Modest serum creatinine elevation affects adverse outcome after general surgery

Exploring the Impact of Preoperative Laboratory Values on Short-Term Outcomes in Complex Carpal Tunnel Decompression Surgery

Background: The present study analyzes the effects of preoperative serum albumin, hematocrit, and creatinine on postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing carpal tunnel decompression surgery. Methods: The American College of Surgeons National Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database was queried from 2011 to 2020. Albumin, hematocrit, and creatinine were collected for each patient, alongside covariates. Outcomes included 30-day medical complications, 30-day wound complications, return to the operating room, nonhome discharge, and extended postoperative length of stay. Bivariate t-tests and multivariate logistic regressions were conducted. For any outcome-laboratory value pairs with significance on regression, area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUC) were constructed. Results: A total of 1440 patients with albumin, 3138 patients with hematocrit, and 3159 patients with creatinine levels were identified. Increased serum albumin was associated with lower odds of medical complications (aOR: 0.479, p=0.035). An overall cohort cutoff of ≤ 3.5 g/dL (AUC: 0.79, p < 0.001) was predictive of medical complications. On multivariate logistic regression, increased hematocrit reduced the odds of medical complications (aOR: 0.889, p < 0.001). Predictive hematocrit cutoffs of ≤ 39.7% (AUC: 0.77, p < 0.001) and ≤ 36.6% (AUC: 0.74, p < 0.001) were identified for medical complications amongst male and female patients, respectively. Similarly, increased serum creatinine was associated with greater odds of medical complications (aOR: 1.684, p=0.006). Creatinine cutoffs of ≥ 1.2 mg/dL (AUC: 0.58, p=0.033) and ≥ 1.0 mg/dL (AUC: 0.59, p=0.039) were identified for medical complications amongst male and female patients, respectively. Conclusions: Multiple preoperative serum values were predictive of postoperative medical complications, and laboratory value thresholds were identified in this carpal tunnel decompression cohort to aid in risk stratification.

Major Perioperative Bleeding in Patients on Dialysis Undergoing Nonelective Abdominal Surgeries

INTRODUCTION

Patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) are at increased risk for bleeding complications following surgery. However, the approach to the preoperative risk assessment and risk reduction, if feasible, in ESRD patients undergoing nonelective abdominal surgery has not been comprehensively studied. We aim to determine the prevalence and risk factors for perioperative bleeding in patients on dialysis undergoing nonelective abdominal surgery.

METHODS

Using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program 2005-2017 database, we identified patients on dialysis who underwent a variety of nonelective abdominal surgeries by Current Procedural Terminology code. Rates of major perioperative bleeding, defined as bleeding requiring red blood cell transfusion within 72 h after surgery, were calculated and stratified by procedure type. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify risk factors for major perioperative bleeding. Thirty-day mortality rates were compared between those who had a major perioperative bleed and those who did not.

RESULTS

Of 9102 patients on dialysis undergoing nonelective abdominal surgery, 2793 (30.7%) experienced major perioperative bleeding requiring transfusion and 2002 (22.0%) died within 30 d of surgery. By multivariable logistic regression, patients who were female, independent or partially dependent in activities of daily living, ventilator dependent, had disseminated cancer, or had chronic steroid use at baseline were found to be at elevated risk for major perioperative bleeding. Elevated partial thromboplastin time, blood urea nitrogen, anemia, and hypoalbuminemia were also associated with higher odds of major bleeding. Compared to patients undergoing herniorrhaphy (lowest risk), the odds of major perioperative bleeding were highest for patients undergoing hepatic surgery (odds ratio [OR] = 18.09), splenic surgery (OR = 10.86), and pancreatic surgery (OR = 9.59). Major perioperative bleeding was associated with increased 30-d mortality (34.0% versus 16.7%, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with ESRD experience high rates of bleeding requiring transfusion following emergent abdominal surgery. Derangements in preoperative laboratories and baseline patient characteristics may be useful in assessing bleeding risk in this patient population.

Risk factors for major complications following pelvic exenteration: A NSQIP study

OBJECTIVES

Due to the rarity of pelvic exenteration surgery, it is challenging to predict which patients are at an increased risk for postoperative complications. We aimed to study the predictors for postoperative complications among women undergoing pelvic exenteration for gynecologic malignancy.

METHOD

We used the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program registry to evaluate postoperative course and complications of those patients undergoing pelvic exenteration in the period 2012-2022. The primary objective of the analysis was to estimate the major postoperative complications following pelvic exenteration.

RESULTS

Overall, 794 pelvic exenterations were included. Of those, 56.5 % were anterior exenteration, 43.5 % were posterior exenteration, and 13.9 % were a combined exenteration. The rate of minor complications was 72.5 % (n = 576), and the rate of major complications was 31.5 % (n = 250). The most common minor complications were blood transfusion (n = 538, 67.8 %), followed by superficial surgical site infections (SSI) and urinary tract infections (9.8 % and 9.4 %, respectively). Among the major complications, the most common was organ/space SSI (11.2 %), followed by sepsis (9.2 %), reoperation (8.6 %), and wound dehiscence (5.2 %). Death within 30 days occurred in 1.5 % of patients. In multivariable regression analysis, the following factors were independently associated with major complications: higher BMI [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.03 95 % confidence interval (CI) (1.01-1.05)], diabetes [aOR 1.82 95 % CI (1.13-3.22)], low serum albumin [aOR 0.73 95 % CI (0.54-0.98)], and high serum creatinine [aOR 1.70 95 % CI (1.05-2.77)].

CONCLUSIONS

Major postoperative complications occur in approximately one third of pelvic exenterations for gynecologic malignancies. Our study highlights independent factors associated with major postoperative complications, of which some are potentially modifiable.

Incidence of Acute Kidney Injury and Mortality Post Successful Cardiac Surgery in a Kashmiri Cohort: A Prospective Comparison of the RIFLE and KDIGO Criteria

Background and objectives In critically ill patients, acute kidney injury (AKI) influences mortality and morbidity. Few studies have looked at mortality and the frequency of AKI following successful heart and thoracic operations. The current study investigates the association between AKI and mortality rates among patients undergoing post-cardiac surgery care within the Cardiology & Cardio Vascular Thoracic Surgery (CVTS) Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Methodology In this prospective research, 124 patients who underwent successful cardiovascular and thoracic procedures between June 2022 and June 2023 were admitted to the CVTS ICU. To determine mortality, we contrasted the two scoring methods, Kidney Disease-Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) and Risk, Injury, Failure, Loss of kidney function, and End-stage kidney disease (RIFLE). Results Based on the KDIGO criteria, AKI was identified in 37.90% (n = 47) of the patients, and it was identified in 15.32% (n = 19) of the patients utilizing RIFLE. Notably, patients diagnosed with AKI using either the RIFLE criteria or KDIGO criteria exhibited considerably higher mortality rates (p< 0.001). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis demonstrated the effectiveness of both scoring systems in identifying mortality (area under the ROC curve for RIFLE = 0.224 and KDIGO = 0.150). Conclusion Post-cardiac surgery, AKI escalates both mortality and morbidity rates. Despite KDIGO detecting more severe renal injury and mortality, both scoring systems exhibit comparable sensitivity and specificity in predicting death among patients undergoing various cardiovascular and thoracic procedures.

