Govind Chauhan - Academia.edu (original) (raw)
Papers by Govind Chauhan
The Annals of The Royal College of Surgeons of England
Introduction We assessed the practice of surgeons regarding venous thromboembolism (VTE) chemical... more Introduction We assessed the practice of surgeons regarding venous thromboembolism (VTE) chemical prophylaxis for total hip replacement (THR) and total knee replacement (TKR), before and after issuing of updated National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance in 2018. Methods A survey, circulated through the British Hip Society and regional trainee networks/collaboratives, was completed by 306 UK surgeons at 187 units. VTE chemical prophylaxis prescribing patterns for surgeons carrying out primary THR (n=258) and TKR (n=253) in low-risk patients was assessed after publication of 2018 NICE recommendations. Prescribing patterns before and after the NICE publication were subsequently explored. Results Following the new guidance, 34% (n=87) used low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) alone, 33% (n=85) aspirin (commonly preceded by LMWH) and 31% (n=81) direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs: with/without preceding LMWH) for THR. For TKR, 42% (n=105) used aspirin (usually monoth...
Bone & Joint Open
AimsPeriprosthetic fractures (PPFs) following hip arthroplasty are complex injuries. This study e... more AimsPeriprosthetic fractures (PPFs) following hip arthroplasty are complex injuries. This study evaluates patient demographic characteristics, management, outcomes, and risk factors associated with PPF subtypes over a decade.MethodsUsing a multicentre collaborative study design, independent of registry data, we identified adults from 29 centres with PPFs around the hip between January 2010 and December 2019. Radiographs were assessed for the Unified Classification System (UCS) grade. Patient and injury characteristics, management, and outcomes were compared between UCS grades. A multinomial logistic regression was performed to estimate relative risk ratios (RRR) of variables on UCS grade.ResultsA total of 1,104 patients were included. The majority were female (57.9%; n = 639), ethnically white (88.5%; n = 977), used mobility aids (67%; n = 743), and had a median age of 82 years (interquartile range (IQR) 74 to 87). A total of 77 (7%) had pain prior to the PPF. The most common UCS gr...
Curēus, Feb 9, 2024
The 2020 COVID-19 pandemic led to a national lockdown and a major reorganization of healthcare se... more The 2020 COVID-19 pandemic led to a national lockdown and a major reorganization of healthcare services in the United Kingdom. The center where the study was done was one of the worst affected hospitals in the United Kingdom at the outset of the pandemic. Our study evaluates the impact of the pandemic and national lockdown on the outcomes for patients undergoing orthopedic trauma surgery. Methods We prospectively identified all patients undergoing orthopedic trauma surgery in the unit from 1st March 2020 to 31st May 2020. We recorded demographics, diagnoses, COVID-19 infection status, length of stay, and mortality. This was compared with a comparative group in the same period in 2018 and 2019. Results There was a significant reduction in the number of orthopedic trauma surgery cases (318) performed in 2020 compared to 2019 (423 cases, p<0.001) and 2018 (444 cases, p<0.001). The mean time from injury to presentation was 3.6 days, with 40 patients (12.6%) presenting more than one week after injury. The 30-day mortality was 8.2%, and the six-month mortality was 15.1%, with both significantly higher than in 2018 (p<0.001) and 2019 (p<0.001). COVID-19 testing was positive in 39% of patients, with 30-day mortality in this group at 37%, rising to a 53% six-month mortality. No patients under the age of 50 years old died. The majority of admissions (51%) were due to falls at home. The second most common mechanism was Do-It-Yourself (DIY) injuries. Road traffic accidents accounted for 2%. Conclusion There were significantly fewer cases of orthopedic trauma surgery during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic compared to the same period in previous years. The type of trauma also showed low numbers of high-energy and sporting injuries as a result of the national lockdown. Patients undergoing orthopedic trauma surgery who tested positive for COVID-19 had significantly higher 30-day mortality than those without COVID-19, and this increased mortality persisted to six months post-operatively. However, patients under 50 years old appear to be at low risk of death.
British Journal of Surgery
Background Healthcare cannot achieve net-zero carbon without addressing operating theatres. The a... more Background Healthcare cannot achieve net-zero carbon without addressing operating theatres. The aim of this study was to prioritize feasible interventions to reduce the environmental impact of operating theatres. Methods This study adopted a four-phase Delphi consensus co-prioritization methodology. In phase 1, a systematic review of published interventions and global consultation of perioperative healthcare professionals were used to longlist interventions. In phase 2, iterative thematic analysis consolidated comparable interventions into a shortlist. In phase 3, the shortlist was co-prioritized based on patient and clinician views on acceptability, feasibility, and safety. In phase 4, ranked lists of interventions were presented by their relevance to high-income countries and low–middle-income countries. Results In phase 1, 43 interventions were identified, which had low uptake in practice according to 3042 professionals globally. In phase 2, a shortlist of 15 intervention domains...
