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Papers by Inam Pal

Research paper thumbnail of T-tube placement as a method for treating penetrating oesophageal injuries

International Journal of Surgery Case Reports, 2016

INTRODUCTION: Penetrating oesophageal injuries are extremely rare. Their timely recognition can b... more INTRODUCTION: Penetrating oesophageal injuries are extremely rare. Their timely recognition can be difficult and optimal treatment remains controversial. Early recognition of injury is possible with the help of a high index of suspicion and early radiological and endoscopic examinations. Prompt surgical intervention with primary repair of injury, should be the goal. PRESENTATION OF CASES: We describe two cases of penetrating oesophageal trauma where T-Tube placement through the oesophageal defect, was successfully employed. Both cases proved to be challenging due to time lapse after injury and anatomical location. DISCUSSION: Penetrating injuries to the Oesophagus are rare with a reported incidence of 11-17%, most are due to gunshot injuries or stabbings, cervical followed by the thoracic Oesophagus are most at risk. In delayed presentations and sepsis related multi-organ instability, diversion and drainage are considered appropriate. T-tube placement through defects in difficult situations of delayed presentation is well described in setting of iatrogenic perforations. Their use has been described in penetrating injuries but much less frequently. CONCLUSION: T-tube placement though oesophageal defects can prove to be an effective treatment option to repair both iatrogenic and penetrating injuries of the Oesophagus, whether early or delayed.

Research paper thumbnail of Abstract #544 The Many Guises of Primary Hyperparathyroidism: An Unchanged Scenario

Research paper thumbnail of Changing trends in surgical management for acute cholecystitis, in light of Tokyo guidelines - 14 year experience

JOURNAL OF PAKISTAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, 2019

To look for trends in surgical management of acute cholecystitis and compare the outcomes of pati... more To look for trends in surgical management of acute cholecystitis and compare the outcomes of patients with severe condition. The retrospective study was conducted at Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, from January to December 2016, and comprised data of adult patients who underwent cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis from January 1, 2001, to December 31, 2014. Record of patients from 2001 to 2007 was designated in Group-1 while Group-II covered period between 2008 and 2014. Severe cases of acute cholecystitis were divided into similar period-based Group-A and Group-B. Data was analysed using SPSS 20. Of the 1153 patients, 521(45.2%) were males. The overall mean age was 49.3+14 years. There were 309(36.2%) patents in Group-I and 844(73.2%) in Group-II. Early laparoscopic-cholecystectomy was performed in 907(78%) patients. Postoperative morbidity was observed in 73(6.3%) patients. In Group-II, there was significant increase in early cholecystectomy, decrease in conversion rate...

Research paper thumbnail of The many guises of primary hyperparathyroidism: An unchanged scenario

JOURNAL OF PAKISTAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, 2017

To study the causes, characteristics and outcome of treatment of patients with primary hyperparat... more To study the causes, characteristics and outcome of treatment of patients with primary hyperparathyroidism. This retrospective cohort analysis was conducted at the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, Karachi, and comprised data of patients with primary hyperparathyroidism between 2004 and 2014. .SPSS 17 was used for data analysis. Of the 25 patients,1(4%)was male and 24(96%) were female. The overall mean age was 41.72±15.9 years, with a mean duration of symptoms of 4.1±3.3 years. The mean pre-operative parathyroid hormone level was 879.48±793.51 pg/ml. Skeletal manifestations were reported in 17(68%) patients, whereas 4(16%) patients had renal stone disease. Besides, 2(8.0%) patients presented with severe abdominal pain, 1(4%) had asymptomatic hypercalcaemia and 1(4%) patient presented with headache and was diagnosed as parathyroid adenoma in the context of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2A. All patients underwent parathyroidectomy. A solitary adenoma was reported in 23(92%) pati...

