American journal of surgery
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To investigate the relationship between nodule size and malignancy and the correlation between the dimensional parameter and fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) in patients with a nodular goiter. ⋯ Nodule size does not appear to be a reliable parameter to improve the clinical management of a nodular goiter because of a high variability between size of nodular area and tumor diameter.
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Topical negative pressure (TNP) therapy has become a useful adjunct in the management of various types of wounds. However, the TNP system still has characteristics of a "black box" with uncertain efficacy for many users. We extensively examined the effectiveness of TNP therapy reported in research studies. ⋯ Almost all encountered studies were related to the use of the commercial VAC device (KCI Medical, United States). Mechanisms of action that can be attributed to TNP therapy are an increase in blood flow, the promotion of angiogenesis, a reduction of wound surface area in certain types of wounds, a modulation of the inhibitory contents in wound fluid, and the induction of cell proliferation. Edema reduction and bacterial clearance, mechanisms that were attributed to TNP therapy, were not proven in basic research.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study
Prospective randomized controlled trial of traditional laparoscopic cholecystectomy versus single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy: report of preliminary data.
This study presents preliminary data from a prospective randomized multicenter, single-blinded trial of single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC) versus standard laparoscopic cholecystectomy (4PLC). ⋯ Preliminary results from this prospective trial showed SILC to be safe compared with 4PLC although operative times were longer. Cosmetic scores were higher for SILS compared with 4PLC. Satisfaction scores were similar although both groups reported a significantly higher preference towards SILC.
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Comparative Study
The validity of take-home surgical simulators to enhance resident technical skill proficiency.
It is unknown whether surgical residents who learn minimal-access surgery skills in an unstructured environment (ie, at home), will develop a technical skill set that rivals that of those trained in the more traditional, structured learning environment. ⋯ Unstructured learning is equally effective in delivering quality skills training when compared with structured training.
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Published comparisons of laparoscopic (laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy [LDP]) to open distal pancreatectomy (ODP) identify improved lengths of stay (LOS) after LDP but do not include data on readmissions. ⋯ Adding readmission LOS to initial LOS eliminates the perceived effect of LDP to accelerate recovery.