Obesity increases operating room time for lobectomy in the society of thoracic surgeons database

Video-assisted thoracic surgery or thoracotomy for lung cancer surgery in obese patients? An analysis of the European Society of Thoracic Surgeons database

OBJECTIVES

There is a lack of evidence on whether perioperative outcomes differ in obese patients after video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) or open lobectomy. We queried the European Society of Thoracic Surgeons database to assess morbidity and postoperative length of hospital stay in obese patients submitted to VATS and open pulmonary lobectomy for non-small-cell lung cancer.

METHODS

We collected all consecutive patients from 2007 to 2021 submitted to lobectomy through VATS or thoracotomy with a body mass index greater than or equal to 30. An intention-to-treat analysis was carried out. Primary outcomes were morbidity rate, mortality and postoperative length of stay (LOS). Differences in outcomes were assessed through univariable, multivariable-adjusted and propensity score-matched analysis.

RESULTS

Out of a total of 78 018 patients submitted to lung lobectomy, 13 999 cases (17.9%) were considered in the analysis, including 5562 VATS lobectomies and 8437 thoracotomy lobectomies. The VATS group showed a lower complication rate (23.2% vs 30.2%, P < 0.001), mortality (0.8% vs 1.5%, P < 0.001) and postoperative LOS (median 5 vs 7 days, P < 0.001). After propensity score matching, the VATS approach confirmed a lower complication rate (24.7% vs 29.7%, P = 0.002) and postoperative LOS (median 5 vs 7 days, P < 0.001). Moreover, these results were consistently observed when analyzing the severe obese subgroup (body mass index 35-39.9) and morbid obese subgroup (body mass index ≥40).

CONCLUSIONS

In obese patients with non-small cell lung cancer, VATS lobectomy was found to be associated with improved postoperative outcomes than open lobectomy. Consequently, it should be considered the approach of choice for the Obese population.

Moving beyond frailty: Obesity paradox persists in lung resection

BACKGROUND

The apparent protective effect of high body mass index on postoperative outcomes, termed the "obesity paradox," has been postulated to reflect the relative frailty of patients without obesity. We wanted to examine the independent association between body mass index and outcomes after anatomic lung resection.

METHODS

All adults undergoing elective lung resection for cancer were identified in the 2012-2020 National Surgical Quality Improvement Program. The modified Frailty Index quantified degree of patient frailty. Malnutrition was defined as a preoperative serum albumin <3.5g/dL. Multivariable regressions were used to examine the independent association of body mass index and major adverse events, analyzed as a composite of 30-day mortality, postoperative complications, and unplanned reoperation.

RESULTS

Of an estimated 20,099 patients meeting study criteria, 6,424 (32.0%) had obesity. Relative to others, patients with obesity were significantly younger (49.3 vs 50.3 years), more commonly White (78.1 vs 74.9%), and more frequently frail (modified Frailty Index >1: 35.7 vs 22.5%, all P < .001). There was no significant difference in malnutrition rates (7.6 vs 8.4%, P = .05) or extent of resection between groups. After adjustment, obesity was associated with decreased odds of major adverse events (adjusted odds ratio 0.86, 95% confidence interval 0.78-0.94).

CONCLUSION

The present findings uphold the canonical obesity paradox in anatomic lung resection, despite adjustment for frailty and malnutrition. Further studies are warranted to characterize the nature of this association; however, our results may inform efforts to optimize risk stratification and patient selection for surgical intervention.

Experience matters for robotic assistance: an analysis of case data

Many robotic procedures require active participation by assistants. Most prior work on assistants' effect on outcomes has been limited in procedural focus and scope, with studies reporting differing results. Knowing how assistant experience affects operating room time could inform operating room case scheduling and provide an impetus for additional assistant training. As such, this retrospective cohort study aimed to determine the association between assistant experience and operating room time for 2291 robotic-assisted operations performed from 2016 to 2022 at our institution. Linear regression showed a significant association between the presence of a junior resident and increased case length differential with an increase of 26.9 min (p = 0.01). There were no significant associations between the presence of a senior resident (p = 0.52), presence of a fellow (p = 0.20), or presence of a physician assistant (p = 0.43) and case length differential. The finding of increased operating room time in the presence of a junior resident during robotic cases supports consideration of the adoption of formal assistant training programs for residents to improve efficiency.

The Overweight Paradox: Impact of Body Mass Index on Patients Undergoing VATS Lobectomy or Segmentectomy

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of BMI on perioperative outcomes in patients undergoing VATS lobectomy or segmentectomy. Data from 5088 patients undergoing VATS lobectomy or segmentectomy, included in the VATS Group Italian Registry, were collected. BMI (kg/m²) was categorized according to the WHO classes: underweight, normal, overweight, obese. The effects of BMI on outcomes (complications, 30-days mortality, DFS and OS) were evaluated with a linear regression model, and with a logistic regression model for binary endpoints. In overweight and obese patients, operative time increased with BMI value. Operating room time increased by 5.54 minutes (S.E. = 1.57) in overweight patients, and 33.12 minutes (S.E. = 10.26) in obese patients (P < 0.001). Compared to the other BMI classes, overweight patients were at the lowest risk of pulmonary, acute cardiac, surgical, major, and overall postoperative complications. In the overweight range, a BMI increase from 25 to 29.9 did not significantly affect the length of stay, nor the risk of any complications, except for renal complications (OR: 1.55; 95% CI: 1.07-2.24; P = 0.03), and it reduced the risk of prolonged air leak (OR: 0.8; 95% CI: 0.71-0.90; P < 0.001). 30-days mortality is higher in the underweight group compared to the others. We did not find any significant difference in DFS and OS. According to our results, obesity increases operating room time for VATS major lung resection. Overweight patients are at the lowest risk of pulmonary, acute cardiac, surgical, major, and overall postoperative complications following VATS resections. The risk of most postoperative complications progressively increases as the BMI deviates from the point at the lowest risk, towards both extremes of BMI values. Thirty days mortality is higher in the underweight group, with no differences in DFS and OS.

Obesity in cases undergoing the surgical procedure of lung lobectomy: risk or benefit?

OBJECTIVE:

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of body mass index on patients’ short-term results following lung lobectomy.

