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13 pages, 818 KB  
Article
Postoperative Antibiotic Escalation After Major Free-Flap Reconstruction Requiring ICU Admission: Associations with Day-1 Procalcitonin, Shock, and Microbiological Positivity
by Wei-Hung Chang, Kuang-Hua Cheng, Ting-Yu Hu, Hui-Fang Hsieh and Kuan-Pen Yu
Life 2026, 16(2), 204; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16020204 - 26 Jan 2026
Abstract
Major reconstructive free-flap surgery often requires ICU admission, yet early signals associated with postoperative antibiotic escalation remain poorly characterized. We conducted a single-center retrospective cohort study of 119 consecutive postoperative ICU admissions after major free-flap reconstruction. Exposures were postoperative day-1 procalcitonin (PCT) and [...] Read more.
Major reconstructive free-flap surgery often requires ICU admission, yet early signals associated with postoperative antibiotic escalation remain poorly characterized. We conducted a single-center retrospective cohort study of 119 consecutive postoperative ICU admissions after major free-flap reconstruction. Exposures were postoperative day-1 procalcitonin (PCT) and documented postoperative shock; the primary endpoint was clinician-initiated antibiotic escalation (“upgrade”), and secondary endpoints were documented microbiological positivity and ICU mechanical ventilation duration. Escalation occurred in 85/119 admissions (71.4%). Day-1 PCT was higher with escalation (median 0.25 vs. 0.135 ng/mL; p = 0.033), and shock was more frequent (59/85 [69.4%] vs. 13/34 [38.2%]; p = 0.003). Escalation was associated with longer ventilation (median 3515 vs. 2170 min; p < 0.001) and higher rates of any positive culture (54/85 [63.5%] vs. 8/34 [23.5%]; p < 0.001). In multivariable logistic regression adjusting for operative time and intraoperative IV volume, shock remained independently associated with escalation (adjusted OR 3.52, 95% CI 1.48–8.36; p = 0.004), whereas log-transformed PCT was not (p = 0.224). PCT showed modest apparent discrimination for escalation (AUC 0.63), improving to 0.71 when combined with shock. These findings should be interpreted as observational associations with escalation behavior, supporting prospective evaluation of physiology-plus-biomarker stewardship approaches. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Critical Issues in Intensive Care Medicine)
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10 pages, 419 KB  
Article
Patient Factors Affecting Physicians’ Decision to Add Perineoplasty to Pelvic Organ Prolapse Surgery: A Quantitative Analysis
by Esther C. A. M. van Swieten, Yasmina Chaghouaoui, Karlijn J. van Stralen and Jan-Paul W. R. Roovers
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(3), 916; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15030916 (registering DOI) - 23 Jan 2026
Viewed by 81
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Perineoplasty can be performed as an adjunct to native tissue pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery; the optimal indication for perineoplasty is unknown due to limited evidence regarding its benefits and the absence of clear clinical guidelines. This study aims to describe patient-related [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Perineoplasty can be performed as an adjunct to native tissue pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery; the optimal indication for perineoplasty is unknown due to limited evidence regarding its benefits and the absence of clear clinical guidelines. This study aims to describe patient-related factors associated with surgeons’ decisions to add perineoplasty to POP surgery and to quantify the frequency of intraoperative changes from preoperative surgical plans. Methods: In this multicenter observational cohort study, women ≥ 18 years scheduled for primary native tissue POP surgery between April 2023 and November 2024 were included. Baseline characteristics, pelvic floor anatomy (POP-Q), genital hiatus (GH), perineal body (PB) measurements, and surgeon-reported considerations regarding perineoplasty were collected. Surgical plans (“with”, “without”, or “undecided”) were documented and compared with the actual performed procedure. Logistic and linear regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with perineoplasty. Results: Among the 305 enrolled women, 285 underwent surgery, of whom 135 (47%) received perineoplasty. Patients who underwent perineoplasty had a larger GH size (5.2 cm) compared to patients without perineoplasty (4.5 cm). Obesity was associated with an increased rate of perineoplasty compared to normal weight (OR 2.3 95%CI 1.2–4.6). There was a strong exponential association between childbirth and perineoplasty, with a fivefold increase for two children (95%CI 1.3–17.1) and thirtyfold increase for four or more children (95%CI 6.3–142) compared to one child. Nearly all procedures (92%) followed the preoperative plan; surgeons were more likely to omit than add perineoplasty intraoperatively. Surgeons frequently reported GH/PB size and age as key considerations to perform perineoplasty and lack of evidence and fear of dyspareunia as reasons to not perform perineoplasty. Conclusions: Surgeons more often perform perineoplasty in patients with factors that have been associated with a higher risk of recurrent prolapse. Prospective comparative studies are required to determine whether perineoplasty reduces recurrent POP after primary surgical repair. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Obstetrics & Gynecology)
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12 pages, 1368 KB  
Article
The Efficacy of Prone Single-Position Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion for Symptomatic Cranial Adjacent Segment Degeneration
by Dong Hun Kim, Sang Don Kim, Jung-Woo Hur, Jin Young Kim and Jae Taek Hong
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(2), 895; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15020895 (registering DOI) - 22 Jan 2026
Viewed by 33
