first 24 hours of the PO analyzed. Conclusion: local anesthesic block and ESP block techniques showed similar results in terms of low pain scores and opioid consumption during the period evaluated.

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar a dor e o consumo de opioides dos pacientes submetidos a técnicas anestésicas de bloqueio do plano eretor da espinha (ESPB) e bloqueio anestésico local (LBA) em cirurgia torácica vídeo assistida no período pós-operatório imediato (POI). Métodos: noventa e dois pacientes submetidos a cirurgia torácica videotoracoscópica foram randomizados aleatoriamente para receberem ESPB ou LBA antes do início do procedimento cirúrgico. O desfecho primário avaliado foi a dor do paciente no POI através da escala verbal numérica. O desfecho secundário avaliou o consumo de opioides através da quantificação da medicação usada em dose equianalgésica de morfina expressa em miligramas, no período de recuperação pós-anestésica imediata, 6h, 12h e 24h após a cirurgia. Resultados: os escores da Escala Verbal Numérica de dor (EVN) no grupo LBA e ESPB no POI, respectivamente, tiveram média de 0,8 (±1,89) vs 0,58 (±2,02) na sala de recuperação pós anestesia (REPAI), 1,06 (±2,00) vs 1,30 (±2,30) em 6 horas do POI, 0,84 (±1,74) vs 1,19 (±2,01) em 12 horas do POI e 0,95 (±1,88) vs 1 ( ±1,66) em 24 horas do POI, todos com p>0,05. O consumo médio de opioides no grupo LBA e ESPB foi de 12,9 (±10,4) mg vs 14,9 (±10.2) mg, respectivamente, com p=0.416. Dezesseis participantes do grupo ESPB e dezessete do grupo LBA não utilizaram opioides durante as primeiras 24 horas do PO. Conclusões: as técnicas de bloqueio LBA e ESPB apresentaram resultados semelhantes em termos de baixos escores de dor e consumo de opioides durante o período avaliado.

La video mediastinoscopía en el oncotórax / The video mediastinoscopy in oncological thorax

RESUMEN Fundamento: el avance exponencial de la cirugía torácica tiene un desarrollo paralelo a las técnicas anestésicas e imagenológicas, desde la antigüedad se recogen en diferentes manuscritos los intentos de abordar este espacio corporal. Objetivo: describir la técnica de videomediastinoscopía así como las referencias anatómicas para su realización. Métodos: se realizó una descripción de la técnica de la videomediastinoscopía para la exéresis y biopsia de alteraciones mediastinales, basado en la experiencia personal y consulta bibliográfica. Se consultaron los repositorios internacionales: Ebsco, Medline y Cochrane para la obtención de las referencias relacionadas con el tema. Conclusiones: la videomediastinoscopía es una vía segura y útil para la estadificación del cáncer pulmonar la cual brinda además una clasificación patológica más exacta que las toracotomías convencionales al permitir el acceso a las zonas ganglionares superiores, aórticas y subcarinal según corresponda.

ABSTRACT Background: the exponential progress of thoracic surgery has a parallel development to anesthetic and imaging techniques; since ancient times, attempts to address this body space are collected in different manuscripts. Objective: to describe the technique of video-mediastinoscopy, as well as the anatomical references for its performance. Methods: a description of the technique of video-mediastinoscopy for the excision and biopsy of mediastinal alterations was made, based on personal experience and bibliographic consultation. The international repositories Ebsco, Medline and Cochrane were consulted to obtain references related to the subject. Conclusions: video-mediastinoscopy is a safe and useful route for lung cancer staging which also provides a more accurate pathological classification than conventional thoracotomies by allowing access to the upper, aortic and subcarinal ganglionic areas as appropriate.

