Surgery Commons^™

Decreased Frequency Of Splenectomy For High-Grade Splenic Injuries Following The Implementation Of An Interventional Radiology Alert Protocol., Maura Kopchak, John Bach, William B Devoe, Brian Dusseau, Katherine A Graham, John Dillis, Thomas Glusich, Jeff Hubartt

OhioHealth Research Institute Articles

Background A vascular interventional radiology (VIR) protocol was initiated at a mature level 2 trauma center on 3/1/2023 to reduce time to vessel puncture to < 60 minutes as per American College of Surgeons (ACS) guidelines. The average time to vessel puncture in the two years prior to protocol initiation was 102 minutes. Following initiation, time to vessel puncture was reduced to 48.2 minutes (p < 0.001). A statistically significant increase in the number of splenic embolizations was noted in the post-protocol group. The primary outcome of the current study was to evaluate if the initiation of a VIR protocol correlated with a statistically significant decrease in splenectomies for high-grade splenic injuries (American Association for the Surgery of Trauma (AAST) grade 3 or higher) in favor of splenic embolization. The secondary outcomes of the study were to assess whether the initiation of the VIR alert protocol improved our rate of splenic salvage, defined as preserved splenic immune function, and if there was a decreased rate of splenectomies across all injury grades. Methods The trauma registry database was queried for all splenic injuries from 1/1/2021 to 9/1/2024. Admission CT scans were used to grade injuries using the AAST Organ Injury Scale. Demographic and clinical characteristics, including severity of illness (ISS), admission INR, age, blood product required pre- and post-intervention, mortality, sex, length of stay, anticoagulant (AC)/antiplatelet (AP) use, mechanism of injury, and need for REBOA (resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta) placement, were collected for all patients. Patients were further broken down into those requiring splenectomy, embolization, or no intervention. Data were analyzed using chi-square and Mann-Whitney U with Jamovi Version 2.3.26.0 (The Jamovi Project, 2023). Results No statistically significant difference was found for clinical or demographic characteristics between groups. Fewer splenectomies and more splenic embolizations were performed in the post-protocol group for high-grade splenic injuries (grade 3), which was statistically significant (p< 0.001). This was also true when all grade splenic injuries were compared (p< 0.001). Conclusion Following the establishment of an institutional VIR alert protocol for active hemorrhage control in trauma patients, more frequent utilization of angioembolization for high-grade splenic injuries was found with a subsequent decrease in splenectomy rate. Implementation of the VIR alert protocol directly correlated with a shift in practice pattern reflecting attempts at splenic salvage for all injury grades.

Acute Compartment Syndrome Following Lower Leg Vascular Injury: A Big-Data Approach To Estimating Incidence And Risk Factors, Harry Moroz, Edward J. Harvey, Yasser C. Bouklouch

Journal of Shock and Hemodynamics

Acute Compartment Syndrome (ACS) is a limb- and life-threatening complication of lower leg fractures. Rapid recognition and fasciotomy can prevent irreversible ischemic injury, but ACS is often under-recognized. Vascular injury may increase the risk of ACS by impairing perfusion and exacerbating swelling. This study aimed to determine the incidence, risk factors, and outcomes of ACS in patients with lower leg fractures, with particular emphasis on the impact of vascular injury. This retrospective cohort study used data from the 2017 American College of Surgeons Trauma Quality Programs database to perform a multicenter analysis of patients with lower leg fractures. Patients were …

Selective Retention Of Birdshot Pellets In The Rearfoot: A Case Demonstrating Tissue Preservation And Functional Recovery, Yasim Zafar, Steven Bolton, Alexandria Armstrong, Hooman Mir

School of Podiatric Medicine - Student Research

Level of Evidence: III (Case Study)

Statement of Purpose: Gunshot wounds to the foot pose a unique surgical dilemma—whether to pursue aggressive foreign body removal or to preserve soft tissue integrity. This case highlights the management of a birdshot injury to the rearfoot where selective non-removal of pellets near the neurovascular bundle led to complete healing and full functional recovery. The purpose is to emphasize tissue preservation over aggressive exploration in complex ballistic foot injuries.

