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Since its outbreak in early 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic has diverted resources from non-urgent and elective procedures, leading to diagnosis and treatment delays, with an increased number of neoplasms at advanced stages worldwide. The aims of this study were to quantify the reduction in surgical activity for indeterminate thyroid nodules during the COVID-19 pandemic; and to evaluate whether delays in surgery led to an increased occurrence of aggressive tumours. In this retrospective, international, cross-sectional study, centres were invited to participate in June 22, 2022; each centre joining the study was asked to provide data from medical records on all surgical thyroidectomies consecutively performed from Jan 1, 2019, to Dec 31, 2021. Patients with indeterminate thyroid nodules were divided into three groups according to when they underwent surgery: from Jan 1, 2019, to Feb 29, 2020 (global prepandemic phase), from March 1, 2020, to May 31, 2021 (pandemic escalation phase), and from June 1 to Dec 31, 2021 (pandemic decrease phase). The main outcomes were, for each phase, the number of surgeries for indeterminate thyroid nodules, and in patients with a postoperative diagnosis of thyroid cancers, the occurrence of tumours larger than 10 mm, extrathyroidal extension, lymph node metastases, vascular invasion, distant metastases, and tumours at high risk of structural disease recurrence. Univariate analysis was used to compare the probability of aggressive thyroid features between the first and third study phases. The study was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05178186. Data from 157 centres (n=49 countries) on 87 467 patients who underwent surgery for benign and malignant thyroid disease were collected, of whom 22 974 patients (18 052 [78·6%] female patients and 4922 [21·4%] male patients) received surgery for indeterminate thyroid nodules. We observed a significant reduction in surgery for indeterminate thyroid nodules during the pandemic escalation phase (median monthly surgeries per centre, 1·4 [IQR 0·6-3·4]) compared with the prepandemic phase (2·0 [0·9-3·7]; p

Lymph node metastasis is common in differentiated thyroid cancers. Therapeutic neck dissection removes macroscopic nodal metastasis, reduces local recurrence, and facilitates cancer surveillance. On the other hand, microscopic nodal metastasis is also increasingly recognized as a potential cause of persistent disease or early recurrences. Prophylactic neck dissection, by removing microscopic nodal metastasis, has been proposed to reduce recurrence and prevent future reoperation. When cancer recurs, regional nodal recurrence is most common, and the management should be individualized. We hereby present a narrative review on the management of nodal metastasis in differentiated thyroid cancers.

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are strongly linked with obesity. Whether bariatric surgery can effectively alleviate LUTS in morbidly obese men is unknown. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness of bariatric surgery in reducing the prevalence and severity of male LUTS in obese patients. This was a prospective observational study on consecutive morbidly obese men undergoing bariatric surgery. The International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) was used to assess for LUTS before and at 1–3 years after surgery. The 3-year changes in IPSS, the changes in LUTS severity, and the factors associated with LUTS improvement were evaluated. This study recruited 143 morbidly obese men (mean age 43.0 ± 10.4 years) undergoing sleeve gastrectomy (n = 89) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (n = 54). The rates of follow-up after surgery were 94.4% (n = 119/126) at 1 year, 90.6% (n = 96/106) at 2 years, and 81.2% (n = 69/85) at 3 years. After surgery, there was significant body mass index reduction from 39.1 ± 5.2 kg/m2 preoperatively to 30.1 ± 4.8 kg/m2 at 1 year and 31.5 ± 4.9 kg/m2 at 3 years (P

Although multimodal ultrasound approaches have been suggested to potentially improve the diagnosis of thyroid cancer; the diagnostic utility of the combination of SWE and malignancy-risk stratification systems remains vague due to the lack of standardized criteria. The purpose of the study was to assess the diagnostic value of the combination of grey scale ultrasound assessment using EU TIRADS and shear wave elastography. 121 patients (126 nodules–81 benign; 45 malignant) underwent grey scale ultrasound and SWE imaging of nodules between 0.5 cm and 5 cm prior to biopsy and/or surgery. Nodules were analyzed based on size stratifications: 2 cm (n = 31) and equivocal cytology status (n = 52), and diagnostic performance assessments were conducted. The combination of EU TIRADS with SWE using the SD parameter; maintained a high sensitivity and significantly improved the specificity of sole EU TIRADS for nodules 1–2 cm (SEN: 72.2% vs. 88.9%, p > 0.05; SPEC: 76.5% vs. 55.9%, p < 0.01) and >2 cm (SEN: 71.4% vs. 85.7%, p > 0.05; SPEC: 95.8% vs. 62.5%, p < 0.01). For cytologically-equivocal nodules; the combination with the SWE minimum parameter resulted in a significant reduction in sensitivity with increased specificity (SEN: 60% vs. 80%; SPEC: 83.4% vs. 37.8%; all p < 0.05). SWE in combination with EU TIRADS is diagnostically efficient in discriminating nodules > 1 cm but is not ideal for discriminating cytologically-equivocal nodules.