METHODS:

In this retrospective study, we compared the perioperative and short-term postoperative results of obese (BMI≥30 kg/m²) versus non-obese patients (BMI<30 kg/m²) who underwent anatomical lung resection for cancer. The two groups had the same distribution of input risk factors and the same ratio of surgical approaches (thoracoscopy vs. thoracotomy).

RESULTS:

The study included a total of 144 patients: 48 obese and 96 non-obese patients. Both groups had the same ratio of thoracoscopic vs. thoracotomy approach (50/50%), and were comparable in terms of demographics and clinical data. The g roups did not significantly differ in the frequency of perioperative or postoperative complications. Postoperative morbidity was higher among non-obese patients (34.4 vs. 27.1%), but this difference was not statistically significant (p=0.053). Hospital stay was similar in both study groups (p=0.100). Surgery time was significantly longer among obese patients (p=0.133). Postoperative mortality was comparable between the study groups (p=0.167).

CONCLUSIONS:

Obesity does not increase the frequency of perioperative and postoperative complications in patients after lung lobectomy. The slightly better results in obese patients suggest that obesity may have some protective role.

Feasibility of double sleeve lobectomy after neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer

OBJECTIVES

This study intends to appraise the feasibility of double sleeve lobectomy after neoadjuvant chemotherapy in central non-small-cell lung cancer with bronchovascular aggression.

METHODS

This retrospective study included non-small-cell lung cancer patients who received double sleeve lobectomy from January 2014 to June 2020. Patients were divided into 2 groups: the neoadjuvant chemotherapy group and the non-neoadjuvant chemotherapy group. Demographic data and perioperative outcomes were compared between these 2 groups.

RESULTS

Of the 110 patients who received double sleeve lobectomy during this period, 35 patients (31.8%) received neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Compared with the non-neoadjuvant chemotherapy group, patients who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy were associated with younger age (P = 0.026), smaller pathologic tumour size (P = 0.005), higher forced expiratory volume in 1 s (P = 0.007), higher forced expiratory volume in 1 s of predicted value (P = 0.005) and higher clinical stage (P < 0.001). In the neoadjuvant chemotherapy group, 18 patients (51.4%) attained a partial response and 17 patients (48.6%) achieved stable disease. The postoperative hospital stays (P = 0.042) and chest tube drainage duration (P = 0.030) were longer in the neoadjuvant chemotherapy group and other perioperative performances were similar between these 2 groups. No statistically significant difference was reported in postoperative complications and mortality between these 2 groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The intraoperative performance and postoperative outcomes of double sleeve lobectomy following neoadjuvant chemotherapy were similar to direct surgery, indicating that double sleeve lobectomy after neoadjuvant chemotherapy is feasible and safe in central lung cancer involving both the pulmonary artery and bronchus.

Is faster better? Impact of operative time on postoperative outcomes after VATS anatomical pulmonary resection

Background

Video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) is now the preferred approach for standard anatomical pulmonary resections. This study evaluates the impact of operative time (OT) on post-operative outcomes after VATS anatomical pulmonary resection for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed all consecutive patients undergoing VATS lobectomy or segmentectomy for NSCLC between November 2010 and December 2019. Postoperative outcomes were compared between short (<150 minutes) and long (≥150 minutes) OT groups. A multivariable analysis was performed to identify predictors of long OT and overall post-operative complications.

Results

A total of 670 patients underwent lobectomy (n=496, 74%) or segmentectomy (n=174, 26%) for NSCLC. Mediastinal lymph node dissection was performed in 621 patients (92.7%). The median OT was 141 minutes (SD: 47 minutes) and 387 patients (57.8%) were operated within 150 minutes. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy was given in 25 patients (3.7%). Conversion thoracotomy was realized in 40 patients (6%). Shorter OT was significantly associated with decreased post-operative overall complication rate (30% vs. 41%; P=0.003), shorter median length of drainage (3 vs. 4 days; P<0.001) and shorter median length of hospital stay (6 vs. 7 days; P<0.001). On multivariable analysis, long OT (≥150 minutes) (OR 1.64, P=0.006), ASA score >2 (OR 1.87, P=0.001), FEV₁ <80% (OR 1.47, P=0.046) and DLCO <80% (OR 1.5, P=0.045) were significantly associated with postoperative complications. Two predictors of long OT were identified: neoadjuvant chemotherapy (OR 3.11, P=0.01) and lobectomy (OR 1.5, P=0.032).

Conclusions

A prolonged OT is significantly associated with postoperative complications in our collective of patients undergoing VATS anatomical pulmonary resection.

Obesity Does Not Increase Perioperative Outcomes in Older Patients Undergoing Thoracoscopic Anatomic Lung Cancer Surgery

Objectives

To investigate the relationship between obesity status and perioperative outcomes in elderly patients undergoing thoracoscopic anatomic lung cancer surgery.

Methods

From January 2016 to December 2018, we performed a monocentric retrospective cohort study among 4164 consecutive patients aged 65 years or older who underwent thoracoscopic anatomic lung cancer surgery at Shanghai Chest Hospital. Two groups were stratified by body mass index (BMI): nonobese (BMI<28kg/m²) and obese status (BMI≥28kg/m²). Using a 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM) analysis to compare perioperative outcomes between two groups.

Results

4035 older patients were eventually enrolled, with a mean age of 69.8 years (range: 65-87), and 305 patients were eligible for obese status, with a mean BMI of 29.8 ± 1.7kg/m². Compared with nonobese patients, obese patients were more likely to have higher rates of intraoperative hypoxemia (1.2% vs 3.9%, P=0.001) and new-onset arrhythmia (2.3% vs 4.3%, P=0.034). The difference in intraoperative transfusion and conversion rates and postoperative outcomes regarding pulmonary complications, new-onset arrhythmia, transfusion, length of hospital stay, 30-day readmission and hospitalization costs between two groups were not significant (P>0.05). After a 1:1 PSM analysis, the difference in both intraoperative and postoperative complications among two groups were not significant (P>0.05). In subgroup analysis, patients with BMI≥30kg/m² had a similar incidence of perioperative complications compared to patients with BMI between 28 and 30 kg/m² (P>0.05).

Conclusions

Our research data support evidence for “obesity paradox” and also contribute the growing body of evidence that obesity in older patients should not exclude candidates for thoracoscopic anatomic lung cancer surgery.

