Surgical Techniques of, and Outcomes after, Distal Muscle Stabilization in Transfemoral Amputation: A Systematic Review and Narrative Synthesis.

BACKGROUND: Distal muscle stabilization, such as myodesis (suturing muscles to bone) or myoplasty (suturing agonistic-antagonistic muscles together), can aid residual limb stabilization, provide a good soft-tissue covering, and increase rehabilitation potential. However, surgical practice varies due to scant clinical data. The aim of this review is to summarize and evaluate the literature regarding techniques and associated outcomes of distal muscle stabilization in transfemoral amputation (TFA). METHODS: A systematic review and narrative synthesis was performed following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Resources, including observational studies, nonobservational scientific papers, conference proceedings, and textbooks, detailing techniques of TFA distal muscle stabilization were identified from standard medical repositories and library search. A supplementary search of YouTube and Google was undertaken to identify additional resources. Quality assessment was undertaken using Risk Of Bias In Nonrandomized Studies-of Interventions; Authority, Accuracy, Coverage, Objectivity, Date, Significance; and modified-Discern tools. RESULTS: Forty seven resources were identified, including 17 journal articles, 17 textbooks, 5 educational websites/eBooks, 5 videos, 2 online presentations, and 1 webpage. Thirty seven described myodesis, 11 described myoplasty, and 6 described closure without distal muscle stabilization. Eight observational studies presented outcome data for 302 TFAs. No studies comparing closure with or without distal muscle stabilization were identified. All papers describing myodesis secured the adductors to the femur, and most also secured the quadriceps and/or hamstrings to this complex. Number of femoral drill holes varied from 1 to 6. Early wound complications occurred in 17% of amputations, whereas myodesis failure occurred in 9.5%. Prosthetic fitting rates were 73% and, where reported, 100% of patients maintained neutral femoral alignment. CONCLUSIONS: Distal muscle stabilization, particularly myodesis, is a commonly described technique for TFA, although operative techniques are heterogenous. There is a paucity of outcome data, and no studies comparing it to closures without distal muscle stabilization. However, these low-quality data suggest wound healing rates are equivalent to TFA without distal muscle stabilization while demonstrating improvement to patients' rehabilitation potential.

Patient Perceptions of Surveillance of Small Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms in the Over 85s.

BACKGROUND: Recently instigated local practice for patients with small abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) involves contacting all patients, aged ≥85 years, to discuss with them the advantages and disadvantages of removal from surveillance. However, reasons why patients opt to remain on, or come off, surveillance, are currently unknown. The present study's objective is to explore patient perception of surveillance decision-making. METHODS: A mixed-methods exploratory evaluation was undertaken using patient feedback obtained from a telephone survey. All patients aged ≥85 years, who had a consultation regarding ongoing surveillance of small AAAs (30-49 mm), and consented, were contacted by researchers, who conducted semi-structured interviews concerning factors influencing decision-making. RESULTS: A total of 24 patients (20 male; mean age = 86.9 years) were interviewed; 16 of 24 (66%) had opted to remain on surveillance, with no age difference between those opting in or out. Most felt surveillance was important (91%), and that it made them feel safer (73%). The majority (73%) thought they knew what happened when their AAA reached threshold (5.5 cm), what happened when a threshold AAA is not fixed (64%), and how major AAA surgery is (59%). However, actual knowledge was poor: most (91%) correctly understood surgery was major, but 56% thought that threshold AAA meant certain death or rupture; and 38% thought immediate surgery was required. Thematic analysis expounded patients' beliefs regarding surveillance, which were summarized in 3 distinct subgroups: reliance on professionals' opinions, needing peace of mind, and poor understanding. CONCLUSIONS: While most patients find surveillance reassuring, patient knowledge of AAA management at threshold is poor, potentially impacting surveillance decision-making. Elderly patients, with small AAAs contemplating ongoing surveillance, need to be better informed about AAA management at threshold to support shared decision-making.

The incidence of surgical site infection following major lower limb amputation: A systematic review.

