A large study on chronic pancreatitis patients who underwent surgery found that about two-thirds survive for 10 years, but over a quarter struggle with persistent opioid use. Long-term follow-up revealed significant psychosocial issues, including substance abuse, narcotics abuse, and end-stage liver disease.
A recent study found that patients who met with surgeons for first-time surgery consultations via telemedicine were satisfied with the quality of communication, comparable to in-person visits. The study suggests that either method is appropriate, depending on what the surgeon and patient prefer.
The Children's Surgery Verification Quality Improvement Program, introduced by the American College of Surgeons, improved efficiency in treating children with traumatic injuries. The program reduced surgical wait times and hospital stays by over a day and decreased narcotics use in pediatric patients with femur fractures.
A comprehensive analysis of quality improvement initiatives in operating rooms reveals that sustainability interventions can significantly reduce costs and decrease carbon footprint. The study identified effective strategies such as powering down lights and equipment, reducing waste, and implementing recycling programs.
Researchers identified key risk factors for intimate partner violence in pregnant women, including head injuries, multiple contusions, and certain injury patterns. The study highlights the importance of screening for IPV in pregnant trauma patients to prevent poor outcomes such as premature birth and low birth weight.
A national quality improvement project led by the American College of Surgeons restored cancer screenings to pre-pandemic levels and increased additional screening tests. The initiative helped accredited programs increase screening rates by implementing evidence-based interventions and achieved a minimum of 10% growth in screening.
A recent study found that microRNA-145 can identify breast cancer patients at lower risk of recurrence and those who may need additional therapy. The biomarker was measured in patients' blood samples during chemotherapy and predicted long-term oncological outcomes.
The study provides guidelines for healthcare facilities to respond effectively to mass shooting incidents. The clinicians identified the importance of modified triage plans, prioritizing patients based on anatomical considerations, and clear communication with emergency responders. By implementing these strategies, hospitals can better...
Patients with stage II/III esophageal cancer who received delayed surgery had a relative survival rate that was almost half that of patients who underwent early surgery. Early-stage cancer patients did not experience significant differences in survival rates between those who received immediate versus delayed surgery.
Researchers developed a procedure-specific risk calculator to encourage changes in patient behaviors before surgery. The machine learning models accurately predicted which patients were most likely to experience complications or hernia recurrence after ventral hernia repair.
A new analysis of cases in the National Cancer Database finds that younger patients (less than 50 years old) with acute appendicitis are at increased risk of developing cancer of the appendix. The study suggests that patients under 40 may want to undergo surgery to rule out cancer.
A single-center study found that trauma patients were less likely to be vaccinated against COVID-19, even as vaccines became more widely available. The study suggests that trauma centers can play a crucial role in introducing the vaccination conversation with high-risk patients.
Trauma centers in the US are increasingly screening and intervening for patients with alcohol and substance abuse issues, as well as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and suicidal ideation. A survey found that over 95% of trauma centers screen and intervene for high-risk patients, leading to significant reductions in re-entry rates.
A quality improvement initiative at 10 US children's hospitals has led to an almost 80% reduction in opioid prescribing for children after appendectomy, without harming patient outcomes. The study used a standardized prescribing protocol and ACS NSQIP Pediatric data to minimize opioid prescriptions.
A study found that telemedicine increased access to surgical care, but disparities persisted among low-income and older Americans. Virtual consultations were more common among white patients than Latinx and Hispanic patients, while Black patients were more likely to use video conferencing.
A study by Temple University Hospital found that virtual single-visit screenings are just as effective as in-person screenings, especially for African American patients. The telemedicine approach helped preserve access to lung cancer screening during the pandemic, despite a 75% decline in overall screenings.
A new study found that surgery benefits men with Stage IV breast cancer, particularly those responsive to systemic therapy. Trimodal therapy, including surgery and radiation, shows improved 5-year overall survival rates compared to systemic therapy alone.
A new study found that a decline in hospital stays after surgery may be associated with an increase in post-discharge complications. Researchers recommend implementing a coordinated system to better identify and manage these complications, including improved patient education and enhanced communication between healthcare providers.
A recent study found that COVID-19 lockdowns led to significant increases in bicycle-related injuries and gun-related injuries across four US cities. Trauma cases at Level I trauma centers showed a 100% rise in bicycle-related trauma rates and a 23.5% increase in gunshot wounds.
A nationwide pause of most elective operations led to significant financial losses for hospitals, with one study estimating a 42% loss of net revenue. Hospitals lost $1.53 billion from missed pediatric procedures, with a median time to recovery of one year.
Using qualitative terms to describe risks associated with treatments for appendicitis led to a wide range of interpretations among patients. In contrast, giving risk percentages or ranges improved communication and reduced variance in interpretation.
Patients with stroke symptoms can be quickly assessed for traumatic injuries without delaying brain imaging and treatment. The novel STRAUMA activation enables rapid evaluation of both stroke and trauma to facilitate timely administration of life-saving interventions.
A survey of adults shows low colonoscopy rates during the pandemic, but home-based fecal occult blood testing increased by 30% among respondents. The study highlights the need for tailored screening options to address patient concerns and improve colorectal cancer screening rates.
Two studies investigate the factors associated with cancer centers offering telehealth services, revealing regional disparities and socio-economic influences. Researchers aim to increase access to care for patients who may be underserved or lack technology to participate in remote visits.
A mixed-methods analysis found that most surgical patients prefer virtual follow-up care for its convenience, which does not compromise patient satisfaction. The study highlights the potential benefits of virtual visits in improving access to care and reducing barriers for patients.
