Rural-Urban Disparities in Time to Diagnosis and Treatment for Colorectal and Breast Cancer.

Longer cancer pathways may contribute to rural-urban survival disparities, but research in this area is lacking. We investigated time to diagnosis and treatment for rural and urban patients with colorectal or breast cancer in Victoria, Australia. Population-based surveys (2013-2014) of patients (aged ≥40, approached within 6 months of diagnosis), primary care physicians (PCPs), and specialists were collected as part of the International Cancer Benchmarking Partnership, Module 4.

Harmonic dissection versus electrocautery in breast surgery in regional Victoria.

Background: Harmonic instruments are an alternative tool for surgical dissection. The aim of this study is to evaluate differences in clinical outcomes relating to harmonic dissection when compared with electrocautery in patients undergoing major breast surgery in a regional centre over a 3-year period.

Methods: Retrospective chart analysis was conducted of 52 patients undergoing major breast surgery for carcinoma or ductal carcinoma in situ by a single surgeon in a regional centre from May 2008 to January 2011.

Anal sphincter injury, fecal and urinary incontinence: a 34-year follow-up after forceps delivery.

Purpose: This study was designed to determine the long-term outcome of forceps delivery in terms of evidence of anal sphincter injury and the incidence of fecal and urinary incontinence.

Methods: Women who delivered in 1964 were evaluated by using endoanal ultrasound, manometry, and a continence questionnaire. Women delivered by forceps were matched with the next normal delivery and elective cesarean delivery in the birth register.