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PubMed2026

Nonoperative Management is Associated With Similar Long-Term Patient-Reported Outcomes Compared With Surgery for Cervical Radiculopathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

STUDY DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis. OBJECTIVE: To compare long-term patient-reported outcomes between surgical and nonoperative management for cervical radiculopathy. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Cervical radiculopathy is a common condition associated with substantial morbidity. While both surgical and nonoperative approaches are effective, it remains unclear which patients benefit most from each strategy and whether earlier operative intervention confers meaningful long-term advantage. MATERIALS AND METHODS: PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched from inception to January 2026 for randomized and observational studies comparing surgical and nonoperative management for cervical radiculopathy. Primary outcomes included visual analog scale (VAS) scores for neck and arm pain, neck disability index (NDI), and overall clinical success. Secondary outcomes included analgesia use and sick leave. Random-effects meta-analyses were performed using restricted maximum likelihood estimation. Risk of bias was assessed using RoB 2 and ROBINS-I, and certainty of evidence using GRADE. RESULTS: Eleven studies comprising 1154 patients (surgical: 522; nonoperative: 632) were included. Surgery was not associated with superior outcomes in VAS for arm pain (MD: -0.67, 95% CI: -1.59 to 0.26, P =0.12), VAS for neck pain (MD: -0.50, 95% CI: -1.38 to 0.38; P =0.19), or NDI (MD: -3.69, 95% CI: -9.63 to 2.25, P =0.16) after 12 months of treatment, nor in overall success (RR: 1.11, 95% CI: 0.93-1.34, P =0.21). No significant differences were observed in analgesia use ( P =0.54) or sick leave ( P =0.48) at last follow-up. Most studies were rated serious risk of bias and overall certainty of evidence was moderate. CONCLUSION: Evidence from this pooled analysis suggests that long-term pain, disability, and functional outcomes are comparable between patients selected for nonoperative management and those selected for surgery. These findings reflect outcomes within selected cohorts and should not be interpreted as evidence of therapeutic equivalence. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level II.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Validation of the newly introduced Deauville score 5a for patients treated for advanced-stage classic Hodgkin lymphoma.

The Lugano Imaging Committee recently refined the Deauville score (DS), subdividing DS5 into DS5a (>2× liver uptake without new lesions) and DS5b (new lesions). We investigated whether this improves prognostic discrimination at interim positron emission tomography (PET) after 2 cycles (PET-2) in patients with advanced-stage classical Hodgkin lymphoma (AS-cHL) treated in recent German Hodgkin Study Group randomized phase 3 trials. The primary analysis cohort was HD18 postamendment standard arms (uniform treatment with 6 cycles of escalated doses of bleomycin, etoposide, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, procarbazine, and prednisone [eBEACOPP]); sensitivity cohorts were HD18 intention-to-treat and HD21 eBEACOPP and brentuximab vedotin, etoposide, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, dacarbazine, and dexamethasone arms. Progression-free survival (PFS) was analyzed by landmark Cox models starting at PET-2. DS5a was infrequent (4%-6% across cohorts; 39/639, 67/1745, 33/568, and 29/560). In the primary cohort, DS5 was associated with inferior PFS vs DS1 to DS3 (hazard ratio [HR], 3.00; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.25-7.23) and vs DS1 to DS4 (HR, 2.35; 95% CI, 1.01-5.50). Across sensitivity cohorts, DS5a remained adverse compared with DS1 to DS4 (HR range, 2.57-5.47), whereas DS4 according to the new definition did not consistently separate from DS1 to DS3, which is likely a result of PET-adapted treatment. Overall survival trends were concordant, but interpretation is limited by few events. To our knowledge, this is the first prognostic validation of the refined DS in prospectively randomized trial populations. The newly introduced DS5a isolates a small high-risk AS-cHL, which further supports risk assessment and adaptation using quantitative biomarkers from PET. The HD18 and HD21 trials were registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00515554 and NCT02661503, respectively.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Robot-assisted versus manual percutaneous vascular interventions across vascular territories: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Robot-assisted percutaneous vascular intervention (R-PVI) has expanded beyond coronary procedures, but previous reviews were largely coronary-focused and observational. Recent randomized controlled trials (RCTs) warrant broader reassessment of R-PVI versus manual percutaneous vascular intervention (M-PVI) across vascular territories. PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched from database inception to January 31, 2026, following PRISMA guidelines. RCTs and observational studies including ≥10 adult patients in total were eligible. Comparative studies informed primary analyses, while single-arm studies provided supportive evidence. Primary outcomes were clinical success rate and major adverse cardiovascular/cerebrovascular events (MACE) rate. Secondary outcomes included mortality rate, technical success rate, procedural time metrics, contrast volume, and radiation exposure. Random-effects models were used. Forty studies were included: 3 RCTs, 10 comparative observational studies, and 27 single-arm observational studies, comprising 3,870 patients undergoing R-PVI and 1,142 undergoing M-PVI. Comparative analyses showed similar clinical success rates (RR 1.00, P = 0.46), MACE rates (RR 0.72, P = 0.43), and mortality. Single-arm pooled estimates for clinical and technical success were 98.76% and 96.09%, respectively. R-PVI prolonged total procedure time overall (MD 15.92 min, P = 0.01), with consistent increases in the neurovascular, RCT, and non-RCT subgroups. Fluoroscopy time was also longer (MD 1.91 min, P = 0.04), mainly in the RCT subgroup (MD 2.83 min, P = 0.001). In contrast, intravascular intervention time was unchanged overall and in RCTs, but was prolonged in non-RCTs (MD 8.72 min, P = 0.006). Operator radiation exposure was markedly reduced (MD -33.97 μSv, P < 0.001), whereas patient radiation exposure and contrast volume were similar. R-PVI appears feasible and safe across selected vascular procedures. Its clearest benefit is reduced operator radiation exposure, whereas lower whole-procedure efficiency remains its main limitation.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Efficacy and safety of revascularization in patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia by kidney function.