Research paper thumbnail of Over a decade of changing trends in surgical mortality; audit from a tertiary care hospital

JOURNAL OF PAKISTAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, 2017

A retrospective audit of the trend of mortality in the general surgery service at our hospital ov... more A retrospective audit of the trend of mortality in the general surgery service at our hospital over the last decade was conducted to reflect the complexity of cases being seen. Mortalities of 8 separate years, a decade apart, namely 1997, 1998, 1999, and 2000 as initial years (Group-I) and 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014 as recent years (Group-II) were reviewed. Total number of admissions in the service and surgeries performed during these two periods experienced an increase of 50.7% & 64.2 % respectively. The total mortalities showed an increase with 139 (mortality rate 0.96%) seen in Group I to 285 (mortality rate 1.31%) seen in Group II a percentage increase of 105%. Comparing the operative mortality, separately, mortality rate dropped from 1.21% to 1.16% of all surgeries. Analyzing non-operative mortality showed a significant increase from six deaths in Group-I comprising 4.3% to 76 non-operative deaths in Group-II corresponding to 26.7% (p=0.000). Deaths due to Trauma increased from ...

Research paper thumbnail of Hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm; a rare complication of amoebic liver abscess

JOURNAL OF PAKISTAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, 2011

Hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm (HAP) is an infrequently encountered entity, usually seen secondary... more Hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm (HAP) is an infrequently encountered entity, usually seen secondary to blunt or penetrating trauma. The clinical presentation is often due to complications such as intrahepatic or intraperitoneal bleeding as a result of rupture of the pseudoaneurysm. Diagnosis is frequently delayed and made by splanchnic angiography. HAP associated with a liver abscess, has very rarely been described in the literature. We report the case of a 50-year-old man with amoebic liver abscess and right hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm which was suspected on high resolution contrast-enhanced abdominal computer tomography (CT). The lesion was confirmed by arteriography and treated prophylactically with transcatheteter embolization.

Research paper thumbnail of 5. Breaking a Bad News of Cancer; Patients’ Understanding, Fears and Preferences for Communications: A Developing Country Perspective

European Journal of Surgical Oncology, 2018

Research paper thumbnail of Hookworm infestation as a cause of melena and severe anaemia in farmer

JPMA. The Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association, 2017

Hookworm infections remain a major cause of morbidity in the developing world. Prevalence is high... more Hookworm infections remain a major cause of morbidity in the developing world. Prevalence is highest in agricultural areas, where use of waste water for irrigation and poor hygiene increases infection rates among farmers. Infections present with gastrointestinal symptoms and chronic anaemia, and there are usually no signs of overt blood loss. The following report describes a case of melena in a middle-aged farmer, where the diagnosis of hookworm infestation was delayed due to the unusual presentation. The patient underwent multiple blood transfusions before referral to the Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH), Karachi and was managed conservatively with mebendazole at our hospital after exclusion of other possible causes of gastrointestinal bleeding. This case highlights the importance of considering hookworm infestations as a cause of melena in the older age group, where other critical differentials such as peptic ulcer disease and occult malignancy may result in delay in initiation...

Research paper thumbnail of Nosocomial infections in the ICU: Pens and spectacles as fomites

JPMA. The Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association, 2016

Nosocomial infections are a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Non-medical objects known as ... more Nosocomial infections are a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Non-medical objects known as fomites may have a role in their genesis. We investigated the significance of writing pens and spectacles as fomites. The study was conducted at Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, from July 2013 to September 2013. Cultures were taken from pens and/or spectacles of resident nurses, doctors and nursing assistants in intensive care unit (ICU). Organisms important in ICU nosocomial infections were targeted. Seven rounds of sampling over 3 weeks led to 55 pen and 5 spectacle samples. Growth was seen in 3(5.5%) pen samples and 1(20%) spectacle sample. Two (3.6%) pen cultures grew acinetobacter, 1)1.8%) grew candida and acinetobacter, and i spectacle culture grew vancomycin-resistant enterococcus faecium (VRE). Two out of the 4 (50%) personnel managing all ICU beds had growth. During the study, one or more ICU patients had infection with the same organisms. Pens and spectacles may be respon...

Research paper thumbnail of Carcinosarcoma of the esophagus

Carcinosarcoma of the esophagus is a rare neoplasm characterized histologically by presence of ca... more Carcinosarcoma of the esophagus is a rare neoplasm characterized histologically by presence of carcinomatous and sarcomatous elements. Case report of carcinosarcoma of the esophagogastric junction whose morphological and immunohistochemical features makes it quite distinctive from other tumours is presented. It was an ulcerated lesion diagnosed in an elderly Afghan lady located 34 cms from the incisor teeth. The patient was a smoker.