Liver stiffness measurement (LSM) by transient elastography (TE) is a non-invasive assessment for diagnosing and staging liver fibrosis in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Evidence on its role as a longitudinal monitoring tool is lacking. This study aims to evaluate the role of TE in monitoring NAFLD improvement following bariatric surgery. This study prospectively recruited 101 morbidly obese patients undergoing laparoscopic bariatric surgery for intraoperative liver biopsy. Thirty-seven patients of the cohort received perioperative TE. Postoperative anthropometric, biochemical and LSM data were collected annually for 5 years. In 101 patients receiving liver biopsy (mean age 40.0 ± 10.3 years, mean body-mass-index (BMI) 40.0 ± 5.7 kg/m2), NASH and liver fibrosis were diagnosed in 42 (41.6%) and 48 (47.5%) patients respectively. There were 29 (28.7%) stage 1, 11 (10.9%) stage 2, 7 (6.9%) stage 3, and 1 (1.0%) stage 4 fibrosis. In 37 patients receiving TE (mean age 38.9 ± 10.8 years, mean BMI 41.1 ± 5.6 kg/m2), the percentages of total weight loss were 21.1 ± 7.6% at 1 year, 19.7 ± 8.3% at 3 years, and 17.1 ± 7.0% at 5 years after surgery. The mean LSM reduced significantly from 9.8 ± 4.6 kPa at baseline to 6.9 ± 3.4 kPa at 1 year, 7.3 ± 3.0 kPa at 3 years, and 6.8 ± 2.6 kPa at 5 years (P = 0.002). Using pre-defined LSM cut-offs, the rates of significant fibrosis, advanced fibrosis and cirrhosis being ruled out at 5 years improved from baseline values of 43.7 to 87.5% (P P P

Color Doppler vascular index (VI) was assessed alone and in combination with grey-scale ultrasound (GSU) in regionally subdivided thyroid nodules in diagnosing thyroid cancer. Color Doppler sonograms of 111 thyroid nodules were evaluated by a home-developed algorithm that performed “offsetting” (algorithm for changing the area of a region of interest, ROI, without distorting the ROI’s contour) and assessed peripheral, central and overall VI of thyroid nodules. Results showed that the optimum offset for dividing peripheral and central regions of nodule was 22%. At the optimum offset, the mean VI of peripheral, central, and overall regions of malignant nodules were significantly higher than those of benign nodules (26.5 ± 16.2%, 21.7 ± 19.6%, 23.8 ± 4.6% v/s 18.2 ± 16.7%, 11.9 ± 15.1% and 16.6 ± 1.8% respectively, P P

OBJECTIVE Evaluations of upper gastrointestinal toxicity from ketamine abuse are uncommon. This study investigated the clinical pattern of upper gastrointestinal symptoms in patients inhaling ketamine. METHODS In a cross-sectional study of 611 consecutive patients who were seeking treatment for ketamine uropathy in a tertiary hospital setting between August 2008 and June 2016, their clinical pattern of upper gastrointestinal symptoms was evaluated and compared with a control population of 804 non-users. RESULTS A total of 168 (27.5%) patients abusing ketamine (mean age 26.3 years, 58.9% female) reported the presence of upper gastrointestinal symptoms. These symptoms were significantly more prevalent in patients inhaling ketamine than in those who were not (27.5% vs 5.2%, P < 0.001). Their mean duration of ketamine abuse before symptom presentation was 5.0 ± 3.1 years. The presenting symptoms included epigastric pain (n = 155, 25.4%), recurrent vomiting (n = 48, 7.9%), anemia (n = 36, 5.9%) and gastrointestinal bleeding (n = 20, 3.3%). Uropathy symptoms were preceded by upper gastrointestinal symptoms for 4.4 ± 3.0 years in 141 (83.9%) patients. Logistic regression showed that elder age (odds ratio [OR] 1.06, P = 0.04), active abuser status (OR 1.60, P = 0.04) and longer duration of ketamine abuse (OR 1.00, P = 0.04) were independent factors associated with upper gastrointestinal toxicity. CONCLUSIONS Although epigastric symptoms are unusual in the young population, upper gastrointestinal toxicity was highly prevalent in those inhaling ketamine. Enquiries about ketamine abuse are recommended when assessing young patients with epigastric symptoms.

Background Obesity control in Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is notoriously difficult. The role of bariatric surgery in PWS remains controversial as long-term data are lacking. Objectives To evaluate the 10-year outcomes of bariatric surgery in PWS. Methods This was a prospective observational study on PWS patients who received bariatric surgery and multidisciplinary follow-up programmes for obesity control. Outcomes on weight reduction and comorbidity resolution were evaluated. Results Between 2008 and 2013, five PWS patients (two males, mean age 19.2 ± 3.0 years) with body mass index of 47.3 ± 6.9 kg m-2 received sleeve gastrectomy (n = 2), one anastomosis gastric bypass (n = 2), and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (n = 1) after failing all non-operative weight loss programmes. The median follow-up was 8.4 ± 2.2 years. The best mean percentage of total weight loss (%TWL) was achieved at 2 years (24.7%). %TWL dropped to 23.3% at 3 years, 11.9% at 5 years, 4.1% at 8 years, and 0% at 10 years. Each patient had at least three comorbidities preoperatively, but none of them had resolution of any one of the comorbidities at the last follow-up. Conclusions Bariatric surgery could not produce sustainable long-term weight loss or comorbidity resolution in PWS. This study suggests that bariatric surgery cannot be recommended to PWS patients as a standard treatment.