BACKGROUND: The optimal revascularization strategy for patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) with chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains unknown. We evaluated whether the efficacy and safety of surgical vs endovascular revascularization differ by kidney function. METHODS: In this post hoc secondary analysis of BEST-CLI trial (NCT02060630), 1,704 patients with CLTI were stratified by baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR, mL/min/1.73 m²): non-CKD (eGFR ≥ 90), mild-moderate CKD (eGFR 45-89), advanced CKD (eGFR < 45 or dialysis). The primary outcome was a composite of major adverse limb events (MALE) or death. We estimated the difference in restricted mean time lost (RMTL, in days) adjusted for inverse probability treatment weights. RESULTS: Surgical revascularization was significantly associated with fewer days with MALE or death in non-CKD (RMTL difference: -127.8 days; 95% CI -176.1, -79.6) and mild-moderate CKD (-63.2 days; 95% CI -104.7, -21.8) but not in advanced CKD (-16.4 days; 95% CI -78.8, 46.0; P interaction = .02). This attenuation reflected a diminishing mortality benefit with more severe CKD (P interaction = .01), whereas the association with fewer days with MALE remained consistent across CKD strata (P interaction = .34). Major adverse cardiovascular events and serious adverse events were more common with more severe CKD but did not differ significantly by treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Surgical vs endovascular revascularization was consistently associated with fewer days with MALE across CKD strata. However, its association with mortality varied by kidney function, attenuating the overall benefit for the composite endpoint of MALE or death. These results support individualized revascularization strategies, but require prospective confirmation. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The BEST CLI trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02060630).

Humans↗

PubMed2026

primary analysis of the RANDOMIZED eortc-2139/columbus-ad trial: Adjuvant encorafenib and binimetinib versus placebo in high-risk stage II BRAF-V600E/K melanoma.