Surgical site infections (SSIs) following major lower limb amputation (MLLA) in vascular patients are a major source of morbidity. The objective of this systematic review was to determine the incidence of SSI following MLLA in vascular patients. This review was prospectively registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD42023460645). Databases were searched without date restriction using a pre-defined search strategy. The search identified 1427 articles. Four RCTs and 21 observational studies, reporting on 50 370 MLLAs, were included. Overall SSI incidence per MLLA incision was 7.2% (3628/50370). The incidence of SSI in patients undergoing through-knee amputation (12.9%) and below-knee amputation (7.5%) was higher than the incidence of SSI in patients undergoing above-knee amputation, (3.9%), p < 0.001. The incidence of SSI in studies focusing on patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD), diabetes or including patients with both was 8.9%, 6.8% and 7.2%, respectively. SSI is a common complication following MLLA in vascular patients. There is a higher incidence of SSI associated with more distal amputation levels. The reported SSI incidence is similar between patients with underlying PAD and diabetes. Further studies are needed to understand the exact incidence of SSI in vascular patients and the factors which influence this.

Controlling the controls: what is negative pressure wound therapy compared to in clinical trials?

AIM: Surgical site infections (SSIs) are common following colorectal operations. Clinical trials suggest that closed incision negative pressure wound therapy (ciNPWT) may reduce SSIs compared to a 'standard of care' group. However, wound management in the standard of care group may vary. The aim of this review was to assess the control arms in trials of ciNPWT for potential confounding variables that could influence the rates of SSI and therefore the trial outcomes. METHODS: A mapping review of the PubMed database was undertaken in the English language for randomized controlled trials that assessed, in closed surgical wounds, the use of ciNPWT compared to standard of care with SSI as an outcome. Data regarding wound care to assess potential confounding factors that may influence SSI rates were compared between the ciNPWT and standard of care groups. Included were the method of wound closure, control dressing type, frequency of dressing changes and postoperative wound care (washing). RESULTS: Twenty-seven trials were included in the mapping review. There was heterogeneity in ciNPWT duration. There was little control in the comparator standard of care groups with a variety of wound closure techniques and different control dressings used. Overall standard of care dressings were changed more frequently than the ciNPWT dressing and there was no control over wound care or washing. No standard for 'standard of care' was apparent. CONCLUSION: In randomized trials assessing the intervention of ciNPWT compared to standard of care there was considerable heterogeneity in the comparator groups and no standard of care was apparent. Heterogeneity in dressing protocols for standard of care groups could introduce potential confounders impacting SSI rates. There is a need to standardize care in ciNPWT trials to assess potential meaningful differences in SSI prevention.

Clinical Effects of Tourniquet Use for Nontraumatic Major Lower Limb Amputation: A Two-Center Retrospective Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: To investigate the effect of tourniquet use on outcomes after major lower limb amputation (MLLA) due to peripheral arterial disease or complications from diabetes mellitus. METHODS: In this 2-center retrospective observational study, vascular patients who underwent MLLA between January 1, 2016 and December 31, 2020 at 2 UK hospitals were identified using operating theater databases. Hospital databases were used to access medical records, operation notes, and laboratory reports. The use of a tourniquet in each MLLA was noted. The primary outcome was postoperative hemoglobin (Hb) drop (g/L). Secondary outcomes were units of allogeneic blood transfused perioperatively, 90-day revision rates, 90-day wound breakdown rates, surgical site infection (SSI) rates (at 30 days), and 90-day mortality. A follow-up index (a measure of follow-up completeness) was calculated for all 30-day and 90-day outcomes. RESULTS: Four hundred seventy two patients underwent MLLA, of which 124 had a tourniquet applied. The median postoperative Hb drop was significantly lower in the tourniquet group compared to the nontourniquet group (13 [interquartile range 5-22] g/L vs. 20 [interquartile range 11-28] g/L; P ≤ 0.001). Thirty three point one percent (41) of tourniquet patients received a blood transfusion perioperatively, compared to 35.6% (124) of nontourniquet patients (P = 0.82). Sixteen percent (76) of patients required surgical revision within 90 days, with no significant difference between the tourniquet and nontourniquet group (20.2% tourniquet vs. 14.7% no tourniquet; P = 0.15). SSI rates (12.0% tourniquet vs. 10.6% no tourniquet, P = 0.66) and 90-day mortality (6.5% tourniquet vs. 10.1% no tourniquet; P = 0.23) were similar. Multivariable regression demonstrated that tourniquet use was independently associated with a reduced hemoglobin drop (ß = -4.671, 95% confidence interval -7.51 to -1.83, P ≤ 0.001) but was not associated with wound breakdown, revision surgery, or SSI. Hypertension, SSI, and below-knee amputation using the skew flap technique were all significant predictors of revision surgery. All follow-up indices were ≥ 0.97. CONCLUSIONS: Tourniquet use in MLLA was associated with a significantly lower fall in postoperative Hb without evidence of harm in terms of SSI, wound breakdown/revision rates, or mortality.

