The British journal of surgery
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The aim was to establish the feasibility of using a tissue stabilization gel (Allprotect™) as an alternative to liquid nitrogen to facilitate collection of clinical samples for translational research. ⋯ In hospitals that do not have access to liquid nitrogen and -80°C freezers, Allprotect™ provides a suitable alternative for the acquisition and stabilization of clinical samples. Storage proved satisfactory for up to 1 week, allowing transfer of samples without the need for specialized facilities. Surgical relevance Access to clinical material is a fundamental component of translational research that requires significant infrastructure (research personnel, liquid nitrogen, specialized storage facilities). The aim was to evaluate a new-to-market tissue stabilization gel (Allprotect™), which offers a simple solution to tissue preservation without the need for complex infrastructure. Allprotect™ offers comparable DNA, RNA and protein stabilization to tissue snap-frozen in liquid nitrogen for up to 1 week. Degradation of biomolecules beyond this highlights its role as a short-term tissue preservative. Allprotect™ has the potential to increase surgeon participation in translational research and surgical trials requiring tissue collection.
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Damage control laparotomy (DCL) is used widely in the management of patients with traumatic injuries but carries significant morbidity. Surgical-site infection (SSI) also carries potential morbidity, increased costs and prolonged hospital stay. The aim of this study was to determine whether primary skin closure after DCL increases the risk of SSI. ⋯ Primary skin closure after DCL is appropriate but may be associated with an increased risk of SSI.
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Congenital tracheal defects and prolonged intubation following premature birth have resulted in an unmet clinical need for tracheal replacement. Advances in stem cell technology, tissue engineering and material sciences have inspired the development of a resorbable, nanocomposite tracheal and bronchial scaffold. ⋯ This mechanically viable scaffold successfully supports bmMSC and HBEC attachment and proliferation, demonstrating its potential as a tissue-engineered solution to tracheal replacement.
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Microwave ablation has emerged as a promising treatment for liver malignancies, but there are scant long-term follow-up data. This study evaluated long-term outcomes, with a comparison of 915-MHz and 2.4-GHz ablation systems. ⋯ Microwave ablation of liver malignancies, either combined or not combined with liver resection, and selective regional and systemic therapy resulted in good long-term survival. Local recurrence rates were low after treatment of tumours smaller than 3 cm in diameter, and those remote from vessels.
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The potential for surgical resection of primary hepatoblastoma tumours was assessed at diagnosis, and after two and four cycles of neoadjuvant chemotherapy. ⋯ The majority of stage III and IV hepatoblastomas achieved radiographic resectability after two cycles of chemotherapy. There may be an opportunity for earlier surgical intervention and potential for a reduction in chemotherapy in a considerable number of patients.