Length of Stay Prediction Models for Oral Cancer Surgery: Machine Learning, Statistical and ACS-NSQIP

OBJECTIVE

Accurate prediction of hospital length of stay (LOS) following surgical management of oral cavity cancer (OCC) may be associated with improved patient counseling, hospital resource utilization and cost. The objective of this study was to compare the performance of statistical models, a machine learning (ML) model, and The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program's (ACS-NSQIP) calculator in predicting LOS following surgery for OCC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective multicenter database study was performed at two major academic head and neck cancer centers. Patients with OCC who underwent major free flap reconstructive surgery between January 2008 and June 2019 surgery were selected. Data were pooled and split into training and validation datasets. Statistical and ML models were developed, and performance was evaluated by comparing predicted and actual LOS using correlation coefficient values and percent accuracy.

RESULTS

Totally 837 patients were selected with mean patient age being 62.5 ± 11.7 [SD] years and 67% being male. The ML model demonstrated the best accuracy (validation correlation 0.48, 4-day accuracy 70%), compared with the statistical models: multivariate analysis (0.45, 67%) and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (0.42, 70%). All were superior to the ACS-NSQIP calculator's performance (0.23, 59%).

CONCLUSION

We developed statistical and ML models that predicted LOS following major free flap reconstructive surgery for OCC. Our models demonstrated superior predictive performance to the ACS-NSQIP calculator. The ML model identified several novel predictors of LOS. These models must be validated in other institutions before being used in clinical practice.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3 Laryngoscope, 134:3664-3672, 2024.

Low serum creatinine levels are associated with major post-operative complications in patients undergoing surgery with gynecologic oncologists

OBJECTIVE

Serum creatinine is a byproduct of muscle metabolism, and low creatinine is postulated to be associated with diminished muscle mass. This study examined the association between low pre-operative serum creatinine and post-operative outcomes.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study utilized the 2014-2021 National Surgical Quality Improvement Program to identify patients undergoing surgery with gynecologic oncologists. Patients with missing pre-operative creatinine, end-stage renal disease, sepsis, septic shock, dialysis, or pregnancy were excluded. Pre-operative creatinine was categorized into markedly low (≤0.44 mg/dL), mildly low (0.45-0.64 mg/dL), normal (0.65-0.84 mg/dL), and four categories of elevated levels (0.85-1.04, 1.05-1.24, 1.25-1.44, and ≥1.45 mg/dL). Outcomes included major (≥Grade 3) 30-day complications, categorized into any complications, wound, cardiovascular and pulmonary, renal, infectious, and thromboembolic complications. Also examined were 30-day readmissions, reoperations, and mortality. Logistic regressions assessed the association between creatinine and complications, with stratification by albumin and sensitivity analysis with propensity score matching.

RESULTS

Among 84 786 patients, 0.8% had markedly low, 19.6% mildly low, and 50.2% normal creatinine; the remainder had elevated creatinine. As creatinine decreased, the risks of major complications increased in a dose-dependent manner on univariable and multivariable analyses. A total of 9.6% (n=63) markedly low patients experienced major complications, second to creatinine ≥1.45 mg/dL (9.9%, n=141). On multivariable models, both markedly and mildly low creatinine were associated with higher odds of major complications (OR 1.715, 95% CI 1.299 to 2.264 and OR 1.093, 95% CI 1.001 to 1.193) and infections (OR 1.575, 95% CI 1.118 to 2.218 and OR 1.165, 95% CI 1.048 to 1.296) versus normal. Markedly low creatinine had similar ORs to creatinine ≥1.45 mg/dL and was further associated with higher odds of cardiovascular and pulmonary complications (OR 2.301, 95% CI 1.300 to 4.071), readmissions (OR 1.403, 95% CI 1.045 to 1.884), and mortality (OR 2.718, 95% CI 1.050 to 7.031). After albumin stratification, associations persisted for markedly low creatinine. Propensity-weighted analyses demonstrated congruent findings.

CONCLUSIONS

Low creatinine levels are associated with major post-operative complications in gynecologic oncology in a dose-dependent manner. Low creatinine can offer useful information for pre-operative risk stratification, surgical counseling, and peri-operative management.

Can Preoperative Laboratory Values Predict Short-term Postoperative Complications and Health Utilization in Patients Undergoing Cranioplasty?

BACKGROUND

Low hematocrit, low albumin, and high creatinine levels have been associated with postoperative morbidity. The present study intends to analyze the effects of preoperative laboratories on medical complications and postoperative health resource utilization in patients undergoing cranioplasty.

METHODS

Using data from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program, demographic, clinical, and intraoperative characteristics were collected for each patient who had recorded albumin, hematocrit, or creatinine laboratory values within 90 days of the index cranioplasty. Outcomes analyzed were ≥1 medical complication, ≥1 wound complication, unplanned reoperation, 30-day readmission, and extended hospital stay (>30 d). Outcomes significant on bivariate analyses were evaluated using multivariate logistic regression. Significant outcomes on multivariate analyses were analyzed using receiver operating characteristic curves and Mann-Whitney U tests.

RESULTS

The 3 separate cohorts included 1349 patients with albumin, 2201 patients with hematocrit, and 2182 patients with creatinine levels. Upon multivariate analysis, increases in albumin and hematocrit were independently associated with decreased odds of medical complications and extended length of stay. Increases in creatinine were independently associated with increased odds of medical complications. Discriminative cutoff values were identified for albumin and hematocrit.

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative laboratory values were independent predictors of medical complications and health utilization following cranioplasty in this study. Surgical teams can use these findings to optimize preoperative risk stratification.

Analysis of complications and revisions after spine surgery in 270 multiple myeloma patients with spinal involvement

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Patients with multiple myeloma (MM) are at increased risk of infections and suffer from poor bone quality due to their disseminated malignant bone disease. Therefore, postoperative complications may occur following surgical treatment of MM lesions.

PURPOSE

In this study, we aimed to determine the incidence of postoperative complications and retreatments after spinal surgery in MM patients. Additionally, we sought to identify risk factors associated with complications and retreatments.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

PATIENT SAMPLE

In total, 270 patients with MM who received surgical treatment for spinal involvement between 2008 and 2021 were included.

OUTCOME MEASURES

The incidence of perioperative complications within 6 weeks and reoperations within 2.5 years and individual odds ratios for factors associated with these complications and reoperations.

METHODS

Data were collected through manual chart review. Hosmer and Lemeshow's purposeful regression method was used to identify risk factors for complications and reoperations.