Case Study: A 26-year-old female sustained a birdshot gunshot wound to the right rearfoot. Multiple small entry wounds were noted on the posterior and plantar …

Predicting Trauma Admission In Anticoagulated Geriatric Patients Presenting With A Ground Level Fall, Y-Nhi H. Bui Ms, Trevor Glad Bmus, Dylan Jack Bs, Michael Martyak

Knowledge and Creativity Expo

Our study undertook a rigorous investigation into an expanding trauma patient population, tackling some of the significant challenges with this patient population in trauma triage. Our research has not only addressed key questions, but has also paved the way for future inquiries by offering innovative perspectives. This presentation is particularly important given the current advancements and interests in geriatric trauma. We hope that our findings will influence ongoing projects and spark collaborations among diverse research communities.

Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation In Trauma Before And After Covid-19: Associations Of Utilization, Timing, And Outcomes, Ryan Mancoll, William Rice, Theodore Chin, Grayson Mast M.D, Samantha Olafson M.D.

Knowledge and Creativity Expo

Objectives:

The COVID-19 pandemic expanded and altered general ECMO utilization and provider experience; however, any impact on trauma-specific ECMO practice following this shift remains unclear. We hypothesize that trauma ECMO utilization patterns, timing of initiation, and outcomes have differed following COVID-19.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of trauma patients receiving ECMO (2017-2024) using the American College of Surgeons Trauma Quality Improvement Program (TQIP) Participant Use Files. The primary exposure was the COVID era (2017-2019 vs. 2021-2024). Primary outcomes included ECMO utilization, time to initiation, and in-hospital mortality; secondary outcomes included discharge disposition, major complications, and length of stay …

Comparing Educational Pathways For Denturists To Become Maxillofacial Prosthetic Specialists In The Us And The Uk, Minseok Kim

Oral Health

Abstract

In the absence of formal training, licensure, and professionalism, this scientific literature review will seek to include denturists in the American maxillofacial prosthetics industry. Denturists are oral health professionals who perform oral examination, design, manufacture, and place removable oral prostheses. In other regions of the world, they are also known as clinical dental technologists and dental prosthetists. This practice is not widespread in the US. The review can also be assessed on the model mediated by PRISMA, which is concentrated on the experiences of international education in the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, where the concentration further revolves around …

Evaluation Of Micronized, Electrospun Fiber Matrix Effect On Outcomes Of Major Lower Extremity Amputations., Michael Dearman, Brittany Wagner, Alireza Behbudi, Luis Fernandez, Alan Cook, Rebecca Swindall, Brandi Pero, Alisha Thedford

School of Medicine Student Publications and Presentations

Background: Major lower extremity amputations are associated with substantial postoperative morbidity and mortality (Belmont). Restrata is a synthetic electrospun fiber matrix that is engineered to closely resemble human extracellular matrix to facilitate wound healing while avoiding the drawbacks of traditional biologic wound matrices (MacEwan, Fernandez). There have been no studies which have directly compared micronized electrospun fiber matrix (MEFM) to biologic xenograft matrices in patients undergoing major lower extremity amputation. The purpose of this study is to compare postoperative wound recovery in patients undergoing major lower extremity amputation, treated with MEFM (Restrata Minimatrix, Acera, St.Louis, Missouri ) versus a type …

Evaluation Of Micronized, Electrospun Fiber Matrix Effect On Outcomes Of Major Lower Extremity Amputations, Michael Dearman, Brittany Wagner, Luis Fernandez, Alireza Behbudi, Alan Cook, Rebecca Swindall, Brandi Pero, Alisha Thedford

School of Medicine Student Publications and Presentations

No abstract provided.