PURPOSE: Stage IIB/IIC melanoma has a high risk of recurrence after resection. Combined BRAF/MEK inhibitor therapy showed benefit in resected high-risk stage III and advanced melanoma. The objective of this study was to investigate its role in stage IIB/IIC. METHODS: Adult patients with resected stage IIB/IIC cutaneous melanoma which had a BRAF V600E/K mutation were randomized 1:1 to receive encorafenib (enco) 450 mg QD + binimetinib (bini) 45 mg BID orally for one year or placebo. The study planned to randomize 815 patients and was designed to demonstrate superiority regarding recurrence-free survival (RFS). Following a premature termination of accrual, the study was amended with safety as the primary endpoint and RFS as secondary endpoint. RESULTS: Between June 9, 2022, and October 9, 2023, 339 patients were screened for a BRAF mutation and 110 randomized. Data cutoff was 19 Nov. 2024, after the last patient discontinued study participation. Among randomized patients, 87 (79%) had a BRAF V600E mutation, and 39 (35%) AJCC8 stage IIC. Median follow-up was 12 and 7 months for enco/bini and placebo arms, respectively. Among 54 patients who initiated enco + bini, grade ≥ 3 treatment-related adverse events (AE) occurred in 13 (24%) patients, and 18 (33%) patients had an AE leading to permanent treatment discontinuation. RFS at 12 months was 86% (95% CI: 65-95%) in the enco + bini and 70% (95% CI: 46-85%) in the placebo arm, distant metastasis-free survival at 12 months was 92% (95% CI: 77-97%) for enco + bini and 82% (95% CI: 55-93%) for placebo. CONCLUSION: EORTC 2139 - Columbus-AD demonstrated a consistent and manageable safety profile and encouraging efficacy results for the combination of enco and bini in resected stage IIB/C BRAF V600E/K-mutated cutaneous melanomas.

Adult↗

PubMed2026

Safety and efficacy of Meridian sinew tuina (MST) for post-surgical upper limb lymphedema: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Complex Decongestive Therapy (CDT) is the non-operative standard for breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL), but many patients experience persistent subcutaneous stiffness, pain, and restricted mobility. This study systematically reviews the safety and clinical efficacy of Meridian Sinew Tuina (MST) protocols for BCRL. METHODS: Global and regional databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, CNKI, Wanfang, VIP) were searched from inception to January 15, 2026, with alerts monitored through April 30, 2026. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating MST (deep tissue mobilisation along the six-hand meridian sinew [Jingjin] lines via plucking, kneading, and pressing) were included. Two reviewers independently extracted data, evaluated risk of bias using Cochrane RoB 2, and assessed evidence certainty via GRADE using a random-effects model. RESULTS: Fifteen RCTs were included. For the primary anthropometric outcome, MST significantly reduced upper limb circumference compared to controls (SMD = 1.59; 95% CI: 1.44 to 1.74; Z = 20.81; p < 0.0001; I2=0.0%; N = 924; GRADE: Moderate certainty). The Clinical Response Efficacy Rate (≥ 30% swelling reduction and symptom relief) favoured MST (RR = 1.69; 95% CI: 1.54 to 1.87; Z = 10.62; p < 0.0001; I2=0.0%; N = 1,114; GRADE: Moderate certainty). Trial Sequential Analysis confirmed sample size sufficiency. For secondary outcomes (N = 924; GRADE: Low to Very Low certainty due to performance bias and clinical heterogeneity), MST showed favourable 3-month improvements in DASH functional scores (SMD = -1.81; 95% CI: -2.11 to -1.51; I2=45.1%), pain intensity (SMD = -2.44; 95% CI: -2.93 to -1.95; I2=50.4%), and quality of life (SMD = 1.04; 95% CI: 0.79 to 1.29; I2=0.0%). No serious adverse events occurred. CONCLUSIONS: MST protocols are associated with favourable short- and mid-term reductions in upper limb swelling. However, confidence is tempered by unblinded performance bias and control group variations. MST cannot be unconditionally recommended for standalone implementation but represents a promising, optional supportive adjunctive intervention within oncological rehabilitation.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Construction of circRNA-miRNA-mRNA regulatory networks in the intestine of turbot (Scophthalmus maximus) following Vibrio anguillarum infection.

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play pivotal roles in post-transcriptional regulation by acting as molecular sponges for microRNAs (miRNAs) within the competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network. However, the regulatory mechanisms in teleost immune responses remain poorly understood. In this study, circRNA-miRNA-mRNA networks were investigated in turbot (Scophthalmus maximus) following Vibrio anguillarum infection to elucidate host-pathogen interactions. Through high-throughput sequencing of intestinal tissues, a total of 50 differentially expressed circRNAs (DE-circRNAs) (18 at 2 hpi, 16 at 12 hpi, 16 at 48 hpi), 212 DE-miRNAs (11 at 2 hpi, 70 at 12 hpi, 15 at 48 hpi), and 1774 DE-mRNAs were identified. Functional enrichment analyses (GO/KEGG) revealed significant associations with immune pathways, including the MAPK signaling pathway and gap junction. An integrated circRNA-miRNA-mRNA regulatory network was constructed, highlighting key interactions including novel_circ_0002573/DE-miR-27a-3p/FGB and novel_circ_0002423/novel_347/GNE, which may regulate inflammatory and antibacterial responses. The expression patterns of selected circRNAs, miRNAs and mRNAs were validated using qRT-PCR, confirming the reliability of the sequencing results. Importantly, fibrinogen beta chain (FGB) and CXCR4/CXCL12 signaling were identified as critical immune modulators. These findings provide insights of the ceRNA regulatory networks involved in teleost intestinal immunity and provide potential molecular targets for selective breeding of disease resistance in this species.