Research paper thumbnail of Over a decade of changing trends in surgical mortality; audit from a tertiary care hospital

OBJECTIVE A retrospective audit of the trend of mortality in the general surgery service at our h... more OBJECTIVE A retrospective audit of the trend of mortality in the general surgery service at our hospital over the last decade was conducted to reflect the complexity of cases being seen. METHODS Mortalities of 8 separate years, a decade apart, namely 1997, 1998, 1999, and 2000 as initial years (Group-I) and 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014 as recent years (Group-II) were reviewed. RESULTS Total number of admissions in the service and surgeries performed during these two periods experienced an increase of 50.7% & 64.2 % respectively. The total mortalities showed an increase with 139 (mortality rate 0.96%) seen in Group I to 285 (mortality rate 1.31%) seen in Group II a percentage increase of 105%. Comparing the operative mortality, separately, mortality rate dropped from 1.21% to 1.16% of all surgeries. Analyzing non-operative mortality showed a significant increase from six deaths in Group-I comprising 4.3% to 76 non-operative deaths in Group-II corresponding to 26.7% (p=0.000). Deaths due...

Research paper thumbnail of Abstract #545 Early Recurrence of Elevated Parathyroid Hormone After Successful Removal of Parathyroid Adenoma

Research paper thumbnail of Abstract #544 The Many Guises of Primary Hyperparathyroidism: An Unchanged Scenario

Research paper thumbnail of Pancreaticoduodenectomy: a developing country perspective

JPMA. The Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association, 2011

OBJECTIVE To review retrospectively, the resultsof Whipple's procedure from 1986 to December ... more OBJECTIVE To review retrospectively, the resultsof Whipple's procedure from 1986 to December 2009 at the Aga Khan University Hospital. METHODS Patient's case notes were reviewed to extract information related to demographics, clinical and laboratory data, operative procedure and post operative period. Surgical mortality was defined as death within 30 days of procedure. RESULTS Hundred and twenty one patients underwent a successful pancreaticoduodenectomy during this period. There were 78 males and 43 females. Most presented with clinical features of obstructive jaundice. Perioperative evaluation in the majority included an abdominal ultrasound and contrast enhanced CT scan. A preoperative ERCP was performed in 64 (53%) patients and a stent was placed in 32 (26%). Stent related sepsis was noted in 8 patients (25%). Eighty four (69%) patients underwent a standard resection, 31% had a pylorus preserving procedure. The commonest pathology was adeno-carcinoma located in the pancr...

Research paper thumbnail of Role of early contrast enhanced CT scan in severity prediction of acute pancreatitis

Severe pancreatitis occurs in approximately 15-25% of patients with acute pancreatitis. The objec... more Severe pancreatitis occurs in approximately 15-25% of patients with acute pancreatitis. The objective of our study was to compare the CT Severity Index (CTSI) with a clinical score (BISAP score) to predict severity of acute pancreatitis. Forty-eight consecutive patients with acute pancreatitis who underwent contrast enhanced CT scan within 72 hours of presentation were included. Results of our study showed that both CTSI and BISAP score were reliable predictors of mortality (p value = 0.019 and <0.001 respectively) and need for mechanical ventilation (p value = .002 and .006 respectively). Positive predictive value of CTSI to predict recovery without intervention was 91.4% as compared to 78% for that of BISAP score. Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) Curves showed CT scan was superior to BISAP Score in predicting need of percutaneous or surgical intervention. Early CT scan may be utilized for prediction of clinical course of patients with acute pancreatitis.