Migration Of Copper Bullet Fragment Through The Orbit And Conjunctiva, Maxwell A. Levi, Mehron G. Kouhestani, Giovanni Disandro, Peter A. Netland

Department of Ophthalmology Faculty Publications

This is a case report of a 31-year-old female who sustained a gunshot wound to the left orbit, resulting in a ruptured globe and retained bullet fragments extending into the frontal lobe. The patient underwent enucleation without orbital implant, and no metallic fragments were recovered intraoperatively. Three months later, she returned with bloody conjunctival discharge. Examination revealed a 1.25-cm copper-colored metallic bullet jacket fragment spontaneously protruding through the conjunctiva. Serial CT imaging confirmed anterior and inferior migration of the bullet fragment over time, with a total migration distance of 32.9 mm through the orbit. The shrapnel was removed in clinic …

Changing Practice: Optimizing Head Ct-Imaging In Pediatric Trauma Patients At A Community Level Ii Pediatric Trauma Center - A Quality Improvement Initiative, Matthew Daniel, Aaron Worthley, Sarah Johnson, Daniel Saad, Antonio Pepe, Eleah Porter

South Atlantic Division GME Research Days 2026

No abstract provided.

Traumatic Left Diaphragmatic Rupture With Visceral Herniation And Volvulus: Successful Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Repair, Eleah Porter, Zachery Hensel

South Atlantic Division GME Research Days 2026

No abstract provided.

A Comprehensive Review Of Bone Remodeling After Trauma And Operative Treatment In Orthopedic Surgery, Sarah E. Rabin, Ian P. Marshall, Benjamin A. Nelson, Justine N. Li, Madison M. Baldauf, Ashley B. Bozzay, Benjamin W. Hoyt

Department of Medicine Faculty Publications

Bone remodeling is a dynamic process involving bone resorption and formation that is regulated on a cellular level and impacted by mechanical stress. A variety of Orthopedic surgery treatment strategies can affect bone remodeling, which can in turn may have long-term impacts on skeletal stress tolerance and function. This review provides a comprehensive overview of bone remodeling involved in Orthopedic surgery. Materials related to bone remodeling principles across Orthopedic surgery domains were selected and compiled using databases including PubMed, MEDLINE, AccessMedicine, and CINAHL; case studies were not included. Relevant literature was summarized for a general review of bone remodeling and …

Traumatic And Incidental Diaphragmatic Hernias In Adults: A Case Series Highlighting Diagnostic Challenges, Surgical Management, And Postoperative Outcomes, Prajwal Chandrashekhara, Chanchal Raj Chhallani, Preethi Hiremath

Manipal Journal of Medical Sciences

Background:
Diaphragmatic hernia (DH) in adults, although uncommon, presents a significant clinical challenge due to its variable symptoms and potential for life-threatening complications. The condition can be either traumatic or congenital, and in some cases, it may be found incidentally during imaging for unrelated conditions. This case series aims to highlight the diverse clinical presentations, diagnostic challenges, surgical management strategies, and postoperative outcomes associated with diaphragmatic hernias in adults.

Methods:
We present four cases of diaphragmatic hernias diagnosed in adult patients, including both traumatic and incidental findings. Case 1 involves a 26-year-old male with a traumatic diaphragmatic hernia following a …

Use Of An Electronic Medical Record Tool To Ensure Tertiary Survey Compliance In Pediatric Trauma Patients, Ryan T. Davis, Erica Surman, Begum Akay, Nathan Novotny, Anthony Stallion, Pavan Brahmamdam

Conference Presentation Abstracts

Introduction:
The purpose of the tertiary survey is to ensure that traumatic injuries that may be missed during the primary and secondary survey are identified and treated accordingly. After a review, our trauma program identified a quality gap where tertiary surveys were not being documented. The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether the use of an electronic medical record tool, in conjunction with a reporting process, improved documentation of the tertiary survey in pediatric trauma patients.