"Obesity paradox" has not an impact on minimally invasive anatomical lung resection

INTRODUCTION

The paradoxical benefit of obesity, the 'obesity paradox', has been analyzed in lung surgical populations with contradictory results. Our goal was assessing the relationship of body mass index (BMI) to acute outcomes after minimally invasive major pulmonary resections.

METHODS

Retrospective review of consecutive patients who underwent pulmonary anatomical resection through a minimally invasive approach for the period 2014-2019. Patients were grouped as underweight, normal, overweight and obese type I, II and III. Adjusted odds ratios regarding postoperative complications (overall, respiratory, cardiovascular and surgical morbidity) were produced with their exact 95% confidence intervals. All tests were considered statistically significant at p<0.05.

RESULTS

Among 722 patients included in the study, 37.7% had a normal BMI and 61.8% were overweight or obese patients. When compared with that of normal BMI patients, adjusted pulmonary complications were significantly higher in obese type I patients (2.6% vs 10.6%, OR: 4.53 [95%CI: 1.86-12.11]) and obese type II-III (2.6% vs 10%, OR: 6.09 [95%CI: 1.38-26.89]). No significant differences were found regarding overall, cardiovascular or surgical complications among groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Obesity has not favourable effects on early outcomes in patients undergoing minimally invasive anatomical lung resections, since the risk of respiratory complications in patients with BMI≥30kg/m² and BMI≥35kg/m² is 4.5 and 6 times higher than that of patients with normal BMI.

Economic impact of powered stapler in video-assisted thoracic surgery lobectomy for lung Cancer in a Chinese tertiary hospital: a cost-minimization analysis

BACKGROUND

To assess the economic impact of powered stapler use in video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) lobectomy for lung cancer in a Chinese tertiary care hospital.

METHODS

This study identified 388 patients who received VATS lobectomy using the ECHELON powered stapler (n = 296) or the ECHELON manual stapler (n = 92) for lung cancer in a Chinese tertiary hospital. Multiple generalized linear regression analyses were conducted using data on hospital costs and patient characteristics to develop predictive equations for hospital costs in a cost-minimization analysis (CMA) model comparing hospital costs associated with the ECHELON powered stapler and the ECHELON manual stapler. CMA model was used to conduct scenario analysis to compare the ECHELON powered stapler with another manual stapler (Victor Medical).

RESULTS

The multiple generalized linear regression analyses identified that using the ECHELON powered stapler in VATS lobectomy for lung cancer was associated with significantly lower drug costs than using the ECHELON manual stapler (coefficient - 0.256, 95% confidence interval: - 0.375 to - 0.139). The CMA model estimated that the ECHELON powered stapler could save hospital costs by ¥1653 when compared with the ECHELON manual stapler (¥65,531 vs. ¥67,184). The use of the ECHELON powered stapler also saved hospital costs by ¥4411 when compared with the Victor Medical manual stapler (¥65,531 vs. ¥69,942) in the scenario analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared to the two manual staplers used for VATS lobectomy for lung cancer in a Chinese tertiary hospital, the ECHELON powered stapler had 100% probability to save total hospital costs under present prices of the three staplers according to the CMA.

Robotic vs. Thoracoscopic Anatomic Lung Resection in Obese Patients: A Propensity Adjusted Analysis

BACKGROUND

Minimally-invasive lung resections can be particularly challenging in obese patients. We hypothesized robotic surgery (RTS) is associated with less conversion to thoracotomy than thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) in obese populations.

METHODS

The STS GTSD, Epithor French National Database, and McMaster University Database were queried for obese (BMI≥30 kg/m²) patients who underwent VATS or RTS lobectomy or segmentectomy for clinical T1-2, N0-1 NSCLC between 2015-2019. Propensity score adjusted logistic regression analysis was used to compare the rate of conversion to thoracotomy between the VATS and RTS cohorts.

RESULTS

Overall, 8,108 patients (STS GTSD: n=7,473; Epithor: n=572; McMaster: n=63) met inclusion criteria with a mean age of 66.6 years (SD 9 years) and BMI of 34.7 kg/m² (SD 4.5 kg/m²). After propensity score adjusted multivariable analysis, patients who underwent VATS were over 5 times more likely to experience conversion to thoracotomy than those who underwent RTS (OR=5.33; 95% CI 4.14, 6.81, p<0.001). There was a linear association between degree of obesity and odds ratio of VATS conversion to thoracotomy compared to RTS. The VATS cohort had a longer mean length of stay (5.0 vs. 4.3 days, p<0.001), higher rate of respiratory failure (2.8% [168/5975] vs. 1.8% [39/2133], p=0.026), and were less likely to be discharged to their home (92.5% [5,525/5,975] vs. 94.3% [2,012/2,133]; p=0.013) compared to RTS patients.

CONCLUSIONS

In obese patients, RTS anatomic lung resection is associated with a lower rate of conversion to thoracotomy than VATS.

Does morbid obesity influence perioperative outcomes after video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) lobectomy for non-small cell lung cancer? Analysis of the Italian VATS group registry

OBJECTIVES

Obesity in Europe, and worldwide, has been an increasing epidemic during the past decades. Moreover, obesity has important implications regarding technical issues and the risks associated with surgical interventions. Nevertheless, there is a lack of evidence assessing the influence of obesity on video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) lobectomy results. Our study aimed to assess the impact of morbid obesity on perioperative clinical and oncological outcomes after VATS lobectomy using a prospectively maintained nationwide registry.

METHODS

The Italian VATS lobectomy Registry was used to collect all consecutive cases from 55 Institutions. Explored outcome parameters were conversion to thoracotomy rates, complication rates, intra-operative blood loss, surgical time, hospital postoperative length of stay, chest tube duration, number of harvested lymph-node, and surgical margin positivity.

RESULTS

From 2016 to 2019, a total of 4412 patients were collected. 74 patients present morbid obesity (1.7%). Multivariable-adjusted analysis showed that morbid obesity was associated with a higher rate of complications (32.8% vs 20.3%), but it was not associated with a higher rate of conversion, and surgical margin positivity rates. Moreover, morbid obesity patients benefit from an equivalent surgical time, lymph-node retrieval, intraoperative blood loss, hospital postoperative length of stay, and chest tube duration than non-morbid obese patients. The most frequent postoperative complications in morbidly obese patients were pulmonary-related (35%).