Animals↗

PubMed2026

A retrospective population-based cohort study to assess outcomes, time to complications and cost of follow-up care following pediatric pyeloplasty in Ontario, Canada (2002-2016).

PURPOSE: Pediatric dismembered pyeloplasty (PP) is the gold standard surgery for uretero-pelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) in children. However, there is no consensus regarding the duration and methods of providing follow-up care after PP. This study aims to assess the rate of redo-interventions following PP and to define the ideal follow-up care following PP. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a retrospective population-based cohort study including all PP patients in Ontario between April 2002 and March 2016 using routinely collected data, with a minimum 5-year follow-up. Baseline variables included demographics, surgical approach, laterality and surgeon experience. The primary outcome was time to secondary surgical intervention, including redo PP. Secondary outcomes included costs of follow-up care and rates of early ER visits. Regression analyses were preformed to predict need for secondary intervention 2-years post PP, including independent variables: age, sex, surgical approach and early complication. RESULTS: The study included 1049 patients with a median age of 2 (IQR 0-7) years. Of the 13.6% of patients who had at least one secondary intervention following PP (including 3.8% who underwent a redo PP), 90.2% occurred within 3-years of PP. The median cost/patient of follow up care was $1472 CAD (IQR $292-$31,133). Regression analysis did not reveal any predictors of delayed secondary intervention. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that over 86% of PP are completed successfully, with a 3.8% rate of redo-PP. The majority of secondary interventions for post-PP complications occur within 3 years post-PP. Variability in duration and cost of follow-up care post- PP should be addressed to minimize costs, and a minimum 3-years follow-up after PP is recommended.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Malnutrition and adverse outcomes after spine surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Malnutrition is linked to adverse surgical outcomes, but its impact in spine surgery remains unclear due to inconsistent findings and heterogeneous definitions, including use of serum albumin, prealbumin, lymphocyte count, the Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index, and the Prognostic Nutritional Index. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the relationship between malnutrition and postoperative outcomes in spine surgery. PURPOSE: To systematically evaluate the association between preoperative malnutrition and postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing spine surgery. STUDY DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis. PATIENT SAMPLE: Patients undergoing elective or urgent spine surgery across included observational studies comparing malnourished vs well-nourished cohorts. OUTCOME MEASURES: Primary outcomes included postoperative mortality and overall surgical complications. Secondary outcomes included infectious complications (sepsis, urinary tract infection, wound complications), delirium, reoperation, 30-day and 90-day readmission, and prolonged length of hospital stay. METHODS: A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science was performed on April 7, 2025, following PRISMA guidelines. Studies directly comparing postoperative outcomes in malnourished vs well-nourished spine surgery patients were included. A random-effects model generated pooled odds ratios for complications. Outcomes assessed included mortality, surgical complications, infectious outcomes, readmission, reoperation, delirium, prolonged length of stay, and wound complications. RESULTS: Of 2,851 screened articles, 37 met the inclusion criteria, encompassing 16,987 malnourished patients. Malnutrition was associated with significantly increased odds of mortality (OR: 4.05, 95% CI [2.97-5.54]), delirium (OR: 3.95, 95% CI [2.49-6.27]), sepsis (OR: 2.77, 95% CI [2.31-3.33]), surgical complications (OR: 1.79, 95% CI [1.57-2.04]), urinary tract infection (OR: 1.81, 95% CI [1.59-2.06), wound complications (OR: 2.10, 95% CI [1.80-2.45]), reoperation (OR: 1.70, 95% CI [1.46-1.97]), prolonged length of hospital stay (OR: 3.46, 95% CI [2.57-4.65]), 30-day readmission (OR: 1.59, 95% CI [1.36-1.86]), and 90-day readmission (OR: 2.13, 95% CI [1.67-2.71]). CONCLUSIONS: Malnutrition was consistently associated with adverse outcomes after spine surgery. Routine nutritional assessment and targeted preoperative optimization should be considered a standard component of perioperative spine care to help reduce postoperative complications and improve recovery.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Impact of a multimodal prehabilitation program on postoperative cognitive dysfunction: a single-center randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a frequent complication after cardiac surgery. Exercise-based prehabilitation may enhance functional reserve and reduce vulnerability to perioperative cerebral insults. We hypothesized that multimodal prehabilitation reduces POCD 3 months after cardiac surgery. METHODS: This prespecified substudy of a single-center randomized controlled trial (NCT03466606) included patients aged ≥50 years undergoing elective coronary artery bypass grafting and/or valve surgery. Participants were randomized 1:1 to 4-6 weeks of multimodal prehabilitation (exercise training, nutritional support, and psychological support) or standard preoperative care. Cognitive function was assessed at baseline and 3 months postoperatively using an age- and education-adjusted neuropsychological battery. POCD was defined as performance ≥1.5 standard deviations below normative values in at least 2 cognitive tests, excluding the Mini-Mental State Examination. Logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate factors associated with POCD. RESULTS: Of 160 participants screened from the parent trial, 134 met eligibility criteria for the substudy and were randomized; 116 completed 3-month follow-up (prehabilitation n = 53; control n = 63). POCD occurred in 29 patients (25%), including 15/53 (28%) in the prehabilitation group and 14/63 (22%) in controls (odds ratio [OR] 1.37, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.54-3.50, P = 0.52). In multivariable analysis, preoperative cognitive impairment was independently associated with POCD (OR 13.28, 95% CI 4.06-43.41, P < 0.001), whereas prehabilitation was not (OR 1.09, 95% CI 0.35-3.45, P = 0.877). Higher physical activity levels at 3 months were associated with lower odds of POCD (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.95-1.00, P = 0.047). CONCLUSIONS: In this randomized controlled trial, a 4-6-week multimodal prehabilitation program did not reduce postoperative cognitive dysfunction 3 months after cardiac surgery. Although the intervention did not achieve measurable cognitive protection, the observed association between postoperative physical activity levels and postoperative cognitive dysfunction warrants further investigation.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Nurse-led acute care post-operative interventions in adult cardiac surgery: a systematic review.

