Waist subcutaneous soft tissue metastasis of rectal mucinous adenocarcinoma: A case report

BACKGROUND Rectal mucinous adenocarcinoma(MAC)is a rare pathological type of rectal can-cer with unique pathological features and a poor prognosis.It is difficult to diag-nose and treat early because of the lack of specific manifestations in some aspects of the disease.The common metastatic organs of rectal cancer are the liver and lung;however,rectal carcinoma with metastasis to subcutaneous soft tissue is a rare finding.CASE SUMMARY In this report,the clinical data,diagnosis and treatment process,and postope-rative pathological features of a patient with left waist subcutaneous soft tissue masses were retrospectively analyzed.The patient underwent surgical treatment after admission and recovered well after surgery.The final pathological diagnosis was rectal MAC with left waist subcutaneous soft tissue metastasis.CONCLUSION Subcutaneous soft tissue metastasis of rectal MAC is rare,and it can suggest that the tumor is disseminated,and it can appear even earlier than the primary ma-lignant tumor,which is occult and leads to a missed diagnosis and misdiagnosis clinically.When a subcutaneous soft tissue mass of unknown origin appears in a patient with rectal cancer,a ma-lignant tumor should be considered.

Breast Cancer Treatment (Mastectomy Experiences) May Initiate Individuation Process That Redefines Identities: A Systematic Review

This systematic literature review examines the impact of breast cancer treatment experiences, with a focus on mastectomy, on the psychosocial well-being of women. While previous studies have shown that mastectomy is associated with negative psychological outcomes such as anxiety, depression, and a loss of femininity, a new body of literature suggests that it can also be a catalyst for post-traumatic growth and personal transformation. The article argues that mastectomy experiences can initiate an individuation process that leads to a more empowered sense of self and a higher quality of life. The review identified 25 studies that employed qualitative methods and analyzed data from interviews, focus groups, and surveys. The article discusses the application of Jung’s individuation theory to categorize the experiences of women with breast cancer and links breast cancer diagnosis and treatment to the death-experience stage of the theory. The content highlights the importance of movement, contemplation, and spirituality in the healing process, and how they can help women connect with their bodies and develop a new sense of identity. Additionally, the content discusses the role of spirituality in enhancing growth and healing among indigenous native women patients with breast cancer. Overall, this article provides insights into how breast cancer treatment experiences can shape women’s identity, enhance resilience, and provide opportunities for personal growth and transformation.

Therapeutic Approaches to Post-Mastectomy Pain Syndrome

Background: Breast cancer is increasingly common in society and post-mastectomy pain is a striking condition associated with surgery, both intra and postoperatively. The post-mastectomy syndrome is characterized by the persistence of pain for more than 3 months after the procedure. It is mostly of neuropathic origin and is highly refractory to treatments, which vary from clinical to surgical measures and alternative techniques. In this context, it is essential to understand the possible approaches to these patients. Objective: Understand alternatives for pain management in patients undergoing mastectomy, especially in those in whom pain persists for more than 3 months. Methods: Systematic literature review, conducted in the Virtual Health Library databases includes: Lilacs, SciELO, Medline, PubMed and Cochrane between 2018 and 2023, restricted to articles in English with the descriptors: Mastectomy, chronic Pain, Nerve Blocks and Breast Cancer. 317 articles were found involving the descriptors presented, all in English. After reading the abstracts, 28 articles were selected. Results: This review analyzed 28 scientific studies that rigorously met the previously established characteristics in the sample selection. The synthesis included the following aspects: author/year of publication, article title, objective, type of study and database. Conclusion: It was concluded that, according to the analyzed studies, post-mastectomy pain is a problem that has increased its incidence and that needs the attention of health professionals. The use of antineuropathic medications, nerve blocks, fat grafting, lymph node transplantation, therapy, physical activity and acupuncture are some examples of therapeutic approaches for these women. Therefore, the team must assist the patients, seeking to provide a better prognosis, quality of life and comfort.