The Foot, 2019
The purpose of this national study was to audit the weight-bearing practice of orthopaedic servic... more The purpose of this national study was to audit the weight-bearing practice of orthopaedic services in the National Health Service (NHS) in the treatment of operatively and non-operatively treated ankle fractures. Methods A multicentre prospective two-week audit of all adult ankle fractures was conducted between July 3 rd 2017 and July 17 th 2017. Fractures were classified using the AO/OTA classification. Fractures fixed with syndesmosis screws or unstable fractures (>1 malleolus fractured or talar shift present) treated conservatively were excluded. No outcome data were collected. In line with NICE (The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) criteria, "early" weight-bearing was defined as unrestricted weightbearing on the affected leg within 3 weeks of injury or surgery and "delayed" weightbearing as unrestricted weight-bearing permitted after 3 weeks. Results 251 collaborators from 81 NHS hospitals collected data: 531 patients were managed non-operatively and 276 operatively. The mean age was 52.6 years and 50.5 respectively. 81% of non-operatively managed patients were instructed for early weight-bearing as recommended by NICE. In contrast, only 21% of operatively managed patients were instructed for early weight-bearing. Discussion The majority of patients with uni-malleolar ankle fractures which are managed nonoperatively are treated in accordance with NICE guidance. There is notable variability amongst and within NHS hospitals in the weight-bearing instructions given to patients with operatively managed ankle fractures. Conclusion This study demonstrates community equipoise and suggests that the randomized study to determine the most effective strategy for postoperative weight-bearing in ankle fractures described in NICE research recommendation is feasible.
The Lancet
Background The 2015 Lancet Commission on global surgery identified surgery and anaesthesia as ind... more Background The 2015 Lancet Commission on global surgery identified surgery and anaesthesia as indispensable parts of holistic health-care systems. However, COVID-19 exposed the fragility of planned surgical services around the world, which have also been neglected in pandemic recovery planning. This study aimed to develop and validate a novel index to support local elective surgical system strengthening and address growing backlogs. Methods First, we performed an international consultation through a four-stage consensus process to develop a multidomain index for hospital-level assessment (surgical preparedness index; SPI). Second, we measured surgical preparedness across a global network of hospitals in high-income countries (HICs), middle-income countries (MICs), and low-income countries (LICs) to explore the distribution of the SPI at national, subnational, and hospital levels. Finally, using COVID-19 as an example of an external system shock, we compared hospitals' SPI to their planned surgical volume ratio (SVR; ie, operations for which the decision for surgery was made before hospital admission), calculated as the ratio of the observed surgical volume over a 1-month assessment period between June 6 and Aug 5, 2021, against the expected surgical volume based on hospital administrative data from the same period in 2019 (ie, a pre-pandemic baseline). A linear mixed-effects regression model was used to determine the effect of increasing SPI score. Findings In the first phase, from a longlist of 103 candidate indicators, 23 were prioritised as core indicators of elective surgical system preparedness by 69 clinicians (23 [33%] women; 46 [67%] men; 41 from HICs, 22 from MICs, and six from LICs) from 32 countries. The multidomain SPI included 11 indicators on facilities and consumables, two on staffing, two on prioritisation, and eight on systems. Hospitals were scored from 23 (least prepared) to 115 points (most prepared). In the second phase, surgical preparedness was measured in 1632 hospitals by 4714 clinicians from 119 countries. 745 (45•6%) of 1632 hospitals were in MICs or LICs. The mean SPI score was 84•5 (95% CI 84•1-84•9), which varied between HIC (88•5 [89•0-88•0]), MIC (81•8 [82•5-81•1]), and LIC (66•8 [64•9-68•7]) settings. In the third phase, 1217 (74•6%) hospitals did not maintain their expected SVR during the COVID-19 pandemic, of which 625 (51•4%) were from HIC, 538 (44•2%) from MIC, and 54 (4•4%) from LIC settings. In the mixed-effects model, a 10-point increase in SPI corresponded to a 3•6% (95% CI 3•0-4•1; p<0•0001) increase in SVR. This was consistent in HIC (4•8% [4•1-5•5]; p<0•0001), MIC (2•8 [2•0-3•7]; p<0•0001), and LIC (3•8 [1•3-6•7%]; p<0•0001) settings. Interpretation The SPI contains 23 indicators that are globally applicable, relevant across different system stressors, vary at a subnational level, and are collectable by front-line teams. In the case study of COVID-19, a higher SPI was associated with an increased planned surgical volume ratio independent of country income status, COVID-19 burden, and hospital type. Hospitals should perform annual self-assessment of their surgical preparedness to identify areas that can be improved, create resilience in local surgical systems, and upscale capacity to address elective surgery backlogs.
Journal of Surgical Protocols and Research Methodologies
The multi-centre trainee-led collaborative research model improves the generalizability of result... more The multi-centre trainee-led collaborative research model improves the generalizability of results, efficiency of data collection, quality of data and sample size. Although an enormous amount of effort and resources are sometimes required, the final results lead to a standard that is unachievable by conventional studies. In this article, we summarize a step-by-step guide on how to set up and run a multi-centre trainee-led collaborative project.