Telemedicine in Vascular Surgery During COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review and Narrative Synthesis.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in seismic changes to healthcare service delivery. The use of telemedicine was widely adopted during the pandemic, although its value in the safe care of vascular patients is unknown. METHODS: A systematic review was undertaken to identify studies that described outcomes or patient/clinician views of telemedicine (telephone or video) services in vascular surgery during or after the pandemic. Two reviewers independently searched medical databases, selected studies, extracted data, and undertook a narrative synthesis. RESULTS: Twelve studies were included. Most studies reported increased telemedicine use during the pandemic. Most patients (80.6%-100%) were satisfied with telephone or video consultation. More than 90% of the patients felt that telemedicine was a good substitute during the pandemic to avoid travelling and reduce transmission risk. Three studies showed patients had a strong preference for continuing telemedicine consultations postpandemic. Two studies evaluating patients with arterial ulceration and venous diseases reported no significant difference in clinical outcome between patients reviewed face-to-face and those seen remotely. One study showed clinicians preferred face-to-face consultations. No study conducted cost analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Patients and clinicians viewed telemedicine favorably as an alternative to face-to-face clinics during the pandemic and included studies did not identify any safety concerns. Its role postpandemic is not clearly defined, although these data suggest a significant proportion of patients would appreciate, and be suitable for, such consultations in the future.

Impact of closed-incision negative pressure wound dressings on surgical site infection following groin incisions in vascular surgery; a single-centre experience.

OBJECTIVES: Surgical site infection (SSI) is a common complication in vascular surgery, and is associated with increased patient morbidity, readmission and reintervention. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of closed-incision negative pressure wound therapy (CiNPWT) upon rate of SSI and length of hospital stay. METHODS: This study was reported in line with the STROBE guidelines. We assessed the baseline incidence of SSI from a 12-month retrospective cohort and, following a change in practice intervention with CiNPWT, compared to a 6-month prospective cohort. The primary endpoint was incidence of SSI (according to CDC-NHSN guidelines) while secondary endpoints included length of hospital stay, readmission, reintervention and Days Alive and Out of Hospital (DAOH) to 90-days. RESULTS: A total of 127 groin incisions were performed: 76 (65 patients) within the retrospective analysis and 51 (42 patients) within the prospective analysis (of whom 69% received CiNPWT). The primary endpoint of SSI was seen in 21.1% of the retrospective cohort and 9.8% of the prospective cohort (p = .099). Readmission was found to be significantly associated with the retrospective cohort (p = .016) while total admission (inclusive of re-admission) was significantly longer in those in the retrospective cohort (p = .013). DAOH-90 was 83 days (77-85) following introduction of the CiNPWT protocol as compared to the retrospective cohort (77 days (64-83), p = .04). CONCLUSION: Introduction of CiNPWT was associated with a reduced length of hospital stay and improved DAOH-90. Further trials on CINPWT should include patient-centred outcomes and healthcare cost analysis.

A vascular multi-arm multi-stage trial to prevent groin wound surgical site infection: A feasibility survey.

Surgical site infection (SSI) is common following arterial surgery involving a groin incision. There is a lack of evidence regarding interventions to prevent groin wound SSI, therefore, a survey of vascular clinicians was undertaken to assess current opinion and practice, equipoise and feasibility of a randomised controlled trial (RCT). Participants at the Vascular Society of Great Britain and Ireland 2021 Annual Scientific Meeting were surveyed regarding three separate interventions designed to prevent SSI in the groin; impregnated incise drapes, diakylcarbomoyl chloride dressings and antibiotic impregnated collagen sponges. Results were collated via an online survey using the Research Electronic Data Capture platform. Seventy-five participants completed the questionnaire, most were consultant vascular surgeons (50/75, 66.7%). The majority agree that groin wound SSI is a major problem (73/75, 97.3%), and would be content using either of the three interventions (51/61, 83.6%) and had clinical equipoise to randomise patients to any of the three interventions versus standard of care (70/75, 93.3%). There was some reluctance to not use impregnated incise drapes as may be considered "standard of care". Groin wound SSI is perceived as major problem in vascular surgery, and a multicentre RCT of three preventative interventions appears acceptable to vascular surgeons.