Purpose To evaluate the long-term biochemical, clinical, and recurrence outcomes of radiofrequency (RF) ablation in treating primary aldosteronism due to aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA). Materials and Methods Institutional review board approval and written informed consent were obtained. The use of computed tomographically (CT) guided percutaneous RF ablation was evaluated in 36 patients (19 men; mean age ± standard deviation, 52.1 years ± 10.4) with APA (17 right and 19 left side; mean size, 15.5 mm ± 5.0). Primary aldosteronism was confirmed by using the oral sodium-loading test. After RF ablation, CT images, aldosterone-to-renin ratio (ARR), serum potassium level, and blood pressure control were assessed at 3 months and at the latest follow-up examination. Long-term treatment success was defined as normalization of ARR at the latest assessment. Comparison of ARR, potassium, and blood pressure levels before and after RF ablation was performed by using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Results Primary technical success was achieved in 33 (92%) patients who underwent a single RF ablation session. Secondary technical success was achieved in three (8%) patients who required a second RF ablation. At 3-month follow-up, primary aldosteronism was resolved in 33 (92%) patients, with a starting median ARR of 8583 pmol/L per µg/(L · h) that normalized to 97 pmol/L per µg/(L · h) (P < .01). Mean serum potassium levels increased from 2.6 mmol/L ± 0.4 to 4.0 mmol/L ± 0.3 (P = .01). At long-term follow-up (mean, 6.2 years ± 2.5), treatment success was maintained in 33 patients (92%), all of whom had ARRs in the normal range (P < .01). The long-term recurrence rate was 0%. Hypokalemia was resolved in all patients (2.6 mmol/L ± 0.4 to 4.1 mmol/L ± 0.3, P = .01). Hypertension was resolved in 13 (36%) patients, and its control was improved in seven (19%) patients. One (3%) patient had major complications and six (17%) had minor complications. Conclusion CT-guided RF ablation is an effective treatment for APA, with high sustainable long-term treatment success. It may serve as a justifiable treatment alternative to surgery and medical therapy for APA. © RSNA, 2016.

Oxidative stress-induced DNA damage is a known causing factor for many types of tumors, but information on the role of oxidants and antioxidants in thyroid tumors is limited. The aim of this study was to determine antioxidant levels in thyroid tumors. In this study, tumor and its matched non-tumor thyroid tissue samples were obtained from 53 patients with thyroid tumors. The levels of manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD), thioredoxin reductase 2 (TXNRD2), glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (Gpx), catalase (CAT), and 27 kd heat-shock protein (hsp27) were determined in both thyroid tissue samples and cultured thyroid cells by immunohistochemical staining and western blot. Hydrogen peroxide (H2 O2 ) was used to generate oxidant stress in the cell culture experiments. We found that the levels of MnSOD, TXNRD2, GSH, Gpx, and Hsp27 were increased in both malignant and benign tumors, while the level of CAT was decreased. To verify the results of the tissue study, we treated cultured thyroid cells with H2 O2 and found the same pattern of antioxidant changes. Hsp27 was also increased after H2 O2 treatment. The expression of hsp27 was upregulated by 8.24-, 6.96-, and 3.09-fold in thyroid cancer, follicular adenoma, multinodular goiter, respectively. Collectively, our study demonstrated that the levels of hsp27 together with MnSOD, TXNRD2, GSH, and Gpx were significantly upregulated by H2 O2 in thyroid tumors. The increase of these antioxidants is observed in both malignant and benign tumors, particularly in the former. The upregulation of antioxidants is likely a protective mechanism of tumor cells to maintain their survival and growth. J. Cell. Biochem. 117: 2473-2481, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Background Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an emerging treatment for primary aldosteronism owing to aldosterone-producing adenoma. Whether RFA could be an alternative treatment to laparoscopic adrenalectomy is unknown. Methods This was a retrospective comparative study in patients with aldosterone-producing adenoma undergoing either laparoscopic adrenalectomy or CT-guided percutaneous RFA between 2004 and 2012. Short-term outcomes and long-term resolution rates of primary aldosteronism (normalized aldosterone to renin ratio), hypokalaemia and hypertension (BP lower than 140/90 mmHg without antihypertensive medical therapy) were evaluated. Results Some 63 patients were included, 27 in the laparoscopic adrenalectomy group and 36 in the RFA group. RFA was associated with shorter duration of operation (median 12 versus 124 min; P < 0·001), shorter hospital stay (2 versus 4 days; P < 0·001), lower analgesic requirements (13 of 36 versus 23 of 27 patients; P < 0·001) and earlier resumption of work (median 4 versus 14 days; P = 0·006). Morbidity rates were similar in the two groups. With median follow-up of 5·7 (range 1·9–10·6) years, resolution of primary aldosteronism was seen in 33 of 36 patients treated with RFA and all 27 patients who had laparoscopic adrenalectomy (P = 0·180). Hypertension was resolved less frequently after treatment with RFA compared with laparoscopic adrenalectomy (13 of 36 versus 19 of 27 patients; P = 0·007). Hypokalaemia was resolved in all patients. Conclusion For patients with aldosterone-producing adenoma the efficacy of resolution of primary aldosteronism and hypertension was inferior after treatment with RFA compared with laparoscopic adrenalectomy.

The role of routine preoperative oesopha gogastroduodenoscopy (OGD) for all bariatric surgery candidates is controversial. We aim to investigate the prevalence of clinically significant OGD findings in a primarily Chinese obese population and identify factors that predict a normal screening OGD. Medical records of patients who underwent primary bariatric surgery in our centre from August 2002 to December 2014 were reviewed. OGD findings were classified into two groups: group 1 consisted of normal findings and abnormal findings that would not alter the surgical plan; group 2 consisted of lesions that might delay or alter the surgical procedure. We identified 268 patients (169 female), of mean age 39.1 ± 10.8 years, mean baseline body weight 108.7 ± 6.1 kg and mean body mass index (BMI) 40.3 ± 6.1 kg/m2 for analysis. Overall prevalence of abnormal OGD findings was 51.1 %, which included gastritis (32.5 %), hiatus hernia (17.9 %), duodenitis (8.6 %) and erosive oesophagitis (7.5 %); 27.2 % had group 2 lesions. Univariate analysis revealed older age (p = 0.016), use of NSAIDs (p = 0.004) and presence of reflux symptoms (p = 0.029) as significant risk factors of group 2 lesions. On multivariate analysis, use of NSAIDs (p = 0.015) and reflux symptoms (p = 0.039) remained significant predictive factors. In the low-risk subgroup (40 years and younger, without reflux symptoms or use of NSAIDs), the prevalence of group 2 abnormalities was 18.9 %. Significant endoscopic abnormalities are common among obese Chinese patients which may delay or change the surgical plan. The negative predictive value in low-risk patients was not strong. We therefore recommend routine preoperative endoscopy for all patients.

