The Journal of thoracic and cardiovascular surgery
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J. Thorac. Cardiovasc. Surg. · Nov 2015
Readmission predicts 90-day mortality after esophagectomy: Analysis of Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Registry linked to Medicare outcomes.
Postoperative readmission is an increasingly scrutinized quality metric that affects patient satisfaction and cost. Even more important is its implication for short-term prognosis. The purpose of this study is to characterize postesophagectomy readmissions and determine their relationship with subsequent 90-day mortality. ⋯ Patients readmitted within 30 days of discharge after esophagectomy are at exceptionally high risk for early mortality. Early recognition of life-threatening readmission diagnoses is essential to providing optimal care.
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J. Thorac. Cardiovasc. Surg. · Nov 2015
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative StudyRandomized trial of digital versus analog pleural drainage in patients with or without a pulmonary air leak after lung resection.
An unclear aspect of digital pleural drainage technology is whether it can benefit all lung resection patients or only those who have a postoperative air leak. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of digital pleural drainage on time to chest tube removal and length of hospitalization, taking into consideration postoperative air leak status. ⋯ Although digital devices decreased tube clamping trials, the impact on duration of chest tube drainage and hospital stay was not statistically significant, even after stratifying by postoperative air leak status.
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J. Thorac. Cardiovasc. Surg. · Nov 2015
Gamification in thoracic surgical education: Using competition to fuel performance.
In an effort to stimulate residents and trainers to increase their use of simulation training and the Thoracic Surgery Curriculum, a gamification strategy was developed in a friendly but competitive environment. ⋯ This gamification approach focused on technical and cognitive skills, has been successfully implemented, and has encouraged the use of simulators and the Thoracic Surgery Curriculum. This framework may capitalize on the competitive nature of our trainees and can provide recognition of their achievements.