Journal of the American College of Surgeons
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How case volume and quality of care relate to each other and to results of complex cancer surgery is not well-understood. ⋯ Although hospital and surgeon volume were not associated with outcomes, lower overall adherence to quality measures is associated with higher costs, but not improved outcomes. This finding might provide a rationale for improving care systems by maximizing care consistency, even if outcomes are not affected.
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Since 2001, US military surgeons have deployed frequently, with many surgeons deploying within 1 year of graduating residency. The purpose of this study was to evaluate readiness of recent graduates to manage combat-related injuries and to make recommendations for improvements in training military surgeons. ⋯ Recent surgical residency graduates are prepared for deployment in support of US military operations for the majority of injuries encountered. However, familiarization with procedures that fall outside the traditional general surgical curriculum would improve their ability to treat these injuries. To enhance experience with rare injuries, cadaver studies and animal models may serve as training tools before deployment.
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The impact of platelet transfusion in trauma patients undergoing a massive transfusion (MT) was evaluated. ⋯ For injured patients requiring a massive transfusion, as the apheresis platelet-to-red cell ratio increased, a stepwise improvement in survival was seen. Prospective evaluation of the role of platelet transfusion in massively transfused patients is warranted.
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The mortality rates associated with hepatectomy are still not zero. Our aim was to define the risk factors for complications and to evaluate our perioperative management. ⋯ Shorter operative times and reduced blood loss were obtained by improving the surgical technique and using new surgical devices and intraoperative management, including anesthesia. Additionally, decision making using our algorithm and perioperative management according to CDC guidelines reduced the morbidity and mortality associated with hepatectomy.