RESULTS

The median age of our cohort was 65 years (SD = 10.8), and 58% were male (n = 57). Intraoperative complications were present in 24 patients (8.9%). The overall 6-week complication rate after surgery was 35% (n = 95). The following variables were independently associated with 6-week complications: higher Genant grading of a present vertebral fracture (OR 1.41; 95% CI 1.04-1.95; p = .031), receiving intramuscular or intravenous steroids within a week prior to surgery (OR 3.97; 95% CI 1.79-9.06; p = .001), decompression surgery without fusion (OR 6.53; 95% CI 1.30-36.86; p = .026), higher creatinine levels (OR 2.18; 95% CI 1.19-5.60; p = .014), and lower calcium levels (OR 0.58; 95% CI 0.37-0.88; p = .013). A secondary surgery was indicated for 53 patients (20%), of which 13 (4.8%) took place within two weeks after the initial surgery. We additionally discovered factors associated with retreatments, which are elucidated within the manuscript.

CONCLUSION

The goal of surgical treatment for MM bone disease is to enhance patient quality of life and reduce symptom burden. However, postoperative complication rates remain relatively high after spine surgery in patients with MM, likely attributable to both inherent characteristics of the disease and patient comorbidities. The risk for complications and secondary surgeries should be explored and a multidisciplinary approach is crucial.

Preoperative Laboratory Values Are Predictive of Adverse Postoperative Outcomes in Patients Older Than 65 Years Undergoing Brain Tumor Resection: A National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Study

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we used a large national database to assess the effect of preoperative laboratory value (PLV) derangements on postoperative outcomes in patients older than 65 years undergoing brain tumor resection.

METHODS

Data was collected for patients >65 years old undergoing brain tumor resection from 2015 to 2019 (N = 10,525). Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed for 11 PLVs and 6 postoperative outcomes.

RESULTS

Hypernatremia (odds ratio [OR], 4.707; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.695-13.071; P < 0.01) and increased creatinine level (OR, 2.556; 95% CI, 1.291-5.060; P < 0.01) were the most significant predictors of 30-day mortality. The most significant predictor of Clavien-Dindo grade IV complications was increased creatinine level (OR, 1.667; 95% CI, 1.064-2.613; P < 0.05), whereas, significant predictors of major complications were hypoalbuminemia (OR, 1.426; 95% CI, 1.132-1.796; P < 0.05) and leukocytosis (OR, 1.347; 95% CI, 1.075-1.688; P < 0.05). Predictors of readmission were anemia (OR, 1.326; 95% CI, 1.047-1.680; P < 0.05) and thrombocytopenia (OR, 1.387; 95% CI, 1.037-1.856; P < 0.05), whereas, hypoalbuminemia (OR, 1.787; 95% CI, 1.280-2.495; P < 0.001) was predictive of reoperation. Increased partial thromboplastin time and hypoalbuminemia were predictors of extended length of stay (OR, 2.283, 95% CI, 1.360-3.834, P < 0.01 and OR, 1.553, 95% CI, 1.553-1.966, P < 0.001, respectively). Hypernatremia (OR, 2.115; 95% CI, 1.181-3.788; P < 0.05) and hypoalbuminemia (OR, 1.472; 95% CI, 1.239-1.748; P < 0.001) were the most significant predictors of NHD. Seven of 11 PLVs were associated with adverse postoperative outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

PLV derangements were significantly associated with adverse postoperative outcomes in patients older than 65 years undergoing brain tumor resection. The most significant predictors of adverse postoperative outcomes were hypoalbuminemia and leukocytosis.

Association of age with perioperative morbidity among patients undergoing surgical management of minor burns

Introduction

Burn injuries are associated with significant morbidity, often necessitating surgical management. Older patients are more prone to burns and more vulnerable to complications following major burns. While the relationship between senescence and major burns has already been thoroughly investigated, the role of age in minor burns remains unclear. To better understand differences between elderly and younger patients with predominantly minor burns, we analyzed a multi-institutional database.

Methods

We reviewed the 2008-2020 ACS-NSQIP database to identify patients who had suffered burns according to ICD coding and underwent initial burn surgery.

Results

We found 460 patients, of which 283 (62%) were male and 177 (38%) were female. The mean age of the study cohort was 46 ± 17 years, with nearly one-fourth (n = 108; 23%) of all patients being aged ≥60 years. While the majority (n = 293; 64%) suffered from third-degree burns, 22% (n = 99) and 15% (n = 68) were diagnosed with second-degree burns and unspecified burns, respectively. An average operation time of 46 min, a low mortality rate of 0.2% (n = 1), a short mean length of hospital stay (1 day), and an equal distribution of in- and outpatient care (51%, n = 234 and 49%, n = 226, respectively) indicated that the vast majority of patients suffered from minor burns. Patients aged ≥60 years showed a significantly prolonged length of hospital stay (p<0.0001) and were significantly more prone to non-home discharge (p<0.0001). In univariate analysis, advanced age was found to be a predictor of surgical complications (p = 0.001) and medical complications (p = 0.0007). Elevated levels of blood urea nitrogen (p>0.0001), creatinine (p>0.0001), white blood cell count (p=0.02), partial thromboplastin time (p = 0.004), and lower levels of albumin (p = 0.0009) and hematocrit (p>0.0001) were identified as risk factors for the occurrence of any complication. Further, complications were more frequent among patients with lower body burns.

Discussion

In conclusion, patients ≥60 years undergoing surgery for predominantly minor burns experienced significantly more complications. Minor lower body burns correlated with worse outcomes and a higher incidence of adverse events. Decreased levels of serum albumin and hematocrit and elevated values of blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, white blood count, and partial thromboplastin time were identified as predictive risk factors for complications.

Incidence and risk factors for acute kidney injury after total joint arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is one of the most common medical causes for readmission following total joint arthroplasty (TJA). This study aimed to (1) examine whether the incidence of AKI has changed over the past decade with the adoption of modern perioperative care pathways and (2) identify the risk factors and concomitant adverse events (AEs) associated with AKI.

METHODS

535,291 primary TJA procedures from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program from 2011 to 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. The annual incidence of AKI was analyzed for significant changes over time. Matched cohort analyses were performed to identify the risk factors and AEs associated with AKI using multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS

The mean incidence of AKI was 0.051%, which remained unchanged during the study period (P = 0.121). Factors associated with AKI were diabetes (OR 1.96, P = 0.009), bilateral procedure (OR 6.93, P = 0.030), lower preoperative hematocrit level (OR 1.09, P = 0.015), body mass index (OR 1.04, P = 0.025), and higher preoperative BUN (OR 1.03, P = 0.043). AKI was associated with length of stay (LOS) > 2 days (OR 4.73, P <  0.001), non-home discharge (OR 0.25, P <  0.001), 30-day readmission (OR 12.29, P <  0.001), and mortality (OR 130.7, P <  0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of AKI has not changed over the past decade, and it remains a major bundle buster resulting in greater LOS, non-home discharge, readmissions, and mortality. Avoidance of bilateral TJA in patients with DM and high BMI as well as preoperative optimization of anemia and BUN levels are advised.

