The great pretender-Bell's palsy secondary to SARS-CoV-2?

This case series highlights a possible association between isolated facial nerve palsy and SARS-CoV-2. Caution should be exercised in the use of steroids in patients with COVID-19 as its impact is still not well established.

Randomized control trial comparing an Alvarado Score-based management algorithm and current best practice in the evaluation of suspected appendicitis.

Background: An objective algorithm for the management of suspected appendicitis guided by the Alvarado Score had previously been proposed. This algorithm was expected to reduce computed tomography (CT) utilization without compromising the negative appendectomy rate. This study attempts to validate the proposed algorithm in a randomized control trial.

Comparing the Utility and Surgical Outcomes of Harmonic Focus Ultrasonic Scalpel with Ligasure Small Jaw Bipolar Device in Thyroidectomies: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background: Ultrasonic or bipolar radiofrequency energy devices are routinely used for dissection and hemostasis during thyroidectomy. We report a single-center, prospective, randomized controlled trial comparing the utility and outcomes of Harmonic Focus, an ultrasonic coagulating shear device (UCSD), versus Ligasure Small Jaw, an electrothermal bipolar vessel sealer (EBVS) in thyroidectomy (NCT01765686).

Methods: Between December 2012 to January 2016, eligible patients were randomized to undergo hemithyroidectomy using either a UCSD or an EBVS.

The effect of parathyroidectomy on patients' symptoms in tertiary hyperparathyroidism.

Background: The efficacy of parathyroidectomy for primary and secondary hyperparathyroidism is well-established but evidence in tertiary hyperparathyroidism is lacking. We examined parathyroidectomy's effect in tertiary hyperparathyroidism.

Methods: Patients with tertiary hyperparathyroidism who underwent parathyroidectomy were followed up for 12 months.

Perineal impalement injury by steel bar - A near miss.

Adult perianal impalement injuries are uncommon but can carry high morbidity and mortality. We report a case of a penetrating perineal trauma in a construction worker highlighting an innovative use of a Sengstaken tube to control his pelvic bleeding, as well as the operative management of his sphincteric injury. This article illustrates principles of effective acute care and discusses a diagnostic approach to evaluating a potentially complex injury, as well as the decision-making process with regard to fecal diversion and choice of sphincteric repair.

Transaxillary thyroidectomies: a comparative learning experience of robotic vs endoscopic thyroidectomies.

Objective: Robotic and endoscopic approaches have become more accepted in thyroid surgery, with current literature documenting the experience of high-volume centers. We adopted both approaches concurrently, and this series presents our initial experience to assess the more practical option for low- to moderate-volume centers starting out with transaxillary thyroidectomies.

Study Design: Case series with chart review.

Subcutaneous injection is a simple and reproducible option to restore parathyroid function after total parathyroidectomy in patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism.

Background: Secondary hyperparathyroidism is a common clinical problem seen in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing hemodialysis. In patients with severe persistent hyperparathyroidism, parathyroidectomies are often required.

Objectives: We sought to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of total parathyroidectomy followed by subcutaneous injection of parathyroid autograft compared with surgical implantation.