The American surgeon
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The American surgeon · Nov 2011
ReviewRole of high-intensity focused ultrasound in treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma.
About 70 per cent of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma are diagnosed at intermediate or advanced stages, and most of them are technically unresectable. As a novel, emerging therapeutic modality, high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) has a great potential for tumor treatment. In this review, principle of HIFU technique is introduced, and an overview of clinical applications and limitations of HIFU for HCC treatment, as well as prospects for future development, is provided. Consequently, HIFU has been considered a safe and feasible procedure for HCC treatment.
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The American surgeon · Nov 2011
Clinical TrialDoes alvimopan enhance return of bowel function in laparoscopic right colectomy?
Alvimopan, a peripherally acting Mu-opioid receptor antagonist, has been shown to enhance recovery of gastrointestinal (GI) function in open bowel resection. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of Alvimopan on patients undergoing laparoscopic right colectomies in preventing postoperative ileus (POI). A prospective, nonrandomized trial of laparoscopic right colectomies was carried out with and without perioperative Alvimopan. ⋯ Alvimopan was successful in enhancing return of GI function in laparoscopic right colectomies and avoiding POI. The decreased LOS trended but did not approach statistical significance. A large randomized prospective trial will be needed to determine the validity of this study.
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The American surgeon · Nov 2011
Comparative StudyEffect of glycemic state on hospital mortality in critically ill surgical patients.
Intensive insulin therapy can reduce mortality. Hypoglycemia related to intensive therapy may worsen outcomes. This study compared risk adjusted mortality for different glycemic states. ⋯ Hyper- and hypoglycemia increase mortality compared with APACHE III expected mortality, with highest mortality risk if both are present. Hypoglycemia is associated with worse risk. Glucose control may need to be loosened to prevent hypoglycemia and reduce glucose variability.
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The American surgeon · Nov 2011
Biography Historical ArticleRobert M. Zollinger, Sr., as a father, teacher, and mentor.