Perioperative risk of pancreatic head resection-nomogram-based prediction of severe postoperative complications as a decisional aid for clinical practice

PURPOSE

To develop nomograms for pre- and early-postoperative risk assessment of patients undergoing pancreatic head resection.

METHODS

Clinical data from 956 patients were collected in a prospectively maintained database. A test (n = 772) and a validation cohort (n = 184) were randomly generated. Uni- and multi-variate analysis and nomogram construction were performed to predict severe postoperative complications (Clavien-Dindo Grades III-V) in the test cohort. External validation was performed with the validation cohort.

RESULTS

We identified ASA score, indication for surgery, body mass index (BMI), preoperative white blood cell (WBC) count, and preoperative alkaline phosphatase as preoperative factors associated with an increased perioperative risk for complications. Additionally to ASA score, BMI, indication for surgery, and the preoperative alkaline phosphatase, the following postoperative parameters were identified as risk factors in the early postoperative setting: the need for intraoperative blood transfusion, operation time, maximum WBC on postoperative day (POD) 1-3, and maximum serum amylase on POD 1-3. Two nomograms were developed on the basis of these risk factors and showed accurate risk estimation for severe postoperative complications (ROC-AUC-values for Grades III-V-preoperative nomogram: 0.673 (95%, CI: 0.626-0.721); postoperative nomogram: 0.734 (95%, CI: 0.691-0.778); each p ≤ 0.001). Validation yielded ROC-AUC-values for Grades III-V-preoperative nomogram of 0.676 (95%, CI: 0.586-0.766) and postoperative nomogram of 0.677 (95%, CI: 0.591-0.762); each p = 0.001.

CONCLUSION

Easy-to-use nomograms for risk estimation in the pre- and early-postoperative setting were developed. Accurate risk estimation can support the decisional process, especially for IPMN-patients with an increased perioperative risk.

The Nephrologist's Management of Renal Cell Carcinoma After Kidney Surgery

Renal cell carcinoma is associated with chronic kidney disease as well as with common risk factors including hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Localized renal cell carcinoma is treated surgically and in these cases has a favorable prognosis. In particular, in those individuals with small renal masses (≤4 cm), preservation of kidney function should be prioritized. Postoperative chronic kidney disease or end-stage renal disease prevention should include baseline kidney function and risk factor assessment, nontumor renal biopsy, as well as counseling on treatment options to discuss maximizing kidney function preservation. Postnephrectomy prognosis can be determined with repeat laboratory and clinical assessment. Ultimately, early involvement of the nephrologist in a multidisciplinary team including the urology team will enable the reduction of postsurgical kidney disease related morbidity and potentially mortality.

Preoperative risk factors including serum levels of potassium, sodium, and creatinine for early mortality after open abdominal surgery: a retrospective cohort study

Background

In hospitalized patients, abnormal plasma electrolyte concentrations are frequent and have been linked to poor outcomes following acute surgery. The aim of this study was to assess whether preoperative plasma levels of potassium, sodium, and creatinine at the time of admission were associated with 30-day mortality in patients following open abdominal surgery.

Methods

This was a single-center register-based retrospective study. By means of electronic search in a maintained surgery database, all patients (n = 4177) aged ≥ 60 years old undergoing open surgery in our department from January 2000 to May 2013 were identified. Plasma was assessed within 30 days prior to surgery. The primary endpoint was 30-day postoperative mortality. The association between mortality and plasma levels of potassium, sodium, and creatinine were examined using Cox proportional hazard models.

Results

A total of 3690 patients were included in the study cohort. The rates of abnormal preoperative plasma levels were 36, 41, and 38% for potassium, sodium, and creatinine, respectively. The overall 30 day mortality was 20%. A predictive algorithm for 30 day mortality following abdominal surgery was constructed by means of logistic regression showing excellent distinction between patients with and without a fatal postoperative outcome.

Conclusion

Apart from demographic factors (age, sex, and emergency surgery), preoperative imbalance in potassium, sodium and creatinine levels were significant independent predictors of early mortality following open abdominal surgery.

Early outcomes of patients with chronic kidney disease after revascularization for critical limb ischemia

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to report early outcomes of patients with non-dialysis-dependent chronic kidney disease (NDD-CKD) after revascularization for critical limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI).

METHODS

Perioperative data of patients from the CRITISCH (critical limb ischemia) Registry, who also had NDD-CKD (stages 3 and 4), were compared to their counterparts with normal renal function (NRF) or mild renal insufficiency (stages 1 and 2). Patient characteristics and type of first-line treatment were assessed. Amputation-free survival was the primary composite endpoint. Secondary endpoints included major adverse cardiovascular and cerebral events (MACCE) and hemodynamic failure of revascularization. Multivariable logistic regression determined risk factors for the endpoints.

RESULTS

424 patients with NDD-CKD were identified. Endovascular revascularization (ER) was performed in 251 patients (59.2%). Eighty-six patients (20.3%) underwent bypass surgery (BS) and 29 patients (6.8%) femoral artery patchplasty (FAP). Conservative treatment (CT) was offered to 46 patients (10.9%); 12 patients (2.8%) underwent primary major amputation (PMA). Logistic regression analysis showed an increased early risk for amputation/death (OR=1.92, 95% CI: 1.09-3.40), death (OR=5.53, 95% CI: 1.92-15.90) and hemodynamic failure of the revascularization (OR=1.80, 95% CI: 1.19-2.72) compared to patients with NRF. Patients with NDD-CKD also seem to carry a higher risk for MACCE (OR=1.82, 95% CI: 0.99-3.36). NDD-CKD was not a risk factor for limb loss alone (OR=1.05, 95% CI: 0.49-2.22).

CONCLUSIONS

NDD-CKD was an independent risk factor for early postoperative mortality, morbidity and reduced patency, but not for limb loss. Robust follow-up is necessary to monitor for such events, as well as to prevent readmission.

Time Trends and Risk Factors for 30-Day Adverse Events in Black Patients Undergoing Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Increased adverse events (AEs) have been reported among black patients undergoing joint arthroplasty, but little is known about their persistence and risk factors. The purpose of this study is (1) to examine recent annual trends in 30-day outcomes after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and (2) to develop a preoperative risk stratification model in this racial minority.

METHODS

The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program was queried for all black/African American patients who underwent primary TKA between 2011 and 2017. Time trends in demographic variables, comorbid conditions, perioperative characteristics, length of stay (LOS), and 30-day readmissions, reoperations, medical complications, surgical complications, and mortality were assessed. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify independent risk factors for development of 30-day AEs.

RESULTS

In total, 19,496 black patients were analyzed. Between 2011 and 2017, there have been improved comorbidity profiles (P < .02), decreased LOS (P < .001), and lower rates of AEs (P < .001). Significant risk factors for developing AEs were male gender, tobacco smoking, American Society of Anesthesiologists score >2, dependent functional status, congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, metastatic cancer, dyspnea, chronic kidney disease, bilateral TKA, and operative time >100 minutes.