Anaesthesia, 2021
SummaryPeri‐operative SARS‐CoV‐2 infection increases postoperative mortality. The aim of this stu... more SummaryPeri‐operative SARS‐CoV‐2 infection increases postoperative mortality. The aim of this study was to determine the optimal duration of planned delay before surgery in patients who have had SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. This international, multicentre, prospective cohort study included patients undergoing elective or emergency surgery during October 2020. Surgical patients with pre‐operative SARS‐CoV‐2 infection were compared with those without previous SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. The primary outcome measure was 30‐day postoperative mortality. Logistic regression models were used to calculate adjusted 30‐day mortality rates stratified by time from diagnosis of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection to surgery. Among 140,231 patients (116 countries), 3127 patients (2.2%) had a pre‐operative SARS‐CoV‐2 diagnosis. Adjusted 30‐day mortality in patients without SARS‐CoV‐2 infection was 1.5% (95%CI 1.4–1.5). In patients with a pre‐operative SARS‐CoV‐2 diagnosis, mortality was increased in patients having surgery wi...
British Journal of Surgery, 2021
To support the global restart of elective surgery, data from an international prospective cohort ... more To support the global restart of elective surgery, data from an international prospective cohort study of 8492 patients (69 countries) was analysed using artificial intelligence (machine learning techniques) to develop a predictive score for mortality in surgical patients with SARS-CoV-2. We found that patient rather than operation factors were the best predictors and used these to create the COVIDsurg Mortality Score (https://covidsurgrisk.app). Our data demonstrates that it is safe to restart a wide range of surgical services for selected patients.
Anaesthesia, 2021
SummarySARS‐CoV‐2 has been associated with an increased rate of venous thromboembolism in critica... more SummarySARS‐CoV‐2 has been associated with an increased rate of venous thromboembolism in critically ill patients. Since surgical patients are already at higher risk of venous thromboembolism than general populations, this study aimed to determine if patients with peri‐operative or prior SARS‐CoV‐2 were at further increased risk of venous thromboembolism. We conducted a planned sub‐study and analysis from an international, multicentre, prospective cohort study of elective and emergency patients undergoing surgery during October 2020. Patients from all surgical specialties were included. The primary outcome measure was venous thromboembolism (pulmonary embolism or deep vein thrombosis) within 30 days of surgery. SARS‐CoV‐2 diagnosis was defined as peri‐operative (7 days before to 30 days after surgery); recent (1–6 weeks before surgery); previous (≥7 weeks before surgery); or none. Information on prophylaxis regimens or pre‐operative anti‐coagulation for baseline comorbidities was no...
Fracture Management Joint by Joint, 2019
Fractures of the proximal femur, commonly termed hip fracture, is a devastating injury for any ag... more Fractures of the proximal femur, commonly termed hip fracture, is a devastating injury for any age of patient. The injury carries a high mortality as well as significant morbidity and impact of function. They can be divided into intracapsular (also called subcapital) fractures and extracapsular fractures. Extracapsular fractures are further subdivided into basicervical, trochanteric, and subtrochanteric fractures. In this chapter we will discuss the epidemiology, assessment, classification, management, and outcome for patients of intracapsular (subcapital) fractures.
British Journal of Surgery, 2021
Background Preoperative SARS-CoV-2 vaccination could support safer elective surgery. Vaccine numb... more Background Preoperative SARS-CoV-2 vaccination could support safer elective surgery. Vaccine numbers are limited so this study aimed to inform their prioritization by modelling. Methods The primary outcome was the number needed to vaccinate (NNV) to prevent one COVID-19-related death in 1 year. NNVs were based on postoperative SARS-CoV-2 rates and mortality in an international cohort study (surgical patients), and community SARS-CoV-2 incidence and case fatality data (general population). NNV estimates were stratified by age (18–49, 50–69, 70 or more years) and type of surgery. Best- and worst-case scenarios were used to describe uncertainty. Results NNVs were more favourable in surgical patients than the general population. The most favourable NNVs were in patients aged 70 years or more needing cancer surgery (351; best case 196, worst case 816) or non-cancer surgery (733; best case 407, worst case 1664). Both exceeded the NNV in the general population (1840; best case 1196, worst ...
Journal of Surgical Case Reports, 2021
Endometriosis is a common condition with significant morbidity. There have been case reports of e... more Endometriosis is a common condition with significant morbidity. There have been case reports of endometrial deposits affecting the sciatic nerve. Sciatic nerve endometriosis presents with cyclical sciatica and is often difficult to diagnose as it mimics many other causes of sciatica. We report the first case of histological proven endometrial carcinoma arising in a pre-existing sciatic nerve endometriosis. This was initially managed with radiotherapy however symptoms persisted and she opted to have surgery with the aim of better symptom control and long-term prognosis.