Systematic review of groin wound surgical site infection incidence after arterial intervention.

The objectives were to determine the surgical site infection incidence (including superficial/deep) fter arterial intervention through non-infected groin incisions and identify variables associated with incidence. MEDLINE, EMBASE and CENTRAL databases were searched for randomised controlled trials and observational studies of adults undergoing arterial intervention through a groin incision and reported surgical site infection. Infection incidence was examined in subgroups, variables were subjected to meta-regression. One hundred seventeen studies reporting 65 138 groin incisions in 42 347 patients were included. Overall surgical site infection incidence per incision was 8.1% (1730/21 431): 6.3% (804/12 786) were superficial and 1.9% (241/12 863) were deep. Superficial infection incidence was higher in randomised controlled trials (15.8% [278/1762]) compared with observational studies (4.8% [526/11 024]); deep infection incidence was similar (1.7% (30/1762) and 1.9% (211/11 101) respectively). Aneurysmal pathology (ß = -10.229, P < .001) and retrospective observational design (ß = -1.118, P = .002) were associated with lower infection incidence. Surgical site infection being a primary outcome was associated with a higher incidence of surgical site infections (ß = 3.429, P = .017). The three-fold higher incidence of superficial surgical site infection reported in randomised controlled trials may be because of a more robust clinical review of patients. These results should be considered when benchmarking practice and could inform future trial design.

Short-term risk prediction after major lower limb amputation: PERCEIVE study.

BACKGROUND: The accuracy with which healthcare professionals (HCPs) and risk prediction tools predict outcomes after major lower limb amputation (MLLA) is uncertain. The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of predicting short-term (30 days after MLLA) mortality, morbidity, and revisional surgery. METHODS: The PERCEIVE (PrEdiction of Risk and Communication of outcomE following major lower limb amputation: a collaboratIVE) study was launched on 1 October 2020. It was an international multicentre study, including adults undergoing MLLA for complications of peripheral arterial disease and/or diabetes. Preoperative predictions of 30-day mortality, morbidity, and MLLA revision by surgeons and anaesthetists were recorded. Probabilities from relevant risk prediction tools were calculated. Evaluation of accuracy included measures of discrimination, calibration, and overall performance. RESULTS: Some 537 patients were included. HCPs had acceptable discrimination in predicting mortality (931 predictions; C-statistic 0.758) and MLLA revision (565 predictions; C-statistic 0.756), but were poor at predicting morbidity (980 predictions; C-statistic 0.616). They overpredicted the risk of all outcomes. All except three risk prediction tools had worse discrimination than HCPs for predicting mortality (C-statistics 0.789, 0.774, and 0.773); two of these significantly overestimated the risk compared with HCPs. SORT version 2 (the only tool incorporating HCP predictions) demonstrated better calibration and overall performance (Brier score 0.082) than HCPs. Tools predicting morbidity and MLLA revision had poor discrimination (C-statistics 0.520 and 0.679). CONCLUSION: Clinicians predicted mortality and MLLA revision well, but predicted morbidity poorly. They overestimated the risk of mortality, morbidity, and MLLA revision. Most short-term risk prediction tools had poorer discrimination or calibration than HCPs. The best method of predicting mortality was a statistical tool that incorporated HCP estimation.

Editor's Choice - Systematic Review and Narrative Synthesis of Randomised Controlled Trials Supporting Implantable Devices for Vascular and Endovascular Procedures.