CONCLUSION

There have been significant improvements in the annual trends of LOS and 30-day outcomes among black patients undergoing primary TKA in recent years. A predictive model for 30-day AEs was developed to help guide risk stratification and optimization of modifiable factors, namely anemia, tobacco smoking, bilateral surgery, and operative time.

Where Do We Stand Today on Racial and Ethnic Health Inequities? Analysis of Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty from a 2011-2017 National Database

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to present contemporary national data on the state of racial and ethnic disparities pertaining to primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in the USA.

METHODS

The 2011-2017 National Surgical Quality Improvement Program was used to capture all patients who underwent primary TKA. The study outcomes were differences in demographic, comorbidity burden, perioperative factors, procedure utilization, hospital length of stay (LOS), and 30-day outcomes. The five major minority groups as defined by the National Institutes of Health were compared to non-Hispanic Whites.

RESULTS

In total, 262,954 patient records were analyzed, with racial identification available on 230,712 patients (87.7%). White patients accounted for 72.5% of all TKA procedures. There were higher rates of diabetes, hypertension, anemia, and prolonged surgery times among racial and ethnic minorities (p < 0.001). Baseline disparities were especially pronounced among non-Hispanic Blacks/African Americans who were also like to have higher rates of tobacco smoking and CHF (p < 0.001). After controlling for baseline differences, significant disparities in outcomes persisted, especially among Blacks/African Americans and Hispanics/Latinos who had higher odds for experiencing complications and readmissions (p < 0.001). All racial and ethnic groups, except Asians, had longer LOS (p < 0.001). Asian patients had significantly lower rates of readmissions, reoperations, and overall complications (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Racial and ethnic disparities remain a public health challenge for patients undergoing TKA. While initiatives aimed at improving preoperative disease-burden and comorbidity profiles represent an important step, they alone are insufficient to fully account for or eliminate the disparities in TKA outcomes.

Impact of Prognostic Nutritional Index on Postoperative Pulmonary Complications in Radical Cystectomy: A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis

BACKGROUND

Radical cystectomy is a standard treatment for muscle-invasive bladder cancer but frequently entails postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs). Nutrition is closely associated with postoperative outcomes. Therefore, we evaluated the impact of preoperative prognostic nutritional index (PNI) on PPCs in radical cystectomy.

METHODS

PNI was calculated as 10 × (serum albumin) + 0.005 × (total lymphocyte count). The risk factors for PPCs were evaluated using multivariate logistic regression analysis. A receiver operating characteristic curve analysis of PNI was performed, and an optimal cut-off value was identified. Propensity score-matched analysis was used to determine the impact of PNI on PPCs. Postoperative outcomes were also evaluated.

RESULTS

PPCs occurred in 112 (13.6%) of 822 patients. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified PNI, age, and serum creatinine level as risk factors. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of PNI for predicting PPCs was 0.714 (optimal cut-off value: 45). After propensity score matching, the incidence of PPCs in the PNI ≤ 45 group was significantly higher compared with the PNI > 45 group (20.8% vs. 6.8%; p < 0.001), and PNI ≤ 45 was associated with a higher incidence of PPCs (odds ratio 3.308, 95% confidence interval 1.779-6.151; p < 0.001). The rates of intensive care unit admission and prolonged (> 2 days) stay thereof were higher in patients who developed PPCs.

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative PNI ≤ 45 was associated with a higher incidence of PPCs in radical cystectomy, suggesting that PNI provides useful information regarding pulmonary complications after radical cystectomy.

Risk Factors for Surgical Site Infection After Laparoscopic Colectomy: An NSQIP Database Analysis

BACKGROUND

Surgical site infection (SSI) is a common complication after colon surgery. This study aimed to evaluate risk factors for SSI and its types in laparoscopic colectomy patients using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS NSQIP) database.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The NSQIP database was queried for patients undergoing laparoscopic colectomy from 2011 through 2017. Univariate analysis and multivariable logistic regression were used to evaluate risk factors associated with any SSI, superficial SSI, deep-incisional SSI, and organ-space SSI.

RESULTS

Of 72,519 patients, 4906 cases of SSI were identified: 2276 superficial SSI, 357 deep-incisional SSI, and 2483 organ-space SSI. Risk factors associated with superficial SSI were admission before procedure (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.31; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.17-1.47; P < 0.01), smoking (AOR = 1.29; 95% CI 1.16-1.44; P < 0.01), and higher body mass index (AOR = 1.24 for every 5 kg/m² increase; 95% CI 1.20-1.27; P < 0.01). Deep-incisional SSI was associated with steroid use (AOR = 1.81; 95% CI 1.31-2.49; P < 0.01), admission before procedure (AOR = 1.66; 95% CI 1.30-2.13; P < 0.01), and smoking (AOR = 1.50; 95% CI 1.17-1.94; P < 0.01). Risk factors associated with organ-space SSI were wound class (AOR = 2.45 for class 4 versus ≤ 2; 95% CI 2.16-2.78; P < 0.01), chemotherapy within 90 d (AOR = 1.57; 95% CI 1.33-1.84; P < 0.01), and steroid use (AOR = 1.46; 95% CI 1.29-1.65; P < 0.01). Receipt of an oral antibiotic prep preoperatively was the strongest factor associated with SSI.

CONCLUSIONS

SSI types in patients undergoing laparoscopic colectomy have different risk factors. Modifiable risk factors may provide an opportunity to reduce SSI risk and its associated morbidity.

Preoperative Glomerular Filtration Rate and Outcome Following Open Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair

Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) can be readily calculated from serum creatinine values. It is a more sensitive prognostic indicator than serum creatinine alone in patients undergoing thoracoabdominal or endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. The value of eGFR in patients undergoing open abdominal aortic aneurysm repair remains unclear. The preoperative eGFR was calculated for patients undergoing elective open infrarenal aortic aneurysm repair. Postoperative complications, perioperative mortality, and long-term survival were compared across eGFR and serum creatinine quartiles. The eGFR identified preoperative renal dysfunction in 33% of patients, whereas serum creatinine identified renal impairment in only 11%. The eGFR correlated with perioperative morbidity and long-term survival. Serum creatinine did not correlate with perioperative mortality or long-term survival. However, it did correlate with postoperative morbidity. The eGFR is a more sensitive index of preoperative renal function than serum creatinine and correlates with survival. It should replace serum creatinine as the standard index of renal function before open abdominal aortic aneurysm repair.

Predictors of Unplanned Reoperation for Ovarian Cancer Patients From the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Database

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to determine preoperative risk factors associated with unplanned reoperation within 30 days for patients undergoing major surgery for primary ovarian cancer using the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study utilizing the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database to identify patients undergoing primary ovarian cancer surgery from 2012 to 2014. Patients who had a reoperation within 30 days of their primary surgery were identified. Demographics and clinical covariates were calculated. Adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using univariate and multivariate logistic regression approaches to assess the association.