Journal of Surgical Protocols and Research Methodologies
Introduction The incidence of femoral periprosthetic fractures (PPFs) in the UK is on the rise. T... more Introduction The incidence of femoral periprosthetic fractures (PPFs) in the UK is on the rise. This rising incidence presents a clinical and an economic burden on the national health care services. There is also uncertainty about the most effective treatment modality for femoral PPFs, as well as a lack of evidence for a standardized management approach. We aimed to identify the true incidence and any variation in the management of femoral PPFs nationally. Methods and analysis This multicentre national collaborative study has been designed by a trainee led research network in collaboration with a well-established university research organization. Data will be collected from participating centres over a period of 10 years (2010–2019). All adults presenting with a femoral PPF will be identified, and the mode of treatment for each fracture subtype will be recorded. Other measures will evaluate patient and treatment variables, objective and subjective outcome measures. Univariate and mu...
British Journal of Surgery, 2021
Background Preoperative SARS-CoV-2 vaccination could support safer elective surgery. Vaccine numb... more Background Preoperative SARS-CoV-2 vaccination could support safer elective surgery. Vaccine numbers are limited so this study aimed to inform their prioritization by modelling. Methods The primary outcome was the number needed to vaccinate (NNV) to prevent one COVID-19-related death in 1 year. NNVs were based on postoperative SARS-CoV-2 rates and mortality in an international cohort study (surgical patients), and community SARS-CoV-2 incidence and case fatality data (general population). NNV estimates were stratified by age (18–49, 50–69, 70 or more years) and type of surgery. Best- and worst-case scenarios were used to describe uncertainty. Results NNVs were more favourable in surgical patients than the general population. The most favourable NNVs were in patients aged 70 years or more needing cancer surgery (351; best case 196, worst case 816) or non-cancer surgery (733; best case 407, worst case 1664). Both exceeded the NNV in the general population (1840; best case 1196, worst ...
Journal of Surgical Protocols and Research Methodologies
Metastatic bone disease (MBD) is a frequently encountered condition in trauma and orthopaedic pra... more Metastatic bone disease (MBD) is a frequently encountered condition in trauma and orthopaedic practice, and delayed or inappropriate management may lead to worse oncological outcomes, dysfunction and reoperation. Updated guidance from the British Orthopaedic Oncology Society (BOOS) and British Orthopaedic Association (BOA), in 2015, aimed to raise awareness of such risks and to set clear standards for the provision of care in MBD patients. However, it is unclear whether these recommendations have been routinely adopted into clinical practice. BOOS and BOA aim to revise and update this guidance, and British Orthopaedic Association Standard for Trauma (BOAST) guidelines relating to MBD management are due to be published. The aim of this collaborative audit is to evaluate and benchmark current practice in the management of MBD prior to the publication of these BOAST guidelines, providing a baseline comparison for further future re-audit.
Journal of Spine Surgery
Background: Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is associated with both asymmetry of the torso ... more Background: Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is associated with both asymmetry of the torso (rib hump) and vertebral body rotation (VBR). Current surgical techniques aim to reduce the VBR and rib hump. However, it is not clear how the vertebral rotation and thoracic asymmetry are linked. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed in which all adolescent patients with a diagnosis of AIS (Lenke curve type one to four only), a minimum 2-year follow up and a complete data set of radiographs, Integrated Shape Imaging System 2 (ISIS2) surface topography and axial imaging within a 6-week period were included. The Cobb angle was obtained from the radiograph, the maximum VBR was measured from the axial imaging using the Aaro and Dahlborn technique and the largest maximum skin angle (MSA) was taken from the ISIS2 topography. MSA is the ISIS2 parameter and is similar in nature to a scoliometer. Results: From the surface topography database of AIS, 51 met the inclusion criteria. There were 6 males and 45 females with a mean age of 14.6 years (SD 1.4, range, 11.2 to 17.7). The mean Cobb angle was 54.4° (SD 13.8°, range, 29° to 92°). Mean MSA was 11.7° (SD 4.0°, range, 4° to 23°). Mean VBR was 14.3° (SD 4.3°, range, 8° to 24°). Through linear regression techniques, the relationships between Cobb angle, MSA and VBR were examined. The R 2 between Cobb angle and MSA was 9%, between Cobb angle and VBR was 23% and between MSA and VBR was 16%. A multiple regression analysis did not improve these results. Conclusions: Whilst AIS features both VBR and torso asymmetry, they are poorly related to each other. This may help to explain why surgical de-rotation of the spine does not fully address the rib hump as other factors, yet to be defined, must be involved.
The Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 2015
The purpose of this clinical practice guideline is to help improve treatment and management of hi... more The purpose of this clinical practice guideline is to help improve treatment and management of hip fractures in the elderly based on current best evidence. The guideline contains twenty-five recommendations, including both diagnosis and treatment. Of those recommendations, strong evidence supports regional analgesia to improve preoperative pain control, similar outcomes for general or spinal anesthesia, arthroplasty for patients with unstable (displaced) femoral neck fractures, the use of a cephalomedullary device for the treatment of patients with subtrochanteric or reverse obliquity fractures, a blood transfusion threshold of no higher than 8 g/dL in asymptomatic postoperative patients, intensive physical therapy postdischarge, use of an interdisciplinary care program in patients with mild to moderate dementia, and multimodal pain management after hip fracture surgery. In addition to the recommendations, the work group highlighted the need for better research in the treatment of h...