Fetal Thigh Circumference versus Fetal Abdominal Subcutaneous Tissue Thickness in Prediction of Fetal Weight in Term Pregnant Women

Background: Fetal weight estimation by ultrasound is an important factor in obstetrics;it is directly related to the gestational age which helps to plan the mode of delivery and labor management. Objective: to compare between fetal thigh circumference (TC) and abdominal subcutaneous tissue thickness (SCT) in estimating birthweight in term pregnant women. Patients and Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted at outpatient clinic or emergency room, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University Maternity Hospitals from March 2022 until May 2023. During this study, 100 term pregnant females with gestational age 37 - 40 weeks attended El Demerdash Maternity Hospital and scheduled for delivery either at outpatient clinic or emergency room were enrolled, after consenting each of them. Basic fetal biometry was performed by an expert and professional medical personnel to ensure the accuracy of examination results. Fetal abdominal subcutaneous thickness and fetal thigh circumference were measured for assessment of gestational age and correlated with actual fetal body weight. In the current study, three formulas;Hadlock, Vintzileos’ and SCT formula were correlated with actual fetal body weight after birth. Results: The present study revealed that TC formula is closer to the actual birth weight, followed by Hadlock formula, while the SCT formula is the furthest from it. Conclusion: To increase the accuracy of birth estimations, regular ultrasound examinations should include fetal thigh circumference measurement.

Successful treatment of a rare subcutaneous emphysema after a blow-out fracture surgery using needle aspiration:A case report

BACKGROUND Many cases of emphysema associated with blow-out fractures occur before surgery due to trauma.However,emphysema can occur even after surgery,and most of such cases are managed conservatively and allowed to resolve.Swelling in the periorbital area due to emphysema that occurs after surgery can make early recovery difficult.CASE SUMMARY Herein,we describe a case of postoperative subcutaneous emphysema that was treated using a simple needle aspiration method.A 48-year-old male patient visited the hospital with a blow-out fracture of the left medial orbital wall and nasal bone fracture.One day postoperatively,swelling and crepitus in the left periorbital area were observed,and follow-up computed tomography showed emphysema in the left periorbital subcutaneous area.Needle aspiration using an 18-gauge needle and syringe was used to relieve the emphysema.The symptoms of sudden swelling improved immediately,and no recurrence was observed.CONCLUSION We conclude that needle aspiration is a useful method that could help in relieving symptom,resolving discomfort,and enabling early return to daily life in patients with postoperative subcutaneous emphysema.

Gunsight suture with subcutaneous vacuum drainage during enterostomy decreased the surgical site infection rate in obese rectal cancer patients:A retrospective study

Background:Surgical site infection(SSI)is the most common complication after stoma closure and is particularly common in obese patients.To reduce the incidence of SSI,various skin closure techniques have been proposed;however,the best technique is still under debate.The purpose of this study was to explore the effectiveness of subcutaneous vacuum drains(SVDs)after two surgical suture techniques following stoma reversal in obese patients. Methods:Data from 190 obese patients with rectal cancer who underwent stoma reversal for enterostomy between February 2012 and April 2023 at Jinxiang Hospital Affiliated to Jining Medical University were retrospectively analyzed.These patients were divided into two groups:gunsight suture(GS)with SVD and primary linear suture(PLS)with SVD.The GS group and PLS group included 90 and 100 patients,respectively.The clinical characteristics and short-term outcomes were compared between the two groups.Postoperative pain scores were analyzed using a generalized estimation equation. Results:Surgery was successfully performed in both groups.The rate of SSI in the GS group was significantly lower than that in the PLS group(2.2%vs 9.0%,P=0.046).Patients in the GS group had a significantly shorter wound healing time than did patients in the PLS group,as well as a significantly shorter postoperative fasting time(P<0.05).No significant differences were found between the groups in terms of the postoperative hospital stay,operative time,and estimated blood loss(P>0.05).The results of the generalized estimation equation analysis showed that the GS group had significantly lower pain scores at 12,24,48,and 72 h after surgery than the PLS group(P<0.05).Moreover,the GS group showed significantly better alleviation of wound pain between 12 and 72 h after surgery(P<0.05). Conclusions:The GS technique with SVD may be recommended for wound closure of a nonfunctioning stoma in obese patients.

