Industry Payments Comparison Between Female and Male Mohs Surgeons From 2015 to 2021.

BACKGROUND: There are limited data on female Mohs surgeon industry relationships. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate industry payment activity between female and male Mohs surgeons. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective review of the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services open payments data was performed between 2015 and 2021 for Mohs surgeons in the United States. Gender, academic affiliation, practice region, annual total payment, cumulative payment, and industry payment type was collected. RESULTS: Male Mohs surgeons received higher mean total payments than female Mohs surgeons ( p = .04), which persisted when data were stratified based on industry payment type and practice region. Both genders had similar median total payments ( p = .4). Females in academic practice received higher mean total payments than those in private practice. Females experienced a significant lower mean total payment compared with males in the South ( p = .03). CONCLUSION: High total payments received by male Mohs surgeons skewed the data, which is supported by a significant mean total payment difference despite a similar median total payment distribution. Female Mohs surgeons receiving the top payments may address this mean payment difference. Females seem to have higher payments if they practice in the Northeast and are in academics. Further studies are needed to evaluate this payment gap.

Education and Perspectives on the Use of Oral Skin Cancer Chemoprophylaxis: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Current Fellows in Mohs Micrographic Surgery & Dermatologic Oncology.

BACKGROUND: According to the curriculum guidelines of the Accreditation Council of Graduate Medical Education and the American Board of Dermatology, Mohs micrographic surgery & dermatologic oncology (MSDO) fellows must demonstrate competency in the use of oral skin cancer chemoprophylaxis. The current level of education in this area is unknown. OBJECTIVE: To characterize oral skin cancer chemoprophylaxis education for acitretin and nicotinamide among current MSDO fellows and to compare the clinical indications felt most appropriate for prescribing to a previously published expert consensus. METHODS: An electronic survey was distributed to all active MSDO fellows by the American College of Mohs Surgery. RESULTS: Responses were received from 63 (69.2%) MSDO fellows. Twenty (31.7%) and 37 (58.7%) fellows reported receiving fellowship training on acitretin and nicotinamide, respectively. Fifty-seven (90.5%) intend to prescribe chemoprophylaxis after training. Sixteen (28.1%) and 43 (75.4%) report feeling very comfortable prescribing acitretin and nicotinamide, respectively. Fellow concordance with a previously published expert consensus opinion on appropriate prescribing indications is variable. Forty-one (65.1%) indicated that additional education would increase the likelihood to prescribe after training. CONCLUSION: Although most MSDO fellows intend to prescribe oral skin cancer chemoprophylaxis, a standardized curriculum may promote increased use and concordance with expert consensus recommendations.

Evaluation of Hydrogen Gettering Rates Correlated to Surface Composition and Texture of Nickel-Plated Zircaloy Getters of Different Heat Treatment Procedures.

Coatings of metal specimens are known to have an impact on hydrogen gettering (hydrogen absorption). The coating can have one or more functions, such as enhancing gettering, preventing gettering and/or preventing oxidation of the metal substrate. It is known that contaminants and surface texture can impact hydrogen gettering/absorption performance, but has not previously been thoroughly explored. This study evaluated the role of different post-plating heat treatments of nickel-plated zircaloy-4 getters (NPGs) and the role of the heat treatments on gettering rates, surface composition and texture. Nickel plating is applied to prevent oxidation of the Zircaloy-4 surface and also enhances gettering. The nickel plating must be heat treated before desirable gettering can occur. Our NPG getters with historically known satisfying performance were pre-heat treated in air followed by activation heat treatment in a vacuum at a higher temperature. In this study, we were interested in finding out if both heat treatment steps were necessary to obtain a desirable gettering performance, or if one step could be omitted. XPS analysis showed that if the nickel surface is not heat treated before bonding the nickel to the zirconium in the activation step, there will be carbon contaminants on the surface, which significantly reduces gettering. We studied the texture of Zircaloy-4 using SEM/EBSD to compare NPGs with both heat treatment steps with NPGs that had no post-plating heat treatment to learn if the degree of cold work could be impacted by the heat treatment steps. We did not observe any differences in texture between them. We measured gettering rates of both pretreated and activated NPGs and NPGs that had been activated without first being pre-heat treated. We found that the NPGs without the first post-plating heating step had up to a seven times slower gettering rate and obtained higher plateau pressures due to the contaminated surface. Thus, the pre-heat treatment in air before activation is necessary to avoid slower gettering rates and higher plateau pressures.

Impact of COVID-19 on public's interest in radiotherapy and other cancer treatments: a cross-sectional Google Trends analysis.