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Following lumbar fusion procedures, adjacent segment degeneration (ASD) at cranial levels presents as a well-documented long-term complication, manifesting through recurrent pain, neurological deficits, and progressive functional decline. The prone single-position technique for lateral lumbar interbody fusion (PSP-LLIF) streamlines surgical workflow by [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Following lumbar fusion procedures, adjacent segment degeneration (ASD) at cranial levels presents as a well-documented long-term complication, manifesting through recurrent pain, neurological deficits, and progressive functional decline. The prone single-position technique for lateral lumbar interbody fusion (PSP-LLIF) streamlines surgical workflow by eliminating the need for intraoperative patient repositioning; however, comprehensive evidence supporting its clinical and radiological effectiveness in managing cranial ASD remains insufficient. Material and Methods: This retrospective cohort study examined 30 consecutive patients presenting with symptomatic cranial adjacent segment disease who were treated with PSP-LLIF at a single institution. Patient-reported outcome measures included visual analog scale (VAS) assessments for axial and radicular pain, alongside the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) for functional status evaluation. Radiological parameters included overall and segmental lumbar lordotic measurements, anterior and posterior disk height, fusion status, and instrumentation-related complications. Results: At 12-month postoperative evaluation, substantial clinical improvements were demonstrated. Mean VAS reductions measured 4.7 points for axial pain and 6.5 points for radicular pain, while ODI decreased by 28.5 points (p < 0.05). Radiological assessment demonstrated mean increases of 6.3° in lumbar lordosis and 5.1° in segmental lordosis, along with significant gains in both anterior and posterior disk height (p < 0.05). Solid fusion was radiographically confirmed at all instrumented levels. Temporary postoperative neurological symptoms developed in several patients but resolved spontaneously without requiring revision surgery. Conclusions: PSP-LLIF yields substantial clinical benefit and reliable radiological correction in patients with symptomatic cranial ASD. Optimal outcomes necessitate rigorous adherence to position-specific technical modifications, particularly maintenance of perpendicular fluoroscopic trajectories and implementation of continuous neural monitoring to account for prone-induced anatomical shifts. This approach represents a viable treatment strategy for patients with symptomatic cranial ASD. Full article
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10 pages, 546 KB  
Article
Long Term Results of Clinical Outcome and Patients’ Satisfaction After Modular Stem-Neck Hip Arthroplasty
by Panagiotis Karampinas, Periklis Pelantis, Evangelos Sakellariou, Ioannis Spyrou, Angelos Kontos, Elias S. Vasiliadis, John Vlamis and Spiros G. Pneumaticos
Surgeries 2026, 7(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/surgeries7010015 - 22 Jan 2026
Viewed by 82
Abstract
Background: The primary concern of hip surgeons is restoring the physiological biomechanics of the hip joint through arthroplasty, thereby enabling patients with osteoarthritis to engage better in daily activities. The modularity of the femoral stem-neck head allows surgeons to better restore the hip’s [...] Read more.
Background: The primary concern of hip surgeons is restoring the physiological biomechanics of the hip joint through arthroplasty, thereby enabling patients with osteoarthritis to engage better in daily activities. The modularity of the femoral stem-neck head allows surgeons to better restore the hip’s native biomechanics. However, concerns have been raised regarding the potential postoperative complications. This study aims to evaluate patients’ satisfaction and functional outcomes following primary Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA) with modular stem-neck, with a mean follow-up duration of eight years. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 208 patients who underwent primary THA with modular stem-neck between February 2012 and July 2019. The follow-up period extended from November 2024 to April 2025. Patients who died from unrelated causes were excluded. Patients’ satisfaction was assessed using the SF-36 questionnaire, while functional outcomes were evaluated using the Harris Hip Score (HHS). Intraoperative and postoperative complications were meticulously documented. Results: The average follow-up duration was 95.6 months, with a range from 67.7 to 159.7 months. The mean SF-36 score was 91.2 out of 100, indicating high patient satisfaction. The mean HHS was 90 out of 100, reflecting excellent functional outcomes. Notably, some patients achieved the maximum score of 100 in both SF-36 and HHS assessments, while the lowest recorded scores were 54 and 50, respectively. The mean age of patients at the time of surgery was 67.1 years. One case of periprosthetic fracture was reported; however, no complications related to modular necks, such as trunnionosis or implant failure, were observed. Conclusions: The present study demonstrates that modular neck primary THA could achieve excellent functional and radiological outcomes, high patient satisfaction, and outstanding long-term survivorship, provided that implant selection and surgical technique follow biomechanical principles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty)
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7 pages, 902 KB  
Case Report
Successful Digital Replantation in a Resource-Limited Kenyan Hospital: A Case Report and Discussion
by Alfio Luca Costa, Luca Folini, Alvise Montanari and Franco Bassetto
Surgeries 2026, 7(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/surgeries7010013 - 20 Jan 2026
Viewed by 95
Abstract
Replantation of an amputated finger is a complex microsurgical procedure that is rarely attempted in low-resource settings due to limited infrastructure and expertise. We report a case of complete amputation of a finger in rural Kenya that was successfully replanted during a humanitarian [...] Read more.