ShotBlocker versus cryotherapy for reducing pain and anxiety associated with subcutaneous injection

Objective:To determine and compare the abilities of Shot Blocker and cryotherapy for reducing pain and anxiety associated with subcutaneous injections.Subcutaneous injection has been used excessively for continuous,low-dose administration of drugs.Considering that these drugs may require prolonged administration,new devices and methods of injection are needed to decrease pain and anxiety associated with repeated drug injections.Methods:A quasi-experimental study design on a purposive sample of 54 patients comprised of both sexes has been utilized.The subjects were divided into 2 equal groups(group 1,Shot Blocker;group 2,cryotherapy),and 3 tools were used,namely the sociodemographic and medical data sheet,Verbal Descriptor Scale for measuring pain,and Beck Anxiety Inventory.Results:A significant reduction in pain and anxiety mean scores was observed after using cryotherapy and Shot Blocker techniques during subcutaneous injection.In addition,the Shot Blocker group exhibited significantly lower pain and anxiety mean scores compared with the cryotherapy group.Conclusions:Our findings revealed that Shot Blocker and cryotherapy were effective non-pharmacological methods for reducing pain and anxiety levels associated with repeated subcutaneous injections.

Recent evidence for subcutaneous drains to prevent surgical site infections after abdominal surgery:A systematic review and metaanalysis

BACKGROUND Surgical site infections(SSIs)increase mortality,hospital stays,additional medical treatment,and medical costs.Subcutaneous drains prevent SSIs in gynecological and breast surgeries;however,their clinical impact in abdominal surgery remains unclear.AIM To investigate whether subcutaneous drains were beneficial in abdominal surgery using a systematic review and meta-analysis.METHODS The database search used PubMed,MEDLINE,and the Cochrane Library.The following inclusion criteria were set for the systematic review:(1)Randomized controlled trial studies comparing SSIs after abdominal surgery with or without subcutaneous drains;and(2)Studies that described clinical outcomes,such as SSIs,seroma formation,the length of hospital stays,and mortality.RESULTS Eight studies were included in this meta-analysis.The rate of total SSIs was significantly lower in the drained group(54/771,7.0%)than in the control group(89/759,11.7%),particularly in gastrointestinal surgery.Furthermore,the rate of superficial SSIs was slightly lower in the drained group(31/517,6.0%)than in the control group(49/521,9.4%).No significant differences were observed in seroma formation between the groups.Hospital stays were shorter in the drained group than in the control group.CONCLUSION Subcutaneous drains after abdominal surgery prevented SSIs and reduced hospital stays but did not significantly affect seroma formation.The timing of drain removal needs to be reconsidered in future studies.

A prospective study comparing endoscopic subcutaneous mastectomy plus immediate reconstruction with implants and breast conserving surgery for breast cancer

Background Breast conserving surgery （BCS） has been the standard surgical procedure for the treatment of early breast cancer. Endoscopic subcutaneous mastectomy （ESM） plus immediate reconstruction with implants is an emerging procedure. The objective of this prospective study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of these two surgical procedures in our clinical setting. Methods From March 2004 to October 2007, 43 patients with breast cancer underwent ESM plus axillary lymph node dissection and immediate reconstruction with implants, while 54 patients underwent BCS. The clinical and pathological characteristics, surgical safety, and therapeutic effects were compared between the two groups. Results There were no significant differences in the age, clinical stage, histopathologic type of tumor, operative blood loss, postoperative drainage time, and postoperative complications between the two groups （P 〉0.05）. The postoperative complications were partial necrosis of the nipple and superficial skin flap in the ESM patients, and hydrops in the axilla and residual cavity in the BCS patients. There was no significant difference in the rate of satisfactory postoperative cosmetic outcomes between the ESM （88.4%, 38/43） and BCS （92.6%, 50/54） patients （P 〉0.05）. During follow-up of 6 months to 4 years, all patients treated with ESM were disease-free, but 3 patients who underwent BCS had metastasis or recurrence -- one of these patients died of multiple organ metastasis. Conclusions After considering the wide indications for use, high surgical safety, and favorable cosmetic outcomes, we conclude that ESM plus axillary lymph node dissection and immediate reconstruction with implants -- the new surgery of choice for breast cancer -- warrants serious consideration as the prospective next standard surgical procedure.