CT-Guided Microcoil Localization of Small Peripheral Pulmonary Nodules to Direct Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Resection without the Aid of Intraoperative Fluoroscopy.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the feasibility, safety, and effectiveness of CT-guided microcoil localization of solitary pulmonary nodules (SPNs) for guiding video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between June 2016 and October 2019, 454 consecutive patients with 501 SPNs who received CT-guided microcoil localization before VATS in our institution were enrolled. The diameter of the nodules was 0.93 ± 0.49 cm, and the shortest distance from the nodules to the pleura was 1.41 ± 0.95 cm. The distal end of the microcoil was placed less than 1 cm away from the nodule, and the proximal end was placed outside the visceral pleura. VATS was performed under the guidance of implanted microcoils without the aid of intraoperative fluoroscopy. RESULTS: All 501 nodules were marked with microcoils. The time required for microcoil localization was 12.8 ± 5.2 minutes. Microcoil localization-related complications occurred in 179 cases (39.4%). None of the complications required treatment. A total of 463 nodules were successfully resected under the guidance of implanted microcoils. VATS revealed 38 patients with dislocated microcoils, of which 28 underwent wedge resection (21 cases under the guidance of the bleeding points of pleural puncture, 7 cases through palpation), 5 underwent direct lobectomy, and the remaining 5 underwent a conversion to thoracotomy. In 4 cases, a portion of the microcoil remained in the lung parenchyma. CONCLUSION: CT-guided microcoil localization of SPNs is safe and reliable. Marking the nodule and pleura simultaneously with microcoils can effectively guide the resection of SPNs using VATS without the aid of intraoperative fluoroscopy.

Comparison of ultrasonography guided serratus anterior plane block and thoracic paravertebral block in video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery: a prospective randomized double-blind study.

BACKGROUND: Various truncal block techniques with ultrasonography (USG) are becoming widespread to reduce postoperative pain and opioid requirements in video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). The primary aim of our study was to determine whether the USG-guided serratus anterior plane block (SAPB) is as effective as the thoracic paravertebral block (TPVB) in VATS. Our secondary aim was to evaluate patient and surgeon satisfaction, block application time, first analgesic time, and length of hospital stay. METHODS: Patients in Group SAPB received 0.4 mL/kg bupivacaine with a USG-guided SAPB, and patients in Group TPVB received 0.4 mL/kg bupivacaine with a USG-guided TPVB. We recorded the pain scores, the timing of the first analgesic requirement, the amount of tramadol consumption, and postoperative complications for 24 hours. We also recorded the block application time and length of hospital stay. RESULTS: A total of 62 patients, with 31 in each group (Group SAPB and Group TPVB) completed the study. Between the two groups, there were no significant differences in rest and dynamic pain visual analog scale scores at 0, 1, 6, 12, and 24 hours after surgery. The total consumption of tramadol was significantly lower in the TPVB group (P = 0.026). The block application time was significantly shorter in Group SAPB (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: An SAPB that is applied safely and rapidly as a part of multimodal analgesia in patients who undergo VATS is not inferior to the TPVB and can be an alternative to it.

Morbidity after thoracoscopic resection of congenital pulmonary airway malformations (CPAM): single center experience over a decade.

PURPOSE: Video-assisted thoracoscopic (VATS) resection of CPAM in children is an established, albeit controversial strategy for its management. We report a 10-year single center experience. METHODS: All children underwent VATS (2008-2017) and their current status was reviewed. Patients were grouped: 'symptomatic-P' (if parents reported recurrent lower respiratory tract infections etc.) or 'symptomatic-S' (neonates presenting with respiratory distress/difficulty) or 'asymptomatic'. RESULTS: 73 children, aged 10 m (4d-14yrs) underwent VATS; a neonate as an emergency ('symptomatic-S') and all others electively. The lesion was unilateral in all but one case. Histologically none were malignant. Of the elective 72 cases, 7 (10%) required conversion to open thoracotomy. Twenty (27.7%) were 'symptomatic-P' and the duration of surgery when compared to 'asymptomatic' children was longer 269 (range 129-689) versus 178 (range 69-575) minutes (P = 0.01). Post operatively, 8 children (11%) had a grade III/IV (Clavien-Dindo) complication; persistent air leak/pneumothorax (n = 5), chylothorax (n = 1), pleural effusion (n = 1) and seizure/middle cerebral artery thrombosis (n = 1). There was no mortality. Twenty-four children (33.3%) were reported 'symptomatic-P' post-surgery after a median follow up of 2.18 years. The surgical intervention had no impact on 'symptomatic-P' status (P = 0.46). CONCLUSION: The risks of surgery may outweigh benefit in asymptomatic children. CLINICALTRIALS. GOV IDENTIFIER: NCT04449614.