AIMS: The primary aim of this systematic review was to identify nurse-led clinical interventions evaluated in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) for adults who had undergone cardiac surgery. The secondary aim was to assess the effectiveness of these interventions on post-operative clinical and patient-reported outcomes during the acute inpatient phase. METHODS AND RESULTS: A systematic review was undertaken according to an a priori protocol using Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology and PRISMA guideline for reporting. Eligible studies were RCTs of adult (≥18 years) cardiac surgery, nurse-led inpatient interventions implemented immediately post-surgery and prior to discharge. Six databases were searched from inception to June 2025. Of 2690 records, 19 RCTs were eligible, representing 13 countries, and 3142 participants. Risk of bias varied, with only two low-risk trials. Interventions were grouped into seven domains: behavioural support; temperature management and comfort strategies; pain and symptom management; wound care; infection prevention; respiratory and pulmonary function; and post-operative recovery, mobilization, and hydration. Across these domains, nurse-led interventions were generally feasible, safe, and positively affected patient comfort, physiological stability, symptom relief, and aspects of functional recovery. CONCLUSION: Nurse-led inpatient interventions contribute meaningfully to inpatient post-operative recovery in cardiac surgery, although the broader cardiac surgical nursing scope is underrepresented in RCTs. This review provides a foundation for developing further high-quality research, peer-reviewed interdisciplinary practice guidelines, and strengthening the scope and recognition of cardiac surgical nursing as a distinct specialty. REGISTRATION: PROSPERO-CRD420251063851.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Feasibility and barriers to same-day physical therapy following lumbar fusion surgery.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the feasibility of same-day (postoperative day 0; POD0) physical therapy (PT) following lumbar fusion and to identify factors associated with failure to participate. METHODS: This retrospective study analyzed prospectively collected data from patients undergoing single-level posterior spinal fusion (PSF), with or without anterior (ALIF) or lateral (LLIF) interbody fusion, between January and December 2024 at a single institution. A standardized POD0 PT protocol was implemented for eligible patients. Patients were categorized into two groups: successful POD0 PT (ambulatory on POD0) and unable to participate. Demographic and surgical variables were compared between groups. Reasons for inability to participate were recorded and categorized. RESULTS: Among 129 patients in whom POD0 PT was attempted, 84 (65%) successfully participated, while 45 (35%) were unable. There were no significant differences in age, sex, BMI, ASA class, operative time, estimated blood loss, or surgical approach between groups. Patients who successfully completed POD0 PT had a significantly shorter hospital length of stay compared to those who did not (3.4 ± 1.6 vs 5.8 ± 2.9 days, P < 0.001), with no differences in complication rates, discharge disposition, emergency department visits, or reoperation rates. The most common barriers to POD0 PT were postoperative pain, medical issues (e.g., orthostatic hypotension, nausea, dizziness), and anesthesia-related somnolence. Less common factors included postoperative restrictions and logistical issues such as brace availability. CONCLUSIONS: POD0 PT following lumbar fusion is feasible in the majority of patients and is associated with a shorter hospital stay without increased complications. Failure to participate was not associated with the baseline patient or surgical characteristics evaluated in this study. Instead, the most common barriers were postoperative pain, transient medical issues, and anesthesia-related somnolence, suggesting that optimization of modifiable perioperative factors may improve the implementation of POD0 PT.