OBJECTIVE: To identify implantable devices currently used for vascular and endovascular procedures, to ascertain how many have randomised controlled trial (RCT) evidence available, and to assess the quality of that evidence. DATA SOURCES: MEDLINE, Embase, DARE, PROSPERO, clinical trial registries, and Cochrane databases. REVIEW METHODS: A list of current devices used in both vascular and endovascular procedures was generated by searching conference proceedings, manufacturer catalogues, and websites. MEDLINE, Embase, DARE, PROSPERO, clinical trial registries, and Cochrane databases were searched from inception up to June 2020. The primary outcome was the availability of RCTs to support the use of a vascular implantable device. RCTs were then quality assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. RESULTS: A total of 116 current vascular implantable devices were identified. The systematic literature review identified 165 RCTs. Eighty-three of the RCTs (50.3%) applied to 33 of the 116 (28.4%) current implantable devices. When grouped by device type, eight of the 13 types (62%) had at least one RCT performed. There was a high risk of bias across the majority of the RCTs, with only nine (5.4%) deemed to be at low risk of bias. Only 22 (13.3%) RCTs had a clear safety outcome. CONCLUSION: Sixty-two per cent of implantable device types for use in vascular and endovascular interventions had at least one RCT available to show equivalence to previous devices or safety. RCTs were generally of low quality and are decreasing in frequency with time. With medical implantable device failure being increasingly recognised as causing significant harm to patients worldwide, there is a clear need for a more robust implantable device regulation and approval systems.

Antithrombotic Therapy for Aortic Aneurysms: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

OBJECTIVES: The role of antithrombotic therapy in the management of aortic and peripheral aneurysms is unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the impact of antithrombotics on clinical outcomes for aortic and peripheral aneurysms. METHODS: Medline, Embase, and CENTRAL databases were searched. Randomised controlled trials and observational studies investigating the effect of antithrombotic therapy on clinical outcomes for patients with any aortic or peripheral artery aneurysm were included. RESULTS: Fifty-nine studies (28 with antiplatelet agents, 12 anticoagulants, two intra-operative heparin, and 16 any antithrombotic agent) involving 122 102 patients were included. Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) growth rate was not significantly associated with the use of antiplatelet therapy (SMD -0.36 mm/year; 95% CI -0.75 - 0.02; p = .060; GRADE certainty: very low). Antithrombotics were associated with increased 30 day mortality for patients with AAAs undergoing intervention (OR 2.30; 95% CI 1.51 - 3.51; p < .001; GRADE certainty: low). Following intervention, antiplatelet therapy was associated with reduced long term all cause mortality (HR 0.84; 95% CI 0.76 - 0.92; p < .001; GRADE certainty: moderate), whilst anticoagulants were associated with increased all cause mortality (HR 1.64; 95% CI 1.14 - 2.37; p = .008; GRADE certainty: very low), endoleak within three years (OR 1.99; 95% CI 1.10 - 3.60; p = .020; I2 = 60%; GRADE certainty: very low), and an increased re-intervention rate at one year (OR 3.25; 95% CI 1.82 - 5.82; p < .001; I2 = 35%; GRADE certainty: moderate). Five studies examined antithrombotic therapy for popliteal aneurysms. Meta-analysis was not possible due to heterogeneity. CONCLUSIONS: There was a lack of high quality data examining antithrombotic therapy for patients with aneurysms. Antiplatelet therapy was associated with a reduction in post-intervention all cause mortality for AAA, whilst anticoagulants were associated with an increased risk of all cause mortality, endoleak, and re-intervention. Large, well designed trials are still required to determine the therapeutic benefits of antithrombotic agents in this setting.

Patient Satisfaction with Tele- and Video-Consultation in the COVID-19 Era - A Survey of Vascular Surgical Patients.

BACKGROUND: The COVID 19 pandemic has resulted in the increasing use of telemedicine due to the advantages of avoiding viral transmission. Evidence suggests that telemedicine, for certain conditions, may be as effective as face-to-face consultations; however, there is no research to date regarding vascular patients' acceptance or satisfaction with telemedicine during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: A patient satisfaction interview was designed to survey three aspects of the service: patient acceptability of teleconsultations as a replacement to physical clinics; their views of teleconsultation during the pandemic; and the future role of teleconsultations postpandemic. Patients undergoing remote teleconsultation (either by telephone or video software), between April and June 2020 were suitable for inclusion. Patients were contacted by telephone in August 2020 to undertake the survey. Local "Research and Development" approval was obtained. RESULTS: A total of 333 patients had a consultation with a vascular consultant between April and June 2020, of which 178 were teleconsultations. Successful contact was made with 72 patients, of whom 68 agreed to participate; 10 patients had undergone video consultations, while the remainder had telephone consultations. Teleconsultations were widely viewed as acceptable, and over 90% of patients felt they were beneficial. 91% felt that not needing to travel for appointments was advantageous to them. The option of teleconsultation during the COVID pandemic was valued by 94% of the cohort. While all interviewees felt teleclinics should continue during the pandemic, the majority (74%) also wanted to use teleconsultations for clinic appointments after the pandemic. CONCLUSIONS: Telemedicine is viewed by vascular patients as generally acceptable and beneficial for use during the pandemic. The majority of patients wanted future telemedicine appointments postpandemic. Telemedicine services started as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, which may have been viewed as a temporary measure, should be planned to continue long term.