The American College of Surgeons proposes four strategies to address the root causes of violence, including investing in at-risk communities and advocating for policy changes. Trauma Informed Care is a key feature of these strategies, aiming to foster empowerment and partnership with patients.
The American College of Surgeons surveyed its members on firearm safety, with strong consensus for policy initiatives and safe storage. Most respondents support preventing people with serious mental illness from buying firearms and cracking down on illegal sales.
A new simulation platform, Advanced Modular Manikin (AMM), has been developed to realistically simulate multiple trauma scenarios, providing physiologic responses and feedback. Trauma team members preferred the integrated AMM platform for its realism and feedback, leading to higher team experience ratings.
The ACS Quality Verification Program utilizes data surveillance, standardized processes, and systems to identify quality improvement issues and improve surgical patient care. The program's 12 standards provide a framework for hospitals to implement robust surgical quality improvement initiatives.
Increased tourniquet use in Los Angeles County has improved patient survival and reduced the need for blood transfusions. The study found that patients with prehospital tourniquets had lower mortality rates, fewer delayed amputations, and lessened blood transfusion requirements.
A new study identifies risk factors for readmission to a different hospital for cancer patients who received surgical removals, associated with a 50% increased odds of dying. Risk factors include living far away from the original hospital and being older or white, highlighting the need for better care coordination.
A new study from the University of Arizona Department of Surgery found that pancreatic cancer patients who undergo chemotherapy followed by resection live an average of 19.75 months, compared to 10.12 months for those who received only chemotherapy. The researchers suggest that surgery can improve survival even in difficult cases.
A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found that patients undergoing elective esophagectomy, gastrectomy, or pancreatectomy for malignancies at top-ranked hospitals had significantly lower in-hospital death rates compared to those at unranked hospitals. The average annual case volume for these high-ri...
A new guideline for reducing opioid use post-surgery has led to a high pain management satisfaction rate of over 90%, with 83% of patients properly disposing of unused pills. The guideline takes into account individual patients' perception of pain, setting expectations and prescribing non-opioid analgesics to minimize opioid use.
Funding for surgeon scientists has increased by 40% in terms of both numbers and amounts since 2010, despite overall NIH funding decreases and an increase in demand for clinical productivity. Basic science research has also remained stable, with 70% of grants focused on basic science.
A new study found that elderly patients with locally advanced esophageal and esophagogastric junction cancer can achieve similar outcomes as younger patients when receiving recommended multimodal therapy. The therapy regimen includes initial chemoradiotherapy followed by surgical resection.
A study of 186,779 discharged patients found that trauma surgeons' communication has a significant effect on overall satisfaction. Physician communication ranked as the number two factor for trauma and emergency surgery patients, with a 12% boost in satisfaction.
A study found that older cancer patients residing in areas with high social vulnerability are less likely to achieve textbook outcomes following surgery. The research used the Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) to analyze the impact of socioeconomic challenges on health outcomes.
The study found that a multimodal pain regimen (MMPR) reduced opioid exposure and pain scores in trauma patients. The MMPR, which includes generic medications such as acetaminophen and tramadol, was shown to be an effective alternative to traditional opioid treatments.
A new study found that non-Hispanic white patients are disproportionately placed on liver transplant waitlists, with disparities attributed to private health insurance access and travel distance. The researchers suggest increasing awareness of these trends may promote equitable access to transplants.
A virtual telehealth platform allows patients to undergo comprehensive evaluation for kidney transplantation from the comfort of their own homes. This innovative approach has enabled the Medical University of South Carolina's transplant program to maintain access to life-saving surgeries despite pandemic restrictions, with over 282 pat...
A recent study reported a significant drop in low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening for lung cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite resuming full operations, new patient monthly LDCT rates remained low, and patients were more likely to miss appointments, increasing the no-show rate from 15% to 40%. This led to a rise in m...
A study published in Journal of the American College of Surgeons found that financial toxicity among breast cancer patients is independently associated with worse psychological well-being. Even small improvements in financial pressure can lead to better mental well-being and higher patient satisfaction with breast reconstruction.
A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons suggests that Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act may lead to earlier diagnoses of colon cancer. Researchers found improved access to care and enhanced surgical care for patients with colon cancer in states that implemented Medicaid expansion.
Researchers found a significant increase in intentional penetrating injuries, especially firearm violence, during the pandemic. Young African-American men were disproportionately affected by these injuries, with the proportion of visits for gunshot wounds nearly doubling compared to previous years.
A new curriculum at Washington University School of Medicine equips surgical residents with technical and non-technical skills to treat victims of firearm violence. The Anatomy of Gun Violence (AGV) curriculum includes training sessions, simulations, and discussions on the social context of firearm violence.
A study by American College of Surgeons found that watch-and-wait strategy is an option for select patients with stages I to III rectal cancer. The approach, which skips operation, shows similar results in terms of local regrowth and disease-specific survival rates compared to surgical treatment.
Researchers found that minority-serving hospitals offer a strong level of evidence-based care for early-stage breast cancer, with similar rates of following recommended surgical procedures as non-minority hospitals. However, disparities exist in access to high-quality care and adherence to treatment guidelines among minority-serving ho...
Two new studies demonstrate the lifesaving impact of STOP THE BLEED training in low-to-middle income countries. In Sierra Leone, nearly all patients survived life-threatening bleeding emergencies after receiving training, and participants retained knowledge for over a year. In Connecticut, course attendees showed strong proficiency in ...
Spanish-speaking women are less likely to receive screening mammograms due to language barriers. Women with limited English proficiency had 27% lower rates of mammogram screenings, according to the study. This disparity affects approximately 450,000 eligible women in the US.