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Esketamine vs. sufentanil for quality of recovery after outpatient gynecological surgery: a randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Perioperative administration of esketamine has been reported to improve early quality of recovery (QoR). However, data on its effects in outpatient surgery are limited. This study aimed to assess the impact of esketamine on QoR in patients undergoing outpatient gynecological procedures. METHODS: In this investigator-initiated, double-blind, randomized clinical trial, patients aged 18-65 years scheduled for outpatient gynecological surgery under sedation were allocated to receive esketamine (0.2 mg/kg) or sufentanil (0.1 μg/kg) combined with propofol (1.5-3 mg/kg). The primary outcome was quality of recovery on postoperative day (POD) 1. Secondary outcomes included quality of recovery on POD2, sedation success rate, length of post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) stay, injection pain, postoperative pain, nausea and vomiting, fatigue, patient and clinician satisfaction, sleep quality, and anxiety and depression. RESULTS: A total of 126 patients were randomized, with 63 assigned to the esketamine group and 63 to the sufentanil group. Of these, 125 patients were included in the final analysis (62 in the esketamine group and 63 in the sufentanil group), as one patient lacked follow-up data. The mean (SD) QoR-15 score on POD1 was 137.9 (14.5) in the esketamine group and 137.8 (10.7) in the sufentanil group, with no significant difference between groups (absolute difference, 0.2; 95% CI, -4.2 to 4.6; p = 0.93). For secondary outcomes, the esketamine group had a longer PACU stay (median, 28.0 vs. 23.0 min; p < 0.001), a lower incidence of severe injection pain (22.6% vs. 50.8%; p = 0.002), a higher proportion of patients with pain scores ≥ 4 at 30 min postoperatively (30.6% vs. 6.3%; p = 0.001), and higher fatigue scores (median, 3.0 vs. 2.0; p = 0.01). Other secondary outcomes did not differ significantly between groups. CONCLUSION: Among patients undergoing sedation for outpatient gynecological procedures, esketamine did not significantly improve quality of recovery on POD1 compared to sufentanil. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR2500098466.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Intersphincteric resection versus abdominoperineal resection for lower rectal cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: The optimal surgical approach for lower rectal cancer (LRC) remains debated, particularly between intersphincteric resection (ISR) and abdominoperineal resection (APR). While ISR offers potential sphincter preservation, its oncological efficacy compared to APR is unclear. METHODS: A systematic review was conducted to compare clinical and oncological outcomes of ISR versus APR in LRC patients. On December 8, 2024, a comprehensive search of Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science identified 24 retrospective studies involving 4502 patients. Key outcomes analyzed included positive circumferential resection margin (CRM), number of harvested lymph nodes (LNs), local recurrence (LR), length of hospital stay (LOS), early postoperative complications, and survival. RESULTS: Twenty-four retrospective studies involving 4502 patients (ISR: 2266 (50.3%) and APR: 1558 (34.6%)) met the eligibility criteria. ISR was associated with significantly lower rates of positive CRM (risk ratio (RR): 0.41, p < 0.001), decreased early postoperative complications (RR: 0.76, p < 0.001), lower LR (RR: 0.63, p = 0.0038), and improvement in five-year overall survival (5YOS) (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.42, p < 0.001) and five-year disease-free survival (5YDFS) (HR = 0.59, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: ISR demonstrates several advantages over APR in selected LRC patients, including lower rates of positive CRM, fewer early postoperative complications, reduced LR, greater LN harvest, shorter LOS, and improved long-term survival outcomes (5YOS and 5YDFS). Therefore, ISR can be considered a safe and effective alternative to APR in appropriately chosen patients, with careful patient selection and surgical expertise remaining essential.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