The Annals of The Royal College of Surgeons of England
Introduction We assessed the practice of surgeons regarding venous thromboembolism (VTE) chemical... more Introduction We assessed the practice of surgeons regarding venous thromboembolism (VTE) chemical prophylaxis for total hip replacement (THR) and total knee replacement (TKR), before and after issuing of updated National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance in 2018. Methods A survey, circulated through the British Hip Society and regional trainee networks/collaboratives, was completed by 306 UK surgeons at 187 units. VTE chemical prophylaxis prescribing patterns for surgeons carrying out primary THR (n=258) and TKR (n=253) in low-risk patients was assessed after publication of 2018 NICE recommendations. Prescribing patterns before and after the NICE publication were subsequently explored. Results Following the new guidance, 34% (n=87) used low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) alone, 33% (n=85) aspirin (commonly preceded by LMWH) and 31% (n=81) direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs: with/without preceding LMWH) for THR. For TKR, 42% (n=105) used aspirin (usually monoth...
Bone & Joint Open
AimsPeriprosthetic fractures (PPFs) following hip arthroplasty are complex injuries. This study e... more AimsPeriprosthetic fractures (PPFs) following hip arthroplasty are complex injuries. This study evaluates patient demographic characteristics, management, outcomes, and risk factors associated with PPF subtypes over a decade.MethodsUsing a multicentre collaborative study design, independent of registry data, we identified adults from 29 centres with PPFs around the hip between January 2010 and December 2019. Radiographs were assessed for the Unified Classification System (UCS) grade. Patient and injury characteristics, management, and outcomes were compared between UCS grades. A multinomial logistic regression was performed to estimate relative risk ratios (RRR) of variables on UCS grade.ResultsA total of 1,104 patients were included. The majority were female (57.9%; n = 639), ethnically white (88.5%; n = 977), used mobility aids (67%; n = 743), and had a median age of 82 years (interquartile range (IQR) 74 to 87). A total of 77 (7%) had pain prior to the PPF. The most common UCS gr...
Curēus, Feb 9, 2024
The 2020 COVID-19 pandemic led to a national lockdown and a major reorganization of healthcare se... more The 2020 COVID-19 pandemic led to a national lockdown and a major reorganization of healthcare services in the United Kingdom. The center where the study was done was one of the worst affected hospitals in the United Kingdom at the outset of the pandemic. Our study evaluates the impact of the pandemic and national lockdown on the outcomes for patients undergoing orthopedic trauma surgery. Methods We prospectively identified all patients undergoing orthopedic trauma surgery in the unit from 1st March 2020 to 31st May 2020. We recorded demographics, diagnoses, COVID-19 infection status, length of stay, and mortality. This was compared with a comparative group in the same period in 2018 and 2019. Results There was a significant reduction in the number of orthopedic trauma surgery cases (318) performed in 2020 compared to 2019 (423 cases, p<0.001) and 2018 (444 cases, p<0.001). The mean time from injury to presentation was 3.6 days, with 40 patients (12.6%) presenting more than one week after injury. The 30-day mortality was 8.2%, and the six-month mortality was 15.1%, with both significantly higher than in 2018 (p<0.001) and 2019 (p<0.001). COVID-19 testing was positive in 39% of patients, with 30-day mortality in this group at 37%, rising to a 53% six-month mortality. No patients under the age of 50 years old died. The majority of admissions (51%) were due to falls at home. The second most common mechanism was Do-It-Yourself (DIY) injuries. Road traffic accidents accounted for 2%. Conclusion There were significantly fewer cases of orthopedic trauma surgery during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic compared to the same period in previous years. The type of trauma also showed low numbers of high-energy and sporting injuries as a result of the national lockdown. Patients undergoing orthopedic trauma surgery who tested positive for COVID-19 had significantly higher 30-day mortality than those without COVID-19, and this increased mortality persisted to six months post-operatively. However, patients under 50 years old appear to be at low risk of death.
British Journal of Surgery
Background Healthcare cannot achieve net-zero carbon without addressing operating theatres. The a... more Background Healthcare cannot achieve net-zero carbon without addressing operating theatres. The aim of this study was to prioritize feasible interventions to reduce the environmental impact of operating theatres. Methods This study adopted a four-phase Delphi consensus co-prioritization methodology. In phase 1, a systematic review of published interventions and global consultation of perioperative healthcare professionals were used to longlist interventions. In phase 2, iterative thematic analysis consolidated comparable interventions into a shortlist. In phase 3, the shortlist was co-prioritized based on patient and clinician views on acceptability, feasibility, and safety. In phase 4, ranked lists of interventions were presented by their relevance to high-income countries and low–middle-income countries. Results In phase 1, 43 interventions were identified, which had low uptake in practice according to 3042 professionals globally. In phase 2, a shortlist of 15 intervention domains...