Research paper thumbnail of Association Between Perioperative Hypothermia and Surgical Site Infection After Elective Abdominal Surgery: A Prospective Cohort Study

Research paper thumbnail of Sclerosing peritonitis presenting as complete mechanical bowel obstruction: a case report

Journal of Medical Case Reports

Introduction: Sclerosing peritonitis or abdominal cocoon syndrome is characterized by small bowel... more Introduction: Sclerosing peritonitis or abdominal cocoon syndrome is characterized by small bowel loops completely encapsulated by a fibrocollagenous membrane in the center of the abdomen. Although cocooning of the abdomen is mostly seen in patients on peritoneal dialysis, it can occur de novo; it very rarely manifests as complete mechanical bowel obstruction. Case presentation: A 46-year-old Asian man presented with complete mechanical bowel obstruction. He had previous attacks of partial bowel obstruction during the past 6 to 8 months, which was misdiagnosed as abdominal tuberculosis because tuberculosis is very prevalent in the region in which he lives. He took anti-tuberculosis therapy for 3 months but this did not result in resolution of his symptoms. This time he had diagnostic laparoscopy followed by laparotomy in which a fibrocollagenous membrane, resulting in entrapment of his bowel, was excised and his entire small bowel was freed. Postoperatively he again had a mild episode of partial bowel obstruction but this was relieved with a short course of steroids. Discussion: Sclerosing peritonitis is a rare benign etiology of complete mechanical bowel obstruction. Patients might have suffered recurrent attacks of partial bowel obstruction in the past that were falsely managed on lines of other conditions such as tuberculosis, especially in endemic areas like Pakistan or India. Conclusion: Sclerosing peritonitis is a rare benign diagnosis which can manifest as complete bowel obstruction and a high index of suspicion is required to diagnose it. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography of the abdomen is a useful radiological tool to aid in preoperative diagnosis. Diagnostic laparoscopy is usually confirmatory. Peritoneal sac excision and adhesiolysis is the treatment and a short course of steroids in relapsing symptoms.

Research paper thumbnail of Changing Trends in Surgical Management for Acute Cholecystitis, in Light of Tokyo Guidelines - 14 Year Experience

Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association

Research paper thumbnail of Role of Percutaneous Cholecystostomy Tube Placement in the Management of Acute Calculus Cholecystitis in High Risk Patients

Journal of the College of Physicians and Surgeons--Pakistan : JCPSP, 2018

To evaluate the utility of percutaneous cholecystostomy tube in patients with acute calculus chol... more To evaluate the utility of percutaneous cholecystostomy tube in patients with acute calculus cholecystitis, who are considered unfit for immediate surgery. Observational study. The Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan, from January 2010 to December 2014. All adult patients who underwent percutaneous cholecystostomy tube placement for acute calculous cholecystitis were included. These patients were divided into two groups for further analysis. Group-I consisted those who had interval cholecystectomy after tube placement and Group-II were those who had no further treatment. Recurrence of symptoms, infections and operation related complications were noted. Sixty-five patients met the inclusion criteria. Mean age was 58.5 years. Forty-four patients (67.7%) were males. Forty-three patients underwent interval cholecystectomy (Group-I) and 22 did not (Group-II). Mean operative time was 134.9 +57.8 minutes. Five (11.6%) patients were converted to open cholecystectomy, two (4.6%) ...

Research paper thumbnail of The many guises of primary hyperparathyroidism: An unchanged scenario

JPMA. The Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association, 2017

To study the causes, characteristics and outcome of treatment of patients with primary hyperparat... more To study the causes, characteristics and outcome of treatment of patients with primary hyperparathyroidism. This retrospective cohort analysis was conducted at the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, Karachi, and comprised data of patients with primary hyperparathyroidism between 2004 and 2014. .SPSS 17 was used for data analysis. Of the 25 patients,1(4%)was male and 24(96%) were female. The overall mean age was 41.72±15.9 years, with a mean duration of symptoms of 4.1±3.3 years. The mean pre-operative parathyroid hormone level was 879.48±793.51 pg/ml. Skeletal manifestations were reported in 17(68%) patients, whereas 4(16%) patients had renal stone disease. Besides, 2(8.0%) patients presented with severe abdominal pain, 1(4%) had asymptomatic hypercalcaemia and 1(4%) patient presented with headache and was diagnosed as parathyroid adenoma in the context of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2A. All patients underwent parathyroidectomy. A solitary adenoma was reported in 23(92%) pati...