A Phase II Feasibility Study Combining Pembrolizumab and Metformin in Patients with Metastatic Head and Neck Cancer.

PURPOSE: Survival for recurrent/metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (R/M HNSCC) remains low with <20% immunotherapy response. Metformin increases tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T and natural killer (NK) cells, which harbor PD-1. In this phase II clinical trial (NCT04414540), we combined metformin and pembrolizumab to evaluate the overall response rate (ORR) in R/M HNSCC and assess NK-cell activity. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Eligible patients were randomized 1:1 into two arms: (i) metformin extended-release (ER) dose escalation to 2,000 mg over 14 days followed by combination with pembrolizumab 200 mg every 3 weeks or (ii) pembrolizumab 200 mg every 3 weeks followed by combination with metformin ER 2,000 mg daily. The primary endpoint was ORR per RECIST 1.1. Nineteen evaluable patients were planned to estimate the proportion of approximately 32% ORR. Safety was evaluated according to Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v5.0. The distribution, activation, and cytotoxic function of NK cells were analyzed via flow cytometry. RESULTS: Twenty-one patients were enrolled; 76% were male, 52% were smokers, and the median age was 64 years. Ten patients had oropharyngeal tumors, of which nine were p16+. Eighteen patients were evaluable for response, including four complete and five partial responses for an ORR of 50% [95% confidence interval (29-71)]. Combination therapy was well tolerated with no unexpected adverse events (AE). Five grade 3 AEs occurred: nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, and weight loss. Metformin led to increased peripheral NK-cell maturation and cytotoxic ability. CONCLUSIONS: The combination of metformin and pembrolizumab was well tolerated with mild gastrointestinal AEs and promising activity, warranting further investigation in a randomized trial.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Structured robotic colorectal training in a non-tertiary NHS hospital: a 502-case consecutive cohort implementation study.

Robotic-assisted colorectal surgery has expanded rapidly across NHS practice in the UK. Structured unit-wide training pathways are essential for safe technology adoption, yet published outcome data from non-tertiary hospitals remain limited. This study describes the implementation and feasibility of a unit-wide robotic colorectal program at a high-volume non-tertiary hospital, reporting outcomes across 502 consecutive resections performed by eight consultant surgeons and presenting these in the context of nationally published benchmarks. A retrospective cohort study of 502 consecutive robotic colorectal resections performed at York Teaching Hospital between May 2022 and December 2025. Eight consultant surgeons (A-H) participated in a structured four-phase training pathway incorporating simulation training, proctored cases, complexity-based case progression, and formal credentialing. Primary outcomes were 30-day mortality, unplanned return to theatre (RTT), and anastomotic leak (AL). Anastomotic leak was calculated using only patients who underwent anastomosis as the denominator. Procedure-stratified and individual surgeon outcomes with 95% confidence intervals were reported. Risk-adjusted cumulative sum (RA-CUSUM) analysis was performed to evaluate learning curves. Outcomes are presented descriptively alongside nationally published reference data; no formal statistical comparison against national benchmarks was performed. 502 robotic colorectal resections were performed. Mean patient age was 70.0 ± 11.3 years; 58.4% were male. Median ASA grade was III. The indication was malignancy in 89.2% of cases. Length of stay was non-normally distributed and is therefore reported using median and interquartile range in the revised analysis. Key outcomes: - 30-day mortality: 1.0% (5/502; 95% CI 0.4-2.3%) - Unplanned return to theatre (RTT): 5.2% (26/502; 95% CI 3.6-7.5%) - Anastomotic leak (AL): 3.3% (15/450; 95% CI 2.0-5.5%; denominator = patients with anastomosis) - 30-day unplanned readmission: 5.0% (25/502; 95% CI 3.4-7.2%) - Conversion to open surgery: 3.6% (18/502; 95% CI 2.3-5.6%) - Lymph node yield ≥12: 91.3% of cancer resections - R0 resection rate: 95.1% of cancer resections All primary outcomes fell within or below the published reference ranges used for descriptive context. RA-CUSUM trajectories were heterogeneous: no surgeon crossed the predefined upper control limit, but several curves showed later upward movement. Accordingly, the analysis is interpreted as safety surveillance rather than evidence of uniform performance improvement. RA-CUSUM monitoring showed that no surgeon crossed the predefined upper control limit; however, heterogeneous trajectories precluded a claim of uniform performance improvement.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