Portomesenteric venous thrombosis (PMVT) is an uncommon condition associated with intra-abdominal visceral ischemia that is often difficult to manage. While postoperative PMVT has been rarely reported following laparoscopic abdominal surgery, its occurrence in morbidly obese patients is gaining increasing concern due to its relatively higher incidence after laparoscopic bariatric surgery. Diagnosis of PMVT can be readily accomplished by computed tomography scan. Although prompt treatment with recanalisation of portovenous system and reversal of mesenteric venous ischemia can be potentially life-saving, the overall mortality of postoperative PMVT can only be controlled by understanding the underlying etiologies and preventing its occurrence. Here, we report a case of PMVT in a morbidly obese lady who presented at 10days after an uneventful laparoscopic greater curve plication. The potential etiology and management of this rare complication are elucidated in details.

Thyroid cancer is rapidly increasing in incidence worldwide. Although most thyroid cancer can be cured with surgery, radioactive iodine, and/or chemotherapy, thyroid cancers still recur and may become chemoresistant. Autophagy is a complex self-degradative process that plays a dual role in cancer development and progression. In this study, we found that miR-125b was downregulated in tissue samples of thyroid cancer as well as in thyroid cancer cell lines, and the expression of Foxp3 was upregulated. Further, we demonstrated that miR-125b could directly act on Foxp3 by binding to its 3′ UTR and inhibit the expression of Foxp3. A negative relationship between miR-125b and Foxp3 was thus revealed. Overexpression of miR-125b markedly sensitized thyroid cancer cells to cisplatin treatment by inducing autophagy through an Atg7 pathway in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, our findings demonstrate a novel mechanism by which miR-125b has the potential to negatively regulate Foxp3 to promote autophagy and enhance the efficacy of cisplatin in thyroid cancer. miR-125 may be of therapeutic significance in thyroid cancer.

While open thyroidectomy (OT) is advocated as the gold standard treatment for differentiated thyroid cancer, the contemporary use of robotic thyroidectomy (RT) is often controversial. Although RT combines the unique benefits of the surgical robot and remote access thyroidectomy, its applicability on cancer patients is challenged by the questionable oncological benefits and safety. This review aims to analyze the current literature evidence in comparing RT to OT on thyroid cancers for their perioperative and oncological outcomes. To date, no randomized controlled trial is available in comparing RT to OT. All published studies are nonrandomized or retrospective comparisons. Current data suggests that RT compares less favorably than OT for longer operative time, higher cost, and possibly inferior oncological control with lower number of central lymph nodes retrieved. In terms of morbidity, quality of life outcomes, and short-term recurrence rates, RT and OT are comparable. While conventional OT continues to be appropriate for most thyroid cancers, RT should better be continued by expert surgeons on selected patients who have low-risk thyroid cancers and have high expectations on cosmetic outcomes. Future research should embark on prospective randomized studies for unbiased comparisons. Long-term follow-up studies are also needed to evaluate outcomes on recurrence and survival.

Aim The aim of the present study was to report our surgical technique and perioperative outcomes of endoscopic thyroid lobectomy using the bilateral axillo-breast approach (BABA). Patients and Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of prospectively-collected data on consecutive female patients who underwent BABA endoscopic unilateral thyroid lobectomy for indeterminate thyroid nodules. Results Between July 2012 and July 2014, 18 patients with a mean age of 37.9 ± 14.4 years received BABA endoscopic right (n = 12) and left (n = 6) thyroid lobectomy for nodules with atypia of undetermined significance (n = 7), follicular lesion of undetermined significance (n = 6) and follicular neoplasm (n = 5) in our unit. The mean nodule size was 23.6 ± 9.7 mm. All operations were successfully accomplished with no conversion to open procedures. The mean operating time was 155.9 ± 34.9 min. Intraoperative blood loss was negligible in all patients (below 10 mL). There was no postoperative haemorrhage, wound hematoma or iatrogenic parathyroid injury. Transient recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy occurred in one patient (5.6 per cent), whose condition completely recovered after 6 months. The mean hospital stay was 2.5 ± 0.7 days. At 6 months after surgery, the mean cosmetic satisfaction score was 94.4 ± 12.4 out of 100. Chronic anterior chest wall pain and chest wall paresthesia was only reported in one respective patient (5.6 per cent). Conclusion BABA is a feasible and cosmetically-excellent technique in performing endoscopic thyroid lobectomy. It should be recommended for eligible patients who have strong desire on cosmetic outcomes.

The incidence of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) shows a predominance in females, with a male:female ratio of 1:3, and none of the known risk factors are associated with gender difference. Increasing evidence indicates a role of estrogen in thyroid tumorigenesis, but the mechanism involved remains largely unknown.This study aimed to assess the contribution of autophagy to estrogen receptor α (ERα)-mediated growth of PTC.The expression of ERα in thyroid tissue of patients with PTC tissues was analyzed. Cell viability, proliferation, and apoptosis were evaluated after chemical and genetic inhibition of autophagy. Autophagy in PTC cell lines BCPAP and BCPAP-ERα was assessed.ERα expression was increased in PTC tissues compared with the adjacent nontumor tissues. Estrogen induced autophagy in an ERα-dependent manner. Autophagy induced by estrogen/ERα is associated with generation of reactive oxygen species, activation of ERK1/2, and the survival/growth of PTC cells. Chemical and genetic inhibition of autophagy dramatically decreased tumor cell survival and promoted apoptosis, confirming the positive role of autophagy in the growth of PTC.ERα contributes to the growth of PTC by enhancing an important prosurvival catabolic process, autophagy, in PTC cells. The inhibition of autophagy promotes apoptosis, implicating a novel strategy for the treatment of ERα-positive PTC.