Research paper thumbnail of T-tube placement as a method for treating penetrating oesophageal injuries

International Journal of Surgery Case Reports, 2016

INTRODUCTION: Penetrating oesophageal injuries are extremely rare. Their timely recognition can b... more INTRODUCTION: Penetrating oesophageal injuries are extremely rare. Their timely recognition can be difficult and optimal treatment remains controversial. Early recognition of injury is possible with the help of a high index of suspicion and early radiological and endoscopic examinations. Prompt surgical intervention with primary repair of injury, should be the goal. PRESENTATION OF CASES: We describe two cases of penetrating oesophageal trauma where T-Tube placement through the oesophageal defect, was successfully employed. Both cases proved to be challenging due to time lapse after injury and anatomical location. DISCUSSION: Penetrating injuries to the Oesophagus are rare with a reported incidence of 11-17%, most are due to gunshot injuries or stabbings, cervical followed by the thoracic Oesophagus are most at risk. In delayed presentations and sepsis related multi-organ instability, diversion and drainage are considered appropriate. T-tube placement through defects in difficult situations of delayed presentation is well described in setting of iatrogenic perforations. Their use has been described in penetrating injuries but much less frequently. CONCLUSION: T-tube placement though oesophageal defects can prove to be an effective treatment option to repair both iatrogenic and penetrating injuries of the Oesophagus, whether early or delayed.

Research paper thumbnail of Abstract #544 The Many Guises of Primary Hyperparathyroidism: An Unchanged Scenario

Research paper thumbnail of Changing trends in surgical management for acute cholecystitis, in light of Tokyo guidelines - 14 year experience

JOURNAL OF PAKISTAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, 2019

To look for trends in surgical management of acute cholecystitis and compare the outcomes of pati... more To look for trends in surgical management of acute cholecystitis and compare the outcomes of patients with severe condition. The retrospective study was conducted at Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, from January to December 2016, and comprised data of adult patients who underwent cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis from January 1, 2001, to December 31, 2014. Record of patients from 2001 to 2007 was designated in Group-1 while Group-II covered period between 2008 and 2014. Severe cases of acute cholecystitis were divided into similar period-based Group-A and Group-B. Data was analysed using SPSS 20. Of the 1153 patients, 521(45.2%) were males. The overall mean age was 49.3+14 years. There were 309(36.2%) patents in Group-I and 844(73.2%) in Group-II. Early laparoscopic-cholecystectomy was performed in 907(78%) patients. Postoperative morbidity was observed in 73(6.3%) patients. In Group-II, there was significant increase in early cholecystectomy, decrease in conversion rate...

Research paper thumbnail of The many guises of primary hyperparathyroidism: An unchanged scenario

JOURNAL OF PAKISTAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, 2017

To study the causes, characteristics and outcome of treatment of patients with primary hyperparat... more To study the causes, characteristics and outcome of treatment of patients with primary hyperparathyroidism. This retrospective cohort analysis was conducted at the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, Karachi, and comprised data of patients with primary hyperparathyroidism between 2004 and 2014. .SPSS 17 was used for data analysis. Of the 25 patients,1(4%)was male and 24(96%) were female. The overall mean age was 41.72±15.9 years, with a mean duration of symptoms of 4.1±3.3 years. The mean pre-operative parathyroid hormone level was 879.48±793.51 pg/ml. Skeletal manifestations were reported in 17(68%) patients, whereas 4(16%) patients had renal stone disease. Besides, 2(8.0%) patients presented with severe abdominal pain, 1(4%) had asymptomatic hypercalcaemia and 1(4%) patient presented with headache and was diagnosed as parathyroid adenoma in the context of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2A. All patients underwent parathyroidectomy. A solitary adenoma was reported in 23(92%) pati...