CONCLUSION

Our results showed that VATS lobectomy could be safely and satisfactorily conducted even in morbidly obese patients, without an increase in conversion rate, blood loss, surgical time, hospital postoperative length of stay, and chest tube duration. Moreover, short-term oncological outcomes were preserved.

Clinical outcomes of powered and manual staplers in video-assisted thoracic surgery lobectomy for lung cancer

Methods: This retrospective cohort study identified patients who underwent video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) lobectomy for lung cancer from January 2016 to December 2018 in a Chinese tertiary general hospital. The electronic hospital medical records associated with the VATS lobectomy for lung cancer were the data sources. Results: Based on the analysis of 433 patients with the utilization of staplers in their VATS lobectomy for lung cancer, using powered stapler was associated with significantly shorter operation time and postsurgery hospital stay length than using the manual stapler in the multivariable generalized linear regression analyses with the adjustment of patient characteristics. However, no other significant differences were observed for other clinical outcomes between the two staplers.

"Obesity paradox" has not an impact on minimally invasive anatomical lung resection

INTRODUCTION

The paradoxical benefit of obesity, the 'obesity paradox', has been analyzed in lung surgical populations with contradictory results. Our goal was assessing the relationship of body mass index (BMI) to acute outcomes after minimally invasive major pulmonary resections.

METHODS

Retrospective review of consecutive patients who underwent pulmonary anatomical resection through a minimally invasive approach for the period 2014-2019. Patients were grouped as underweight, normal, overweight and obese type I, II and III. Adjusted odds ratios regarding postoperative complications (overall, respiratory, cardiovascular and surgical morbidity) were produced with their exact 95% confidence intervals. All tests were considered statistically significant at p<0.05.

RESULTS

Among 722 patients included in the study, 37.7% had a normal BMI and 61.8% were overweight or obese patients. When compared with that of normal BMI patients, adjusted pulmonary complications were significantly higher in obese type I patients (2.6% vs 10.6%, OR: 4.53 [95%CI: 1.86-12.11]) and obese type II-III (2.6% vs 10%, OR: 6.09 [95%CI: 1.38-26.89]). No significant differences were found regarding overall, cardiovascular or surgical complications among groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Obesity has not favourable effects on early outcomes in patients undergoing minimally invasive anatomical lung resections, since the risk of respiratory complications in patients with BMI≥30kg/m2 and BMI≥35kg/m2 is 4.5 and 6 times higher than that of patients with normal BMI.

A-qCPR risk score screening model for predicting 1-year mortality associated with hospice and palliative care in the emergency department

BACKGROUND

Evaluating the need for palliative care and predicting its mortality play important roles in the emergency department.

AIM

We developed a screening model for predicting 1-year mortality.

DESIGN

A retrospective cohort study was conducted to identify risk factors associated with 1-year mortality. Our risk scores based on these significant risk factors were then developed. Its predictive validity performance was evaluated using area under receiving operating characteristic analysis and leave-one-out cross-validation.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

Patients aged 15 years or older were enrolled from June 2015 to May 2016 in the emergency department.

RESULTS

We identified five independent risk factors, each of which was assigned a number of points proportional to its estimated regression coefficient: age (0.05 points per year), qSOFA ⩾ 2 (1), Cancer (4), Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status score ⩾ 2 (2), and Do-Not-Resuscitate status (3). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of our screening tool given the cutoff larger than 3 points were 0.99 (0.98-0.99), 0.31 (0.29-0.32), 0.26 (0.24-0.27), and 0.99 (0.98-1.00), respectively. Those with screening scores larger than 9 points corresponding to 64.0% (60.0-67.9%) of 1-year mortality were prioritized for consultation and communication. The area under the receiving operating characteristic curves for the point system was 0.84 (0.83-0.85) for the cross-validation model.

CONCLUSIONS

A-qCPR risk scores provide a good screening tool for assessing patient prognosis. Routine screening for end-of-life using this tool plays an important role in early and efficient physician-patient communications regarding hospice and palliative needs in the emergency department.

The Effect of Obesity on Operating Room Utilization in Breast Surgery

BACKGROUND

The current obesity epidemic is associated with increased health care costs associated with comorbidities such as diabetes and heart disease as well as postoperative complications. However, the effect of obesity on operating room (OR) utilization, especially in common breast procedures, has not been completely evaluated. Our study is the first to examine the effect of patient obesity on operative time (OPT) for common breast procedures.

METHODS

The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Project databases for 2010-2018 were searched for this retrospective review. Patients undergoing common breast operations (lumpectomy, lumpectomy with sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) (+/- injection), lumpectomy and axillary lymph node dissection (ALND), simple mastectomy, mastectomy with SLNB (+/- injection), and mastectomy with ALND) were filtered out by Current Procedural Terminology code and divided into three groups based on their body mass index (BMI) and weight. Using the two-sample t-test, OPT for the procedures was compared among the lowest and highest BMI and weight categories. We also used a linear regression t-test to demonstrate that for every unit increase in BMI, there was a corresponding increase in OPT for each procedure.

RESULTS

When the lowest and highest BMI and weight groups were compared, significant differences in OPT (P < 0.0001) were seen for each of the procedures. Numerous factors that could affect the complexity of surgery and thus OR time were identified. The correlation between BMI and weight and OPT remained significant after controlling for these variables. The differences between the highest and lowest BMI groups were most pronounced for higher complexity procedures, such as lumpectomy with ALND and mastectomy with ALND, with average operating times increasing by 18.2 min and 18.6 min, respectively, for patients with a higher BMI.

CONCLUSIONS

Patient BMI and weight significantly affect OPT for common breast procedures. Therefore, patient BMI should be taken into account to improve OR scheduling.

Postoperative outcomes of robotic-assisted lobectomy in obese patients with non-small-cell lung cancer

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to assess the postoperative outcomes of robotic-assisted lobectomy in obese patients to determine the impact of the robotic approach on a high-risk population who were candidates for major pulmonary resection for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

METHODS

Between January 2007 and August 2018, we retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 224 obese patients (body mass index ≥ 30) who underwent pulmonary lobectomy at our institution via robotic-assisted thoracic surgery (RATS, n = 51) or lateral muscle-sparing thoracotomy (n = 173).