Background: COVID-19 has significantly impacted cancer care. While previous studies have emphasized treatment modification and prioritized the delivery of cancer care, few have examined this issue from the public perspective. Materials and methods: In the following study, we examine how public interest in various forms of cancer treatment has evolved during the pandemic using Google Trends. One-way ANOVA and linear regression tests were used to compare the mean search volume indices of three periods: pre-lockdown, lockdown, and reopening. Results/Conclusions: Our findings suggest that public interest in cancer treatments decreased during lockdown and returned after reopening but, in general, is still lower than pre-lockdown levels. Despite that, healthcare professionals should strive to provide timely cancer care, assuage patients' fears of healthcare settings, and encourage patients to continue proper cancer screenings.

Comparison of Survival Outcomes With/Without Adjuvant Radiation Therapy in Desmoplastic Melanoma.

BACKGROUND: Desmoplastic melanoma (DM) is a rare variant of cutaneous melanoma with a high rate of local recurrence. Recent studies have indicated a potential benefit in local control with the addition of adjuvant radiotherapy (RT). OBJECTIVE: This study sought to evaluate the outcomes of adjuvant RT for patients with DM. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The National Cancer Database was queried (2004-2015) for patients with newly diagnosed, nonmetastatic DM. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on the adjuvant therapy they received: RT or observation. Statistics included multivariable logistic regression to determine factors predictive of receiving adjuvant RT, Kaplan-Meier analysis to evaluate overall survival (OS), and Cox proportional hazards modeling to determine variables associated with OS. RESULTS: There was no difference in median OS between patients treated with RT when compared with patients observed (111.4 months vs 133.9 months, p = .1312). On multivariable analysis, older age, T stage ≥2, N stage ≥1, and no receipt of immunotherapy were associated with worse OS. CONCLUSION: In this large study evaluating efficacy of adjuvant RT in DM, no overall survival benefit was observed among patients receiving adjuvant RT.

Immunohistochemistry Utilization in Medicare Beneficiaries by Mohs Surgeons From 2012-2017.

Based on surveys by Robinson1 in 2001 and Trimble and Cherpeli2 in 2013, Immunohistochemistry (IHC) utilization in Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) has been rising. Although these surveys provided important subjective data regarding IHC use in MMS, there is a paucity of objective data describing its current utilization patterns. The objective of this study is to characterize IHC utilization during MMS by Mohs surgeons in the treatment of Medicare beneficiaries from 2012-2017.

Predictors of 30-day readmission in Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis: A cross-sectional database study.

BACKGROUND: The predictors of readmission in Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN) have not been characterized. OBJECTIVE: To determine the variables predictive of 30-day readmission after SJS/TEN hospitalization. METHODS: We performed a cross-sectional study of the 2010-2014 Nationwide Readmissions Database. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate associations of patient demographics, comorbidities, and hospital characteristics with readmission. Aggregate and per-readmission costs were calculated. RESULTS: There were 8837 index admissions with SJS/TEN reported; of these, 910 (10.3%) were readmitted, with diagnoses including systemic infection (22.0%), SJS/TEN (20.6%), and cutaneous infection (9.1%). Associated characteristics included age 45 to 64 years (odds ratio [OR], 1.88; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.43-2.49), Medicaid insurance (OR, 1.83; 95% CI, 1.48-2.27), and nonmetropolitan hospital admission (OR, 1.67; 95% CI, 1.31-2.13). Associated comorbidities included HIV/AIDS (OR, 2.48; 95% CI, 1.63-3.75), collagen vascular disease (OR, 2.38; 95% CI, 1.88-3.00), and metastatic cancer (OR, 2.16; 95% CI, 1.35-3.46). The median per-readmission cost was $10,019 (interquartile range, $4,788-$16,485). LIMITATIONS: The Nationwide Readmissions Database lacks the ability to track the same patient across calendar years. The diagnostic code lacks specificity for hospitalizations <3 days. CONCLUSIONS: Thirty-day readmissions after SJS/TEN hospitalizations are common. Dedicated efforts to identify at-risk patients may improve peridischarge continuity.

Intrasubunit V-Y Muscle Sling Myocutaneous Island Advancement Flap for Small Defects Isolated to the Nasal Ala.

BACKGROUND: The V-Y island advancement flap is a useful reconstruction technique for nasal alar defects, but flap mobility is limited by the insertion of the muscles of facial expression into the dermis of the alae. OBJECTIVE: To describe a V-Y muscle sling myocutaneous island advancement flap (SMIAF) for improved mobility and intrasubunit reconstruction of alar defects. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective review of patient records and preoperative and postoperative photographs was performed on all patients with alar defects repaired with the SMIAF between April 2008 and October 2017. Patients and physicians rated aesthetic outcomes with the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS). RESULTS: A total of 18 nasal alar defects were repaired with the SMIAF after Mohs micrographic surgery. All defects were located on the anterior two-thirds of the alar lobule and had a mean surface area of 0.42 ± 0.19 cm. No patients experienced flap necrosis. Patients and 3 independent dermatologic surgeons rated favorable aesthetic outcomes. CONCLUSION: The SMIAF is a reliable reconstruction option with good aesthetic outcomes for small defects on the anterior two-thirds of the nasal ala.