Modified strategy of anesthesia for thoracoscopic radical resection of lung cancer: serratus anterior plane block combined with general anesthesia / 中华麻醉学杂志

Objective:To evaluate the modified efficacy of serratus anterior plane block (SAPB) combined with general anesthesia for thoracoscopic radical resection of lung cancer.Methods:Eighty-two patients of both sexes, aged 40-64 yr, with body mass index of 18-24 kg/m 2, of American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status Ⅰ or Ⅱ, scheduled for elective thoracoscopic radical resection of lung cancer, were divided into 2 groups ( n=41 each) using a random number table method: general anesthesia group (group G) and SAPB combined with general anesthesia group (group SG). Ultrasound-guided SAPB was performed before induction of general anesthesia in group SG.General anesthesia was induced with midazolam, etomidate, sufentanil and cis atracurium, and anesthesia was maintained with sevoflurane and remifentanil.Sufentanil was used for patient-controlled intravenous anesthesia (PCIA) after the end of operation.When visual analog scale score≥4, sufentanil 2.5 μg was injected intravenously for rescue analgesia.The intraoperative consumption of sevoflurane and remifentanil, extubation time, requirement for rescue analgesia within 48 h after operation, consumption of sufentanil, requirement for nicardipine and esmolol and occurrence of adverse events were recorded. Results:Compared with group G, the intraoperative consumption of remifentanil and sevoflurane, postoperative consumption of sufentanil, postoperative requirement for rescue analgesia, postoperative requirement for nicardipine and esmolol, postoperative incidence of nausea and vomiting, skin pruritus and urinary retention were significantly decreased, the extubation time was shortened, and the time of the first postoperative requirement for rescue analgesia was prolonged in group SG ( P<0.05). Conclusion:Compared with general anesthesia alone, SAPB combined with general anesthesia can not only significantly reduce intraoperative general anesthetics and opioid consumption, but also improve postoperative stress management, which is helpful for early postoperative outcome when used for thoracoscopic radical resection of lung cancer.

Uniportal surgical biopsy, without orotraqueal intubation, without thoracic drainage in intersticial pulmonary disease: initial results / Biópsia cirúrgica uniportal, sem intubação orotraqueal, sem drenagem torácica na doença pulmonar intersticial: resultados iniciais

ABSTRACT Objective: interstitial lung disease comprises a group of lung diseases with wide pathophysiological varieties. This paper aims to report the video thoracoscopic surgical biopsy in patients with interstitial lung disease through a single minimal chest incision, without orotracheal intubation, without chest drainage, and without the use of neuromuscular blockers. Methods: this study is a series of 14 cases evaluated retrospectively, descriptively, where patients underwent a pulmonary surgical biopsy from January 2019 to January 2020. The patients included in the study had diffuse interstitial lung disease without a defined etiological diagnosis. Results: none of the patients had transoperative complications, there was no need for chest drainage in the postoperative period, and the patients pain, assessed using the verbal scale, had a mode of 2 (minimum value of 1 and maximum of 4) in the post immediate surgery and 1 (minimum value of 1 and maximum of 3) at the time of hospital discharge. The length of hospital stay was up to 24 hours, with 12 patients being discharged on the same day of hospitalization. Conclusion: therefore, it is concluded in this series of cases that the performance of uniportal video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery procedures to perform lung biopsies, without orotracheal intubation, without chest drainage, and without the use of neuromuscular blockers, bring benefits to the patient without compromising his safety. Further larger studies are necessary to confirm the safety and efficiency of this method.

RESUMO Objetivo: a doença pulmonar intersticial compreende um grupo de doenças pulmonares com grandes variedades fisiopatológicas. Este trabalho objetiva relatar a biópsia cirúrgica videotoracoscópica em pacientes com doença pulmonar intersticial por meio de incisão torácica mínima única, sem intubação orotraqueal, sem drenagem torácica e sem uso de bloqueadores neuromusculares. Métodos: este estudo é uma série de 14 casos avaliados de forma retrospectiva, descritiva, onde no qual os pacientes foram submetidos a biópsia cirúrgica pulmonar no período de janeiro de 2019 a janeiro de 2020. Os pacientes incluídos na pesquisa, apresentavam doença pulmonar intersticial difusa sem diagnóstico etiológico definido. Resultados: nenhum dos pacientes apresentou complicações transoperatórias, não houve necessidade de drenagem torácica no período pós-operatório e a dor dos pacientes, avaliada por meio da escala verbal, teve moda de 2 (valores mínimos de 1 e máximo de 4) no período de pós-operatório imediato e 1 (valores mínimos de 1 e máximos de 3) no momento da alta hospitalar. O tempo de permanência hospitalar foi de até 24 horas, sendo que 12 pacientes receberam alta no mesmo dia da internação. Conclusão: conclui-se, assim, que nesta série de casos, a realização de procedimentos de cirurgia toracoscópica videoassistida uniportais para realização de biópsias pulmonares, sem intubação orotraqueal, sem drenagem torácica e sem uso de bloqueadores neuromusculares trazem benefícios para o paciente sem comprometer sua segurança. Estudos maiores são necessários para comprovar tanto a segurança quanto à eficácia deste método.

