European journal of cardio-thoracic surgery : official journal of the European Association for Cardio-thoracic Surgery
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Eur J Cardiothorac Surg · Jul 2014
Observational StudyAdopting a standardized anterior approach significantly increases video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery lobectomy rates.
Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) lobectomy is associated with improved short-term outcomes compared with thoracotomy. Definition of the hilar structures is crucial to safe VATS lobectomy. Several VATS approaches have been described. We report the effect of three surgeons in our institution undertaking standardized anterior approach (SAA) training on the proportion of isolated lobectomies subsequently completed by VATS. Predictors of successful VATS lobectomy were analysed. ⋯ Formal training and adoption of the SAA approach were associated with a more than 3-fold increase in our VATS lobectomy rate. The effect was immediate and sustained. This may reflect easier identification of the major structures from the anterior view. In addition, standardization of surgical techniques and perioperative protocols may facilitate efficient team working. VATS lobectomy was associated with a shorter median hospital stay. Units seeking to increase their VATS lobectomy rate should consider group adoption of the SAA approach.
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Eur J Cardiothorac Surg · Jul 2014
Acuity adaptable patient care unit system shortens length of stay and improves outcomes in adult cardiac surgery: University of Wisconsin experience.
The Acuity Adaptable Patient Care (AAC) unit system allows all beds within a nursing unit to negate the need for transfer with changes in patient status. The unit is specialty specific to all levels of patient care. This system was implemented in March 2006 for cardiothoracic surgery at our institution. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of the AAC system on the outcomes after adult cardiac surgery. ⋯ The implementation of the AAC system has improved the outcomes after major cardiac procedures. The incidence of postoperative complications and length of stay have all decreased significantly without increasing readmission rate. AAC creates a system of fluid care with specialty-trained nursing and other ancillary support that expedites discharge and improves overall patient outcomes.
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Eur J Cardiothorac Surg · Jul 2014
Comparative StudyThe impact of clopidogrel therapy on postoperative bleeding after robotic-assisted coronary artery bypass surgery.
The purpose of this study was to determine whether patients undergoing robotic-assisted coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) on clopidogrel had an increased risk of bleeding complications compared with those not on clopidogrel. ⋯ Patients undergoing robotic-assisted CABG on clopidogrel had more postoperative bleeding and a higher incidence of blood transfusion. Therefore, despite a less invasive approach, surgery should be delayed in these patients when possible.
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Eur J Cardiothorac Surg · Jul 2014
The role of repairing lung lacerations during video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery evacuations for retained haemothorax caused by blunt chest trauma.
Retained haemothorax and pneumothorax are the most common complications after blunt chest traumas. Lung lacerations derived from fractures of the ribs are usually found in these patients. Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) is usually used as a routine procedure in the treatment of retained pleural collections. The objective of this study was to find out if there is any advantage in adding the procedure for repairing lacerated lungs during VATS. ⋯ When compared with simple thoracoscopic evacuation methods, repair and resection of the injured lungs combined may result in better clinical outcomes in patients who sustained blunt chest injuries.
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Eur J Cardiothorac Surg · Jul 2014
Surgical revision after percutaneous mitral valve repair by edge-to-edge device: when the strategy fails in the highest risk surgical population.
Percutaneous edge-to-edge devices for non-surgical repair of mitral valve regurgitation are under clinical evaluation in high-risk patients deemed not suitable for conventional surgery. To address guidelines for initial therapy decision, we here report on 13 cases of surgery after failed percutaneous edge-to-edge mitral valve repair or attempted repair, and discuss methodology and prognostic factors for operative outcome in this high-risk situation. ⋯ Our series demonstrate that highest risk patients can survive mitral valve surgery after failed multiple edge-to-edge interventional mitral valve repair. As long-term results of the MitraClip therapy are pending, we recommend close meshed follow-up of patients treated with the MitraClip device, especially within the first year of the index procedure as delays in salvage management, interventional or surgical, when the index procedure fails may increase morbidity and mortality.