Methods:
A review of the pediatric trauma database was performed. Patients < 16 years old who were admitted after level 1 or 2 activations or trauma evaluations were included. The study period was between January 2023 and January 2024. An Epicâ„¢ SmartPhrase was developed with input from the pediatric surgery team, pediatric trauma nurse manager, and the general surgery residents. The residents and pediatric surgery attendings were educated and the smartphrase was implanted July 2023. Reviews were made on a month-to-month basis and if a patient did not have a tertiary survey documented, emails to the trauma attending and residents of record were sent, notifying them of missed documentation of a tertiary survey.

Results:
Tertiary survey documentation compliance in the six months prior to …

Erector Spinae Plane Block For Preserving Pulmonary Function In Patients With Traumatic Rib Fractures, Dakoda Farrington

Lynchburg Journal of Medical Science

Rib fractures are frequently seen in trauma patients and are associated with increased mortality, primarily due to pulmonary complications. This study investigates the efficacy of erector spinae plane block (ESPB) in preserving pulmonary function in patients with traumatic rib fractures. A search was conducted in PubMed using the terms "erector spinae plane" AND ("rib fracture" OR "rib fractures") AND trauma. The results were filtered to include studies within the past five years, available full-text articles, and relevancy to this research question. Ultimately, five studies were isolated and included in this review. The methodology for measuring pulmonary function varied between the …

Integrating Positive Psychology And Spirituality To Foster Meaning And Well-Being In Older Adults, Crystal Morris

Adultspan Journal

This perspective article explores the integration of positive psychology interventions (PPIs) and spirituality in therapy to foster meaning and well-being in older adults. It highlights exercises such as the positive introduction, positive legacy, character strengths, mindfulness, mindful-based yoga, and a manifestation prayer journaling. The interventions presented are tools to support older adults that may experience depression, difficult life transitions, and the search for renewed meaning. Therapists who integrate PPIs and spirituality into therapy can promote a holistic, non-pathological approach to treatment.

The Use Of Intramedullary Screw For Fixation Of Distal Ulnar Fractures, Adam Lencer, John Pignataro, Justin Le, Joyce Daniel Suarez, Michael Rivlin

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background

Distal ulna fractures frequently accompany distal radius fractures but are often underappreciated in both clinical and research contexts. While conservative management is frequently employed, particularly following volar locking plate (VLP) fixation of the radius, certain indications, such as distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) instability, comminution, or high-energy trauma, may necessitate surgical fixation. This study evaluates patient-reported outcomes among patients with distal radius fractures treated operatively, comparing those with and without concomitant distal ulna fractures, and further stratifying based on the method of ulna fixation.

Methods

This retrospective review included 477 patients treated operatively for distal radius fractures by a single …

A Review Of Sutures And The Prospective Applications Of Nanofiber Technology In Suture Engineering, Hanna Brancaccio, Dominique Hassinger, Vincent Beachley

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Introduction: Suturing is a method to close surgical or traumatic wounds to promote healing. The ideal suture should have high tensile strength that loses strength at the same rate as the healing tissue gains strength, be easy to handle and form secure knots, induce minimal inflammation, and stretch/recoil according to wound contraction. While there are suture materials available for use in various procedures that fulfill most requirements, no one suture possesses every desirable characteristic, and limitations are still prevalent. Nanofiber geometry has a well-known ability to modulate cell morphology, attachment, gene expression, extracellular matrix production, and macrophage polarization in …

Portable Head Computed Tomography Protocol For Trauma, Christian Quinones, Alexander Bolufer, Cory Hewitt, Sagun Tuli

HCA Healthcare Journal of Medicine

The use of portable computed tomography (CT) scanners has been shown to reduce risks associated with intrahospital transport and to expedite imaging in critically ill patients. While their use is established in intensive care units, their utility on intraoperative trauma patients remains underexplored. This paper reviews existing literature on portable CT use, defines appropriate clinical indications, outlines contraindications, and identifies quality metrics and implementation challenges. It also presents a proposed protocol for integrating portable head CT imaging into trauma workflows, focusing on early identification of intracranial or spinal injuries in the operating room. The development and analysis of standardized protocols …

Calling The Burn Center: Why Do Our Referring Hospitals Call Us?, Moon Usman Md, Alisa Savetamal

Posters

This study seeks to analyze and evaluate referral data received by a single state burn center, focusing on the allocation of resources for referrals and consultations, and determining the proportion of these that result in patient admissions.

