Journal of the American College of Surgeons
-
Despite the prevalence of hypocoagulability after injury, the majority of trauma patients paradoxically present with elevated thrombin generation (TG). Although several studies have examined plasma TG post injury, this has not been assessed in whole blood. We hypothesize that whole blood TG is lower in hypocoagulopathy, and TG effectively predicts massive transfusion (MT). ⋯ These data challenge the prevailing bias that all trauma patients present with elevated TG and highlight that deficient thrombin contributes to the hypocoagulopathic phenotype of trauma-induced coagulopathy. In addition, whole blood TG predicts MT, suggesting point-of-care whole blood TG can be a useful tool for diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in trauma.
-
Comparative Study
Outcomes of Carotid Revascularization in Patients with Contralateral Carotid Artery Occlusion.
Little is known about the best revascularization procedure for patients with contralateral carotid artery occlusion (CCO). We aim to compare the outcomes of transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR), carotid endarterectomy (CEA), and transfemoral carotid artery stenting (TFCAS) in patients with CCO. ⋯ TCAR has lower odds of in-hospital stroke or death compared to TFCAS, independent of symptomatic status. Compared to CEA, TCAR seems to be a better option in asymptomatic patients, with lower odds of in-hospital stroke. Yet, no significant difference is observed in symptomatic patients.
-
Solid organ transplant recipients are at increased risk for noncutaneous neoplasms, including colorectal cancer (CRC). We evaluated precancerous lesions detected by post-transplant surveillance colonoscopy to infer the rate at which new adenomas develop in this population. ⋯ Lung transplant recipients have a significantly higher risk of adenoma formation than average-risk adults (25%-30% national detection rate). This increase occurs in the early post-transplant period (within 3 years). An enhanced CRC surveillance protocol for lung transplant recipients is needed.
-
The quality of emergency general surgery (EGS) studies that use the American College of Surgeons-National Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) database is variable. We aimed to critically appraise the methodologic reporting of EGS ACS-NSQIP studies. ⋯ The methodologic reporting of EGS studies using ACS-NSQIP remains suboptimal. Future efforts should focus on improving adherence to the policies to mitigate potential sources of bias and improve the credibility of large database studies.