Acute inflammatory Demodex-induced pustulosis in an immunocompetent patient related to topical steroid use.

Demodex spp. mites are a common colonizer of sebaceous adult skin. Though usually clinically insignificant, demodicosis may be associated with a wide spectrum of skin diseases in immunocompetent hosts, such as erythematotelangiectatic and papulopustular rosacea, Demodex folliculorum, and blepharitis. We present a case of a healthy 9-year-old boy with an exuberant, inflammatory, Demodex-associated pustular eruption of the face, induced by the use of a high-potency topical steroid and successfully treated with oral ivermectin.

Percutaneous liver biopsy in Fontan patients.

BACKGROUND: Patients who have undergone the Fontan operation for palliation of congenital heart disease with single-ventricle pathophysiology are at high risk for developing progressive liver fibrosis. Pathological assessment from percutaneous liver biopsy is central to the management of Fontan-associated liver disease, but liver biopsy in this vulnerable population poses unique challenges and potential risks. OBJECTIVE: This retrospective study describes our experience with percutaneous liver biopsy performed to assess changes of Fontan-associated liver disease, with particular regard to procedural outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data from liver biopsy procedure reports, pathology reports, cardiac angiography pressure measurements and laboratory values of patients with single ventricle heart disease after the Fontan operation who underwent ultrasound-guided percutaneous liver biopsy performed in interventional radiology at a pediatric tertiary care center during a 3-year period were retrospectively analyzed. RESULTS: Sixty-eight liver biopsies were performed in 67 patients (mean age: 20.2 years, range: 7.2-39 years). The technical success rate was 100%, and tissue was adequate for assessing liver disease in 100% of the procedures, including biopsies performed with a single pass. Anticoagulation was routinely suspended before biopsy, and no cardiac complications were encountered due to this suspension. A coaxial biopsy system using an 18-gauge (G) full-core instrument through a 17-G introducer trocar was most commonly used, in 41/68 cases (60%). The most common trough length was 2.3 cm, used in 37 cases (54%). One pass was made in 27 procedures (40%) and two passes in 30 (44%); tract embolization with gelatin sponge was performed in 52 (76%). The only complication was hemorrhage, which occurred in 5/68 (7.4%) of the biopsies, minor in four (5.9%) and major in one (1.5%) -- similar to rates reported for liver biopsy in non-Fontan patients. Hemorrhage had a delayed presentation in three of these five cases. Immediate post-biopsy hemoglobin decrease of ≥2 mg/dL showed a low sensitivity for hemorrhage. The mean Fontan pressure measured during cardiac angiography was 13.8 mmHg, and shunt pressures were not associated with an increased risk of hemorrhage. CONCLUSION: Percutaneous liver biopsy in Fontan patients can be performed safely with high technical success rates and without increased complication rates. Meticulous technique and close observation are recommended to reduce post-biopsy complications. The degree of right heart pressure elevation was not associated with hemorrhage.

IVC filter retrieval in adolescents: experience in a tertiary pediatric center.

BACKGROUND: Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters are commonly implanted with the intent to prevent life-threatening pulmonary embolism in at-risk patients with contraindications to anticoagulation. Various studies have reported increases in the rate of venous thromboembolism within the pediatric population. The utility and safety of IVC filters in children has not yet been fully defined. OBJECTIVE: To describe the technique and adjunctive maneuvers of IVC filter removal in children, demonstrate its technical success and identify complications. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective 10-year review was performed of 20 children (13 male, 7 female), mean age: 15.1 years (range: 12-19 years), who underwent IVC filter retrieval. Eleven of 20 (55%) were placed in our institution. Electronic medical records were reviewed for filter characteristics, retrieval technique, technical success and complications. RESULTS: The technical success rate was 100%. Placement indications included: deep venous thrombosis with a contraindication to anticoagulation (10/20, 50%), free-floating thrombus (4/20, 20%), post-trauma pulmonary embolism prophylaxis (3/20, 15%) and pre-thrombolysis pulmonary patient (1/20, 5%). The mean implantation period was 63 days (range: 20-270 days). Standard retrieval was performed in 17/20 patients (85%). Adjunctive techniques were performed in 3/20 patients (15%) and included the double-snare technique, balloon assistance and endobronchial forceps retrieval. Median procedure time was 60 min (range: 45-240 min). Pre-retrieval cavogram demonstrated filter tilt in 5/20 patients (25%) with a mean angle of 17° (range: 8-40). Pre-retrieval CT demonstrated strut wall penetration and tip embedment in one patient each. There were two procedure-related complications: IVC mural dissection noted on venography in one patient and snare catheter fracture requiring retrieval in one patient. There were no early or late complications. CONCLUSION: In children, IVC filter retrieval can be performed safely but may be challenging, especially in cases of filter tilt or embedding. Adjunctive techniques may increase filter retrieval rates.