RESULTS

Forty-two patients were individually matched with those who had the same pathological tumour stage and similar comorbidities and presurgical treatment. The median operative time was significantly longer in the RATS group compared to that in the thoracotomy group (200 vs 158 min; P = 0.003), whereas the length of stay was significantly better for the RATS group (5 vs 6 days; P = 0.047). Postoperative complications were significantly more frequent after open lobectomy than in the RATS group (42.9% vs 16.7%; P = 0.027). After a median follow-up of 4.4 years, the 5-year overall survival rate was 67.6% [95% confidence interval (CI) 45.7–82.2] for the RATS group, and 66.1% (95% CI 46.8–79.9) for the open surgery group (log-rank P = 0.54). The 5-year cumulative incidence of cancer-related deaths was 24.8% (95% CI 9.7–43.5) for the RATS group and 23.6% (95% CI 10.8–39.2) for the open surgery group (Gray’s test, P = 0.69).

CONCLUSIONS

RATS is feasible and safe for obese patients with NSCLC with advantages compared to open surgery in terms of early postoperative outcomes. In addition, the long-term survival rate was comparable to that of the open approach.

Obesity paradox in patients undergoing lung lobectomy - myth or reality?

Background

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the impact of BMI on the short-term outcomes of patients undergoing lung lobectomy.

Methods

This was a retrospective clinical cohort study conducted in a single institution to assess the short-term outcomes of obese patients undergoing lung resection. Intraoperative and postoperative parameters were compared between the two study subgroups: obese (BMI ≥30 kg/m2) and non-obese patients (BMI < 30 kg/m2).

Results

In total, 203 patients were enrolled in the study (70 obese and 133 non-obese patients). Both study subgroups were comparable with regards to demographics, clinical data and surgical approach (thoracoscopy vs. thoracotomy). The surgery time was significantly longer in obese patients (p = 0.048). There was no difference in the frequency of intraoperative complications between the study subgroups (p = 0.635).

The postoperative hospital stay was similar in both study subgroups (p = 0.366). A 30-day postoperative morbidity was higher in a subgroup of non-obese patients (33.8% vs. 21.7%), but the difference was not significant (p = 0.249). In the subgroup of non-obese patients, a higher frequency of mild and severe postoperative complications was observed. However, the differences between the study subgroups were not statistically significant due to the borderline p-value (p = 0.053). The 30-day postoperative mortality was comparable between obese and non-obese patients (p = 0.167).

Conclusions

Obesity does not increase the incidence and severity of intraoperative and postoperative complications after lung lobectomy. Slightly better outcomes in obese patients indicate that obesity paradox might be a reality in patients undergoing lung resection.

Thyroid surgery and obesity: Cohort study of surgical outcomes and local specific complications

INTRODUCTION

Obesity is associated with numerous complications after elective general surgeries. The aim is to compare surgical outcomes and local specific complications in obese and non-obese patients after thyroid surgery.

METHODS

Retrospective study over a 3-year period at a North American academic institution. Outcome measures were operative time, estimated blood loss, hospital length of stay, and local specific complications (hypocalcemia, recurrent laryngeal nerve injury, wound hematoma, wound seroma, and chyle leakage).

RESULTS

A total of 469 patients were included (mean [SD] age, 50.11 [15.01] years; mean [SD] BMI, 30.5 [8.3] kg/m²; 207 [44.14%] obese). There was no difference in operative time (125.7 vs. 129.6, p = 0.52), estimated blood loss (16.88 vs. 14.56, p = 0.28), or hospital length of stay (0.95 vs. 0.95, p = 0.96). Overall, there was no difference in the rates of local specific complications between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Obesity is not associated with adverse outcomes in patients undergoing thyroid surgery.

Impact of Body Mass Index on Perioperative Outcomes of Endoscopic Pituitary Surgery

Background Endoscopic pituitary surgery (EPS) is increasingly being used for the treatment of pituitary lesions. Obesity is a growing epidemic in our nation associated with numerous comorbidities known to impact surgical outcomes. We present a multi-institutional database study evaluating the association between body mass index (BMI) and postsurgical outcomes of EPS. Methods Patients who underwent EPS from 2005 to 2013 were identified from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. Preoperative variables, comorbidities, and postoperative outcomes, such as 30-day complications, morbidity, and mortality, were analyzed. Results A total of 789 patients were analyzed, of which 382 were obese (BMI ≥ 30) (48.4%). No difference in reoperation rate ( P = .928) or unplanned readmission rates ( P = .837) was found between the obese versus nonobese group. A higher overall complication rate was observed in the obese group compared to the nonobese counterparts ( P = .005). However, when separated into surgical complications (3.7% vs 1.5%, P = .068) and medical complications (7.6% vs 3.9%, P = .027), only medical complications, specifically pneumonia, remained significantly different. EPS on obese patients was also associated with prolonged operating time (154.8 min vs 141.0 min, P = .011). Conclusions EPS may be a safe treatment option for pituitary lesions in the obese population. Although obese patients undergoing EPS are at increased risk of medical complications and prolonged operating times, this did not influence mortality, reoperation, or readmission rate.

Thoracic Surgery Considerations in Obese Patients

The obesity epidemic in the United States has increased greatly over the past several decades, and thoracic surgeons are likely to see obese patients routinely in their practices. Obesity has direct deleterious health effects such as metabolic disorder and cardiovascular disease, and is associated with many cancers. Obese patients who need thoracic surgery pose practical challenges to many of the routine elements in perioperative management. Preoperative assessment of obesity-related comorbid conditions and risk stratification for surgery, thorough intraoperative planning for anesthesia and surgery, and postoperative strategies to optimize pulmonary hygiene and mobility minimize the risk of adverse outcomes.

The influence of obesity on operating room time and perioperative complications in cochlear implantation

Objective

The rising incidence of obesity in the United States is associated with increased healthcare expenditures and resource allocation. Obesity has been associated with prolonged operating times during surgical procedures. The primary objective of this study is to compare body mass index (BMI) to length of surgery during cochlear implantation.

Methods

A retrospective case control study from a tertiary academic referral center was performed. Patients included were adults who underwent primary, single-sided cochlear implantation with documented BMI and operating room (OR) times from January 2009 to July 2015. The following data were collected: BMI, total operating room time (TORT), surgical operating room time (SORT), ASA status, perioperative and postoperative complications, age, and gender.