A Heart Full Of Nails: Complex Management Of Multiple Nail Gun Cardiac Injuries, Shaun Abid Md, Stuart Zarich

Posters

A 54-year-old male presented after a suicide attempt, suffering severe cardiac and extracardiac injuries from firing a nail gun into both temples (Figure 1A) and his chest. Imaging showed six 5cm nails embedded in his heart: two in the left ventricle, two in the right ventricle, one traversing the ascending aorta into the left atrium, and one entering the right ventricle from the left parasternal chest wall (Figure 1B, C, D). These injuries resulted in hemorrhagic pericardial effusion with tamponade, acute aortic regurgitation, mitral valve/pulmonary artery perforations, and a ventricular septal defect.

The Profound Role Of An Adult Survivor Program Adaptive Sports Retreat On Quality Of Life And Self Perception For Adult Burn Survivors, Roselle E. Crombie Md/Mph, Facs, Faba, Theresa E. Abrams Lcsw, Phd, Cindy Rutter Bsn, Lmft, Josh Mishell Ba, Philip E. Fidler Md

Posters

Mental health struggles amongst adult burn survivors has recently been documented as an ongoing need for therapy in peer reviewed journals.1 Although there are many robust programs, camps, reintegration programs and support systems through child life for children, the analogous programs for adults are lacking in comparison to the pediatric ones. Ten years ago, a subset of this author group ran an adult adaptive sports survivor program in conjunction with a national burn meeting. At that time, all the participants, mental health providers and participating surgeons were able to experience the profound impact a program like this can have on …

Discussion Of “Biggest” Problems Facing Burn Units Today; A Survey Based Analysis And Discussion From Our Aba Burn Surgeon Forum Workgroups 2024, Roselle E. Crombie Md/Mph Facs Faba, Alexandra Lacey Md, Facs, Faba, Kathleen Romanowski Md, Facs, Faba

Posters

Burn Units are a unique environment and microcosm of patients. Additionally, there have been certain factors contributing to what burn care providers consider the most important challenges facing optimal delivery of care. Formally exploring these issues may elucidate solutions by gathering different perspectives.

Do Cervical Spine Injuries Require Airway Monitoring In The Surgical Intensive Care Unit?, Nikki Rimlinger, Tom Parker, Sujay Deshpande, Kyle Yang, Alison Muller Msph, Mls, Anthony Martin Rn, Bsn, Tcrn, Adrian Ong Md, Eugene F. Reilly Md, Mhci, Christopher A. Butts Phd, Do

Tower Health Research Day

No abstract provided.

Staged Reconstruction And Salvage Of 5th Finger With Corticocancellous Distal Radius Autograft: A Case Report, Emmanuel Franco, Zayd Ayas, Frank Gerold

Research Symposium

Background: Finger reconstruction in the aftermath of severe trauma poses significant challenges in restorative surgery, particularly when addressing extensive soft tissue damage, comminuted fractures, and simultaneous neurovascular complications. This study presents a case of a patient with a complicated distal phalangeal fracture that pursued digit salvage.

Case Presentation: Patient is a 31-year-old woman who sustained a severe injury to her right 5th digit during an ATV rollover. The trauma resulted in an exposed and comminuted fracture of the proximal phalanx with associated loss of soft tissues, flexor tendon, radial nerve injury, and vascular compromise. She elected to pursue digit salvage …

Intraoperative Imaging In Orthopedic Settings: An Assessment Of Changes In Adherence To Imaging Guidelines, Emmanuel Franco, Tabitha Abraham, Zayd Ayas, Frank Gerold

Research Symposium

Background: High-quality intraoperative photography is vital for treatment planning, patient counseling, and surgical education. Inconsistencies in image quality are prevalent in orthopedic literature due to the absence of formalized criteria specific to orthopedic settings. In 2014, "Medical Photography: Principles for Orthopedics" introduced guidelines intending to standardize protocols for capturing clinical images. By comparing the quality of images taken both before and after these proposed guidelines, this project aims to evaluate whether this has influenced a trend toward standardization and consistency in intraoperative orthopedic photography.