The PReliMinAry (Pain Relief in Major Amputation) Survey.

OBJECTIVES: Major Lower Limb Amputation (MLLA) is associated with significant peri- and post-operative pain and has been identified as a research priority by patient and healthcare groups. The PReliMinAry survey was designed to evaluate existing MLLA analgesia strategies; identifying areas of equipoise and informing future research. METHODS: A targeted multi-national, multi-disciplinary survey was conducted via SurveyMonkey® (October 5, 2020-November 3, 2020) and advertised via social media and society email lists. The 10-questions explored 'pain-team' services, pre-operative neuroleptic medication, pre-incision peripheral nerve blocks and catheters, surgically placed nerve catheters, post-operative adjunctive regimens, future research engagement and equipoise. RESULTS: Seventy-six responses were received from 60 hospitals worldwide. Twelve hospitals(20%) had a dedicated MLLA pain team, 7(12%) had none. Most pain teams (n = 52; 87%) assessed pain with a 0-10 numerical rating scale. Over half of respondents "never" preloaded patients with oral neuroleptic agents(n= 42/76; 55%). Forty-seven hospitals(78%) utilized patient controlled opioid analgesia. Most hospitals are able to provide pre-incision loco-regional peripheral nerve blocks, nerve catheters and surgical nerve catheters (95%, 77%, and 90% respectively), but use was variable. Ultrasound(US) guided peripheral nerve catheters were "infrequently" or "never" used in 57% of hospitals, whilst 23% "infrequently" or "never" utilize surgically placed nerve catheters. CONCLUSIONS: The survey revealed a preference towards 'single-shot' nerve blocks and surgical catheters. A difference between the use of US guided nerve catheters and those surgically placed likely reflects the difference of literature evaluating these techniques. Most respondents felt there was equipoise surrounding future trials evaluating nerve blocks/catheters, but less so for surgical catheters.

Groin Wound Infection after Vascular Exposure (GIVE) Risk Prediction Models: Development, Internal Validation, and Comparison with Existing Risk Prediction Models Identified in a Systematic Literature Review.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to develop and internally validate risk prediction models for predicting groin wound surgical site infections (SSIs) following arterial intervention and to evaluate the utility of existing risk prediction models for this outcome. METHODS: Data from the Groin wound Infection after Vascular Exposure (GIVE) multicentre cohort study were used. The GIVE study prospectively enrolled 1 039 consecutive patients undergoing an arterial procedure through 1 339 groin incisions. An overall SSI rate of 8.6% per groin incision, and a deep/organ space SSI rate of 3.8%, were reported. Eight independent predictors of all SSIs, and four independent predictors of deep/organ space SSIs were included in the development and internal validation of two risk prediction models. A systematic search of the literature was conducted to identify relevant risk prediction models for their evaluation. RESULTS: The "GIVE SSI risk prediction model" ("GIVE SSI model") and the "GIVE deep/organ space SSI risk prediction model" ("deep SSI model") had adequate discrimination (C statistic 0.735 and 0.720, respectively). Three other groin incision SSI risk prediction models were identified; both GIVE risk prediction models significantly outperformed these other risk models in this cohort (C statistic 0.618 - 0.629; p < .050 for inferior discrimination in all cases). CONCLUSION: Two models were created and internally validated that performed acceptably in predicting "all" and "deep" groin SSIs, outperforming current existing risk prediction models in this cohort. Future studies should aim to externally validate the GIVE models.

Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Effect of Perineural Catheters in Major Lower Limb Amputations.