With two episodes of right retromandibular angle subcutaneous emphysema during right upper molar crown preparation:A case report

BACKGROUND Subcutaneous emphysema is a well-known complication of oral surgery,especially during mandibular wisdom tooth extraction.However,subcutaneous emphysema secondary to dental procedures such as crown preparation is rare.The main symptom of emphysema is swelling and crepitus on palpation.Uncontrolled emphysema may spread along the fascial planes and cause deep space infections or a pneumomediastinum.CASE SUMMARY In this paper,we report a 34-year-old female who underwent upper molar tooth preparation for crowns and subsequently developed extensive subcutaneous emphysema on the retromandibular angle on two different occasions.The treatment plan for this patient involved close observation of the airway,and administration of dexamethasone and antibiotics via intravenous drip or orally.Ice bag compression was quickly applied and medication was prescribed to alleviate discomfort and promote healing.Although the main reason is unclear,the presence of a fissure in the molar is an important clue which may contribute to the development of subcutaneous emphysema during crown preparation.It is imperative for dental professionals to recognize such pre-disposing factors in order to minimize the risk of complications.CONCLUSION This case highlights the need for prompt diagnosis and management of subcutaneous emphysema because of the risk of much more serious complications.Awareness of relatively“benign”subcutaneous emphysema during any dental procedure is critical not only for inexperienced dentists,but also for those who work in rural and remote settings as members of surgical teams.In this study,we review the clinical presentation,mechanism,and differential diagnosis of subcutaneous emphysema.

Life-threatening delayed mediastinal and subcutaneous emphysema after general anesthesia in a rheumatoid arthritis patient: a case report

Background:Delayed mediastinal emphysema with subcutaneous emphysema after extubation is rarely reported in current literature.Symptomatic treatment is considered effective for management.Case presentation:We report a case of a 56-year-old female with longstanding rheumatoid arthritis under corticosteroid therapy who developed mediastinal emphysema with subcutaneous emphysema 2 days after recovering from general anesthesia for orthopedic surgery treating a femoral neck fracture.The patient received aggressive subcutaneous decompression and symptomatic management.Results:The patient’s condition improved after treatment.Based on computed tomography scan results,we hypothesize that the longstanding rheumatoid arthritis may have resulted in fragile lung tissue.Violent postoperative coughing likely caused rupture of small airways,leading to mediastinal emphysema.Conclusions:It is crucial to preoperatively assess the risk of airway injury in high-risk patients with longstanding rheumatoid arthritis.Delayed postoperative mediastinal emphysema should be carefully evaluated and managed aggressively to avoid exacerbation or life-threatening scenarios.Further research is warranted to elucidate the pathology and guide perioperative management in these patients.

Immediate nipple-areola-sparing mastectomy reconstruction: An update on oncological and reconstruction techniques

Nipple-sparing mastectomy(NSM) is a safe technique in patients who are candidates for conservation breast surgery. However, there is worry concerning its oncological safety and surgical outcome in terms of postoperative complications. The authors reviewed the literature to evaluate the oncological safety, patient selection, surgical techniques, and also to identify the factors influencing postoperative outcome and complication rates. Patient selection and safety related to NSM are based on oncological and anatomical parameters. Among the main criteria, the oncological aspects include the clinical stage of breast cancer, tumor characteristics and location including small, peripherally located tumors, without multicentricity, or for prophylactic mastectomy. Surgical success depends on coordinated planning with the oncological surgeon andcareful preoperative and intraoperative management. In general, the NSM reconstruction is related to autologous and alloplastic techniques and sometimes include contra-lateral breast surgery. Choice of reconstructive technique following NSM requires accurate consideration of various patient related factors, including: breast volume, degree of ptosis, areola size, clinical factors, and surgeon's experience. In addition, tumor related factors include dimension, location and proximity to the nipple-areola complex. Regardless of the fact that there is no unanimity concerning the appropriate technique, the criteria are determined by the surgeon's experience and the anatomical aspects of the breast. The positive aspects of the technique utilized should include low interference with the oncological treatment, reproducibility, and long-term results. Selected patients can have safe outcomes and therefore this may be a feasible option for early breast cancer management. However, available data demonstrates that NSM can be safely performed for breast cancer treatment in selected cases. Additional studies and longer follow-up are necessary to define consistent selection criteria for NSM.