Methods: To assess quality differences in orthopedic images before and after the 2014 guidelines, 60 intraoperative …

Simplicity Is The Ultimate Sophistication: Ume Lessons From Trauma-Focused Simulation, Victoria-Marie Berlandi-Short, Kelsey Yang, Jonmark Dolendo, Grace Hwang, Brianna Kuhse, Samuel Blees, Sherli Koshy-Chenthittayil, Brad Haubrich

Annual Research Symposium

Purpose: Simulation-based training has become essential in preparing medical professionals to manage high-stakes situations effectively before encountering them in real-life clinical settings. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of Cut Suit Week (CSW), a high-stress, trauma-focused simulation training for second-year military medical students hosted by Rocky Vista College of Osteopathic Medicine in San Diego, California. As members of the 2024 cohort, our team from Touro University Nevada (TUN) and Touro University California (TUC) sought to address three questions: (1) Does CSW improve confidence in managing stressful situations? (2) Does it enhance clinical and leadership skills? (3) Would similar training …

Viscoelastic Hemostatic Assays Are Associated With Mortality And Blood Transfusion In A Multicenter Cohort, Shyam Murali, Eric Winter, Nicolas M. Chanes, Allyson M. Hynes, Madhu Subramanian, Alison A. Smith, Mark J. Seamon, Jeremy W. Cannon

School of Medicine Faculty Publications

Objectives: Trauma-induced coagulopathy (TIC) carries significant risks, including increased mortality. Traditional TIC definitions rely on laboratories that result slowly and do not highlight therapeutic targets. We hypothesized that a TIC score, based on thromboelastography (TEG) and rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM), collectively termed viscoelastic hemostatic assays, is associated with in-hospital mortality and packed red blood cell (pRBC) transfusion. Methods: This retrospective cohort study used a database of adult patients undergoing institutional massive transfusion at seven level 1 trauma centers (2013-2018). A “TIC score” was developed, with 1 point assigned for abnormal TEG R-time ( ≥ 9 min) or ROTEM clot time ( …

Effects Of Rideshare Services On Alcohol Related Motor Vehicle Collision (Mvc) Outcomes, David Bassa, Morgan Johnson, Devika Pavuluri, Michael Truitt

North Texas Research Forum 2025

BACKGROUND: In 2022, The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported over 42,000 motor vehicle collisions (MVCs) deaths with 31% of MVC deaths secondary to alcohol (AR-MVCs). In 2010, rideshare services (RSS) were introduced to the market providing a new method of transportation with the potential to reduce the incidence of driving under the influence (DUI). We analyzed the NHTSA database to evaluate trends in alcohol related MVC deaths (AR-MVC Deaths) since the initiation of ride share services. METHODS: Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) source from the NHTSA was used to obtain data from years 2009 and 2022 from 50 …

Lessons Learned: A Multicenter Approach To A Mass-Casualty Incident, Kristen Payne, Elizabeth Kim, Luis Taveras, Morgan Collom, Danielle Pigneri

North Texas Research Forum 2025

Background: On May 6, 2023, an armed gunman opened fire at a shopping mall in Allen, Texas. Eight people including the perpetrator were killed with more injured. Medical City McKinney, a level 2 trauma center received seven patients. Medical City Plano, a level one trauma center received one patient. Medical City Dallas Children’s Hospital, a level three pediatric trauma center received one pediatric patient. Methods: Medical City North Texas Division command center engaged Emergency Department leadership at North Texas facilities to prepare for transfer of patients. Ground transport and an air medic team on standby was staged early on. Nearby …