OBJECTIVE: Controlling pain after major lower limb amputation (MLLA) is of critical importance to patients and clinicians. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the effect of perineural catheters (PNCs) on post-operative pain, post-operative morphine requirement, in-hospital mortality, long term phantom limb pain, and chronic stump pain. METHODS: A systematic review using PubMed, EMBASE via OVID and the Cochrane library from database inception (1946) to 20 October 2020 was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. Studies involving patients undergoing MLLA which reported on post-operative morphine requirement, pain scores, in-hospital mortality, phantom limb pain (PLP), and chronic stump pain were included. Studies comparing PNC use with epidural or wound site local anaesthetic infusions were excluded. Outcome data were extracted from individual studies and meta-analysis was performed using a random effects (Mantel-Haenszel) model for dichotomous data using an odds ratio (OR) summary statistic with 95% confidence intervals (CI), and with an inverse variance random effects model for continuous data using a standardised mean difference (SMD) summary statistic with 95% CIs. Sensitivity analyses were performed for post-operative pain scores and post-operative morphine requirement. Study quality was assessed using the Downs and Black score, and outcomes were assessed using the GRADE tool. RESULTS: Ten studies reporting on 731 patients were included, with 350 patients receiving a PNC and 381 receiving standard care. PNC use is associated with a reduction in post-operative pain (SMD -0.30, 95% CI -0.58 - -0.01, p = .040, I2 = 54%, GRADE quality of evidence: low) and post-operative morphine requirements (SMD -0.63, 95% CI -1.03 - -0.23, p = .002, I2 = 75%, GRADE quality of evidence: moderate), although the effect of PNC on reduced post-operative morphine requirements is lost on sensitivity analysis of randomised trials only (p = .40). No demonstrable effect was found on in-hospital mortality, PLP, or chronic stump pain (GRADE quality of evidence: low). CONCLUSION: PNC use in amputees is associated with a significant reduction in post-operative pain scores and post-operative morphine requirements, although this latter finding is lost on sensitivity analysis of randomised trials only.

A Systematic Review and Narrative Synthesis of Risk Prediction Tools Used to Estimate Mortality, Morbidity, and Other Outcomes Following Major Lower Limb Amputation.

OBJECTIVE: The decision to undertake a major lower limb amputation can be complex. This review evaluates the performance of risk prediction tools in estimating mortality, morbidity, and other outcomes following amputation. METHODS: A systematic review was performed following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane databases were searched to identify studies reporting on risk prediction tools that predict outcomes following amputation. Outcome measures included the accuracy of the risk tool in predicting a range of post-operative complications, including mortality (both short and long term), peri-operative morbidity, need for re-amputation, and ambulation success. A narrative synthesis was performed in accordance with the Guidance on the Conduct of Narrative Synthesis In Systematic Reviews. RESULTS: The search identified 518 database records. Twelve observational studies, evaluating 13 risk prediction tools in a total cohort of 61 099 amputations, were included. One study performed external validation of an existing risk prediction tool, while all other studies developed novel tools or modified pre-existing generic calculators. Two studies conducted external validation of the novel/modified tools. Nine tools provided risk estimations for mortality, two tools provided predictions for post-operative morbidity, two for likelihood of ambulation, and one for re-amputation to the same or higher level. Most mortality prediction tools demonstrated acceptable discrimination performance with C statistic values ranging from 0.65 to 0.81. Tools estimating the risk of post-operative complications (0.65 - 0.74) and necessity for re-amputation (0.72) also performed acceptably. The Blatchford Allman Russell tool demonstrated outstanding discrimination for predicting functional mobility outcomes post-amputation (0.94). Overall, most studies were at high risk of bias with poor external validity. CONCLUSION: This review identified several risk prediction tools that demonstrate acceptable to outstanding discrimination for objectively predicting an array of important post-operative outcomes. However, the methodological quality of some studies was poor, external validation studies are generally lacking, and there are no tools predicting other important outcomes, especially quality of life.

Editor's Choice - Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Wound Adjuncts for the Prevention of Groin Wound Surgical Site Infection in Arterial Surgery.

