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Operative death rates higher at weekend, warn researchers

Researchers found a 'weekday effect' in mortality rates for patients undergoing elective surgery, with higher risks at the weekend and end of working week. The study suggests poorer quality of care may contribute to this, particularly for patients with more diseases or previous admissions.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateMay 28, 2013

General thoracic surgeons emerge as leading providers of complex, noncardiac thoracic surgery

A recent UC Davis study reveals that general thoracic surgeons perform the majority of complex noncardiac thoracic surgeries, including esophageal and lung procedures. The research supports the recognition of general thoracic surgery as a distinct specialty, benefiting patients in selecting surgeons for specific procedures.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalThe Annals of Thoracic Surgery·DateDec 6, 2012

Single-port kidney removal through the belly button boosts living-donor satisfaction

A University of Maryland study found that single-port kidney removal through the belly button resulted in higher satisfaction rates among living donors, with fewer limitations after surgery. The new technique also showed slightly less pain and no increased risks or complications compared to traditional multi-port laparoscopic removal.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Medical Center·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateSep 12, 2012

Extra treatment during prolapse repair reduces incontinence rate

A study funded by the NIH found that surgery to support the urethra with a sling reduces incontinence rate, but carries risk of complications such as difficulty emptying bladder and urinary tract infection. The study suggests considering potential benefits and risks when deciding whether to have second procedure at same time as first.

NEJM: Heart patients do better with non-surgical valve replacement than standard medical therapy

Patients diagnosed with aortic stenosis who are too sick for open-heart surgery have better survival rates and an improved quality of life after undergoing catheter-based heart valve replacement. The minimally invasive procedure adds years to life and life to years, according to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 26, 2012

Thomas Jefferson University Hospital cuts Whipple procedure wound infections in half with new measures

A new surgical care bundle of 12 measures, including smoking cessation and gown change prior to skin closure, reduced Whipple procedure wound infections by 49% compared to a less comprehensive routine preoperative preparation. The measures also included intraoperative wound edge protection and chlorhexidine-alcohol skin preparation.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalJournal of Surgical Research·DateOct 26, 2011

A third of elderly Medicare beneficiaries undergo surgery during their last year of life but many procedures are likely to be unnecessary or unwanted

The study found that nearly one in five patients underwent a surgical procedure in the last month of life, and nearly 1 in 10 had a procedure in their last week. The likelihood of surgery varied by age, location, and hospital bed availability, suggesting that some operations may be discretionary or avoidable.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateOct 5, 2011