RESULTS

A total of 4260 patients were identified during the study period. One hundred forty-eight patients (3.5%) underwent a reoperation within 30 days of their primary surgery. In univariate analysis, preoperative creatinine 1.5 mg/dL or greater (P = 0.010), smoking (P = 0.003), and both insulin-dependent (P = 0.029) and non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (P = 0.048) were predictive of a reoperation. Multivariate analysis noted that smoking (OR, 1.94; 95% CI, 1.26-2.99), insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (OR, 2.18; 95% CI, 1.08-4.40), non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (OR, 1.65; 95% CI, 1.01-2.72), and preoperative creatinine (OR, 2.65; 95% CI, 1.26-5.58) were predictive of a reoperation. Age 50 to 60 years was protective against reoperation when compared with age younger than 50 years (OR, 0.54; 95% CI, 0.32-0.90).

CONCLUSIONS

Efforts to reduce reoperation rates should focus on identifying high-risk patients by utilizing objective preoperative data. Optimizing their medical status prior to surgery may decrease the reoperation rate in patients with ovarian cancer, thereby improving outcomes and providing a probable cost benefit.

Decision Tool for Predicting Outcomes in Geriatric Acute Mesenteric Ischemia

Acute mesenteric ischemia is a morbid disease process that is most common in elderly patients who often have multiple medical comorbidities. Intervention can progress to costly and futile care. The goal of this study was to develop a tool for practitioners to assess the risk of mortality. Patients treated at our institution over the past decade diagnosed with acute mesenteric ischemia were identified. Patients aged less than 65 years were excluded. Data were collected by retrospective chart review. Univariate analysis was used to identify significant risk factors for death. Decision tree analysis yielded a prognostic tool to assess death risk. Univariate analysis demonstrated that lactate (P ≤ 0.001) and pressor requirement (P ≤ 0.001) were predictive of death. Decision tree analysis showed that 79 per cent of patients with day of surgery (DOS) lactate ≥5.4 died postoperatively. Seventy per cent of patients with DOS lactate <5.4 progressed to death if they required pressors and had a creatinine >1.18. Only 6.1 per cent patients with a DOS lactate <5.4, creatinine <1.54, and no pressor requirement progressed to death. Several variables can be used to set expectations for families and help guide decision-making. Our tool was predictive of outcomes in 82 per cent of our study population.

Risk Factors for Postoperative Infections After Single-Level Lumbar Fusion Surgery

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective multivariate analysis of a prospectively collected, multicenter database.

OBJECTIVE

To identify patient characteristics and perioperative risk factors associated with postoperative infectious complications after single-level lumbar fusion (SLLF) surgery.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Postoperative infection is a known complication after lumbar fusion. Risk factors for infectious complications after lumbar fusion have not been investigated using select set of SLLF procedures.

METHODS

Patients who underwent SLLF between 2006 and 2011 were identified from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify pre- and intraoperative risk factors associated with postoperative infection.

RESULTS

A total of 3353 patients were analyzed in this study. Overall, 173 (5.2%) patients experienced a postoperative infection, including 86 (2.6%) surgical site infections (SSIs) and 111 (3.3%) non-SSI infectious complications (pneumonia, urinary tract infection, sepsis/septic shock). Twenty-four (0.7%) patients experienced both SSI and non-SSI infectious complications. Postoperative SSI were associated with obesity (odds ratio [OR], 1.628; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.042-2.544), American Society of Anesthesiologists class more than 2 (OR, 2.078; 95% CI, 1.309-3.299), and operative time more than 6 hours (OR, 2.573; 95% CI, 1.310-5.056). Risk factors for non-SSI infectious complications included age (60-69 yr; OR, 3.279; 95% CI, 1.541-6.980; and ≥70 yr; OR, 3.348; 95% CI, 1.519-7.378), female sex (OR, 1.791; 95% CI, 1.183-2.711), creatinine more than 1.5 mg/dL (OR, 2.400; 95% CI, 1.138-5.062), American Society of Anesthesiologists class more than 2 (OR, 1.835; 95% CI, 1.177-2.860), and operative time more than 6 hours (OR, 3.563; 95% CI, 2.082-6.097).

CONCLUSION

Across a wide study population, we identified that obesity, advanced American Society of Anesthesiologists classification, and longer operative time were predictive of postoperative SSI. We also demonstrated that increased age, female sex, serum creatinine more than 1.5 mg/dL, and prolonged operative duration are associated with non-SSI infectious complications after SLLF. Continued efforts to elucidate and optimize perioperative risk factors are warranted to improve outcomes in patients requiring spinal fusion.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

Estimated glomerular filtration rate better predicts 30-day mortality after non-cardiac surgery than serum creatinine: a retrospective analysis of 92,888 patients

BACKGROUND

Serum creatinine is the most commonly used indicator of renal function, but its derivative, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), has been shown to be superior in non-surgical settings. It remains unknown if eGFR better predicts postoperative mortality in non-cardiac surgical patients. We thus tested the hypothesis that eGFR predicts 30-day mortality after non-cardiac surgery better than serum creatinine.

METHODS

We evaluated patients who had inpatient non-cardiac surgery of at least one hour duration during January 2006 to December 2011 at the Cleveland Clinic Main Campus and whose preoperative serum creatinine was measured within 30 days before surgery. The eGFR was calculated using the Chronic Kidney Disease-Epidemiology Collaboration equation. Preoperative eGFR was compared in a multivariable analysis with preoperative serum creatinine (both assessed as continuous variables) on the ability to predict 30-day mortality in all patients. Secondarily, the comparison was made within subgroups based on amount of blood loss, blood transfusion, and sex.

RESULTS

There were 92,888 patients included in the final analysis. The eGFR was a modestly better discriminator of 30-day mortality than serum creatinine, with an estimated c-statistic (95% confidence interval) of 0.67 (0.65 to 0.68) for eGFR vs 0.61 (0.59 to 0.63) for serum creatinine (P < 0.001). Furthermore, the eGFR was consistently a better discriminator of 30-day mortality across blood loss, transfusion, and sex groups. Reclassification analyses suggested improved individual predictions of 30-day mortality using eGFR compared with serum creatinine. Nevertheless, a multivariable combination of baseline characteristics of American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status, age, and body mass index (all P < 0.001) discriminated 30-day mortality with a c-statistic of 0.850. Adding eGFR to the model improved the c-statistic to only 0.851, while separately adding serum creatinine did not change the c-statistic.

CONCLUSION

The eGFR is a modestly better predictor of 30-day mortality than serum creatinine in patients having inpatient non-cardiac surgery. Given that eGFR is often reported by clinical laboratories and is otherwise easy to calculate, it should generally be used in preference to creatinine alone.

Extended Use of Urinary Catheters in Older Surgical Patients: A Patient Safety Problem?

Objectives.