Results

Two hundreds and thirty-four patients were included and stratified into obese (BMI >30) and non-obese (BMI < 30) categories. Statistical analysis was performed comparing TORT against the obesity category along with other variables. Independent sample t-test demonstrated that obesity increases TORT and SORT by 16.8 min (P = 0.0002) and 9.3 min (P = 0.03), respectively, compared to the non-obese group. Multivariate linear regression analysis demonstrated no statistically significant impact of gender, or ASA status on total operating or surgical time. Obesity was associated with increased perioperative complications (odds ratio [OR], 6.21; 95% CI, 1.18–32.80; P = 0.03) and postoperative complications (OR, 3.97; 95% CI, 1.29–12.26; P = 0.02).

Conclusions

Obesity leads to longer TORT and SORT during primary cochlear implant surgery. Obesity is also associated with increased perioperative and postoperative complications compared to non-obese patients. These data have implications with utilization of operating room resources.

Preoperative nutritional status assessment predicts postoperative outcomes in patients with surgically resected non-small cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

As nutritional status plays an important role in outcomes after surgery, this study evaluated the association between preoperative nutritional status (NS) and postoperative outcomes after major resection for lung cancer.

METHODS

We identified 219 patients with a diagnosis of cancer who underwent pulmonary resection from 2010 to 2012. Preoperative NS was assessed by anthropometric and biological parameters, body mass index (BMI), and the Nutritional Risk Index (NRI). We stratified this population into 4 BMI groups: underweight, normal weight, overweight and obese and 4 NRI groups: well-nourished; mildly malnourished; moderately malnourished and severely malnourished. The outcomes measured were postoperative complications; 30-day postoperative mortality; hospital length of stay (LOS), overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS). We performed both unadjusted analysis and adjusted multivariable analysis, controlling for statistically significant variables.

RESULTS

Mean BMI and NRI were, respectively, 26.5 ± 4.3 and 112.4 ± 3.3. There were no significant differences between BMI categories and resection type, pathological stage, or overall postoperative complications. By contrast, significant differences (p < 0.05) in postoperative complications were observed among the NRI groups. LOS was longer in underweight and/or malnourished patients. In terms of OS, we found no significant differences according to NRI and BMI; however, patients with underweight had significantly shorter DFS compared with patients with overweight and obesity (log-rank p-value = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

NS as measured by the NRI is an independent predictor of the risk of postsurgical complications, regardless of clinicopathologic characteristics. NRI might therefore be an useful tool for identifying early-stage lung cancer patients at risk for postoperative complications.

Systematic review of prognostic roles of body mass index for patients undergoing lung cancer surgery: does the 'obesity paradox' really exist?

Summary

The paradoxical benefit of obesity, the 'obesity paradox', has been recently identified in surgical populations. Our goal was to evaluate by a systematic review with meta-analysis the prognostic role of body mass index (BMI) and to identify whether the 'obesity paradox' exists in lung cancer surgery. Comprehensive literature retrieval was conducted in PubMed to identify the eligible articles. The odds ratios (OR) and hazard ratios (HR) with the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used to synthesize in-hospital and long-term survival outcomes, respectively. The heterogeneity level and publication bias between studies were also estimated. Finally, 25 observational studies with 78 143 patients were included in this review. The pooled analyses showed a significantly better long-term survival rate in patients with higher BMI, but no significant benefit of increased BMI was found for in-hospital morbidity. The pooled analyses also showed that overall morbidity (OR: 0.84; 95% CI: 0.73-0.98; P  =   0.025) and in-hospital mortality (OR: 0.78; 95% CI: 0.63-0.98; P  =   0.031) were significantly decreased in obese patients. Obesity could be a strong predictor of the favourable long-term prognosis of lung cancer patients (HR: 0.69; 95% CI: 0.56-0.86; P  =   0.001). The robustness of these pooled estimates was strong. No publication bias was detected. In summary, obesity has favourable effects on in-hospital outcomes and long-term survival of surgical patients with lung cancer. The 'obesity paradox' does have the potential to exist in lung cancer surgery.

Low Body Mass Index Is an Independent Predictive Factor after Surgical Resection in Patients with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Background:

The effect of body mass index (BMI) on postoperative survival in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has been controversial. We retrospectively analysed the effect of preoperative BMI on postoperative outcomes of NSCLC surgery.

Methods:

Consecutive 384 NSCLC patients were enrolled. Patients were subdivided into 3 groups: low BMI group (BMI<18.5 kg/m²), normal BMI group (BMI=18.5-24.0 kg/m²) and high BMI group (BMI>24.0 kg/m²). The prognostic significance of BMI was examined retrospectively.

Results:

The 5-year survival of patients with low, normal and high BMI groups were 46.3%, 74.3% and 84.3%, respectively. The low BMI group had a poorer prognosis than the other groups (p<0.001). The survival of high BMI group had a more favorable trend than that of normal BMI group, but this did not reach statistical significance (p=0.057). On multivariate analysis, significant risk factors for cancer-specific survival were male gender (p=0.0061), non-adenocarcinoma histology (p=0.0003), pN1-2 status (p=0.0007), high serum CEA level (p<0.0001) and low BMI (low vs. others: p <0.0001).

Conclusions:

Preoperative BMI is an independent prognostic factor for NSCLC patients after surgical resection, with low BMI patients having an unfavorable prognosis.

Obesity Increases Risk-Adjusted Morbidity, Mortality, and Cost Following Cardiac Surgery

BACKGROUND

Despite the epidemic rise in obesity, few studies have evaluated the effect of obesity on cost following cardiac surgery. We hypothesized that increasing body mass index (BMI) is associated with worse risk-adjusted outcomes and higher cost.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Medical records for 13 637 consecutive patients who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting (9702), aortic (1535) or mitral (837) valve surgery, and combined valve-coronary artery bypass grafting (1663) procedures were extracted from a regional Society of Thoracic Surgeons certified database. Patients were stratified by BMI: normal to overweight (BMI 18.5-30), obese (BMI 30-40), and morbidly obese (BMI >40). Differences in outcomes and cost were compared between BMI strata and also modeled as a continuous function of BMI with adjustment for preoperative risk using Society of Thoracic Surgeons predictive risk indices. Morbidly obese patients incurred nearly 60% greater observed mortality than normal weight patients. Moreover, morbidly obese patients had greater than 2-fold increase in renal failure and 6.5-fold increase in deep sternal wound infection. After risk adjustment, a significant association was found between BMI and mortality (P<0.001) and major morbidity (P<0.001). The risk-adjusted odds ratio for mortality for morbidly obese patients was 1.57 (P=0.02) compared to normal patients. Importantly, risk-adjusted total hospital cost increased with BMI, with 17.2% higher costs in morbidly obese patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher BMI is associated with increased mortality, major morbidity, and cost for hospital care. As such, BMI should be more strongly considered in risk assessment and resource allocation.