Evolution of the surgical treatment of lung cancer at a tertiary referral center in Brazil, 2011-2018 / Evolução do tratamento cirúrgico do câncer de pulmão em uma instituição terciária de referência no Brasil, 2011-2018

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the evolution of clinical and epidemiological data, as well as data related to diagnosis, staging, treatment, and survival, among patients undergoing curative surgery for lung cancer at a tertiary referral center in the city of São Paulo, Brazil. Methods: This was a retrospective study of cases in the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer database. We selected only cases of patients undergoing curative surgery between January of 2011 and April of 2018. We determined overall and disease-free survival at 36 months and compared the data between two periods (2011-2014 and 2015-2018). Results: Comparing the two periods (N = 437 cases), we observed trends toward increases in the number of female patients, as well as in the proportions of former smokers (44.09% vs. 53.59%), of patients diagnosed with adenocarcinoma (52.21% vs. 59.72%), and of patients diagnosed at an earlier pathological stage, together with a decrease in 30-day mortality (4.05% vs. 2.39%). There were significant increases in the proportions of cases diagnosed at an earlier clinical stage (p = 0.002) or incidentally (p = 0.003). Although lobectomy was the main surgical technique employed, there was a proportional increase in segmentectomies (2.67% vs. 7.11%; p = 0.026). Overall and disease-free survival rates were 79.4% (95% CI: 74.0-83.9%) and 75.1% (95% CI: 69.1-80.1%), respectively. The difference in overall survival between the periods lost statistical significance when adjusted for pathological stage, the only factor that affected survival (log-rank: p = 0.038 to p = 0.079). Conclusions: The clinical and epidemiological evolution presented in this study corroborates global trends. The decrease in 30-day mortality was probably due to better patient selection and improved surgical techniques.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a evolução de dados clínicos e epidemiológicos, assim como dados sobre diagnóstico, estadiamento, tratamento e sobrevida em pacientes submetidos a tratamento cirúrgico curativo de câncer de pulmão em uma instituição terciária na cidade de São Paulo (SP). Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo baseado nos casos inseridos no banco de dados da International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer submetidos à cirurgia curativa entre janeiro de 2011 e abril de 2018. Determinamos a sobrevida global e livre de doença em 36 meses e comparamos os dados em dois períodos (2011-2014 e 2015-2018). Resultados: Comparando-se os dois períodos (N = 437 casos), houve uma tendência de aumento no número de pacientes do sexo feminino, ex-tabagistas (44,09% vs. 53,59%), com diagnóstico de adenocarcinoma (52,21% vs. 59,72%) e em estádio patológico mais precoce, assim como queda da mortalidade em 30 dias (4,05% vs. 2,39%). Houve aumento significativo de casos em estádio clínico mais precoce (p = 0,002) e diagnosticados incidentalmente (p = 0,003). A lobectomia foi a principal técnica cirúrgica; entretanto, houve aumento de segmentectomias (2,67% vs. 7,11%; p = 0,026). As sobrevidas global e livre de doença foram de 79,4% (IC95%: 74,0-83,9%) e 75,1% (IC95%: 69,1-80,1%), respectivamente. Houve perda de significância estatística na sobrevida global entre os períodos quando ajustada por estadiamento patológico, o único fator a impactar a sobrevida (log-rank: p = 0,038 para p = 0,079). Conclusões: A evolução clínica e epidemiológica apresentada neste estudo corrobora tendências mundiais. A diminuição da mortalidade em 30 dias provavelmente ocorreu devido a melhor seleção de pacientes e melhora da técnica cirúrgica.

Pathologic features and clinical course of a non-functioning primary pulmonary paraganglioma: A case report.