The Foot, 2019
The purpose of this national study was to audit the weight-bearing practice of orthopaedic servic... more The purpose of this national study was to audit the weight-bearing practice of orthopaedic services in the National Health Service (NHS) in the treatment of operatively and non-operatively treated ankle fractures. Methods A multicentre prospective two-week audit of all adult ankle fractures was conducted between July 3 rd 2017 and July 17 th 2017. Fractures were classified using the AO/OTA classification. Fractures fixed with syndesmosis screws or unstable fractures (>1 malleolus fractured or talar shift present) treated conservatively were excluded. No outcome data were collected. In line with NICE (The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) criteria, "early" weight-bearing was defined as unrestricted weightbearing on the affected leg within 3 weeks of injury or surgery and "delayed" weightbearing as unrestricted weight-bearing permitted after 3 weeks. Results 251 collaborators from 81 NHS hospitals collected data: 531 patients were managed non-operatively and 276 operatively. The mean age was 52.6 years and 50.5 respectively. 81% of non-operatively managed patients were instructed for early weight-bearing as recommended by NICE. In contrast, only 21% of operatively managed patients were instructed for early weight-bearing. Discussion The majority of patients with uni-malleolar ankle fractures which are managed nonoperatively are treated in accordance with NICE guidance. There is notable variability amongst and within NHS hospitals in the weight-bearing instructions given to patients with operatively managed ankle fractures. Conclusion This study demonstrates community equipoise and suggests that the randomized study to determine the most effective strategy for postoperative weight-bearing in ankle fractures described in NICE research recommendation is feasible.
The Lancet
Background The 2015 Lancet Commission on global surgery identified surgery and anaesthesia as ind... more Background The 2015 Lancet Commission on global surgery identified surgery and anaesthesia as indispensable parts of holistic health-care systems. However, COVID-19 exposed the fragility of planned surgical services around the world, which have also been neglected in pandemic recovery planning. This study aimed to develop and validate a novel index to support local elective surgical system strengthening and address growing backlogs. Methods First, we performed an international consultation through a four-stage consensus process to develop a multidomain index for hospital-level assessment (surgical preparedness index; SPI). Second, we measured surgical preparedness across a global network of hospitals in high-income countries (HICs), middle-income countries (MICs), and low-income countries (LICs) to explore the distribution of the SPI at national, subnational, and hospital levels. Finally, using COVID-19 as an example of an external system shock, we compared hospitals' SPI to their planned surgical volume ratio (SVR; ie, operations for which the decision for surgery was made before hospital admission), calculated as the ratio of the observed surgical volume over a 1-month assessment period between June 6 and Aug 5, 2021, against the expected surgical volume based on hospital administrative data from the same period in 2019 (ie, a pre-pandemic baseline). A linear mixed-effects regression model was used to determine the effect of increasing SPI score. Findings In the first phase, from a longlist of 103 candidate indicators, 23 were prioritised as core indicators of elective surgical system preparedness by 69 clinicians (23 [33%] women; 46 [67%] men; 41 from HICs, 22 from MICs, and six from LICs) from 32 countries. The multidomain SPI included 11 indicators on facilities and consumables, two on staffing, two on prioritisation, and eight on systems. Hospitals were scored from 23 (least prepared) to 115 points (most prepared). In the second phase, surgical preparedness was measured in 1632 hospitals by 4714 clinicians from 119 countries. 745 (45•6%) of 1632 hospitals were in MICs or LICs. The mean SPI score was 84•5 (95% CI 84•1-84•9), which varied between HIC (88•5 [89•0-88•0]), MIC (81•8 [82•5-81•1]), and LIC (66•8 [64•9-68•7]) settings. In the third phase, 1217 (74•6%) hospitals did not maintain their expected SVR during the COVID-19 pandemic, of which 625 (51•4%) were from HIC, 538 (44•2%) from MIC, and 54 (4•4%) from LIC settings. In the mixed-effects model, a 10-point increase in SPI corresponded to a 3•6% (95% CI 3•0-4•1; p<0•0001) increase in SVR. This was consistent in HIC (4•8% [4•1-5•5]; p<0•0001), MIC (2•8 [2•0-3•7]; p<0•0001), and LIC (3•8 [1•3-6•7%]; p<0•0001) settings. Interpretation The SPI contains 23 indicators that are globally applicable, relevant across different system stressors, vary at a subnational level, and are collectable by front-line teams. In the case study of COVID-19, a higher SPI was associated with an increased planned surgical volume ratio independent of country income status, COVID-19 burden, and hospital type. Hospitals should perform annual self-assessment of their surgical preparedness to identify areas that can be improved, create resilience in local surgical systems, and upscale capacity to address elective surgery backlogs.
Journal of Surgical Protocols and Research Methodologies
The multi-centre trainee-led collaborative research model improves the generalizability of result... more The multi-centre trainee-led collaborative research model improves the generalizability of results, efficiency of data collection, quality of data and sample size. Although an enormous amount of effort and resources are sometimes required, the final results lead to a standard that is unachievable by conventional studies. In this article, we summarize a step-by-step guide on how to set up and run a multi-centre trainee-led collaborative project.