Effect of Obesity on Perioperative Outcomes After Robotic-Assisted Pulmonary Lobectomy

OBJECTIVE

We investigated whether higher body mass index (BMI) affects perioperative and postoperative outcomes after robotic-assisted video-thoracoscopic pulmonary lobectomy.

METHODS

We retrospectively studied all patients who underwent robotic-assisted pulmonary lobectomy by one surgeon between September 2010 and January 2015. Patients were grouped according to the World Health Organization's definition of obesity, with "obese" being defined as BMI >30.0 kg/m². Perioperative outcomes, including intraoperative estimated blood loss (EBL) and postoperative complication rates, were compared.

RESULTS

Over 53 months, 287 patients underwent robotic-assisted pulmonary lobectomy, with 7 patients categorized as "underweight," 94 patients categorized as "normal weight," 106 patients categorized as "overweight," and 80 patients categorized as "obese." Because of the relatively low sample size, "underweight" patients were excluded from this study, leaving a total cohort of 280 patients. There was no significant difference in intraoperative complication rates, conversion rates, perioperative outcomes, or postoperative complication rates among the 3 groups, except for lower risk of prolonged air leaks ≥7 days and higher risk of pneumonia in patients with obesity.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with obesity do not have increased risk of intraoperative or postoperative complications, except for pneumonia, compared with "normal weight" and "overweight" patients. Robotic-assisted pulmonary lobectomy is safe and effective for patients with high BMI.

Predictive Factors for Severe Outcomes in Ischemic Colitis

Background/Aims

Ischemic colitis includes a wide clinical spectrum ranging from mild to severe forms. This study aimed to determine the factors that are related to the occurrence of severe ischemic colitis.

Methods

This multicenter study was conducted retrospectively in Korea. The patients were divided into mild and severe groups. This study surveyed clinical characteristics, blood tests, endoscopic findings, and imaging studies.

Results

In the comparison of comorbidities, the severe group had a higher ratio of chronic kidney disease than the mild group (p=0.001). In the blood test, the severe group had a reduced number of platelets (p=0.018) and a higher C-reactive protein value (p=0.001). The severe group had a higher ratio of involvement of the right colon (p=0.026). The Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status score of the patients showed that the severe group had higher scores than the mild group (p=0.003). A multivariate analysis showed that chronic kidney disease and high ECOG performance status scores were significant risk factors.

Conclusions

If patients diagnosed with ischemic colitis are also treated for chronic kidney disease or have poor performance status, more attention and early intervention are necessary.

Operative Risk for Major Lung Resection Increases at Extremes of Body Mass Index

BACKGROUND

Although body mass index (BMI) has been used in risk stratification for lung resection, many models only take obesity into account. Recent studies have demonstrated that underweight patients also experience increased postoperative complications. We explored the relationship of extremes of BMI to outcomes after lung resection for non-small cell cancer.

METHODS

Patients in the Society of Thoracic Surgeons General Thoracic Surgery Database (2009 to 2014) undergoing elective lung resection for cancer were evaluated. Multivariable logistic regression was used to adjust for potential confounders including functional status and spirometry.

RESULTS

We evaluated 41,446 patients (median 68 years of age; 53% female) grouped by BMI: underweight (<18.5 kg/m²; 3.0%), normal (18.5 to 24.9 kg/m²; 33.5%), overweight (25 to 29.9 kg/m²; 35.4%), obese I (30 to 34.9 kg/m²; 18.1%), obese II (35 to 39.9 kg/m²; 6.4%), and obese III (≥40 kg/m²; 3.6%). Pulmonary complication rates were higher in underweight and obese III patients compared to normal BMI patients (p < 0.001). On multivariable analysis, compared to patients with normal BMI, being underweight was associated with an increased risk of pulmonary complications (adjusted odds ratio [OR]: 1.41, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.16 to 1.70) and any postoperative event (adjusted OR: 1.44, 95% CI: 1.26 to 1.64). Obese III patients had an increased risk of any major postoperative complication (adjusted OR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.02 to 1.36). Overweight and obese class I to II patients had a lower risk of pulmonary complications and any postoperative event.

CONCLUSIONS

BMI is associated with postoperative complications after lung resection for cancer. Being underweight or severely overweight is associated with an increased risk of complications, whereas being overweight or moderately obese appears to have a protective effect.

The Society of Thoracic Surgeons Lung Cancer Resection Risk Model: Higher Quality Data and Superior Outcomes

BACKGROUND

The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) creates risk-adjustment models for common cardiothoracic operations for quality improvement purposes. Our aim was to update the lung cancer resection risk model utilizing the STS General Thoracic Surgery Database (GTSD) with a larger and more contemporary cohort.

METHODS

We queried the STS GTSD for all surgical resections of lung cancers from January 1, 2012, through December 31, 2014. Logistic regression was used to create three risk models for adverse events: operative mortality, major morbidity, and composite mortality and major morbidity.

RESULTS

In all, 27,844 lung cancer resections were performed at 231 centers; 62% (n = 17,153) were performed by thoracoscopy. The mortality rate was 1.4% (n = 401), major morbidity rate was 9.1% (n = 2,545), and the composite rate was 9.5% (n = 2,654). Predictors of mortality included age, being male, forced expiratory volume in 1 second, body mass index, cerebrovascular disease, steroids, coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease, renal dysfunction, Zubrod score, American Society of Anesthesiologists rating, thoracotomy approach, induction therapy, reoperation, tumor stage, and greater extent of resection (all p < 0.05). For major morbidity and the composite measure, cigarette smoking becomes a risk factor whereas stage, renal dysfunction, congestive heart failure, and cerebrovascular disease lose significance.

