The use of genomic assays reduces rates of chemotherapy: a single-institution experience.

Introduction: The National Institute for Clinical Excellence recommends the use of tumour profiling tests to guide adjuvant chemotherapy in breast cancer. The Oncotype DX™ score (Genomic Health) has superseded more traditional tools such as PREDICT in appropriate patients (ER + ve, HER2-ve, lymph node negative and with a Nottingham Prognostic Index [NPI] ≥ 3.4).

Routine blood group and antibody screening prior to emergency laparoscopy.

Introduction Studies show that rates of blood transfusion associated with general surgical laparoscopy are low. Currently, there are no national guidelines in the UK regarding blood group and antibody screening (G&S) for patients undergoing emergency laparoscopy. The aim of this study was to assess whether using G&S before emergency laparoscopic general surgery routinely is worthwhile by identifying rates of perioperative transfusion.

The Outcome of Anticoagulation on Endovenous Laser Therapy for Superficial Venous Incompetence.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether anticoagulation (warfarin or direct oral inhibitors) affected the success of endovenous treatment.

Methods: Patients taking anticoagulation (warfarin or direct oral inhibitors) undergoing endovenous treatment in the form of endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) were matched against controls for sex, age, leg, and vein. Data were collected prospectively between January 2012 and March 2017.

An additional strip of mesh minimizes hernia recurrence after laparoscopic totally extraperitoneal (TEP) inguinal hernia repair. An analysis of 490 cases over 10 years.

Aim: The laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair has gained significant interest over the years as an alternative to the conventional open technique as a result of its faster recovery time, reduced postoperative pain and numbness. However the recurrence rates are in the order of 2.3% compared to the 1.

A double aortic arch presenting in the 7th decade of life.

A 64-year-old woman presented to the Vascular Outpatient department concerned about a pulsatile swelling in her right supraclavicular fossa. She had no other symptoms. A computed tomography angiogram demonstrated a double aortic arch (DAA) with the innominate artery arising from the right arch and left common carotid and subclavian arteries arising from the left arch.