Research paper thumbnail of Over a decade of changing trends in surgical mortality; audit from a tertiary care hospital

JOURNAL OF PAKISTAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, 2017

A retrospective audit of the trend of mortality in the general surgery service at our hospital ov... more A retrospective audit of the trend of mortality in the general surgery service at our hospital over the last decade was conducted to reflect the complexity of cases being seen. Mortalities of 8 separate years, a decade apart, namely 1997, 1998, 1999, and 2000 as initial years (Group-I) and 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014 as recent years (Group-II) were reviewed. Total number of admissions in the service and surgeries performed during these two periods experienced an increase of 50.7% & 64.2 % respectively. The total mortalities showed an increase with 139 (mortality rate 0.96%) seen in Group I to 285 (mortality rate 1.31%) seen in Group II a percentage increase of 105%. Comparing the operative mortality, separately, mortality rate dropped from 1.21% to 1.16% of all surgeries. Analyzing non-operative mortality showed a significant increase from six deaths in Group-I comprising 4.3% to 76 non-operative deaths in Group-II corresponding to 26.7% (p=0.000). Deaths due to Trauma increased from ...

Research paper thumbnail of Hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm; a rare complication of amoebic liver abscess

JOURNAL OF PAKISTAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, 2011

Hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm (HAP) is an infrequently encountered entity, usually seen secondary... more Hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm (HAP) is an infrequently encountered entity, usually seen secondary to blunt or penetrating trauma. The clinical presentation is often due to complications such as intrahepatic or intraperitoneal bleeding as a result of rupture of the pseudoaneurysm. Diagnosis is frequently delayed and made by splanchnic angiography. HAP associated with a liver abscess, has very rarely been described in the literature. We report the case of a 50-year-old man with amoebic liver abscess and right hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm which was suspected on high resolution contrast-enhanced abdominal computer tomography (CT). The lesion was confirmed by arteriography and treated prophylactically with transcatheteter embolization.

Research paper thumbnail of 5. Breaking a Bad News of Cancer; Patients’ Understanding, Fears and Preferences for Communications: A Developing Country Perspective

European Journal of Surgical Oncology, 2018

Research paper thumbnail of Hookworm infestation as a cause of melena and severe anaemia in farmer

JPMA. The Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association, 2017

Hookworm infections remain a major cause of morbidity in the developing world. Prevalence is high... more Hookworm infections remain a major cause of morbidity in the developing world. Prevalence is highest in agricultural areas, where use of waste water for irrigation and poor hygiene increases infection rates among farmers. Infections present with gastrointestinal symptoms and chronic anaemia, and there are usually no signs of overt blood loss. The following report describes a case of melena in a middle-aged farmer, where the diagnosis of hookworm infestation was delayed due to the unusual presentation. The patient underwent multiple blood transfusions before referral to the Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH), Karachi and was managed conservatively with mebendazole at our hospital after exclusion of other possible causes of gastrointestinal bleeding. This case highlights the importance of considering hookworm infestations as a cause of melena in the older age group, where other critical differentials such as peptic ulcer disease and occult malignancy may result in delay in initiation...

Research paper thumbnail of Nosocomial infections in the ICU: Pens and spectacles as fomites

JPMA. The Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association, 2016

Nosocomial infections are a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Non-medical objects known as ... more Nosocomial infections are a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Non-medical objects known as fomites may have a role in their genesis. We investigated the significance of writing pens and spectacles as fomites. The study was conducted at Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, from July 2013 to September 2013. Cultures were taken from pens and/or spectacles of resident nurses, doctors and nursing assistants in intensive care unit (ICU). Organisms important in ICU nosocomial infections were targeted. Seven rounds of sampling over 3 weeks led to 55 pen and 5 spectacle samples. Growth was seen in 3(5.5%) pen samples and 1(20%) spectacle sample. Two (3.6%) pen cultures grew acinetobacter, 1)1.8%) grew candida and acinetobacter, and i spectacle culture grew vancomycin-resistant enterococcus faecium (VRE). Two out of the 4 (50%) personnel managing all ICU beds had growth. During the study, one or more ICU patients had infection with the same organisms. Pens and spectacles may be respon...

Research paper thumbnail of Carcinosarcoma of the esophagus

Carcinosarcoma of the esophagus is a rare neoplasm characterized histologically by presence of ca... more Carcinosarcoma of the esophagus is a rare neoplasm characterized histologically by presence of carcinomatous and sarcomatous elements. Case report of carcinosarcoma of the esophagogastric junction whose morphological and immunohistochemical features makes it quite distinctive from other tumours is presented. It was an ulcerated lesion diagnosed in an elderly Afghan lady located 34 cms from the incisor teeth. The patient was a smoker.