INTRODUCTION: Paragangliomas (PGGL) are rare neuroendocrine tumors arising from non-epithelial extra-adrenal chromaffin cells. They have been described in different sites: abdomen, pelvis, head, neck and thorax. Incidence is very low, occurring in less than 2-8/million per year. PGGL's of the lung are extremely rare, they have a slow growth and present as painless lesions. Biopsy is the method of choice for diagnosis and prognosis. PRESENTATION OF CASE: This is a 70-year-old woman with chronic cough, with a CT-scan showing a 3.3-cm mass in the left lower lobe. After video-assisted thoracic surgery, histologic findings confirmed a non-functioning pulmonary paraganglioma. We present the clinical, radiological, pathological findings and clinical course. DISCUSSION: Primary pulmonary PGGL's are extremely rare neuroendocrine tumors with low-grade malignancy, difficult to distinguish from other pulmonary tumors relying only on imaging techniques. In this case, PGGL presented as an incidentaloma during the evaluation of chronic cough. After histological diagnosis, genetic testing are ideally performed to identify somatic or germline mutations that may condition a higher risk of malignancy and metastasis. CONCLUSION: PGGL's must be considered when other diagnoses are unlikely due to immunohistochemistry findings. Larger studies in this field are needed to determine the risk factors for its development and to determine which populations have the greatest potential for malignant transformation.

Thoracoscopic instruments do not interfere in the outcome of uncomplicated, experimental, video-assisted pulmonary lobectomy / Instrumentos toracoscópicos não interferem no desfecho da lobectomia pulmonar videoassistida experimental não complicada

ABSTRACT Objective: Since its first report, video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) lung lobectomy was carried out with the use of conventional surgical instruments, used in laparoscopy and open thoracotomy. These instruments are expensive, not standardized and there are a variety of models and manufacturers. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of the use of these instruments on the experimental pulmonary lobectomy. Methods: We used a modified surgical simulator that uses a porcine heart-lung block filled with tomato sauce, and tested specific (Group 1) and regular (Group 2) instruments. Each group includes 15 experiments. Results: The median total time, excluding the time spent to correct the lesions, was 45.08 and 45.81 minutes, respectively in Group 1 and Group 2. There was no statistical difference between the total times (p=0.58). The only statistically different was seen for partial times regarding the elapsed time to cut and suture of lung fissures (p=0.03 and 0.04, respectively). There were more direct lesions and indirect leaks in Group 2, but without statistical significance (p=1.000 and p=0.203, respectively). The mean time spent for the diagnosis and correction of these events was 1.77 minutes with a standard deviation of 1.18 for Group 1 and 2.72 ± 1.11 minutes for Group 2 (p=0.044). Conclusion: The use of minimally invasive instruments is not associated with time improvement spent with experimental video-assisted lung lobectomy and does not lead to a faster or safer surgery. The use of VATS instruments makes correction of adverse events faster when they occur.

RESUMO Objetivo: desde os primeiros registros, a lobectomia pulmonar por cirurgia torácica videoassistida (CTVA) foi feita usando instrumentos convencionais e de laparoscopia. Recentemente instrumentais específicos para CTVA surgiram. Esses instrumentais têm custo elevado, não são padronizados existindo uma variedade de modelos e fabricantes. Buscou-se determinar o impacto do uso desses instrumentais na realização da lobectomia pulmonar superior esquerda experimental. Métodos: foi usado simulador modificado com bloco de coração-pulmões preenchidos com molho de tomate para testar o uso de instrumental dedicado de CTVA e de cirurgia convencional (Grupo 1 e Grupo 2, respectivamente). Cada grupo inclui 15 experimentos. Resultados: a mediana do tempo total, excluído o tempo para corrigir vazamentos, foi de 45,8 e 45,81 minutos, respectivamente para o Grupo 1 e Grupo 2. Não houve diferença estatisticamente significante entre os tempos totais (p=0,58). Os únicos tempos parciais estatisticamente diferentes foram os para cortar e suturar a fissura pulmonar (p=0,03 e 0,04, respectivamente). Ocorreram mais lesões diretas e vazamentos indiretos no Grupo 2, mas sem significância estatística (p=1,000 e 0,203, respectivamente). A média de tempo gasto para diagnosticar e corrigir os eventos de lesão e vazamento foi de 1,77 minutos com desvio padrão de 1,18 para o Grupo 1 e 2,72±1,11 minutos para o Grupo 2 (p=0,044). Conclusão: o uso de instrumentos para CTVA não torna a cirurgia mais rápida, nem mais segura. O uso de instrumentos de CTVA permitiu uma correção mais rápida dos eventos adversos ocorridos.