CONCLUSIONS

Operative mortality and complication rates are low for lung cancer resection among surgeons participating in the GTSD. Risk factors from the prior lung cancer resection model are refined, and new risk factors such as prior thoracic surgery are identified. The GTSD risk models continue to evolve as more centers report and data are audited for quality assurance.

Impact of Body Mass Index on the Outcomes of Open Reduction for Mandibular Fractures

PURPOSE

Little is known about the impact of body mass index (BMI) on the postoperative outcomes of open reduction for mandibular fractures. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between BMI and short-term outcomes of surgery for mandibular fractures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We searched the Japanese Diagnosis Procedure Combination database to identify patients who underwent open reduction for mandibular fractures from July 2010 to March 2013. BMI was divided into three groups: less than 18.5 kg/m(2) (underweight), 18.5 to 24.9 kg/m(2) (normal weight), and 25 kg/m(2) or greater (overweight). The outcomes included postoperative complication rates, duration of anesthesia, length of stay, and total costs. We analyzed the relationships between BMI and the outcomes by multivariable regression analyses.

RESULTS

We analyzed 309 patients who underwent open reduction for mandibular fractures during the study period. The group with a BMI of 25 kg/m(2) or greater had a significantly longer hospital stay (3.8 days; 95% confidence interval, 0.5 to 7.1 days, P = .03) than the group with a normal BMI. BMI was not significantly associated with duration of anesthesia, postoperative complication rates, or total costs.

CONCLUSIONS

Regarding open reduction for mandibular fractures, overweight status may be associated with a prolonged length of stay, but may have little impact on operating time, postoperative morbidity, or overall costs.

[Obesity and lung cancer: incidence and repercussions on epidemiology, pathology and treatments]

INTRODUCTION

Obesity and lung cancer are major public health problems. The purpose of this work is to review the data concerning this association.

METHOD

We report clinical and epidemiological data on obesity and discuss the impact on the incidence of lung cancer, as well as the safety and efficiency of anti-tumor treatments.

RESULTS

Obesity does not contribute to the occurrence of lung cancer, unlike other malignancies. Patients may be more likely to undergo treatment at lower risk. Regarding surgery, obesity makes anaesthesia more difficult, increases the operative duration but does not increase postoperative morbidity and mortality. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy seem to be administered according to the same criteria as patients with normal weight. Paradoxically, survival rates of lung cancer are better in obese patients as well after surgery than after non-surgical treatment.

CONCLUSION

Obesity is related to many neoplasms but not to lung cancer. Regarding long-term survival all treatments combined, it has a favorable effect: this is the "obesity paradox".

Association of body mass index and outcomes after major lung resection

OBJECTIVES

Obesity has been thought to predispose patients to excess morbidity after lung resection because of decreased diaphragm excursion, reduced lung volumes and relative immobility. We assessed the relationship of body mass index (BMI) to acute outcomes after major lung resection.

METHODS

Information from our database of lung resections was evaluated for the period 1980-2011. Univariate analysis for adverse events (pulmonary, cardiovascular, other and overall) was used to select variables for inclusion in multivariate logistic regression analyses. Missing values were imputed. BMI was categorized as underweight (<18.5), normal (18.5-24.9), overweight (25-29.9), obese (30-34.9) and very obese (≥ 35).

RESULTS

Among 1369 patients, there were 703 males (51%) and the mean age was 62 ± 11 years. Complications included the following: pulmonary 12%, cardiovascular 15%, other 16%, mortality 5% and any 29%. The incidence of complications decreased during each decade of study (40, 30, 26, 20%; P < 0.0001) and the incidence of obese/very obese increased during the same intervals (11, 22, 30, 25%; P = 0.0007). Adjusting for age, performance status, coronary artery disease, smoking status, diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide, forced expiratory volume in 1 s and operation year, being overweight/obese/very obese did not increase the risk of postoperative complications in any category. In fact, patients in this group showed a lower rate of cardiovascular complications than those with BMI ≤ 25 (odds ratio (OR): 0.72; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.51-1.00; P = 0.048). However, being underweight was importantly associated with an increased risk of pulmonary complications (OR: 2.5; 95% CI: 1.3-4.9; P = 0.0087) and of operative mortality (OR: 2.96; 95% CI: 1.28-6.86; P = 0.011).

CONCLUSION

Being overweight or obese does not increase the risk of complications after major lung resection. In contrast, patients who are underweight are at significantly increased risk of pulmonary complications and mortality. Knowledge of the relationship of BMI to perioperative risk for major lung resection is essential in proper risk stratification.

Impact of Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status on hospital mortality in critically ill patients

INTRODUCTION

This study evaluates the association between the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status (ECOG-PS) and hospital mortality in general critically ill patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a retrospective cohort study that analyzes prospective collected data from the Validation of Simplified acute physiology score 3 in Korean Intensive care unit study. The study population comprised patients who were consecutively admitted to participating intensive care units from July 1, 2010, to January 31, 2011. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to evaluate the effect of ECOG-PS on hospital mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 3868 patients were included in the analysis. There was a significant trend for increasing hospital mortality as the ECOG-PS grade became higher (P<.001). There was a trend of increasing adjusted odds ratio for hospital mortality, with grade 1 of PS 1.4 (95% confidence intervals [CIs], 1.0-1.8), grade 2 of PS 2.0 (95% CIs, 1.5-2.7), grade 3 of PS 2.9 (95% CIs, 2.1-4.1), and grade 4 of PS 2.5 (95% CIs, 1.6-3.9). Also, there was a significant difference in all grades. Subgroup analysis showed a trend of increasing hospital mortality regardless of the presence of cancer.

CONCLUSION

Preadmission PS, assessed with ECOG-PS in critically ill patients, has prognostic value in general critically ill patients.

The significance of post-operative rehabilitation in obese and overweight patients

Obesity is an independent risk factor for a number of diseases. Inadequate weight makes post-operative rehabilitation more difficult. It is not uncommon that at the post-operative stage many abnormalities, often ignored by the patient, are discovered. For this reason, the recovery takes longer and its results are not always satisfactory for patients and physicians. Adequate preparation of obese patients for the procedure and awareness of potential difficulties that may arise during post-operative rehabilitation are essential requisites for effective cooperation with the patient and safe recovery. The paper describes the most frequent problems experienced by obese patients during rehabilitation.