Chyle leak is an established but unusual complication after total thyroidectomy plus central compartment neck dissection. It can potentially lead to severe electrolyte disturbances, protein depletion, malnutrition and impaired immunity. Its management varies with the severity of presentation. The majority of leaks are low output type and can be successfully managed with conservative measures. Here we present a case of low output chyle leak after total thyroidectomy plus central neck dissection in a 62-year-old lady with papillary thyroid cancer whose leakage was resolved with prolonged pressure dressing and medium-chain triglyceride diet.

Shear wave elastography provides information about the stiffness of thyroid nodules that could be a new indicator of malignancy. The current study aimed to investigate the feasibility of using shear wave elastography (SWE) alone and in conjunction with grey scale ultrasound (GSU) to predict malignancy in 111 solitary thyroid nodules. Malignant thyroid nodules tended to have microcalcification, hypoechogenicity, tall to width ratio >1, and irregular borders (p < 0.05). SWE indices (Emaximum and Emean) of malignant nodules (median ± standard error: 85.2 ± 8.1 kPa and 26.6 ± 2.5 kPa) were significantly higher than those of benign nodules (median ± standard error: 50.3 ± 3.1 kPa and 20.2 ± 1 kPa) (p < 0.05). The optimal cut-off of Emaximum and Emean for distinguishing benign and malignant nodules was 67.3 kPa and 23.1 kPa, respectively. Diagnostic performances for GSU + Emaximum, GSU + Emean, GSU, Emaximum and Emean were: 70.4%, 74.1%, 96.3%, 70.4% and 74.1% for sensitivity, 83.3%, 79.8%, 46.4%, 70.2%, and 66.7% for specificity, and 80.2%, 78.4%, 58.5%, 70.3%, and 68.5% for accuracy, respectively. Our results suggested that combining GSU with SWE (using Emaximum or Emean) increased the overall diagnostic accuracy in distinguishing benign and malignant thyroid nodules.

The bilateral axillo-breast approach (BABA) is one of the most popular contemporary remote-access thyroidectomy techniques. While the initial experiences with BABA endoscopic thyroidectomy (ET) were associated with some technical challenges and safety concerns, many limitations of the technique could now be substantially overcome by BABA robotic thyroidectomy (RT). In this review, the current literature evidences of BABA RT were analyzed. Data regarding the patient selection, the learning curve, and the comparison with open thyroidectomy (OT) and BABA ET were examined. Careful case selection for BABA RT should be undertaken according to factors related to the patient and the thyroid pathology. The learning curve of BABA RT was about 40 cases. Comparing to OT, BABA RT was comparable to OT for the complication profiles and most perioperative outcomes. But it was associated with longer operative time, higher cost and possibly inferior oncological control with lower number of central lymph node (LN) retrieved. When compared to BABA ET, BABA RT was comparable for most perioperative outcomes except longer operative time and higher cost. Yet, BABA RT was superior to BABA ET for better oncological control. BABA RT is a safe and effective procedure for most benign thyroid conditions and low-risk differentiated thyroid cancers (DTC).

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Gastric MALToma is difficult to recognize upon endoscopy. The aim of this study is to evaluate the application of microstructural and microvascular patterns in recognizing gastric MALToma on magnifying endoscopy. METHOD: All patients with diagnosis of gastric MALToma upon histology were recruited. They received magnifying endoscopy to observe for changes in microstructural and microvascular patterns. For patients with H pylori, eradication therapy would be given. For those without, appropriate treatments including gastrectomy or chemotherapy were commenced accordingly. Patients treated with H pylori eradication and non-operative treatments received follow-up magnifying endoscopy, and the same features were observed to predict the response to these treatments. RESULTS: From 2004 to 2007, nine patients presented to with epigastric pain, dyspepsia and belching. All patients were confirmed to have MALToma upon initial biopsy. Five patients had H pylori infection and received eradication. Two patients without H pylori were treated with Laparoscopic total gastrectomy. Two patients had pulmonary metastasis and treated with chemotherapy. Under magnifying endoscopy, all the lesions demonstrated either absence or irregular gastric pits. Moreover, there was consistently appearance of spider-shaped vascular pattern. Five patients with H pylori eradication had follow-up magnifying endoscopy, four of them showed resolution of abnormal vascular pattern and recovery of gastric pits. CONCLUSION: Abnormal spider like vasculature and disappearance of gastric pits are diagnostic features upon magnifying endoscopy for gastric MALToma. These features enhanced the diagnosis and assessment of extent of involvement during primary endoscopy, as well as follow-up surveillance for response to non-operative treatments.