To explore the relationship between the extended postoperative use of indwelling urinary catheters and outcomes for older patients who have undergone cardiac, vascular, gastrointestinal, or orthopedic surgery in skilled nursing facilities and to describe patient and hospital characteristics associated with the extended use of indwelling urinary catheters.

Design.

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting.

US acute care hospitals and skilled nursing facilities.

Patients.

A total of 170,791 Medicare patients aged 65 years or more who were admitted to skilled nursing facilities after discharge from a hospital with a primary diagnosis code indicating major cardiac, vascular, orthopedic, or gastrointestinal surgery in 2001.

Main Outcome Measures.

Patient-specific 30-day rate of rehospitalization for urinary tract infection (UTI) and 30-day mortality rate, as well as the risk of having an indwelling urinary catheter at the time of admission to a skilled nursing facility.

Results.

A total of 39,282 (23.0%) of the postoperative patients discharged to skilled nursing facilities had indwelling urinary catheters. After adjusting for patient characteristics, the patients with catheters had greater odds of rehospitalization for UTI and death within 30 days than patients who did not have catheters. The adjusted odds ratios (aORs) for UTI ranged from 1.34 for patients who underwent gastrointestinal surgery (P<.001) to 1.85 for patients who underwent cardiac surgery (P<.001); the aORs for death ranged from 1.25 for cardiac surgery (P= .01) to 1.48 for orthopedic surgery (P= .002) and for gastrointestinal surgery (P< .001). After controlling for patient characteristics, hospitalization in the northeastern or southern regions of the United States was associated with a lower likelihood of having an indwelling urinary catheter, compared with hospitalization in the western region (P= .002 vsP= .03).

Conclusions.

Extended postoperative use of indwelling urinary catheters is associated with poor outcomes for older patients. The likelihood of having an indwelling urinary catheter at the time of discharge after major surgery is strongly associated with a hospital's geographic region, which reflects a variation in practice that deserves further study.

Imported malaria in a non-endemic area: the experience of the university of Campinas hospital in the Brazilian Southeast

BACKGROUND

Although malaria in Brazil almost exclusively occurs within the boundaries of the Amazon Region, some concerns are raised regarding imported malaria to non-endemic areas of the country, notably increased incidence of complications due to delayed diagnoses. However, although imported malaria in Brazil represents a major health problem, only a few studies have addressed this subject.

METHODS

A retrospective case series is presented in which 263 medical charts were analysed to investigate the clinical and epidemiological characterization of malaria cases that were diagnosed and treated at Hospital & Clinics, State University of Campinas between 1998 and 2011.

RESULTS

Amongst all medical charts analysed, 224 patients had a parasitological confirmed diagnosis of malaria. Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium falciparum were responsible for 67% and 30% of the infections, respectively. The majority of patients were male (83%) of a productive age (median, 37 years old). Importantly, severe complications did not differ significantly between P. vivax (14 cases, 9%) and P. falciparum (7 cases, 10%) infections.

CONCLUSIONS

Severe malaria cases were frequent among imported cases in Brazil outside of the Amazon area. The findings reinforce the idea that P. vivax infections in Brazil are not benign, regardless the endemicity of the area studied. Moreover, as the hospital is located in a privileged site, it could be used for future studies of malaria relapses and primaquine resistance mechanisms. Finally, based on the volume of cases treated and the secondary complications, referral malaria services are needed in the non-endemic areas of Brazil for a rapid and efficient and treatment.

Usefulness of stroke volume index obtained with the FloTrac/ Vigileo system for the prediction of acute kidney injury after radical esophagectomy

PURPOSE

To assess the impact of stroke volume index (SVI) at the end of esophagectomy upon postoperative renal function.

METHODS

We reviewed medical records of 128 patients undergoing esophagectomy. Intraoperative hemodynamics were monitored with the FloTrac sensor/Vigileo monitor system in addition to standard monitors. Patients were divided into two groups according to SVI at the end of surgery: the normal SVI group (n = 76), with SVI ≥ 35 ml/m2, and the low SVI group (n = 52), with SVI<35 ml/m2. We compared postoperative renal function, indicated by serum creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate, on post-operative days 0 through 3. We also compared numbers of patients who developed postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI).

RESULTS

Although there were no intergroup differences in preoperative renal function or other intraoperative hemodynamic variables, including arterial pressure, central venous pressure, stroke volume variation, a volume of infusion, urine output, and the total intraoperative in-out balance, estimated glomerular filtration rate was significantly lower and serum creatinine was significantly higher in the low SVI group than in the normal SVI group on postoperative days 1 and 2 (P<0.05). In addition, more patients developed postoperative AKI in the low SVI group than in the normal SVI group (12 of 52 vs. 5 of 76, P = 0.015).

CONCLUSIONS

Low SVI at the end of esophagectomy may represent a risk factor for AKI in the early postoperative period. Further studies are required to examine whether maintaining SVI above 35 ml/m2 reduces the incidence of AKI after esophagectomy.

Preoperative evaluation of the patient with pulmonary disease

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

In daily clinical practice, pulmonary complications related to surgical procedure are common, increasing the morbidity and mortality of patients. Assessment of the risk of pulmonary complications is an important step in the preoperative evaluation. Thus, we review the most relevant aspects of preoperative assessment of the patient with lung disease.

CONTENT

Pulmonary risk stratification depends on clinical symptoms and patient's physical status. Age, preexisting respiratory diseases, nutritional status, and continued medical treatment are usually more important than additional tests. Pulmonary function tests are of great relevance when high abdominal or thoracic procedures are scheduled, particularly when lung resection are considered.

CONCLUSION

Understanding the perioperative evaluation of the potential risk for developing pulmonary complication allows the medical team to choose the adequate anesthetic technique and surgical and clinical care required by each patient, thereby reducing adverse respiratory outcomes.

NHS Diabetes guideline for the perioperative management of the adult patient with diabetes

These Joint British Diabetes Societies guidelines, commissioned by NHS Diabetes, for the perioperative management of the adult patient undergoing surgery are available in full in the Supporting Information. This document goes through the seven stages of the patient journey when having surgery. These are: primary care referral; surgical outpatients; preoperative assessment; hospital admission; surgery; post-operative care; discharge. Each stage is given its own considerations, outlining the roles and responsibilities of each group of healthcare professionals. The evidence base for the recommendations made at each stage, discussion of controversial areas and references are provided in the report. This document has two key recommendations. Firstly, that the management of the elective adult surgery patients should be with modification to their usual diabetes treatment if the fasting is minimized because the routine use of a variable rate intravenous insulin infusion is not recommended. Secondly, that poor preoperative glycaemic control leads to post-outcomes and thus, where appropriate, needs to be addressed prior to referral for surgery.

Acute kidney injury during aortic arch surgery under deep hypothermic circulatory arrest

PURPOSE

The aim of this investigation was to describe the renal outcome and to identify risk factors for acute kidney injury (AKI), as defined by the Acute Kidney Injury Network (AKIN), during aortic arch surgery (AAS) under deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA).

