The British journal of surgery
-
Retirement policies for surgeons differ worldwide. A range of normal human functional abilities decline as part of the ageing process. As life expectancy and their population increases, the performance ability of ageing surgeons is now a growing concern in relation to patient care. The aim was to explore the effects of ageing on surgeons' performance, and to identify current practical methods for transitioning surgeons out of practice at the appropriate time and age. ⋯ Competence should be assessed at an individual level, focusing on functional ability over chronological age; this should inform retirement policies for surgeons.
-
Review Meta Analysis Comparative Study
Meta-analysis of colloids versus crystalloids in critically ill, trauma and surgical patients.
There is uncertainty regarding the safety of different volume replacement solutions. The aim of this study was systematically to review evidence of crystalloid versus colloid solutions, and to determine whether these results are influenced by trial design or clinical setting. ⋯ Current general restrictions on the use of colloid solutions are not supported by evidence.
-
Review Meta Analysis
Meta-analysis of perioperative antibiotics in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
The effectiveness of perioperative antibiotics in reducing surgical-site infection (SSI) and overall nosocomial infections in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy for biliary colic and low- and moderate-risk cholecystitis (Tokyo classification) is unclear. A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to assess this. ⋯ Antibiotics should not be administered before laparoscopic cholecystectomy in patients with biliary colic and/or low- and moderate-risk cholecystitis.
-
Ageing is the inevitable time-dependent decline in physiological organ function that eventually leads to death. Age is a major risk factor for many of the most common medical conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes and Alzheimer's disease. This study reviews currently known hallmarks of ageing and their clinical implications. ⋯ The sum of these molecular hallmarks produces the clinical picture of the elderly surgical patient: frailty, sarcopenia, anaemia, poor nutrition and a blunted immune response system. Improved understanding of the ageing processes may give rise to new biomarkers of risk or prognosis, novel treatment targets and translational approaches across disciplines that may improve outcomes.