Replantation of an amputated finger is a complex microsurgical procedure that is rarely attempted in low-resource settings due to limited infrastructure and expertise. We report a case of complete amputation of a finger in rural Kenya that was successfully replanted during a humanitarian surgical mission. A 28-year-old man sustained a severe crush avulsion agricultural machine injury resulting in the amputation of all ten digits; only one digit was deemed suitable for replantation. The replantation was performed under loupe and microscope magnification by a visiting specialist team in collaboration with local staff. Intraoperatively, bony fixation with Kirschner wires, extensor and flexor digitorum profundus tendon repair, arterial and venous anastomoses, and neurorrhaphy of the digital nerve were achieved. Postoperatively, the finger survived with adequate perfusion. At one-month follow-up, the replanted finger was viable with progressing wound healing and early joint motion; further rehabilitation was arranged to maximize functional recovery. This case, which is, to our knowledge, one of the first documented digital replantations in East Africa, illustrates that successful microsurgical limb salvage is feasible in a non-specialized hospital setting. Our experience underscores that, with proper planning, training, and teamwork, advanced reconstructive procedures like finger replantation can be safely carried out even in resource-constrained hospitals, offering patients in low-income regions outcomes previously achievable only in high-resource centers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Hand Surgery and Research)
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19 pages, 1655 KB  
Article
Relevance and Feasibility of a “Geriatric Delirium Pass” for Older Patients with Elective Surgeries: Findings from a Multi-Methods Study
by Patrick Kutschar, Chiara Muzzana, Simon Krutter, Ingrid Ruffini, Bernhard Iglseder, Giuliano Piccoliori, Maria Flamm and Dietmar Ausserhofer
Geriatrics 2026, 11(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/geriatrics11010010 - 13 Jan 2026
Viewed by 186
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Postoperative Delirium (POD) is a frequent complication in older patients undergoing elective surgery. Although multicomponent interventions are effective, deficits in interdisciplinary communication and intersectoral collaboration persist. This study developed and evaluated the “Geriatric Delirium Pass (GeDePa)”, a paper-based tool to systematically [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Postoperative Delirium (POD) is a frequent complication in older patients undergoing elective surgery. Although multicomponent interventions are effective, deficits in interdisciplinary communication and intersectoral collaboration persist. This study developed and evaluated the “Geriatric Delirium Pass (GeDePa)”, a paper-based tool to systematically document risk factors for POD across care settings. Methods: A multi-method design was applied, comprising (i) a structured literature review, (ii) semi-structured expert interviews, and (iii) a standardized online survey utilizing the RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method (RAM). A total of 21 healthcare professionals (general practitioners, geriatricians, anaesthetists, surgeons, and nurses) were recruited from Salzburg, Austria, and South Tyrol, Italy (2023–2024). Results: Healthcare professionals confirmed the GeDePa’s practical applicability for early POD risk detection across care settings. The expert rating using the RAM Disagreement Index (DI) method deemed all 45 risk factors as sufficiently relevant and, with the exemption of two risk factors (alcohol use, intraoperative complications), feasible. A detailed analysis provided a more differentiated picture, with full consensus reached for only 18 items. Several factors with uncertain consensus (e.g., cognitive impairment and polypharmacy) were retained based on strong evidence in the literature. Others were excluded despite high ratings if they were considered redundant or impractical (e.g., detailed intraoperative complications). In total, 38 of the 45 risk factors were retained. Conclusions: The GeDePa is a feasible and relevant tool for structured delirium risk assessment and enhancing interdisciplinary communication between primary and hospital care. The finalized German and Italian versions are now available and will undergo further testing and implementation in clinical practice. Full article
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13 pages, 407 KB  
Article
Does Regional Anesthesia Improve Recovery After vNOTES Hysterectomy? A Comparative Observational Study
by Kevser Arkan, Kubra Cakar Yilmaz, Ali Deniz Erkmen, Sedat Akgol, Gul Cavusoglu Colak, Mesut Ali Haliscelik, Fatma Acil and Behzat Can
Medicina 2026, 62(1), 154; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina62010154 - 13 Jan 2026
Viewed by 195
