A modern multidisciplinary approach to a large cervicothoracic chordoma using staged en bloc resection with intraoperative image-guided navigation and 3D-printed modeling: illustrative case.

Background: Cervicothoracic junction chordomas are uncommon primary spinal tumors optimally treated with en bloc resection. Although en bloc resection is the gold standard for treatment of mobile spinal chordoma, tumor location, size, and extent of involvement frequently complicate the achievement of negative margins. In particular, chordoma involving the thoracic region can require a challenging anterior access, and en bloc resection can lead to a highly destabilized spine.

Clinical Significance of Spontaneous Pneumomediastinum.

Background: Spontaneous pneumomediastinum (SPM) is classified as free air in the mediastinum in the absence of any precipitating cause. It is relatively uncommon, and the clinical significance and risk associated with SPM is not well understood and has not been widely documented in the literature. Our goals were to determine the outcomes of patients who presented with SPM and to determine predictors of severe pathology associated with SPM.

Critical analysis of feeding jejunostomy following resection of upper gastrointestinal malignancies.

Aim: To assess nutritional recovery, particularly regarding feeding jejunostomy tube (FJT) utilization, following upper gastrointestinal resection for malignancy.

Methods: A retrospective review was performed of a prospectively-maintained database of adult patients who underwent esophagectomy or gastrectomy (subtotal or total) for cancer with curative intent, from January 2001 to June 2014. Patient demographics, the approach to esophagectomy, the extent of gastrectomy, FJT placement and utilization at discharge, administration of parenteral nutrition (PN), and complications were evaluated.

Effects of Implementation of Lung Cancer Screening at One Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

Background: Lung cancer screening recommendations have been developed, but none are focused on veterans. We report the results of the lung cancer screening program at our Veterans Affairs medical center and compare them with historic results.

Methods: All veterans between 55 and 74 years who were current smokers or quit within the past 15 years and had at least a 30-pack-year smoking history were invited to receive an annual low-dose chest CT scan beginning in December 2013.

Outcomes after surgical resection of pulmonary carcinoid tumors.

Background: Pulmonary carcinoid tumors make up approximately one percent of all pulmonary tumors, and controversy exists regarding management and prognosis. We undertook a retrospective analysis of all patients who underwent surgical resection of pulmonary carcinoid tumors at our institution.

Methods: From 1992 through 2014, 121 patients who underwent surgical resection of pulmonary carcinoid tumors were retrospectively reviewed.