Research paper thumbnail of Over a decade of changing trends in surgical mortality; audit from a tertiary care hospital

OBJECTIVE A retrospective audit of the trend of mortality in the general surgery service at our h... more OBJECTIVE A retrospective audit of the trend of mortality in the general surgery service at our hospital over the last decade was conducted to reflect the complexity of cases being seen. METHODS Mortalities of 8 separate years, a decade apart, namely 1997, 1998, 1999, and 2000 as initial years (Group-I) and 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014 as recent years (Group-II) were reviewed. RESULTS Total number of admissions in the service and surgeries performed during these two periods experienced an increase of 50.7% & 64.2 % respectively. The total mortalities showed an increase with 139 (mortality rate 0.96%) seen in Group I to 285 (mortality rate 1.31%) seen in Group II a percentage increase of 105%. Comparing the operative mortality, separately, mortality rate dropped from 1.21% to 1.16% of all surgeries. Analyzing non-operative mortality showed a significant increase from six deaths in Group-I comprising 4.3% to 76 non-operative deaths in Group-II corresponding to 26.7% (p=0.000). Deaths due...

Research paper thumbnail of Abstract #545 Early Recurrence of Elevated Parathyroid Hormone After Successful Removal of Parathyroid Adenoma

Research paper thumbnail of Abstract #544 The Many Guises of Primary Hyperparathyroidism: An Unchanged Scenario

Research paper thumbnail of Pancreaticoduodenectomy: a developing country perspective

JPMA. The Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association, 2011

OBJECTIVE To review retrospectively, the resultsof Whipple's procedure from 1986 to December ... more OBJECTIVE To review retrospectively, the resultsof Whipple's procedure from 1986 to December 2009 at the Aga Khan University Hospital. METHODS Patient's case notes were reviewed to extract information related to demographics, clinical and laboratory data, operative procedure and post operative period. Surgical mortality was defined as death within 30 days of procedure. RESULTS Hundred and twenty one patients underwent a successful pancreaticoduodenectomy during this period. There were 78 males and 43 females. Most presented with clinical features of obstructive jaundice. Perioperative evaluation in the majority included an abdominal ultrasound and contrast enhanced CT scan. A preoperative ERCP was performed in 64 (53%) patients and a stent was placed in 32 (26%). Stent related sepsis was noted in 8 patients (25%). Eighty four (69%) patients underwent a standard resection, 31% had a pylorus preserving procedure. The commonest pathology was adeno-carcinoma located in the pancr...

Research paper thumbnail of Role of early contrast enhanced CT scan in severity prediction of acute pancreatitis

Severe pancreatitis occurs in approximately 15-25% of patients with acute pancreatitis. The objec... more Severe pancreatitis occurs in approximately 15-25% of patients with acute pancreatitis. The objective of our study was to compare the CT Severity Index (CTSI) with a clinical score (BISAP score) to predict severity of acute pancreatitis. Forty-eight consecutive patients with acute pancreatitis who underwent contrast enhanced CT scan within 72 hours of presentation were included. Results of our study showed that both CTSI and BISAP score were reliable predictors of mortality (p value = 0.019 and <0.001 respectively) and need for mechanical ventilation (p value = .002 and .006 respectively). Positive predictive value of CTSI to predict recovery without intervention was 91.4% as compared to 78% for that of BISAP score. Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) Curves showed CT scan was superior to BISAP Score in predicting need of percutaneous or surgical intervention. Early CT scan may be utilized for prediction of clinical course of patients with acute pancreatitis.