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery, vNOTES, has become an increasingly preferred minimally invasive option for benign hysterectomy. General anesthesia is still the routine choice, yet regional methods such as combined spinal epidural anesthesia may support a smoother postoperative [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery, vNOTES, has become an increasingly preferred minimally invasive option for benign hysterectomy. General anesthesia is still the routine choice, yet regional methods such as combined spinal epidural anesthesia may support a smoother postoperative course. Although the use of vNOTES is expanding, comparative information on anesthetic approaches remains limited, and its unique physiologic setting requires dedicated evaluation. To compare combined spinal epidural anesthesia with general anesthesia for benign vNOTES hysterectomy, focusing on postoperative nausea and vomiting, recovery quality, and intraoperative physiologic safety. Materials and Methods: This retrospective cohort study was conducted in a single center and identified women who underwent benign vNOTES hysterectomy between March 2024 and August 2025 from electronic medical records. Participants received either combined spinal epidural anesthesia or general anesthesia according to routine clinical practice. All patients were managed within an enhanced recovery pathway that incorporated standardized analgesia and prophylaxis for postoperative nausea and vomiting. The primary outcome was the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting during the first day after surgery. Secondary outcomes included time to discharge from the recovery unit, pain scores at set postoperative intervals, early functional recovery, patient satisfaction and physiologic parameters extracted from intraoperative monitoring records. Analyses were performed according to the anesthesia group documented in the medical files. Results: One hundred forty patients met inclusion criteria and were included in the analysis. Combined spinal epidural anesthesia was linked to a lower incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting, a shorter stay in the post-anesthesia care unit, and reduced pain scores in the first 24 h (adjusted odds ratio 0.32, ninety five percent confidence interval 0.15 to 0.68). Early ambulation and oral intake were reached sooner in the combined spinal epidural group, with higher overall satisfaction also noted. Adherence to ERAS elements was similar between groups, with no meaningful differences in early feeding, mobilization, analgesia protocols or PONV prophylaxis. During the procedure, combined spinal epidural anesthesia produced more episodes of hypotension and bradycardia, while general anesthesia was linked to higher airway pressures and lower oxygen saturation. Complication rates within the first month were low in both groups. Conclusions: In this observational cohort study, combined spinal epidural anesthesia was associated with lower postoperative nausea, earlier recovery milestones and greater patient comfort compared with general anesthesia. Hemodynamic instability occurred more often with neuraxial anesthesia but was transient and manageable. While these findings point to potential recovery benefits for some patients, the observational nature of the study and the modest scale of the differences necessitate a cautious interpretation. They should be considered exploratory rather than definitive. The choice of anesthesia should therefore be individualized, weighing potential recovery benefits against the risk of transient hemodynamic effects. Larger and more diverse studies are needed to better define patient selection and clarify the overall risk benefit balance. These findings should be interpreted cautiously and viewed as hypothesis-generating rather than definitive evidence supporting one anesthetic strategy over another. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Obstetrics and Gynecology)
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13 pages, 648 KB  
Article
Geripausal Women—A New Challenge for Urogynecology in Upcoming Years
by Aleksandra Kołodyńska, Aleksandra Kamińska, Aleksandra Strużyk, Ewa Rechberger-Królikowska, Magdalena Ufniarz and Tomasz Rechberger
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(2), 530; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15020530 - 9 Jan 2026
Viewed by 170
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The growing population of women aged ≥ 80 years poses a new challenge for urogynecology. Advanced age, comorbidities, and polypharmacy raise concerns regarding the safety of procedures in the management of pelvic floor disorders (PFDs) such as pelvic organ prolapse (POP), stress [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The growing population of women aged ≥ 80 years poses a new challenge for urogynecology. Advanced age, comorbidities, and polypharmacy raise concerns regarding the safety of procedures in the management of pelvic floor disorders (PFDs) such as pelvic organ prolapse (POP), stress urinary incontinence (SUI), and overactive bladder (OAB). Individualized, frailty-based assessment is essential in this group. The aim of the study was to evaluate the safety profile of urogynecological surgical procedures among women aged ≥ 80 years at a single tertiary