Objective:The aim of this study was to compare the 2-year functional performance and quality of life in patients with operable squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus, who have received either surgery or definitive chemoradiation (CRT).Summary Background Data:The functional outcomes and quality of

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in treating primary aldosteronism (PA) due to aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA).Radiofrequency ablation is an established technique for treating malignant solid organ neoplasm. Its application on benign functional adrenal adenoma has never been prospectively described.We prospectively evaluated a patient cohort with computed tomography (CT)-guided percutaneous RFA performed on functional APA of size 4 cm or less. Treatment success was defined as complete tumor ablation on follow-up CT scan plus normalization of serum aldosterone-to-renin ratio (ARR) at 3 to 6 months after RFA. Salvage laparoscopic adrenalectomy was offered to patients who had failed RFA and remained hypertensive.Between August 2004 and August 2008, 28 patients were referred for the procedure. Radiofrequency ablation was not performed on 4 APA because of their close proximity to major vascular structures. Twenty-four patients (11 men and 13 women) with a median age of 51.5 (range = 34-63) years underwent RFA for 11 right and 13 left APA. The median tumor diameter was 16.0 (range = 4.0-25.0) mm. There was no periprocedure hypertensive crisis or major morbidity or mortality. Minor complications occurred in 4 patients (16.7%), including 1 small pneumothorax and 3 retroperitoneal hematomas (3 cm), which all resolved on conservative treatment. At 3 to 6 months of follow-up, CT scan showed complete tumor ablation in all patients (100%). Primary aldosteronism was biochemically resolved in 23 patients (95.8%). Salvage adrenalectomy was not performed in the single failed patient, as she remained normotensive on repeated follow-up. The overall success rate of RFA was 95.8%.Computed tomography-guided percutaneous RFA is a safe and efficacious alternative to laparoscopic adrenalectomy in treating patients with PA due to small APA.

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIM: Nurse-administered propofol sedation (NAPS) and patient-controlled sedation using patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) pumps are gaining increasing popularity for gastrointestinal endoscopy. We compared the safety and efficacy of NAPS using PCA pumps with diazemuls-pethidine sedation (DPS) for outpatient colonoscopy. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In a prospective randomized controlled trial patients underwent outpatient colonoscopy with sedation by either NAPS or DPS. For NAPS, following intravenous loading of 0.8 mg/kg propofol, mixtures of 14.3 mg propofol and 35 microgram alfentanil were titrated by nurses using a PCA pump. For DPS, 0.1 mg/kg diazemuls and 0.5 mg/kg pethidine were given as intravenous bolus; further titration was administered as half doses at the endoscopist’s discretion. Adequacy of sedation was measured by the Observer’s Scale for Sedation and Alertness (OSSA) score (range 1-5). RESULTS: Between July 2005 and June 2006, 88 patients were randomly allocated to NAPS and 90 to DPS. The groups were comparable for baseline characteristics and procedure time. With NAPS, levels of sedation both during colonoscopic intubation and at reaching the cecum were significantly deeper than with DPS (OSSA 3 vs. 5, P < 0.0001). There were no significant differences in cardiopulmonary complication rates, pain scores, satisfaction scores, and patients’ willingness to repeat colonoscopy with the same sedation. Drugs cost for NAPS was higher than for DPS (Hong Kong dollars [HKD] 98.34 vs. 5.01). CONCLUSION: Despite higher costs, nurse-administered propofol-alfentanil sedation using a PCA pump can provide deeper conscious sedation, comparable satisfaction, and similar complication risks compared with conventional opioid-benzodiazepine sedation.

Emergency colectomy is well accepted for treating complicated right-sided colonic diverticulitis. However, the role of colectomy for uncomplicated diverticulitis is not well defined. The aim of this study was to evaluate the short-term and long-term surgical outcome of uncomplicated right-sided diverticulitis in our locality. Retrospective chart review of patients operated for right-sided diverticulitis over a 20-year period was conducted. Recurrent attacks of right-sided diverticulitis, re-operation rate and re-hospitalisation rate were the long-term parameters of interest. An updated telephone interview was carried out for all surviving patients. Seventy-four patients (35 males and 39 females), median age 35.5 (range 16–70) years, were operated for uncomplicated diverticulitis. Thirty patients underwent colectomy, whereas the others underwent appendectomy with diverticulectomy (n = 8) or appendectomy alone (n = 36). All short-term parameters were less favourable for the colectomy group, including higher complication rate, slower return of gastrointestinal function, higher requirement of parenteral analgesic and longer hospital stay. Without colectomy, only 2 patients developed recurrent diverticulitis necessitating hospitalisation, both of whom resolved on conservative treatment. On the other hand, 1 patient required re-operation after colectomy because of intestinal obstruction. The overall re-hospitalisation rate was comparable between the colectomy and the non-colectomy group (16.7% vs. 13.6%). Emergency colectomy can eradicate suspicious lesions and eliminate risk of recurrent diverticulitis but at the expense of higher morbidity rates. As the natural course of uncomplicated right-sided colonic diverticulitis is usually benign, conservative treatment with minimal surgery may be a better therapeutic option.

Purpose of review Although the advent of the robot has revolutionized the modern treatment of endocrine neoplasia, substantial controversies exist on its applicability, safety and benefits over the conventional laparoscopic operations. The present review aims to review the recent literature on various robotic approaches in treating thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal and pancreatic endocrine neoplasia and see whether its continued use should be supported. Recent findings In summary, the role of robotic thyroidectomy has been clearly established and should be continued by experienced surgeons on selected patients. Because of the limited availability of evidence, the feasibility of robotic parathyroidectomy has yet to be elucidated. With proven favorable perioperative outcomes, robotic adrenalectomy and pancreatectomy should be continued as potential alternatives to conventional surgery. Summary Robotic endocrine procedures still play a pivotal role in minimally invasive endocrine surgery with demonstrable safety and effectiveness. Future research should embark on prospective randomized-controlled trials on robotic endocrine procedures to collect higher level of evidence and long-term survival data.

