Guidance on COVID-19 Vaccination in Hidradenitis Suppurativa Patients: A Modified Delphi Consensus of Experts

<b><i>Introduction:</i></b> Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) patients may be at increased risk of COVID-19 infection and complications from their medications and comorbidities. There is a lack of expert consensus on recommendations for the COVID-19 vaccine for HS patients. Herein, we aim to provide expert-driven consensus recommendations regarding COVID-19 vaccinations in HS patients. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> A modified Delphi consensus survey developed by a core committee of 7 dermatologist HS experts consisting of 4 demographic questions and 12 practice statements was distributed to the US HS Foundation-sponsored provider listserv. Participants were attending physician HS experts. Survey results were to be reviewed by the core group and revised and resubmitted until consensus (≥70% agreement) was achieved. <b><i>Results:</i></b> Among the 33 survey participants, there were 30 (87%) dermatologists, 1 general surgeon, 1 plastic surgeon, and 1 rheumatologist. Consensus for all 12 statements on vaccine counseling and HS treatment counseling was achieved after the first round. <b><i>Discussion/Conclusion:</i></b> For now, this consensus can serve as a resource for clinicians discussing COVID-19 vaccination with their HS patients. These recommendations will need to be updated as new evidence on COVID-19 emerges.

Comparable Esophagectomy Outcomes by Surgeon Specialty: A NSQIP Analysis

Background A few observational studies have found that outcomes after esophagectomies by thoracic surgeons are better than those by general surgeons. Methods Non-emergent esophagectomy cases were identified in the 2016-2017 American College of Surgeons NSQIP database. Associations between patient characteristics and outcomes by thoracic versus general surgeons were evaluated with univariate and multivariate logistic regression. Results Of 1,606 cases, 886 (55.2%) were performed by thoracic surgeons. Those patients differed from patients treated by general surgeons in race (other/unknown 19.3% vs 7.8%; P<.001) but not in other baseline characteristics (age, sex, BMI, and comorbidities). Thoracic surgeons performed an open approach more frequently (48.9% vs 30.8%, P<.001) and had operative times that were 30 minutes shorter (P<.001). General surgeons had lower rates of reoperation (11.8% vs 17.2%; P=.003) and were more likely to treat postoperative leak with interventional means (6.3% vs 3.4%, P=.01). Thoracic surgeons were more likely to treat postoperative leak with reoperation (5.9% vs 3.6%, P=.01). There were no other differences in univariate comparison of outcomes between the two groups, including leak, readmission, and death. General surgery specialty was associated with lower risk of reoperation. Our multivariable model also found no relationship between general surgeon and risk of any complication (odds ratio 1.10; 95% CI .86 to 1.42). Discussion In our large, national database study, we found that outcomes of esophagectomies by general surgeons were comparable with those by thoracic surgeons. General surgeons managed postoperative leaks differently than thoracic surgeons.

Proportion of colonic carcinoma in cases presenting with acute intestinal obstruction: a cross sectional study

Background: Acute intestinal obstruction is one of the most common emergencies encountered by the general surgeon in routine practice. Although historically, obstructed hernia has been the most common cause, recent studies have shown that adhesive intestinal obstruction is now the commonest reason. Malignant bowel obstruction is also on the rise especially with the change in dietary habits. This study aims at identifying the proportion of colonic carcinoma in cases presenting with acute intestinal obstruction.Methods: The patients with acute intestinal obstruction which was diagnosed clinically and radiologically were studied. Based on operative and clinical findings along with investigation results, the etiology was identified. The patients having colonic neoplasms were identified and the data was compared with other etiological factors to find out the proportion of colonic carcinoma in the cases.Results: The proportion of colon cancer in patients presenting with acute intestinal obstruction was around 15%. The most common cause was obstructed hernia followed by post-operative adhesions. Males were more commonly affected than females. Most of the cases underwent operative management. The most common age group affected was around 50-60 years.Conclusions: This study confirms that there is a definite rise in the number of cases of colon cancer presenting as acute intestinal obstruction. There is also a skewing of the age at presentation towards younger age groups. Small bowel obstructions were much more common mainly due to adhesions and obstructed herniae.

Patient Views Around Their Hernia Surgery: A Worldwide Online Survey Promoted Through Social Media

Introduction: Hernias are one of the most common surgical diagnoses, and general surgical operations are performed. The involvement of patients in the decision making can be limited. The aim of this study was to explore the perspectives of patients around their hernia and its management, to aid future planning of hernia services to maximise patient experience, and good outcomes for the patient.Methods: A SurveyMonkey questionnaire was developed by patient advocates with some advice from surgeons. It was promoted on Twitter and Facebook, such as all found “hernia help” groups on these platforms over a 6-week period during the summer of 2020. Demographics, the reasons for seeking a hernia repair, decision making around the choice of surgeon, hospital, mesh type, pre-habilitation, complications, and participation in a hernia registry were collected.Results: In total, 397 questionnaires were completed in the study period. The majority of cases were from English speaking countries. There was a strong request for hernia specialists to perform the surgery, to have detailed knowledge about all aspects of hernia disease and its management, such as no operation and non-mesh options. Chronic pain was the most feared complication. The desire for knowledge about the effect of the hernia and surgery on the sexual function in all age groups was a notable finding. Pre-habilitation and a hernia registry participation were well-supported.Conclusions: Hernia repair is a quality of life surgery. Whether awaiting surgery or having had surgery with a good or bad outcome, patients want information about their condition and treatment, such as the effect on aspects of life, such as sex, and they wish greater involvement in their management decisions. Patients want their surgery by surgeons who can also manage complications of such surgery or recommend further treatment. A large group of “hernia surgery injured” patients feel abandoned by their general surgeon when complications ensue.