center. Methods: In a retrospective observational single-center study, we analyzed the medical documentation of 774 hospitalizations of women aged ≥ 80 years admitted between 2014 and 2023. The analysis included indications, comorbidities, treatment types, anesthesia, and complications. Comorbidity and surgical risk were evaluated using the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) and Clavien–Dindo classification. Results: A total of 720 admissions with complete medical records were analyzed, of which 65% were for urogynecological conditions. In this group, the mean age was 83.0 years and mean BMI was 27.2 kg/m2. Most patients (92.9%) had comorbidities, mainly hypertension (84.2%) and diabetes (21.1%). POP was the leading indication (52%), followed by SUI (35%) and OAB (27%). Surgical management was performed in 95% of POP cases, predominantly via vaginal native tissue repair (80%), especially LeFort colpocleisis (20%). The transobturator sling (TOT) was the most frequent SUI surgery. Intraoperative complications occurred in 1.5% of cases and postoperative ones were mainly minor (Clavien–Dindo I–II). No procedure-related deaths were recorded. Conclusions: In this cohort, surgical treatment of urogynecological problems in women ≥80 years was associated with a low rate of major complications, suggesting that it can be safely offered to elderly patients. Careful preoperative assessment based on frailty and comorbidity rather than chronological age remains essential. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Trends in Urogynecology: 3rd Edition)
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25 pages, 10769 KB  
Review
Artificial Intelligence in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: Integrating Clinical Innovation and Workflow Optimization
by Majeed Rana, Andreas Sakkas, Matthias Zimmermann, Maurício Kostyuk and Guilherme Schwarz
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(2), 427; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15020427 - 6 Jan 2026
Viewed by 350
Abstract
Objective: The objective of this study is to synthesize and critically appraise how artificial intelligence (AI) is being integrated into oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS). This review’s novel contribution is to jointly map clinical applications (diagnostics, virtual surgical planning, intraoperative guidance) and [...] Read more.
Objective: The objective of this study is to synthesize and critically appraise how artificial intelligence (AI) is being integrated into oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS). This review’s novel contribution is to jointly map clinical applications (diagnostics, virtual surgical planning, intraoperative guidance) and operational uses (triage, scheduling, documentation, patient communication), quantifying evidence and validation status to provide practice-oriented guidance for adoption. Study Design: A narrative review of the recent literature and expert analysis, supplemented by illustrative multicenter implementation data from OMFS practice, was carried out. Results: AI demonstrates high performance in radiographic analysis and virtual planning (up to 96% predictive accuracy and sub-millimeter soft-tissue simulation error), with clinical reports of shorter planning times and more efficient patient communication. Early deployments in OMFS clinics have increased appointment bookings, while maintaining high patient satisfaction, and reduced the administrative burden. Remaining challenges include data quality, explainability, and limited multicenter and pediatric validation, which constrain generalizability and require clinician oversight. Conclusions: AI offers substantive benefits across the OMFS care continuum—improving diagnostic accuracy, surgical planning, and patient engagement while streamlining workflows. Responsible adoption depends on transparent validation, data governance, and targeted training, with attention to cost-effectiveness. Immediate priorities include standardized reporting of quantitative outcomes (e.g., sensitivity, specificity, time saved) and prospective multicenter studies, ensuring that AI augments—rather than replaces—human-centered care. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Dentistry, Oral Surgery and Oral Medicine)
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15 pages, 1064 KB  
Article
Vascular Changes and Surgical Risk in Cervical vs. Endometrial Cancer After Radiotherapy: A Retrospective Cohort Study
by Daniela Marinescu, Laurențiu Augustus Barbu, Tiberiu Stefăniță Țenea Cojan, Nicolae-Dragoș Mărgăritescu, Liviu Vasile, Răzvan Alexandru Marinescu, Dumitru Sandu Ramboiu, Valeriu Șurlin and Ana-Maria Ciurea
Life 2026, 16(1), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16010071 - 2 Jan 2026
Viewed by 337
Abstract
Background: Radiotherapy is a cornerstone of treatment for cervical and endometrial cancers but is associated with vascular and perivascular changes that can increase surgical complexity and perioperative morbidity. While these effects are well documented in head, neck, and mediastinal irradiation, the pelvic vasculature [...] Read more.