METHODS

A retrospective and observational study has been performed. One hundred thirty-five patients requiring AAS under DHCA were studied.

RESULTS

Seventy-one patients (52.6%) developed AKI during the postoperative period. A logistic regression analysis identified three independent risk factors for AKI: preoperative hypertension (HT), emergency surgery, and duration of DHCA. Renal replacement therapy (RRT) was required in four patients (3.0%). The postoperative mortality rate among the patients with AKI was 2.8%, which was not statistically different from the rate of 1.6% observed in the non-AKI group (P = 0.62).

CONCLUSIONS

A high incidence of AKI during AAS under DHCA was confirmed. Because AKI is highly associated with aortic surgery, novel approaches for protecting the kidneys other than deep hypothermia are needed. The logistic regression model identified HT, emergency surgery, and duration of DHCA as independent risk factors for AKI.

Incidence and predictors of major complications from contemporary catheter ablation to treat cardiac arrhythmias

BACKGROUND

Updated understanding of the risks of catheter ablation is important because techniques have evolved for procedures treating non-life-threatening as well as potentially lethal arrhythmias.

OBJECTIVE

This prospective study sought to assess the incidence and predictors of major complications from contemporary catheter ablation procedures at a high-volume center.

METHODS

Over a 2-year period, 1,676 consecutive ablation procedures were prospectively evaluated for major complications throughout 30 days postprocedure. Predictors of major complications were determined in a multivariate analysis adjusted for demographics, clinical variables, ablation type, and procedural factors.

RESULTS

Rates of major complications differed between procedure types, ranging from 0.8% for supraventricular tachycardia, 3.4% for idiopathic ventricular tachycardia (VT), 5.2% for atrial fibrillation (AF), and 6.0% for VT associated with structural heart disease (SHD). Ablation type (ablation for AF [odds ratio (OR) 5.53, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.81 to 16.83], for VT with SHD [OR 8.61, 95% CI 2.37 to 31.31], or for idiopathic VT [OR 5.93, 95% CI 1.40 to 25.05] all referenced to supraventricular tachycardia ablation), and serum creatinine level >1.5 mg/dl (OR 2.48, 95% CI 1.07 to 5.76) were associated with increased adjusted risk of major complications, whereas age, gender, body mass index, international normalized ratio level, hypertension, coronary artery disease, diabetes, and prior cerebrovascular accident were not associated with increased risk.

CONCLUSION

In a large cohort of contemporary catheter ablation, major complication rates ranged between 0.8% and 6.0% depending on the ablation procedure performed. Aside from ablation type, renal insufficiency was the only independent predictor of a major complication.

Defining higher-risk surgery

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Defining the contemporary high-risk noncardiac surgical population using objective clinical outcomes data is paramount for the rational allocation of healthcare resources, truly informed patient consent and improving patient-centered outcomes.

RECENT FINDINGS

Data from independent healthcare systems have identified that the development, and consequences, of postoperative morbidity extend beyond the immediate postoperative hospital period and confer substantially increased risk of death. Cardiac insufficiency, rather than the relatively heavily explored paradigm of perioperative cardiac ischemia, is emerging as the dominant factor associated with excess risk of prolonged postoperative morbidity. The development of prospective, validated, time-sensitive morbidity data collection tools has also helped define patients at higher risk of noncardiac morbidities and short-term perioperative outcomes.

SUMMARY

Higher risk surgical patients present an increasingly major challenge for healthcare resource utilization. Detailed outcome studies using validated morbidity tools are urgently required to establish the extent to which postoperative morbidity may be predicted. Robust identification of patients at the highest risk of perioperative morbidity may permit further clinic-to-bench translational understanding of the pathophysiologic mechanisms underlying postoperative organ dysfunction. Defining the high-risk surgical patient population is as critically important for global public health planning as it is for the perioperative team.

The cardiorenal syndrome in diabetes mellitus

The cardiorenal syndrome in patients with diabetes mellitus represents a systemic condition that affects both the cardiovascular and renal systems. Diabetes is a well established risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD), and a significant proportion of diabetic patients go on to develop clinically significant nephropathy. In the diabetic state the kidney is involved by progressive sclerosis/fibrosis and proteinuria, due most likely to overactivity of the transforming growth factor-beta system and, to some extent, the vascular endothelial growth factor system, respectively. The pathogenesis of CVD in diabetes is multifactorial, involving hemodynamic forces, humoral/metabolic factors, and oxidative stress. Additionally, it has been suggested that endothelial dysfunction may lead to simultaneous development and progression of renal and cardiac pathology in diabetes. The risk of microvascular complications can be reduced by intensive glycemic control in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus whereas benefit to the cardiovascular system is less clear. However, intensified intervention involving other CVD risk factors like hypertension and dyslepidemia and interception of the rennin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in patients with type 2 diabetes have been shown to be associated with significant reduction in the risk for renal disease progression that was paralleled by a significant reduction in cardiovascular disease burden.

[Hypertension and anesthesia: consensus statement of the Catalan Associations of Anesthesiology and Hypertension]

The prevalence of hypertension is high in the surgical population. Differing practices and the absence of consensus among physicians involved in caring for hypertensive patients has made it one of the most frequent reasons for cancelling scheduled surgery. The aim of this consensus statement is to outline a practical approach to managing the hypertensive surgical patient. Hypertension is associated with increased risk of perioperative complications, particularly those related to systemic effects and notable fluctuations in blood pressure during surgery. Preoperative assessment should center on a search for signs and symptoms of target organ damage. The anesthesiologist should seek to reduce perioperative fluctuations in arterial pressure, particularly guarding against sustained hypotension. After surgery, antihypertensive medication should be resumed as soon as possible.

Developing a NSQIP module to measure outcomes in children's surgical care: opportunity and challenge

Under the guidance of the American College of Surgeons (ACS) and in partnership with the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) has been developed to improve the quality of surgical care in adults on a national level. Its purpose is to provide reliable, risk-adjusted outcomes data so that surgical quality can be assessed and compared between institutions. Data analysis consists of reporting observed to expected ratios (O/E) for 30-day postoperative mortality and morbidity measurements. A surgical clinical nurse reviewer is assigned at each medical center to collect information on 97 variables, including preoperative, operative, and postoperative factors for patients undergoing major operations in the specialties of general and vascular surgery. Eligible operations are entered into the database on a structured 8-day cycle to ensure representative sampling of cases. Since the introduction of the program into the VA system, there has been a 47% reduction in 30-day postoperative mortality and a 42% reduction in 30-day postoperative morbidity. Over 160 institutions have enrolled with the ACS in its adult NSQIP. In 2005, a planning committee was formed by the ACS and the American Pediatric Surgical Association to explore the development of a children's surgery NSQIP module. In conjunction with the Colorado Health Outcomes Program at the University of Colorado, a program potentially applicable to all children's surgical specialties has been designed. This manuscript describes the development of that Children's ACS-NSQIP module.