Present status of endoscopic mastectomy for breast cancer

Endoscopy is now being used for breast cancer surgery. Though it is used for mastectomy, lymph node dissection, and breast reconstruction, its prime use is for mastectomy. Because an incision can be placed inconspicuously in the axillary site, a relatively largeincision can be created. A retractor with an endoscope, CO2, and an abrasion device with the endoscope are used for operation space security. It is extremely rare that an endoscope is used for lymph node dissection. For breast reconstruction, it may be used for latissimus muscle flap making, but an endoscope is rarely used for other reconstructions. Endoscopic mastectomy is limited to certain institutions and practiced hands, and it has not been significantly developed in breast cancer surgery. On the other hand, endoscopic surgery may be used widely in breast reconstruction. With respect to the spread of robotic surgery, many factors remain uncertain.

Breast-conserving therapy and modified radical mastectomy for primary breast carcinoma:a matched comparative study

Background- To compare two types of therapy for primary breast carcinoma, breast-conserving therapy （BCT） and modified radical mastectomy （MRM）, in a matched cohort study. Methods： A series of 1,746 patients with primary breast cancer treated with BCT or MRM in a single Chinese institute between January 2000 and February 2009 were analyzed retrospectively to compare their outcomes with respect to the incidence of local recurrence （LR）, distant metastasis, and survival. The patients were matched with regard to age at diagnosis, spreading to axillary lymph nodes, hormone receptor status, the use of neoadjuvant chemotherapy and maximal tumor diameter. The match ratio was 1：1, and each arm included 873 patients. Results： The median follow-up period was 71 months. The 6-year disease-free survival （DFS） and 6-year distant disease-free survival （DDFS） rates differed significantly between two groups. The 6-year local recurrence-free survival （LRFS） rates were 98.2% [95% confidence interval （CI）： 0.973-0.989] in the BCT group and 98.7% （95% CI： 0.980-0.994） in the MRM group （P=0.182）, respectively. DFS rates in BCT and MRM groups were 91.3% （95% CI： 0.894-0.932） and 86.3% （95% CI： 0.840-0.886） （P〈0.001）, respectively, whereas the DDFS rates in BCT and MRM groups were 93.6% （95% CI： 0.922-0.950） and 87.7% （95% CI： 0.854-0.900） （P〈0.001）, respectively. Conclusions： BCT in eligible patients is as effective as MRM with respect to local tumor control, DFS and DDFS, and may result in a better outcome than MRM in Chinese primary breast cancer patients.

Multi-center investigation of breast reconstruction after mastectomy from Chinese Society of Breast Surgery:A survey based on 31 tertiary hospitals(CSBrS-004)

Objective:Multi-center data on the current status and trends of breast reconstruction after mastectomy in China are lacking.Herein,we conducted a cross-sectional survey to investigate the current clinical practice pattern of postmastectomy breast reconstruction among Chinese female patients with breast cancer.Methods:A standardized questionnaire used to collect information on breast reconstruction among females diagnosed with breast cancer was distributed by 31 members of the Chinese Society of Breast Surgery between January 1,2018 and December 31,2018.Information was collected on tumor characteristics,treatment,mesh application,nipple-areola complex(NAC)preservation,postoperative complications,bilateral reconstruction,patient satisfaction and local recurrence.The overall rate of breast reconstruction was assessed,and the characteristics were compared across patient groups with different reconstruction approaches.Results:A total of 1,554 patients underwent breast reconstruction after total mastectomy,with a reconstruction rate of 9.6%.Among them,1,190 were implant-based,and 262 underwent autologous reconstructions,while 102 cases underwent a combination of both.Patients who underwent implant-based reconstruction were younger than those who received autologous reconstruction(40.1±4.6 vs.45.0±5.9,P=0.004).Compared to patients with autologous reconstruction,mesh application(25.5%vs.6.5%),NAC preservation(51.8%vs.40.5%)and reconstruction failure(1.8%vs.0)were more frequently reported among those with implant-based reconstruction.There was no significant difference in general satisfaction across three reconstruction approaches,though patients with autologous reconstruction reported the highest aesthetic satisfaction among the three groups(P=0.044).Conclusions:Implant-based breast reconstruction remains the dominant choice among patients,while autologous reconstruction was associated with higher aesthetic satisfaction.Our multi-center investigation based on the findings of the tertiary hospitals of Chinese Society of Breast Surgery may guide a future series of clinical studies on breast reconstruction in China.