Anaesthesia, 2021
SummaryPeri‐operative SARS‐CoV‐2 infection increases postoperative mortality. The aim of this stu... more SummaryPeri‐operative SARS‐CoV‐2 infection increases postoperative mortality. The aim of this study was to determine the optimal duration of planned delay before surgery in patients who have had SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. This international, multicentre, prospective cohort study included patients undergoing elective or emergency surgery during October 2020. Surgical patients with pre‐operative SARS‐CoV‐2 infection were compared with those without previous SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. The primary outcome measure was 30‐day postoperative mortality. Logistic regression models were used to calculate adjusted 30‐day mortality rates stratified by time from diagnosis of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection to surgery. Among 140,231 patients (116 countries), 3127 patients (2.2%) had a pre‐operative SARS‐CoV‐2 diagnosis. Adjusted 30‐day mortality in patients without SARS‐CoV‐2 infection was 1.5% (95%CI 1.4–1.5). In patients with a pre‐operative SARS‐CoV‐2 diagnosis, mortality was increased in patients having surgery wi...
British Journal of Surgery, 2021
To support the global restart of elective surgery, data from an international prospective cohort ... more To support the global restart of elective surgery, data from an international prospective cohort study of 8492 patients (69 countries) was analysed using artificial intelligence (machine learning techniques) to develop a predictive score for mortality in surgical patients with SARS-CoV-2. We found that patient rather than operation factors were the best predictors and used these to create the COVIDsurg Mortality Score (https://covidsurgrisk.app). Our data demonstrates that it is safe to restart a wide range of surgical services for selected patients.
Anaesthesia, 2021
SummarySARS‐CoV‐2 has been associated with an increased rate of venous thromboembolism in critica... more SummarySARS‐CoV‐2 has been associated with an increased rate of venous thromboembolism in critically ill patients. Since surgical patients are already at higher risk of venous thromboembolism than general populations, this study aimed to determine if patients with peri‐operative or prior SARS‐CoV‐2 were at further increased risk of venous thromboembolism. We conducted a planned sub‐study and analysis from an international, multicentre, prospective cohort study of elective and emergency patients undergoing surgery during October 2020. Patients from all surgical specialties were included. The primary outcome measure was venous thromboembolism (pulmonary embolism or deep vein thrombosis) within 30 days of surgery. SARS‐CoV‐2 diagnosis was defined as peri‐operative (7 days before to 30 days after surgery); recent (1–6 weeks before surgery); previous (≥7 weeks before surgery); or none. Information on prophylaxis regimens or pre‐operative anti‐coagulation for baseline comorbidities was no...
Fracture Management Joint by Joint, 2019
Fractures of the proximal femur, commonly termed hip fracture, is a devastating injury for any ag... more Fractures of the proximal femur, commonly termed hip fracture, is a devastating injury for any age of patient. The injury carries a high mortality as well as significant morbidity and impact of function. They can be divided into intracapsular (also called subcapital) fractures and extracapsular fractures. Extracapsular fractures are further subdivided into basicervical, trochanteric, and subtrochanteric fractures. In this chapter we will discuss the epidemiology, assessment, classification, management, and outcome for patients of intracapsular (subcapital) fractures.
British Journal of Surgery, 2021
Background Preoperative SARS-CoV-2 vaccination could support safer elective surgery. Vaccine numb... more Background Preoperative SARS-CoV-2 vaccination could support safer elective surgery. Vaccine numbers are limited so this study aimed to inform their prioritization by modelling. Methods The primary outcome was the number needed to vaccinate (NNV) to prevent one COVID-19-related death in 1 year. NNVs were based on postoperative SARS-CoV-2 rates and mortality in an international cohort study (surgical patients), and community SARS-CoV-2 incidence and case fatality data (general population). NNV estimates were stratified by age (18–49, 50–69, 70 or more years) and type of surgery. Best- and worst-case scenarios were used to describe uncertainty. Results NNVs were more favourable in surgical patients than the general population. The most favourable NNVs were in patients aged 70 years or more needing cancer surgery (351; best case 196, worst case 816) or non-cancer surgery (733; best case 407, worst case 1664). Both exceeded the NNV in the general population (1840; best case 1196, worst ...
Journal of Surgical Case Reports, 2021
Endometriosis is a common condition with significant morbidity. There have been case reports of e... more Endometriosis is a common condition with significant morbidity. There have been case reports of endometrial deposits affecting the sciatic nerve. Sciatic nerve endometriosis presents with cyclical sciatica and is often difficult to diagnose as it mimics many other causes of sciatica. We report the first case of histological proven endometrial carcinoma arising in a pre-existing sciatic nerve endometriosis. This was initially managed with radiotherapy however symptoms persisted and she opted to have surgery with the aim of better symptom control and long-term prognosis.