Background: Radiotherapy is a cornerstone of treatment for cervical and endometrial cancers but is associated with vascular and perivascular changes that can increase surgical complexity and perioperative morbidity. While these effects are well documented in head, neck, and mediastinal irradiation, the pelvic vasculature remains underexplored. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 119 patients who underwent pelvic oncologic surgery after RT (57.1% cervical cancer, 42.9% endometrial cancer). Intraoperative vascular findings were recorded and correlated with tumor type, perioperative complications, and vascular injury. Logistic regression was used to identify predictors of perioperative morbidity. Results: Perivascular fibrosis (21.8%) and inflammatory thrombosis (10.1%) were the most frequent intraoperative vascular changes, with no significant differences between tumor types. Most patients required no vascular procedure; when needed, simple venorrhaphy was sufficient, and no complex vascular reconstructions were performed. Perioperative complications occurred more frequently in cervical cancer patients (RR = 2.66; p = 0.02), with hemorrhage and urinary tract injury being the most common. Cervical tumor site and perivascular fibrosis were borderline predictors of complications. Conclusions: Neoadjuvant RT induces measurable intraoperative vascular changes without significantly increasing major vascular injury, particularly in experienced surgical settings. Cervical cancer patients represent a higher-risk subgroup, underscoring the need for meticulous surgical planning and multidisciplinary perioperative management. Perivascular fibrosis may serve as a marker for operative risk stratification, and long-term vascular surveillance is warranted due to the potential for delayed macrovascular events. Full article
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32 pages, 2135 KB  
Review
Phase-Specific Evaluation of Sciatic Nerve Regeneration in Preclinical Studies: A Review of Functional Assessment, Emerging Therapies, and Translational Value
by Denisa Mădălina Viezuină, Irina (Mușa) Burlacu, Andrei Greșiță, Irina-Mihaela Matache, Elena-Anca Târtea, Mădălina Iuliana Mușat, Manuel-Ovidiu Amzoiu, Bogdan Cătălin, Veronica Sfredel and Smaranda Ioana Mitran
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(1), 419; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27010419 - 31 Dec 2025
Viewed by 481
Abstract
Peripheral nerve injuries, particularly those involving the sciatic nerve, remain a major clinical challenge due to incomplete functional recovery and the limited translation of preclinical advances into effective therapies. This review synthesizes current evidence on the phase-specific evaluation of sciatic nerve regeneration in [...] Read more.
Peripheral nerve injuries, particularly those involving the sciatic nerve, remain a major clinical challenge due to incomplete functional recovery and the limited translation of preclinical advances into effective therapies. This review synthesizes current evidence on the phase-specific evaluation of sciatic nerve regeneration in preclinical models, integrating behavioral, sensory, electrophysiological, and morphological approaches across the acute, subacute (Wallerian degeneration), early regenerative, and late regenerative phases. By mapping functional readouts onto the underlying biological events of each phase, we highlight how tools such as the Sciatic Functional Index, Beam Walk test, Rotarod test, nerve conduction studies, and nociceptive assays provide complementary and often non-interchangeable information about motor, sensory, and neuromuscular recovery. We further examine emerging therapeutic strategies, including intraoperative electrical stimulation, immunomodulation, platelet-rich plasma, bioengineered scaffolds, conductive and piezoelectric conduits, exosome-based hydrogels, tacrolimus delivery systems, and small molecules, emphasizing the importance of aligning their mechanisms of action with the dynamic microenvironment of peripheral nerve repair. Despite substantial advancements in experimental models, an analysis of publication trends and registries reveals a persistent translational gap, with remarkably few clinical trials relative to the high volume of preclinical studies. To illustrate how mechanistic insights can be complemented by molecular-level characterization, we also present a targeted computational analysis of alpha-lipoic acid (ALA,) including frontier orbital energies, physicochemical descriptors, and docking interactions with IL-6, TGF-β, and a growth-factor receptor—performed solely for this molecule due to its documented structural availability and relevance. By presenting an integrated, phase-specific framework for functional assessment and therapeutic evaluation, this review underscores the need for standardized, biologically aligned methodologies to improve the rigor, comparability, and clinical relevance of future studies in sciatic nerve regeneration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Neurorepair and Regeneration)
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15 pages, 1416 KB  
Article
The White Plane in Esophageal Surgery: A Novel Anatomical Landmark with Prognostic Significance
by Vladimir J. Lozanovski, Timor Roia, Edin Hadzijusufovic, Yulia Brecht, Franziska Renger, Hauke Lang and Peter P. Grimminger
Cancers 2025, 17(24), 4005; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17244005 - 16 Dec 2025
Viewed by 278
Abstract
Introduction: Identification of the thoracic duct (TD) is essential during esophageal surgery to reduce the risk of complications such as chylothorax. The clinical significance of the white plane, or Morosow’s ligament—a consistent anatomical landmark along the esophagus—remains poorly defined. Methods: A total of [...] Read more.