Axillary “Exclusion”—A Successful Technique for Reducing Seroma Formation after Mastectomy and Axillary Dissection

Introduction: A seroma is the commonest complication of breast cancer surgery, and although its consequences most often cause no more than discomfort and anxiety, more important sequelae include flap necrosis and wound breakdown. Infection developing within seroma increases morbidity and often results in the need for re-admission, re-imaging, drainage and antibiotic usage. Numerous methods to reduce post-mastectomy seroma formation have been tried with no consistent success. Methods: 24 consecutive patients undergoing mastectomy and axillary clearance were recruited before and after a departmental change in practice. At the point of skin closure, patients either underwent “axillary exclusion” or not. Total drain outputs were recorded by community district nursing staff for all patients. At the first post-operative visit, the presence and severity of seroma was recorded. Results: 24 patients were included (study group 14, control group 10). Age, size of tumour, and number of positive lymph nodes and laterality were comparable between groups. Mean drain output for the entire group was 471 ml (3 - 1030 ml) over 5.21 days. The control group had a drain output of 763.5 ml (95%CI 674.2 - 852.8) while the study group had a mean drainage of 262.2 ml (95%CI 161.9 - 362.5), a reduction of over 65%, p < 0.001. 15 (62.5%) out of 24 patients developed seroma. 42.9% of the study group and 90% of the control group developed seroma, p < 0.01. Conclusion: Seromas are a common complication following mastectomy and axillary clearance. Our technique of axillary exclusion has resulted in significantly reduced drainage volumes and fewer seromas.

Hypereosinophilia, mastectomy, and nephrotic syndrome in a male patient: A case report

BACKGROUND Hypereosinophilia(HE)is a heterogeneous disease of unknown etiology in which tissue and organ injury is inflicted by excess numbers of circulating or infiltrating eosinophils.Herein,we describe a patient with rare organ damage due to HE and review the pertinent literature.CASE SUMMARY A 43 year-old Chinese man with a 13-year history of eosinophilia and shortness of breath for 7 d presented to our hospital.During the course of his illness,the patient variably presented with gastrointestinal symptoms,eczema,vitiligo,mastitis,joint symptoms,nephrotic syndrome,and interstitial pneumonia.The chronic mastitis proved burdensome,necessitating bilateral mastectomy.HE was diagnosed by repeat bone marrow biopsy,and a kidney biopsy showed focal segmental glomerulosclerosis.Intermittent steroidal therapy is typically initiated to relieve such symptoms,although relapse and organ involvement often ensue once treatment is withdrawn.We administered methylprednisolone sodium succinate(40 mg/d)intravenously for 3 d,followed by oral tablets at the same dose.Subsequent computed tomography(CT)of the chest CT showed relative improvement of the interstitial pneumonia.The patient is currently on a continuous regimen of oral steroid,and his condition is stable.CONCLUSION HE is heterogeneous condition.This is the first reported case of bilateral mastectomy in a male patient with longstanding HE.