Journal of Surgical Protocols and Research Methodologies
Introduction The incidence of femoral periprosthetic fractures (PPFs) in the UK is on the rise. T... more Introduction The incidence of femoral periprosthetic fractures (PPFs) in the UK is on the rise. This rising incidence presents a clinical and an economic burden on the national health care services. There is also uncertainty about the most effective treatment modality for femoral PPFs, as well as a lack of evidence for a standardized management approach. We aimed to identify the true incidence and any variation in the management of femoral PPFs nationally. Methods and analysis This multicentre national collaborative study has been designed by a trainee led research network in collaboration with a well-established university research organization. Data will be collected from participating centres over a period of 10 years (2010–2019). All adults presenting with a femoral PPF will be identified, and the mode of treatment for each fracture subtype will be recorded. Other measures will evaluate patient and treatment variables, objective and subjective outcome measures. Univariate and mu...
British Journal of Surgery, 2021
Background Preoperative SARS-CoV-2 vaccination could support safer elective surgery. Vaccine numb... more Background Preoperative SARS-CoV-2 vaccination could support safer elective surgery. Vaccine numbers are limited so this study aimed to inform their prioritization by modelling. Methods The primary outcome was the number needed to vaccinate (NNV) to prevent one COVID-19-related death in 1 year. NNVs were based on postoperative SARS-CoV-2 rates and mortality in an international cohort study (surgical patients), and community SARS-CoV-2 incidence and case fatality data (general population). NNV estimates were stratified by age (18–49, 50–69, 70 or more years) and type of surgery. Best- and worst-case scenarios were used to describe uncertainty. Results NNVs were more favourable in surgical patients than the general population. The most favourable NNVs were in patients aged 70 years or more needing cancer surgery (351; best case 196, worst case 816) or non-cancer surgery (733; best case 407, worst case 1664). Both exceeded the NNV in the general population (1840; best case 1196, worst ...
Journal of Surgical Protocols and Research Methodologies
Metastatic bone disease (MBD) is a frequently encountered condition in trauma and orthopaedic pra... more Metastatic bone disease (MBD) is a frequently encountered condition in trauma and orthopaedic practice, and delayed or inappropriate management may lead to worse oncological outcomes, dysfunction and reoperation. Updated guidance from the British Orthopaedic Oncology Society (BOOS) and British Orthopaedic Association (BOA), in 2015, aimed to raise awareness of such risks and to set clear standards for the provision of care in MBD patients. However, it is unclear whether these recommendations have been routinely adopted into clinical practice. BOOS and BOA aim to revise and update this guidance, and British Orthopaedic Association Standard for Trauma (BOAST) guidelines relating to MBD management are due to be published. The aim of this collaborative audit is to evaluate and benchmark current practice in the management of MBD prior to the publication of these BOAST guidelines, providing a baseline comparison for further future re-audit.
Journal of Spine Surgery
Background: Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is associated with both asymmetry of the torso ... more Background: Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is associated with both asymmetry of the torso (rib hump) and vertebral body rotation (VBR). Current surgical techniques aim to reduce the VBR and rib hump. However, it is not clear how the vertebral rotation and thoracic asymmetry are linked. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed in which all adolescent patients with a diagnosis of AIS (Lenke curve type one to four only), a minimum 2-year follow up and a complete data set of radiographs, Integrated Shape Imaging System 2 (ISIS2) surface topography and axial imaging within a 6-week period were included. The Cobb angle was obtained from the radiograph, the maximum VBR was measured from the axial imaging using the Aaro and Dahlborn technique and the largest maximum skin angle (MSA) was taken from the ISIS2 topography. MSA is the ISIS2 parameter and is similar in nature to a scoliometer. Results: From the surface topography database of AIS, 51 met the inclusion criteria. There were 6 males and 45 females with a mean age of 14.6 years (SD 1.4, range, 11.2 to 17.7). The mean Cobb angle was 54.4° (SD 13.8°, range, 29° to 92°). Mean MSA was 11.7° (SD 4.0°, range, 4° to 23°). Mean VBR was 14.3° (SD 4.3°, range, 8° to 24°). Through linear regression techniques, the relationships between Cobb angle, MSA and VBR were examined. The R 2 between Cobb angle and MSA was 9%, between Cobb angle and VBR was 23% and between MSA and VBR was 16%. A multiple regression analysis did not improve these results. Conclusions: Whilst AIS features both VBR and torso asymmetry, they are poorly related to each other. This may help to explain why surgical de-rotation of the spine does not fully address the rib hump as other factors, yet to be defined, must be involved.
The Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 2015
The purpose of this clinical practice guideline is to help improve treatment and management of hi... more The purpose of this clinical practice guideline is to help improve treatment and management of hip fractures in the elderly based on current best evidence. The guideline contains twenty-five recommendations, including both diagnosis and treatment. Of those recommendations, strong evidence supports regional analgesia to improve preoperative pain control, similar outcomes for general or spinal anesthesia, arthroplasty for patients with unstable (displaced) femoral neck fractures, the use of a cephalomedullary device for the treatment of patients with subtrochanteric or reverse obliquity fractures, a blood transfusion threshold of no higher than 8 g/dL in asymptomatic postoperative patients, intensive physical therapy postdischarge, use of an interdisciplinary care program in patients with mild to moderate dementia, and multimodal pain management after hip fracture surgery. In addition to the recommendations, the work group highlighted the need for better research in the treatment of h...