Monopolar diathermy versus a vessel-sealing device for reducing postoperative drain output after simple mastectomy: randomized clinical trial.

Background: Electrosurgical devices are commonly used during mastectomy for simultaneous dissection and haemostasis, and can provide potential benefits regarding vessel and lymphatic ligation. The aim of this prospective RCT was to assess whether using a vessel-sealing device (LigaSure™) improves perioperative outcomes compared with monopolar diathermy when performing simple mastectomy.

Methods: Patients were recruited prospectively and randomized in a 1 : 1 manner to undergo simple mastectomy using either LigaSure™ or conventional monopolar diathermy at a single centre.

Validation and comparison of two new scoring systems for the prediction of complicated versus uncomplicated appendicitis.

Objectives: To validate the Atema and APSI scoring systems in the diagnosis of complicated vs uncomplicated appendicitis. To compare these scoring systems with computed tomography (CT) imaging alone to establish which method provides most accurate prediction of complicated vs uncomplicated appendicitis.

Methods: This was a retrospective review of a sample of 160 patients that underwent appendicectomy and CT imaging for suspected appendicitis between 2018 and 2021 in a tertiary university teaching hospital.