Efficacy of Subcutaneous Administration of Gonadotropin-releasing Hormone Agonist on Idiopathic Central Precocious Puberty

In order to assess the feasibility of subcutaneous administration of Triptorelin with 6-week intervals for the suppression of pituitary-gonadal axis and changes of clinical signs in girls with idiopathic central precocious puberty （ICPP）, 46 girls with ICPP were treated with GnRHa. Triptorelin （Decapeptyl, 3.75 mg） was administered subcutaneously （SC） at 6-weeks intervals or intramuscularly （IM） at 4-weeks intervals randomly for more than 12 months consecutively. During GnRHa therapy, clinical parameters and laboratory data, including height, weight, pubertal stage, bone age, uterine volume and ovarian size, serum levels of luteinizing hormone （LH）, follicle stimulating hormone （FSH） and estradiol （E2）, were monitored and analyzed. It was found that both treatment regimes led to regression of precocious puberty and reversal of secondary sexual characteristics. Breast developments regressed. Uterine volume was decreased after treatment, but there was no statistically significant difference. Mean ovarian volume did not change significantly during treatment. The height velocity was decreased significandy from 6.3±1.4 cm/year to 5.8：1：1.2 cm/year in group SC and 6.7±1.3 cm/year to 5.4±1.0 cm/year in group IM, respectively. The rate of bone maturation was reduced significantly during treatment. The ratio of deltaBAgdeltaCA was 1.2±0.2 or 1.3±0.3 at the onset of therapy and decreased significantly after the treatment to 0.7±0.2 or 0.9±0.1, respectively. The predicted adult height was increased significantly and progressively during therapy. The levels of serum LH, FSH and E2 returned to the prepubertal condition. No significant side effects of therapy were noted. The most common side effect during SC treatment was that a non-irritating, 1 cm in di- ameter mass was palpated at the site of subcutaneous injection in the abdominal wall of patients, which disappeared after 6- 12 weeks. Two girls had minimal withdrawal vaginal bleeding episodes after the first injection. It was concluded that both IM and SC triptorelin administrations were clinically effective. They induce profound suppression of hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis while stabilizing height velocity, slowing bone maturation and increasing predicted adult height. These results suggest that subcutaneous injection of triptorelin in 6-weeks intervals at a dosage of 3.75 mg be a safe and acceptable regimen for ICPP.

Electromyographic study of shoulder and acromioclavicular joint muscles in women who underwent unilateral breast surgery of the types mastectomy and quadrantectomy

We studied 20 women with mean age 57.7 years, being 9 with unilateral quadrantectomy surgery, 1 with surgery type bilateral quadrantectomy and 10 with unilateral mastectomy surgery. The average operative time was 9.8 (nine years and eight months). We studied using surface electromyography the mean deltoid, upper trape-zius and latissimus dorsi muscles in order to check the action potentials of these muscles when performing a sequence of movements of these joints. It was used for the study, an Acquisition Data System ADS1000 containing 12 channels. The electromyography (EMG) results expressed in RMS (Root Mean Square) were analyzed and compared between the surgical and nonsurgical side, among the three repetitions of the sequence of movements and between mastectomy and quadrantectomy for each muscle. For statistical analysis we used analysis of variance (ANOVA) with a double repetition factor

Early and Late Postoperative Pain and Side Effects after Mastectomy: A Comparison of Ketamine and Thiamylal Administered for Anesthetic Induction

Objective: To compare acute and long-term postoperative pain and side effects in patients undergoing mastectomy for breast cancer under general anesthesia induced with ketamine or thiamylal. Methods: Twenty four ASA physical status I-III patients undergoing mastectomy were randomly assigned to one of two groups. Ketamine group received intravenous ketamine, 1 mg/kg, and thiamylal group received intravenous thiamylal, 4 mg/kg, at the induction of general anesthesia. Anesthesia was maintained with sevoflurane, N2O and fentanyl. The intensity of pain was assessed by using visual analog scale (VAS) 3 and 16 hr and 2, 3 and 4 weeks after surgery. Postoperative side effects, including nausea, vomiting and hallucination were also recorded. Results: At 16 hr after surgery, VAS in ketamine group was significantly lower than that in thiamylal group. However, there were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in the VAS at 3 hr and 2, 3 and 4 weeks after surgery. There were no differences in the incidence of side effects such as nausea, vomiting and hallucination between the two groups. Conclusion: Intravenous ketamine at the induction of anesthesia could reduce acute postoperative pain but not long-term pain after mastectomy.