OBJECTIVE: Groin incision surgical site infections (SSIs) following arterial surgery are common and are a source of considerable morbidity. This review evaluates interventions and adjuncts delivered immediately before, during, or after skin closure, to prevent SSIs in patients undergoing arterial interventions involving a groin incision. DATA SOURCES: MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL databases were searched. REVIEW METHODS: This review was undertaken according to established international reporting guidelines and was registered prospectively with the International prospective register of systematic reviews (CRD42020185170). The MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL databases were searched using pre-defined search terms without date restriction. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies recruiting patients with non-infected groin incisions for arterial exposure were included; SSI rates and other outcomes were captured. Interventions reported in two or more studies were subjected to meta-analysis. RESULTS: The search identified 1 532 articles. Seventeen RCTs and seven observational studies, reporting on 3 747 patients undergoing 4 130 groin incisions were included. A total of seven interventions and nine outcomes were reported upon. Prophylactic closed incision negative pressure wound therapy (ciNPWT) reduced groin SSIs compared with standard dressings (odds ratio [OR] 0.34, 95% CI 0.23 - 0.51; p < .001, GRADE strength of evidence: moderate). Local antibiotics did not reduce groin SSIs (OR 0.60 95% CI 0.30 - 1.21 p = .15, GRADE strength: low). Subcuticular sutures (vs. transdermal sutures or clips) reduced groin SSI rates (OR 0.33, 95% CI 0.17 - 0.65, p = .001, GRADE strength: low). Wound drains, platelet rich plasma, fibrin glue, and silver alginate dressings did not show any significant effect on SSI rates. CONCLUSION: There is evidence that ciNPWT and subcuticular sutures reduce groin SSI in patients undergoing arterial vascular interventions involving a groin incision. Local antibiotics did not reduce groin wound SSI, although the strength of this evidence is lower. No other interventions demonstrated a significant effect.

Microcirculatory Flux and Pulsatility in Arterial Leg Ulcers is Increased by Intermittent Neuromuscular Electrostimulation of the Common Peroneal Nerve.

BACKGROUND: Neuromuscular electrical stimulator (NMES) devices increase blood flow to the lower limb by a process of intermittent muscular contraction initiated by a transdermal stimulus to the common peroneal nerve. However, its effects on localized microvascular blood supply to lower limb wounds are unknown. This study is a single-center open label study measuring the effect of neuromuscular stimulation of the common peroneal nerve on the microvascular blood flow within the wound bed of arterial leg ulcers. METHODS: Eights patients with ischemic lower limb wounds had an NMES (geko™) applied to the common peroneal nerve. Baseline and intervention analysis of blood flow to the wound bed and edge was performed using Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging. Mean flow (flux) and pulse amplitude (pulsatility) were measured. RESULTS: Stimulation of the common peroneal nerve with the NMES resulted in a significantly increased flux and pulsatility in both the wound bed and the wound edge in all 8 patients. CONCLUSIONS: Neuromuscular electrical stimulation immediately increases microcirculatory blood flow to the wound bed and edge in patients with ischemic lower limb wounds. These data may provide mechanistic insight into the clinical efficacy of NMES in healing wounds. www.clinicaltrials.gov NCT03186560.

Early and Long Term Outcomes Following Long Posterior Flap vs. Skew Flap for Below Knee Amputations.

OBJECTIVE: To compare outcomes between long posterior flap (LPF) and skew flap (SF) amputation over a 13 year period. METHODS: This was a retrospective observational cohort study. Consecutive patients undergoing a LPF or SF below knee amputation (BKA) over a 13 year period at one hospital were identified. Both techniques were performed regularly, depending on tissue loss and surgeon preference. The primary outcome was surgical revision of any kind. Secondary outcomes included revision to above knee amputation (AKA), length of hospital stay (LOS), and mortality. A smaller cohort of patients who were alive and unilateral below knee amputees were contacted to ascertain prosthetic use and functional status. RESULTS: In total, 242 BKAs were performed in 212 patients (125 LPF and 117 SF; median follow up 25.8 months). Outcomes for the two groups were equivalent for surgical revision of any kind (27 LPF vs. 31 SF; p = .37), revision to an AKA (18 LPF vs. 14 SF; p = .58), LOS (29 days for LPF vs. 28 days for SF; p = .83), and median survival (23.9 months for LPF vs. 28.8 months for SF; p = .89). Multivariable analysis found amputation type had no effect on any outcome. Functional scores from a smaller cohort of 40 unilateral amputees who were contactable demonstrated improved outcomes with the LPF vs. the SF (p = .038). CONCLUSION: Both techniques appear equivalent for rates of surgical residual limb failure. Functional outcomes may be better with the LPF.