A randomized study of antibiotic prophylaxis after hypospadias repair in children.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Antibiotic resistance is a challenge in contemporary world. Urethroplasty for hypospadias is one of the most common urological surgeries performed around the world, yet, there is still no consensus on the use of antibiotics pre- and post-operatively. Our objective was to analyze the effectiveness of antibiotic prophylaxis and therapy before, during, and after hypospadias repair in children. METHODS: A prospective randomized trial was carried out including patients with coronal hypospadias who underwent urethroplasty performed by one surgeon. Urethral catheters were used in all cases for 10 days. Study participants were randomly assigned in a 1:1:1 ratio to receive a single intraoperative administration of antibiotics (Group I); an intraoperative antibiotic prophylaxis and antibiotic therapy for 10 days until the removal of urethral catheter (Group II); no antibiotic administration (Group III). Randomization was performed using computer-generated permuted blocks with randomly varying block sizes, prepared by an independent statistician. The results were analyzed using the analysis of variance (ANOVA). The following criteria were compared: postoperative functional complications, such as: urethral fistula, stenosis, diverticulum; wound infection symptoms: hyperemia of surgical site, pain during palpation, and symptomatic urinary tract infection. RESULTS: A total of 300 patients were included in the study. Two patients (2%) in Group I, two patients (2%) in Group II, and four patients (4%) in Group III had urethral fistulas, requiring surgery 6 months after primary repair, yet without statistical difference between groups. We found no significant difference in frequency of symptomatic UTIs between three groups (p = 0.182). CONCLUSION: There is no effect of antibiotic prophylaxis and therapy on the frequency of postoperative surgical and infectious complications after urethroplasty for coronal hypospadias repair in children.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

A systematic literature review on low-grade myofibroblastic sarcoma of the trunk.

BACKGROUND: Low-grade myofibroblastic sarcoma (LGMS) is a rare malignant mesenchymal tumor, with primary trunk involvement being particularly uncommon. Due to its rarity, associated diagnostic challenges, and variability in management, a comprehensive evaluation of the available evidence is required. This study aims to systematically review the clinical characteristics, treatment strategies, and outcomes of truncal LGMS. METHODS: A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase for articles published from January 1998 to January 2026. The review included full-text articles involving patients with a pathologically confirmed diagnosis of truncal LGMS. The collected data included patient demographics, tumor features, treatment modalities, recurrence, and follow-up status. RESULTS: Of the 404 studies initially identified, 30 studies involving 59 patients with pathologically confirmed truncal LGMS met the inclusion criteria. Outcome analyses of therapeutic management and clinical course included 45 patients with complete follow-up data, including 42 surgically treated patients and 3 non-surgically managed patients. The final evidence base consisted solely of retrospective studies and case reports. No prospective studies or randomized controlled trials were identified. Consequently, a descriptive statistical analysis was conducted instead of a meta-analysis. CONCLUSION: Current evidence indicates that wide excision with negative margins may be a reasonable primary treatment option for truncal LGMS, with case-based reports showing numerically lower recurrence after wide excision, although the evidence is limited and potentially confounded by multiple factors. Radiotherapy or chemotherapy may be considered only on a highly individualized basis for selected unresectable, recurrent, metastatic, anatomically constrained, or margin-positive cases. Given the very limited sample size and heterogeneous treatment indications across published cases, treatment efficacy cannot be reliably estimated from the available data. Prolonged long-term regular follow-up is recommended for all patients, considering the risk of late recurrence.

Humans↗