A comparison of postoperative effects of bariatric surgery on medical markers of morbidity.

Background: Bariatric surgery reduces the prevalence of diabetes and improves lipid profiles. Low-density lipoprotein particle (LDL-P) is a more accurate predictor of cardiovascular events than high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and LDL cholesterol. The effects of bariatric procedures on LDL-P have not been previously reported.

Goal directed fluid resuscitation decreases time for lactate clearance and facilitates early fascial closure in damage control surgery.

Background: Damage-control surgery frequently results in open abdomen. The objective of this study was to determine whether resuscitation with goal-directed fluid therapy (GDT) using "dynamic" hemodynamic indices via modern pulse contour analysis devices such as the FloTrac Vigileo monitor leads to lower fluid requirements, subsequent quicker abdominal closure, and overall improved outcomes in these patients.

Methods: Patients admitted to the surgical intensive care unit with open abdomen were retrospectively reviewed.