Research paper thumbnail of Association Between Perioperative Hypothermia and Surgical Site Infection After Elective Abdominal Surgery: A Prospective Cohort Study

Research paper thumbnail of Sclerosing peritonitis presenting as complete mechanical bowel obstruction: a case report

Journal of Medical Case Reports

Introduction: Sclerosing peritonitis or abdominal cocoon syndrome is characterized by small bowel... more Introduction: Sclerosing peritonitis or abdominal cocoon syndrome is characterized by small bowel loops completely encapsulated by a fibrocollagenous membrane in the center of the abdomen. Although cocooning of the abdomen is mostly seen in patients on peritoneal dialysis, it can occur de novo; it very rarely manifests as complete mechanical bowel obstruction. Case presentation: A 46-year-old Asian man presented with complete mechanical bowel obstruction. He had previous attacks of partial bowel obstruction during the past 6 to 8 months, which was misdiagnosed as abdominal tuberculosis because tuberculosis is very prevalent in the region in which he lives. He took anti-tuberculosis therapy for 3 months but this did not result in resolution of his symptoms. This time he had diagnostic laparoscopy followed by laparotomy in which a fibrocollagenous membrane, resulting in entrapment of his bowel, was excised and his entire small bowel was freed. Postoperatively he again had a mild episode of partial bowel obstruction but this was relieved with a short course of steroids. Discussion: Sclerosing peritonitis is a rare benign etiology of complete mechanical bowel obstruction. Patients might have suffered recurrent attacks of partial bowel obstruction in the past that were falsely managed on lines of other conditions such as tuberculosis, especially in endemic areas like Pakistan or India. Conclusion: Sclerosing peritonitis is a rare benign diagnosis which can manifest as complete bowel obstruction and a high index of suspicion is required to diagnose it. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography of the abdomen is a useful radiological tool to aid in preoperative diagnosis. Diagnostic laparoscopy is usually confirmatory. Peritoneal sac excision and adhesiolysis is the treatment and a short course of steroids in relapsing symptoms.

Research paper thumbnail of Changing Trends in Surgical Management for Acute Cholecystitis, in Light of Tokyo Guidelines - 14 Year Experience

Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association

Research paper thumbnail of Role of Percutaneous Cholecystostomy Tube Placement in the Management of Acute Calculus Cholecystitis in High Risk Patients

Journal of the College of Physicians and Surgeons--Pakistan : JCPSP, 2018

To evaluate the utility of percutaneous cholecystostomy tube in patients with acute calculus chol... more To evaluate the utility of percutaneous cholecystostomy tube in patients with acute calculus cholecystitis, who are considered unfit for immediate surgery. Observational study. The Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan, from January 2010 to December 2014. All adult patients who underwent percutaneous cholecystostomy tube placement for acute calculous cholecystitis were included. These patients were divided into two groups for further analysis. Group-I consisted those who had interval cholecystectomy after tube placement and Group-II were those who had no further treatment. Recurrence of symptoms, infections and operation related complications were noted. Sixty-five patients met the inclusion criteria. Mean age was 58.5 years. Forty-four patients (67.7%) were males. Forty-three patients underwent interval cholecystectomy (Group-I) and 22 did not (Group-II). Mean operative time was 134.9 +57.8 minutes. Five (11.6%) patients were converted to open cholecystectomy, two (4.6%) ...

Research paper thumbnail of The many guises of primary hyperparathyroidism: An unchanged scenario

JPMA. The Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association, 2017

To study the causes, characteristics and outcome of treatment of patients with primary hyperparat... more To study the causes, characteristics and outcome of treatment of patients with primary hyperparathyroidism. This retrospective cohort analysis was conducted at the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, Karachi, and comprised data of patients with primary hyperparathyroidism between 2004 and 2014. .SPSS 17 was used for data analysis. Of the 25 patients,1(4%)was male and 24(96%) were female. The overall mean age was 41.72±15.9 years, with a mean duration of symptoms of 4.1±3.3 years. The mean pre-operative parathyroid hormone level was 879.48±793.51 pg/ml. Skeletal manifestations were reported in 17(68%) patients, whereas 4(16%) patients had renal stone disease. Besides, 2(8.0%) patients presented with severe abdominal pain, 1(4%) had asymptomatic hypercalcaemia and 1(4%) patient presented with headache and was diagnosed as parathyroid adenoma in the context of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2A. All patients underwent parathyroidectomy. A solitary adenoma was reported in 23(92%) pati...