Journal of the American College of Surgeons
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Due to the complexity of pancreatic surgery, patients diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) may seek out the opinion of more than one surgeon. Little is known regarding how second surgical opinions impact the likelihood of pancreatectomy and perioperative outcomes. Our study aimed to determine the impact of obtaining second surgical opinions on pancreatectomy rates and to assess its impact on surgical outcomes. ⋯ Among Medicare patients who underwent pancreatectomy for pancreatic cancer, approximately 1 in 7 patients received a second surgical opinion. Additional research is needed on the impact of second opinions on long-term cancer-specific outcomes.
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This project aims to characterize the extent and nature of impostor phenomenon (IP) among women surgeons in Canada. IP is well documented among medical professionals and trainees. It is known to have significant impacts on mental health and career trajectory. ⋯ IP is a nearly universal experience among women surgeons and is influential in their professional lives. This study contributes to scientific knowledge that can advance gender equity in medicine and leadership.
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The lack of consensus on equity measurement and its incorporation into quality-assessment programs at the hospital and system levels may be a barrier to addressing disparities in surgical care. This study aimed to identify population-level and within-hospital differences in the quality of surgical care provision. ⋯ After risk adjustment, very few hospitals demonstrated significant disparities in care. Disparities were more frequently detected by ADI than by race and ethnicity. The lack of substantial in-hospital disparities may be due to the use of postoperative metrics, small sample sizes, the risk adjustment methodology, and healthcare segregation. Further work should examine surgical access and healthcare segregation.
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Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cause of cancer mortality worldwide. Of these, approximately 25% will have liver metastasis. We performed 394 microwave ablations (MWAs) and analyzed outcomes for survival and ablation failure. ⋯ Surgical MWA offers a low-morbidity approach to treatment of colorectal liver metastasis, with low rate of failure. This large series reviews the outcomes of MWA as definitive treatment for colorectal liver metastasis.