Undifferentiated sex cord-stromal tumor in post-puberty male is extremely rare. There were only three reported cases in the literature. We reported a 19-year-old patient presented with an asymptomatic right testicular nodule with normal level of serum marker for germ cell tumor. Excisional biopsy and subsequent orchidectomy was preformed and the final pathology supported the diagnosis of undifferentiated sex cord-stromal tumor. He was then put on regular surveillance with no adjuvant therapy given. He remained disease free 18 months after the operation. A summary of the literatures and discussion on the management of this rare tumor was provided.

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is an effective stand-alone bariatric procedure with favorable short-term results on weight reduction and comorbidity resolution. This study aims to evaluate the long-term results of LSG to see if weight reduction and diabetic improvement are sustainable.We conducted a prospective observational study on patients receiving LSG as an index stand-alone bariatric operation in our unit.Between 2006 and 2014, there were 140 patients (91 females) aged 37.9 ± 10.5 years with a body mass index of 41.0 ± 7.0 kg/m(2). At 1-year (n = 123), 2-year (n = 99), 3-year (n = 77), 4-year (n = 52), and 5-year (n = 44) follow-ups, the mean percentages of excess weight loss (%EWL) were 70.5, 65.2, 60.2, 53.2, and 57.2%, respectively, while the corresponding proportions with failed weight loss (%EWL30%) were 7.3, 9.1, 13.0, 25.0, and 22.7%. Weight regain (25% rebound in %EWL) was evident with time as 0, 1.0, 11.6, 19.2, and 29.5% in the first 5-year follow-ups. In 65 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, remission (complete and partial) was achieved in 34.5% at 1-year, 52.7% at 3-year, and 70.6% at 5-year follow-ups. Proportions of patients having optimal glycemic control (HbA1c7%) increased significantly from 26.2% preoperatively to 80.9% at the first year and maintained at 78.6% at the fifth year (P 0.001).LSG was effective in achieving substantial weight reduction and improved diabetic control for morbidly obese patients. Although weight regain was possible with time, majority of patients could maintain sustainable weight loss, diabetes remission, and glycemic improvement in the long run.

The management of gastric leak after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) can be complex and challenging. Whilst operative interventions are mostly complicated and reserved for unstable or refractory cases, endoscopic self-expandable metal stenting (SEMS) is increasingly preferred as a safer treatment option. Yet, SEMS carries the problems of frequent stent migration and inconsistent healing as ordinary SEMS is designed mainly for stenotic disease. We hereby present two cases of early and chronic post-LSG leakage that were respectively failed to be treated by surgery and ordinary SEMS but were successfully managed by a dedicated extra-long oesophago-gastro-duodenal stent. In oesophago-gastro-duodenal stenting, the characteristics of extra-long stent length allow total gastric exclusion between the mid-oesophagus and the first part of duodenum to prevent stent migration and to equalise high pressure gradient within the gastric sleeve to promote fistula healing.

Confluent hepatic fibrosis is a special entity of liver cirrhosis that can result in gross distortion of the normal liver anatomy. Rarely, its distorted appearance can mimic malignant liver neoplasm on screening ultrasonography that might introduce diagnostic confusion. Computed tomography scanning with three-dimensional reconstruction is crucial in making accurate diagnostic differentiation. Here, we report an unusual case of confluent hepatic fibrosis that presented as a suspicious liver mass on ultrasonography.

In colorectal resections, rectal stump lavage is commonly performed prior to primary anastomosis for reducing bacterial counts and minimizing the risk of anastomotic recurrence. Being a potent bactericidal and cytotoxic disinfectant, chlorhexidine is frequently chosen as the irrigation solution of choice for such purposes. Despite its widespread use, the potential for developing chlorhexidine allergy is still a major concern due to the ever-rising number of literature reports of hypersensitivity reactions to chlorhexidine in surgical patients. This report illustrates the first reported case of life-threatening chlorhexidine anaphylaxis after its use in rectal stump lavage for colorectal resection. This report serves as a reminder of the potential danger of this “hidden allergen” in clinical practice.

Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) in lymphocytes facilitate the thyroid tumor growth and invasion. Very limited information is available on Foxp3 expression in thyroid cancer cells and its function is totally unknown. This study demonstrated that Foxp3 expression was increased in thyroid cancer cells. Inhibition of Foxp3 decreased cell proliferation and migration, but increased apoptosis, suggesting a positive role of Foxp3 in cancer growth. Interestingly, Foxp3 inhibition enhanced PPARγ expression and activity. In addition, Foxp3 inhibition downregulated NF-κB subunit p65 and cyclin D1 but upregulated caspase-3 levels. These molecular changes are in line with Foxp3 shRNA-mediated alteration of cell functions. Collectively, our study demonstrates that thyroid cancer cells express a high level of functional Foxp3 and that the inhibition of the Foxp3 suppresses the proliferation and migration but promotes apoptosis, suggesting that targeting Foxp3 in thyroid cancer cells may offer a novel therapeutic option for thyroid cancer.

Objective To evaluate the morphologic changes of aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA) on computed tomography (CT) before and after radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and to assess the factors that are important in determining successful complete ablation of these tumours. Method Between August 2004 and August 2011, 24 consecutive patients with APA undergoing CT-guided percutaneous RFA were identified from our prospective database. The pre-RFA and post-RFA CT appearances of these APAs that showed positive biochemical response were reviewed retrospectively for their 3-dimensional size, tumour volume, and CT attenuation in terms of Hounsfield units (HU). A comparison of these parameters before and after RFA was performed. Results In this study, there were 23 APAs in these 24 patients that showed biochemical cure of primary aldosteronism after RFA. When comparing post-RFA to pre-RFA CTs, there was no significant change in tumour size (14.5 mm vs 14.6 mm: P = .83) and tumour volume (1.55 cm3 vs 1.59 cm3; P = .41) after RFA. In nonenhanced CT images, there was no significant reduction in HU from pre-RFA to post-RFA measurements (4.4 HU vs 7.9 HU; P = .52). In contrast-enhanced CTs, there was a significant drop in HU after RFA (from 48.3 HU to 14.7 HU; P = .03). None of the included cases showed a focal region of contrast enhancement to suggest residual tumour. Conclusion A change in tumour size, tumour volume, and HU in nonenhanced CT were unreliable in defining radiologic treatment success. Only changes in HU in contrast-enhanced CT was useful in confirming a positive treatment response after RFA for APA.