Introduction: Identification of the thoracic duct (TD) is essential during esophageal surgery to reduce the risk of complications such as chylothorax. The clinical significance of the white plane, or Morosow’s ligament—a consistent anatomical landmark along the esophagus—remains poorly defined. Methods: A total of 166 patients undergoing robot-assisted minimally invasive esophagectomy (RAMIE) were analyzed. Intraoperative visualization of the white plane was documented. Patient demographics, tumor characteristics, postoperative complications, management strategies, hospital length of stay, and overall survival were assessed. Complication severity was graded using the Clavien–Dindo classification. The Kaplan–Meier and multivariable Cox regression analyses were used to evaluate prognostic factors, including BMI, ASA score, pneumonia, pT status, pN status, neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapy, and white plane visualization. Results: The white plane was visualized in 154 patients (92.8%). Postoperative complications, management strategies, hospital length of stay, and 30-/90-day in-hospital mortality did not differ between groups with visualized and not visualized white planes. Median overall survival was significantly longer in patients with a visible white plane (43.1 vs. 13.1 months; p = 0.0079). The multivariable analysis identified ASA classification, pT stage, pN stage, and adjuvant therapy as independent predictors of overall survival, whereas lymph node stage and adjuvant therapy were independent predictors of recurrence-free survival. Conclusions: The white plane is a distinct intraoperative anatomical structure that can be visualized in most RAMIE procedures. Its identification may assist in TD recognition and provides a framework for describing mediastinal anatomy, but further studies are needed to determine its impact on surgical standardization and patient outcomes. Full article
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16 pages, 1292 KB  
Article
Implementation Rates and Predictors of Compliance with Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Protocols in Gynecologic Oncology: A Prospective Multi-Institutional Cohort Study
by Vasilios Pergialiotis, Dimitrios Haidopoulos, Alexandros Daponte, Dimitrios Tsolakidis, Stamatios Petousis, Ioannis Kalogiannidis, Dimitrios Efthymios Vlachos, Vasilios Lygizos, Maria Fanaki, George Delinasios, Panagiotis Tzitzis, Philipos Ntailianas, Vasilios Theodoulidis, Georgia Margioula Siarkou, Nikoletta Daponte and Nikolaos Thomakos
Cancers 2025, 17(24), 3991; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17243991 - 15 Dec 2025
Viewed by 417
Abstract
Background: The importance of integrating enhanced recovery after surgery protocols in gynecologic oncology has been proven in numerous studies. However, the actual adherence to protocol among institutions remains inconsistent in clinical practice, particularly among those without prior structured implementation. This pragmatic multicenter study [...] Read more.
Background: The importance of integrating enhanced recovery after surgery protocols in gynecologic oncology has been proven in numerous studies. However, the actual adherence to protocol among institutions remains inconsistent in clinical practice, particularly among those without prior structured implementation. This pragmatic multicenter study provides a preliminary report from the ongoing ERGO (Enhanced Recovery in Gynecologic Oncology) cohort study (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT06655506) and aims to evaluate adherence to enhanced recovery protocols during the early phases of its adoption as well as identify factors that determine low uptake. Methods: Overall, 300 consecutive patients undergoing gynecologic oncology surgery across five institutions were included in the present study. Adherence to preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative enhanced recovery elements was documented using standardized forms. Optimal adherence was predetermined as fulfillment of more than 70% of the enhanced recovery components included in the pathway. Multinomial analysis was used to identify predictors of adherence. Results: Overall, 70.3% of patients achieved optimal adherence; however, rates varied across centers (26.9–84.4%), reflecting the limited institutional familiarity with enhanced recovery pathways in most participating centers. The actual volume of cases handled was an important determinant of adherence, with high-volume units consistently demonstrating substantially higher compliance compared with lower-volume hospitals. Routine preoperative items demonstrated high uptake, whereas several intraoperative and early postoperative components showed low and heterogeneous implementation, which might be the result of anesthesiology-driven practices. Higher surgical complexity and poorer performance status independently predicted reduced adherence. Visual mapping confirmed that complex procedures resulted in lower adherence. Conclusions: The significant variability in enhanced recovery protocol adherence that was observed in our study indicates the need to institute structured workflows that help increase team familiarization, particularly in high-complexity cases and centers new to these elements. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Improving the Quality of Life in Patients with Gynecological Cancer)
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12 pages, 536 KB  
Article
Accuracy and Clinical Significance of Intraoperative Gross Extrathyroidal Extension (T3b) Assessment in Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma
by Solji An, Joonseon Park, Kwangsoon Kim and Ja Seong Bae
Cancers 2025, 17(24), 3914; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17243914 - 7 Dec 2025
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Abstract
Objective: In the eighth edition of the American Joint Committee on Cancer tumor–node–metastasis staging system, gross extrathyroidal extension (ETE) into the strap muscles is classified as T3b when identified during surgery. In clinical practice, this invasion is primarily assessed intraoperatively by the surgeon [...] Read more.
