ANZ journal of surgery
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ANZ journal of surgery · Dec 2011
Historical ArticleLaparoscopic cholecystectomy: Australian beginnings.
Chance meetings in the USA and in France lead to the realization of the potential for cholecystectomy to be performed laparoscopically. Outlined are the steps taken to learn the technique and perform the first such operation in Australia (with unusual circumstances), immediately followed by the introduction of audit and training courses. Historical narrative.
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ANZ journal of surgery · Nov 2011
Comparative StudyOptional inferior vena cava filter use in surgical patients: a Western Australian experience.
The optional filter is gaining ground, supplementing anticoagulation in the management of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in high-risk surgical patients, this despite knowledge gaps relating to its efficacy. We studied the literature and audited our experience with inferior vena cava filters to educate ourselves on this mode of VTE prophylaxis, particularly its practical implications, if any, for the surgeon. ⋯ Optional filters have presented both versatility and challenge to the management of VTE in high-risk patients. An underlying concern about the quintessential efficacy of IVCFs lingers on, while the impact of lost follow-ups in young patients is still at large. Class 1 studies on optional filters would add certainty to the use of this generation of filters, be a step forward in relevance from the seminal work of Decousus and garner the willingness needed to engage teamwork and institutional proactiveness against loopholes such as lost follow-ups that can undermine the portrayed benefits of a potentially lifesaving device.