Background Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is a novel approach to performing esophageal myotomy through a long submucosal tunnel. Objective This study aimed to investigate the feasibility and safety of POEM for treatment of achalasia. Design Preclinical animal study and prospective clinical study. Patients Consecutive patients diagnosed with achalasia with high-resolution manometry. Interventions POEM was standardized for preclinical and clinical studies. After submucosal injection, a mucosal incision was made 15 cm above the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ). A long submucosal tunnel was created to extend below the GEJ. The endoscopic myotomy started 10 cm above and extended 2 cm below the GEJ. We first conducted a preclinical animal study to confirm the safety of POEM. POEM was then performed for the treatment of achalasia in humans. Main Outcome Measurements Relief from dysphagia assessed by the dysphagia score and Eckhardt score. High-resolution manometry and pH monitoring were performed to evaluate the posttreatment effects and esophageal acid exposure. Results Seven 30-kg porcine models underwent POEM in the survival study. All of the pigs survived except 1, which sustained pneumomediastinum. POEM was performed for the treatment of achalasia in 16 patients. The mean operating time was 117.0 ± 34.1 minutes. All patients tolerated food on day 2, with a contrast study confirming no leakage. The median follow-up was 176.5 days (range 98-230 days). The postoperative basal lower esophageal sphincter pressure was significantly reduced (mean reduction, 13.9 ± 14.5 mm Hg; P = .005) and 4-second integrated relaxation pressure of the GEJ (mean reduction, 10.1 ± 7.4 mm Hg; P = .001). Of these patients, 58.3% had a normalized 4-second integrated relaxation pressure, whereas 20% had excessive esophageal acid exposure after the procedure. There was a significant improvement in quality of life 6 months after POEM measured by the Short Form-36 questionnaire. Limitation Small sample size. Conclusions POEM is a feasible, safe, and effective treatment for achalasia. (Clinical trial registration number: NCT01525732.)

Endorectal ultrasound (ERUS) is an emerging technique for preoperative rectal cancer staging. It is an operator-dependent examination with accuracy closely related to endosonographer experience. In this study, we prospectively analyzed our results of ERUS staging for rectal cancer, aiming to determine its accuracy and to define the learning curve of the procedure.Between July 2007 and August 2009, consecutive patients with rectal cancer were recruited for preoperative ERUS staging performed by a single colorectal surgeon. We compared results of ERUS tumor (uT) and nodal (uN) staging with pathological staging of surgical specimens in patients who had surgery without neoadjuvant chemoradiation. To evaluate the learning-curve effect on ERUS, patients were divided into two equal halves for analysis (early group and late group).In the 26-month study period, 50 patients (36 males) with median age of 67 years (range 47-89 years) underwent ERUS staging. The overall accuracy rates of uT and uN staging were 86 and 66%. For uT staging, 10% of tumors were overstaged and 4% were understaged. For uN staging, 22% of patients were overstaged and 12% were understaged. With experience accumulation from early group to late group, accuracy improvement was observed in uN staging (52 vs. 80%, P = 0.037), while the accuracy rate remained consistently high in uT staging (84 vs. 88%, P = 1.0).ERUS was accurate in preoperative staging of rectal cancer. It was an easy-to-learn procedure for accurate tumor staging, but considerable experience was required to attain accuracy for nodal staging.

A 33-year-old pregnant woman presented with peritonitis at the right iliac fossa. Preoperative ultrasonography identified an 8-cm tubular structure at the tender point that was mistaken as appendicitis. Emergency operation finally confirmed a 12-cm giant Meckel's diverticulum with genuine inflammation and imminent perforation. The patient made an uneventful recovery after Meckel's diverticulectomy.

Necrotizing fasciitis is a devastating soft tissue infection affecting fascias and subcutaneous soft tissues. Literature reviews have identified several related risk factors, including malignancy, alcoholism, malnutrition, diabetes, male gender and old age. There are only scanty case reports in the literature describing its rare association with colorectal malignancy. All published cases are attributed to bowel perforation resulting in necrotizing fasciitis over the perineal region. Isolated upper or lower limb diseases are rarely identified. Simultaneous upper and lower limb infection in colorectal cancer patients has never been described in the literature. We report an unusual case of multi-limb necrotizing fasciitis in a patient with underlying non-perforated rectal carcinoma.

Wegener’s granulomatosis is a potentially fatal disease of unknown origin affecting mainly the upper and lower respiratory tracts and kidneys. Prompt recognition of the more unusual presentations of the disease is necessary to ensure early treatment. We present a case of a 46-year-old female with bilateral submandibular and parotid gland enlargement.Parotid or submandibular salivary gland enlargement is a rare presenting feature of Wegener’s granulomatosis. Common to 80 per cent of these cases is nasal involvement, while ear pathology or lung lesions may occur in the remaining cases. The diagnosis is both clinical and pathological, biopsy of suspicious tissue, serum c-ANCA levels and a chest X-ray are valuable investigations. Treatment with immunosuppressive therapy is essential, and usually ensures a long-term remission.