Objective: In the eighth edition of the American Joint Committee on Cancer tumor–node–metastasis staging system, gross extrathyroidal extension (ETE) into the strap muscles is classified as T3b when identified during surgery. In clinical practice, this invasion is primarily assessed intraoperatively by the surgeon and documented in the operative report, forming the basis of the final T3b staging. Because this evaluation is inherently subjective, its diagnostic accuracy remains uncertain. This study evaluated the accuracy of intraoperative gross ETE assessment and whether misclassification affects recurrence outcomes. Methods: In total, 4987 patients who underwent thyroidectomy at Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital during 2017–2022 were analyzed. Patients were categorized by concordance between intraoperative findings and final pathology: confirmed gross ETE (Group A), intraoperative overestimation (Group B), and intraoperative underestimation (Group C). Clinical characteristics, recurrence rates, and predictors of inaccurate assessment were compared. Results: Of the cohort, 179 patients (3.6%) were judged intraoperatively to have gross ETE, classified as Group A (141 patients), Group B (38), and Group C (33). Recurrence rates were not significantly different among groups (6.4%, 2.6%, and 3.0% in Groups A, B, and C, respectively). Other than lymphatic invasion and tumor size, baseline characteristics were comparable among groups. Multivariate analysis identified age (odds ratio [OR]: 0.961; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.932–0.990; p = 0.009), tumor location (OR: 0.182; 95% CI: 0.056–0.591; p = 0.005), and lymphatic invasion (OR: 0.292; 95% CI: 0.118–0.719; p = 0.007) as independent predictors of inaccurate intraoperative evaluation. Conclusions: Among 179 patients suspected of gross ETE intraoperatively, 21.2% showed no muscle invasion on pathology. Although recurrence rates were similar across groups, recurrence-free survival tended to be lower in Group A relative to Group B, indicating the potential prognostic relevance of accurate intraoperative T3b identification. Long-term follow-up is needed to confirm this trend. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Updates on Thyroid Cancer)
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15 pages, 801 KB  
Article
Outcomes of Cervical Cancer Treatment Using Total Mesometrial Resection (TMMR) Performed with the Robotic System—A Preliminary Report
by Marcin Opławski, Krzysztof Mawlichanów, Agnieszka Golec-Cera, Anna Jedrzejczyk, Kazimierz Pitynski and Radovan Pilka
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(24), 8667; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14248667 - 7 Dec 2025
Viewed by 384
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Cervical cancer remains a major cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality among women worldwide. The introduction of total mesometrial resection (TMMR), based on the ontogenetic compartment theory, has redefined the concept of surgical radicality in cervical cancer treatment. This study aimed to [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Cervical cancer remains a major cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality among women worldwide. The introduction of total mesometrial resection (TMMR), based on the ontogenetic compartment theory, has redefined the concept of surgical radicality in cervical cancer treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the perioperative, histopathological, and early oncologic outcomes of TMMR performed using the da Vinci Xi robotic system in patients with early-stage cervical carcinoma. Methods: A pilot, prospective, single-center study was conducted between 2021 and 2023 and included 20 consecutive patients diagnosed with Fédération Internationale de Gynécologie et d’Obstétrique (FIGO) stage IA2–IIA1 cervical carcinoma. All patients underwent robotic surgery: 4 classic radical robotic hysterectomies, 12 radical robotic hysterectomies using the TMMR technique with pelvic lymphadenectomy, and—given the young age of selected patients, fertility considerations, and tumor characteristics—4 radical trachelectomies. Surgical parameters, histopathological data, and 24-month follow-up outcomes were analyzed. Statistical analyses included Spearman’s correlation, Fisher’s exact test, and Mann–Whitney U test, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: All procedures were completed robotically without conversion to laparotomy. The mean operative time was 178 ± 42 min, mean blood loss 112 ± 61 mL, and mean hospital stay 4.2 ± 1.6 days. No intraoperative complications occurred. Minor postoperative complications (Clavien–Dindo grade I–II) were observed in 10% of cases. Negative surgical margins (R0) were achieved in 17 cases, while positive margins (R+) were observed in 4 cases. Lymph node metastases were present in 20.0% of patients, and both lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI) and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) expression were detected in 33.3%. No significant correlations were found between VEGF expression, LVSI, or nodal status. During the 24-month follow-up period, no local or distant recurrences were documented. Conclusions: Robotic TMMR for early-stage cervical cancer is feasible, safe, and provides complete oncologic radicality with low perioperative morbidity. Although these preliminary results are promising, larger multicenter studies are needed to validate long-term oncologic outcomes and to establish standardized protocols for robotic compartment-based surgery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Robot-Assisted Surgery: Current Trends and Future Directions)
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