Thromboprophylaxis in Elderly Surgical Patients: Current State and Future Considerations.

Venous thromboembolism is the number one cause of preventable death for hospital inpatients. Aging general surgical patients are especially susceptible to DVT/PE and this risk increases in the presence of other comorbidities prevalent in the elderly. However, it is often unrecognised and undertreated. Various risk scores classify patients in low, moderate and high risk categories. Current guidelines for thromboprophylaxis advocate combination of mechanical methods in the form of elastic stockings or intermittent pneumatic leg compression and pharmacological agents such as low molecular weight heparins and oral anticoagulants. Increased bleeding risk is a concern in this population and the method of prophylaxis needs to be adjusted as a result. Decreased renal function also influences the choice and dosage of medication. The required duration of prophylaxis is unclear but can range from one week to more than a month depending on the underlying pathology and individual risk assessment.

Perceptions of theatre team members to robotic assisted surgery and the aid of technology in colorectal surgery.

The implementation of robotic assisted surgery (RAS) has brought in a change to the perception and roles of theatre staff, as well as the dynamics of the operative environment and team. This study aims to identify and describe current perceptions of theatre staff in the context of RAS. 12 semi-structured interviews were conducted in a tertiary level university hospital, where RAS is utilised in selected elective settings. Interviews were conducted by an experienced research nurse to staff of the colorectal department operating theatre (nursing, surgical and anaesthetics) with some experience in operating within open, laparoscopic and RAS surgical settings. Thematic analysis on all interviews was performed, with formation of preliminary themes. Respondents all discussed advantages of all modes of operating. All respondents appreciated the benefits of minimally invasive surgery, in the reduced physiological insult to patients. However, interviewees remarked on the current perceived limitations of RAS in terms of logistics. Some voiced apprehension and anxieties about the safety if an operation needs to be converted to open. An overarching theme with participants of all levels and backgrounds was the 'Teamwork' and the concept of the [robotic] team. The physical differences of RAS changes the traditional methods of communication, with the loss of face-to-face contact and the physical 'separation' of the surgeon from the rest of the operating team impacting theatre dynamics. It is vital to understand the staff cultures, concerns and perception to the use of this relatively new technology in colorectal surgery.