Slippage of Gastric Banding for Mobid Obesity: case report and review of literature

Background: laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LABG) remains the commonest and less invasive bariatric operation. It has many advantages in the treatment of obesity and is associated with low morbidity and mortality rates.When it happens a Gastric Band Slippage (GBS), part of the gastric fundus herniates through the band. Removal of GB is necessary to prevent necrosis of the herniated stomach.Case report: We present a case of a 40-year-old female patient who was admitted for a huge gastric pouch dilatation after 3 years of underwent LAGB.Conclusion: The LAGB is one of the most common procedures used for the treatment of morbid obesity. The complications are generally not mortal but it is necessary that complications have been recognized by general surgeon and physicians should be aware of the symptoms. Diagnosis of GBS can be made with signs or symptoms and patient’s medical history, with the use of oral contrast X-ray studies or CT Scan and surgical intervention is necessary.

P154 DOES A PENO-SCROTAL APPROACH FOR PENILE PROSTHESIS IMPLANTATION INCREASE THE INCIDENCE OF INGUINAL HERNIAS POSTOPERATIVELY?

Aim The incidence of direct inguinal hernia and reservoir migration post-penile prosthesis implantation is extremely rare. We present a case series of patients presenting with direct inguinal hernia following three-piece penile prosthesis implantation. Material and Methods Three patients presented with direct inguinal hernia shortly following penile prosthesis implantation for treatment of refractory erectile dysfunction due to venous leak that was confirmed on ultrasound imaging. All patients underwent standard open Lichtenstein tension free repair. Results All patients underwent penile prosthesis Implantation through a peno-scrotal approach in which the reservoir was placed in the space of Retzius. The first patient had reservoir displacement one day post-operatively presenting as an inguinal bulge and discomfort, and repaired the same day. The other two patients presented with symptoms of inguinal swelling and pain at 40 days and 8 months respectively. None of our patients had signs and symptoms of intestinal obstruction. Identifiable risk factors included high BMI and a history of smoking, however dissection and placement of the reservoir may play a role in weakening the floor of the inguinal canal. Conclusions Despite the rare incidence of inguinal hernia post-penile prosthesis implantation, identification of patients with risk factors for inguinal hernia development should be done preoperatively. This may be evaluated through preoperative radiologic imaging with an abdominal wall ultrasound or clinical examination by a general surgeon.

STRATEGIES FOR ANESTHESIA MANAGEMENT OF CESAREAN DELIVERIES WITH ABNORMAL PLACENTAL PLACEMENT–ANESTHETIST’S PERSPECTIVE

Objective: To discuss problems faced in the management of emergency and elective cesarean sections with known or unknown abnormal placental placement and their management. Study Design: Retrospective observational study. Place and Duration of Study: Different Hospitals for the last 7 years from 2013 to 2020. Methodology: This retrospective observational study of 120 cases was selected for data collections that underwent anesthesia. Variables under study were age, weight, type of abnormal placenta, fluid, blood/blood products given during surgery, hysterectomy done, general surgeon help required, anesthesia type, and redo of operations. Results: A total of 120 patients were operated having abnormal placentation. The frequency of placenta previa 90 (75%), and accreta was 30 (25%). Primigravida patients were 19 (15.8%) and multigravida patients were 101 (84.1%). hysterectomy was done in 28 (23.3%) patients. Spinal anesthesia was given in 50 (41%) patients while 70 (58.3%) patients have general anesthesia. The spinal anesthesia was later on converted to general anesthesia in 32 (26.6%) patients out of 50 (41%). Only 12 (10%) patients were reopened for uncontrolled bleeding and 4 (3.3%) patients were sent to tertiary care hospital for further management. The general surgeon was called for help in 24 (20%) of patients and bladder injury occurred in 25 (20.8%) patients. No mortality was found during this period. Conclusion: Abnormal placental placement is a threat to mother life as well fetus and team of dedicated doctor is required to deal with this emergency. Use of inotropes can help to save the precious lives.

Modern concepts of hepatic insufficiency, their advantages and faults: views of a general surgeon and transplantologist

Modern concepts of hepatic insufficiency, their advantages and faults: views of a general surgeon and transplantologist

History and Challenges Ahead for General Surgery Training in East Africa

This review highlights the history of the commencement of training in East Africa. The challenges faced in setting up a recognised training curriculum in General Surgery are outlined. The supply of health professionals with surgical skills is disproportionate to the world burden of surgical disease. The disproportion between the burden of surgical disease and the low numbers of trained personnel is more pronounced in developing low income countries. General surgery is being left in referral hospitals with few staff as surgical subspecialisation is gaining momentum. The provision of essential general surgery management is therefore below par which is the responsibility of the General Surgeon. In order to bridge the discrepancy training of more general surgeons is required. Specialist surgeons should also be trained first as general surgeons as it will give them the ability to respond to a general surgical emergency when practising as specialists and will provide them with a good overall understanding of the needs in general surgery.