Pediatric surgical border health: Supply may not be meeting demand in South Texas communities.

Introduction: The Rio Grande Valley (RGV) has historically high incidence of congenital defects (CDs) necessitating intervention by pediatric surgical specialties. We examined mortality in this region and related workforce patterns.

Methods: Mortality data related to CDs (2007-2021) and surgical workforce trends/projections (2024-2032) were collected using multiple databases: National Vital Statistics System, Texas Department of State Health Services, Texas Medical Board, Center for Disease Control.

From the borders edge to the brink of death: A case of a traumatic pancreatic injury and Whipple procedure in the Rio Grande Valley.

The traumatic pancreatoduodenectomy, also known as the traumatic Whipple, is a specialized surgical procedure often reserved for extreme cases in which an individual suffers traumatic injuries to the pancreas, duodenum, or periampullary structures. Traditionally, a Whipple procedure is a complex surgery involving the removal of the head of the pancreas, duodenum, and a portion of both the bile duct and stomach, for the management of pancreatic head cancer. In underserved communities where limited access to healthcare is coupled with a higher incidence of trauma, the lack of specialized and supportive care for patients suffering from pancreatic injuries may lead to an increased morbidity and mortality rate.

Lung Cancer Screening in Head and Neck Cancer Patients: An Untapped Opportunity.

Background: Despite evidence demonstrating that lung cancer screening (LCS) decreases mortality, widespread implementation is lagging. Efforts to identify and recruit patients for LCS are in need. Candidacy for LCS is based on identifiable risk factors, many of which overlap with those of head and neck malignancies.

The impact of COVID-19 on head and neck cancer diagnosis and disease extent.

Background: Due to COVID-19, diagnostic delays and a surge of advanced head and neck cancer (HNC) is anticipated. We hereby evaluate patient and tumor characteristics before and during the early COVID-19 period.

Methods: Retrospective review of patients with HNC presented at a multidisciplinary tumor conference from May 14, 2020 to June 18, 2020 was performed and compared to a similar 6-week period a year before.