Catherine Curtin

All Publications

• Regional Variation and Trends in the Timing of Lower Extremity Reconstruction: A 10-Year Review of the Nationwide Inpatient Sample PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY Sheckter, C. C., Pridgen, B., Li, A., Curtin, C., Momeni, A. 2018; 142 (5): 1337–47

  View details for DOI 10.1097/PRS.0000000000004885

  View details for Web of Science ID 000448330200080

• Thirty-day unplanned postoperative inpatient and emergency department visits following thoracotomy. The Journal of surgical research Shaffer, R., Backhus, L., Finnegan, M. A., Remington, A. C., Kwong, J. Z., Curtin, C., Hernandez-Boussard, T. 2018; 230: 117–24

  Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Unplanned visits to the emergency department (ED) and inpatient setting are expensive and associated with poor outcomes in thoracic surgery. We assessed 30-d postoperative ED visits and inpatient readmissions following thoracotomy, a high morbidity procedure.MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed inpatient and ED administrative data from California, Florida, and New York, 2010-2011. "Return to care" was defined as readmission to inpatient facility or ED within 30 d of discharge. Factors associated with return to care were analyzed via multivariable logistic regressions with a fixed effect for hospital variability.RESULTS: Of 30,154 thoracotomies, 6.3% were admitted to the ED and 10.2% to the inpatient setting within 30 d of discharge. Increased risk of inpatient readmission was associated with Medicare (odds ratio [OR] 1.30; P<0.001) and Medicaid (OR 1.31; P<0.0001) insurance status compared to private insurance and black race (OR 1.18; P=0.02) compared to white race. Lung cancer diagnosis (OR 0.83; P<0.001) and higher median income (OR 0.89; P=0.04) were associated with decreased risk of inpatient readmission. Postoperative ED visits were associated with Medicare (OR 1.24; P<0.001) and Medicaid insurance status (OR 1.59; P<0.001) compared to private insurance and Hispanic race (OR 1.19; P=0.04) compared to white race.CONCLUSIONS: Following thoracotomy, postoperative ED visits and inpatient readmissions are common. Patients with public insurance were at high risk for readmission, while patients with underlying lung cancer diagnosis had a lower readmission risk. Emphasizing postoperative management in at-risk populations could improve health outcomes and reduce unplanned returns to care.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jss.2018.04.065

  View details for PubMedID 30100026

• Increasing ambulatory treatment of pediatric minor burns-The emerging paradigm for burn care in children. Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries Sheckter, C. C., Kiwanuka, H., Maan, Z., Pirrotta, E., Curtin, C., Wang, N. E. 2018

  Abstract

  INTRODUCTION: Innovations in topical burn treatment along with a drive toward value-based care are steering burn care to the outpatient setting. Little is known regarding what characteristics predict outpatient treatment of pediatric minor burns and whether there is a temporal trend toward this treatment paradigm.METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was performed using California's Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development linked emergency department and inpatient database (2005-2013). All patients under 18years of age with a primary burn diagnosis were extracted. Using patient and facility level variables, we used regression modeling to evaluate predictors of outpatient burn treatment and temporal trends.RESULTS: There were 16,480 pediatric minor burn encounters during the period. 56.4% were male, 85.3% had <10% total body surface area (TBSA), 76.3% were scald or contact, and 77.3% were at deepest depth 2nd degree. Multiple variables predicted an increased likelihood of discharge home including older age(p<0.001), smaller TBSA(p<0.001), and superficial/partial thickness burns(<0.001). Children of Hispanic and Black race were less likely to be discharged home compared to White and Asian peers(p=<0.001). On Poisson modeling, the incidence rate ratio over the 9-year period for home discharge was 1.004 (95% CI 1.001-1.008, p=0.032).CONCLUSION: Older patients and those with more superficial burns were more likely to be treated as outpatients. Black and non-white Hispanic race was associated with inpatient admission. There is a growing trend toward ambulatory treatment of minor burns in the pediatric population. Further research is needed to assess whether outpatient treatment of pediatric minor burns results in greater readmissions.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.burns.2018.08.031

  View details for PubMedID 30236815

• Metformin prescription status and abdominal aortic aneurysm disease progression in the U.S. veteran population. Journal of vascular surgery Itoga, N. K., Rothenberg, K. A., Suarez, P., Ho, T., Mell, M. W., Xu, B., Curtin, C. M., Dalman, R. L. 2018

  Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Identification of a safe and effective medical therapy for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) disease remains a significant unmet medical need. Recent small cohort studies indicate that metformin, the world's most commonly prescribed oral hypoglycemic agent, may limit AAA enlargement. We sought to validate these preliminary observations in a larger cohort.METHODS: All patients with asymptomatic AAA disease managed in the Veterans Affairs Health Care System between 2003 and 2013 were identified by International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision codes. Those with a concomitant diagnosis of diabetes mellitus who also received two or more abdominal imaging studies (computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, or ultrasound) documenting the presence and size of an AAA, separated by at least 1year, were included for review. Maximal AAA diameters were determined from radiologic reports. Further data acquisition was censored after surgical AAA repair, when performed. Comorbidities, active smoking status, and outpatient medication records (within 6months of AAA diagnosis) were also queried. Yearly AAA enlargement rates, as a function of metformin treatment status, were compared using two statistical models expressed in millimeters per year: a multivariate linear regression (model 1) and a multivariate mixed-effects model with random intercept and random slope (model 2).RESULTS: A total of 13,834 patients with 58,833 radiographic records were included in the analysis, with radiology imaging follow-up of 4.2± 2.6years (mean± standard deviation). The average age of the patients at AAA diagnosis was 69.8± 7.8years, and 39.7% had a metformin prescription within±6months of AAA. The mean growth rate for AAAs in the entire cohort was 1.4± 2.0mm/y by model 1 analysis and 1.3± 1.6mm/y by model 2 analysis. The unadjusted mean rate of AAA growth was 1.2± 1.9mm/y for patients prescribed metformin compared with 1.5± 2.2mm/y for those without (P< .001), a 20% decrease. This effect remained significant when adjusted for variables relevant on AAA progression: metformin prescription was associated with a reduction in yearly AAA growth rate of-0.23mm (95% confidence interval,-0.35 to-0.16; P< .001) by model 1 analysis and 0.20mm/y (95% confidence interval,-0.26 to-0.14; P< .001) by model 2 analysis. A subset analysis of 7462 patients with baseline AAA size of 35 to 49mm showed a similar inhibitory effect (1.4± 2.0mm/y to 1.7± 2.2mm/y; P< .001). Patients' factors associated with an increased yearly AAA growth rate were baseline AAA size, metastatic solid tumors, active smoking, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and chronic renal disease. Factors associated with decreased yearly AAA growth rates included prescriptions for angiotensin II type 1 receptor blockers or sulfonylureas and the presence of diabetes-related complications.CONCLUSIONS: In a nationwide analysis of diabetic Veterans Affairs patients, prescription for metformin was associated with decreased AAA enlargement. These findings provide further support for the conduct of prospective clinical trials to test the ability of metformin to limit progression of early AAA disease.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jvs.2018.06.194

  View details for PubMedID 30197158

• Trends and inpatient outcomes for palliative care services in major burn patients: A 10-year analysis of the nationwide inpatient sample. Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries Sheckter, C. C., Hung, K., Rochlin, D., Maan, Z., Karanas, Y., Curtin, C. 2018

  Abstract

  INTRODUCTION: Despite advances in critical care and the surgical management of major burns, highly moribund patients are unlikely to survive. Little is known regarding the utilization and effects of palliative care services in this population.METHODS: All major burn hospitalizations were identified within the Nationwide Inpatient Sample. Patients were characterized by burn, demographic, facility, and diseases factors. Palliative care services were identified with International Classification Disease 9th edition code V6.67. Temporal trends were assessed with Poisson modeling. Inpatient mortality and death without surgical intervention were assessed with logistic regression. Outcomes were stratified by modified Baux scores.RESULTS: 7424 major burns were included; 1.9% received palliative care services. Patients receiving palliation had a mean age of 63.6 years (SD 19.6), mean total body surface area of 62.2% (SD 24.9%), and mean modified Baux score of 127.1 (SD 26.7). Adjusting for covariates, the incidence rate ratio was 1.42 over the 10-year period (95% CI, 1.31-1.54, p<0.001). Independent predictors of palliative consultations included older age, larger burns, deeper burns, and higher Elixhauser comorbidity score. Among patients with modified Baux scores between 100-153, those receiving palliative care services were significantly more likely to die without surgery, OR 3.24 (95% CI 1.13-10.39, p=0.029), with no significant difference in mortality, OR 11.72 (95% CI 0.87-22.57, p=0.051) CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE: Palliative care services were increasingly used during the study period. Palliative care services in highly moribund burn patients do not impact survival and may decrease the likelihood of surgical intervention in select patients.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.burns.2018.07.012

  View details for PubMedID 30115531

• Utilization and effectiveness of multimodal discharge analgesia for postoperative pain management. The Journal of surgical research Desai, K., Carroll, I., Asch, S. M., Seto, T., McDonald, K. M., Curtin, C., Hernandez-Boussard, T. 2018; 228: 160–69

  Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Although evidence-based guidelines recommend a multimodal approach to pain management, limited information exists on adherence to these guidelines and its association with outcomes in a generalized population. We sought to assess the association between discharge multimodal analgesia and postoperative pain outcomes in two diverse health care settings.METHODS: We evaluated patients undergoing four common surgeries associated with high pain in electronic health records from an academic hospital (AH) and Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Multimodal analgesia at discharge was characterized as opioids in combination with acetaminophen (O+A) and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory (O+A+N) drugs. Hierarchical models estimated associations of analgesia with 45-d follow-up pain scores and 30-d readmissions.RESULTS: We identified 7893 patients at AH and 34,581 at VHA. In both settings, most patients were discharged with O+A (60.6% and 54.8%, respectively), yet a significant proportion received opioids alone (AH: 24.3% and VHA: 18.8%). Combining acetaminophen with opioids was associated with decreased follow-up pain in VHA (Odds ratio [OR]: 0.86, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.79, 0.93) and readmissions (AH OR: 0.74, CI: 0.60, 0.90; VHA OR: 0.89, CI: 0.82, 0.96). Further addition of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs was associated with further decreased follow-up pain (AH OR: 0.71, CI: 0.53, 0.96; VHA OR: 0.77, CI: 0.69, 0.86) and readmissions (AH OR: 0.46, CI: 0.31, 0.69; VHA OR: 0.84, CI: 0.76, 0.93). In both systems, patients receiving multimodal analgesia received 10%-40% less opioids per day compared to opioids only.CONCLUSIONS: A majority of surgical patients receive a multimodal pain approach at discharge yet many receive only opioids. Multimodal regimen at discharge was associated with better follow-up pain and all-cause readmissions compared to the opioid-only regimen.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jss.2018.03.029

  View details for PubMedID 29907207

• Metformin Prescription Status and Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Disease Progression in the US Veteran Patient Population Itoga, N. K., Rothenberg, K. A., Suarez, P., Vy Thuy Ho, Mell, M. W., Xu, B., Curtin, C. M., Dalman, R. L. MOSBY-ELSEVIER. 2018: E52

  View details for Web of Science ID 000433036700010

• Successful treatment of chronic knee pain following localization by a sigma-1 receptor radioligand and PET/MRI: a case report JOURNAL OF PAIN RESEARCH Cipriano, P., Lee, S., Yoon, D., Shen, B., Tawfik, V., Curtin, C., Dragoo, J. L., James, M., Mccurdy, C., Chin, F., Biswal, S. 2018; 11: 2353–56

  Abstract

  The ability to accurately diagnose and objectively localize pain generators in chronic pain sufferers remains a major clinical challenge since assessment relies on subjective patient complaints and relatively non-specific diagnostic tools. Developments in clinical molecular imaging, including advances in imaging technology and radiotracer design, have afforded the opportunity to identify tissues involved in pain generation based on their pro-nociceptive condition. The sigma-1 receptor (S1R) is a pro-nociceptive receptor upregulated in painful, inflamed tissues, and it can be imaged using the highly specific radioligand 18F-FTC-146 with PET.A 50-year-old woman with a 7-year history of refractory, left-knee pain of unknown origin was referred to our pain management team. Over the past several years, she had undergone multiple treatments, including a lateral retinacular release, radiofrequency ablation of a peripheral nerve, and physical therapy. While certain treatments provided partial relief, her pain would inevitably return to its original state. Using simultaneous positron emission tomography/magnetic resonance imaging (PET/MRI) with the novel radiotracer 18F-FTC-146, imaging showed increased focal uptake of 18F-FTC-146 in the intercondylar notch, corresponding to an irregular but equivocal lesion identified in the simultaneously acquired MRI. These imaging results prompted surgical removal of the lesion, which upon resection was identified as an inflamed, intraarticular synovial lipoma. Removal of the lesion relieved the patient's pain, and to date the pain has not recurred.We present a case of chronic, debilitating knee pain that resolved with surgery following identification of the pathology with a novel clinical molecular imaging approach that detects chronic pain generators at the molecular and cellular level. This approach has the potential to identify and localize pain-associated pathology in a variety of chronic pain syndromes.

  View details for DOI 10.2147/JPR.S167839

  View details for Web of Science ID 000447159100003

  View details for PubMedID 30349360

  View details for PubMedCentralID PMC6190812

• Secondary use of electronic medical records for clinical research: Challenges and Opportunities. Convergent science physical oncology Yim, W. W., Wheeler, A. J., Curtin, C., Wagner, T. H., Hernandez-Boussard, T. 2018; 4 (1)

  Abstract

  With increasingly ubiquitous electronic medical record (EMR) implementation accelerated by the adoption of the HITECH Act, there is much interest in the secondary use of collected data to improve outcomes and promote personalized medicine. A plethora of research has emerged using EMRs to investigate clinical research questions and assess variations in both treatments and outcomes. However, whether because of genuine complexities of modeling disease physiology or because of practical problems regarding data capture, data accuracy, and data completeness, the state of current EMR research is challenging and gives rise to concerns regarding study accuracy and reproducibility. This work explores challenges in how different experimental design decisions can influence results using a specific example of breast cancer patients undergoing excision and reconstruction surgeries from EMRs in an academic hospital and the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) We discuss emerging strategies that will mitigate these limitations, including data sharing, application of natural language processing, and improved EMR user design.

  View details for DOI 10.1088/2057-1739/aaa905

  View details for PubMedID 29732166

  View details for PubMedCentralID PMC5933881

• Effect of Medicare's Nonpayment Policy on Surgical Site Infections Following Orthopedic Procedures. Infection control and hospital epidemiology Kwong, J. Z., Weng, Y., Finnegan, M., Schaffer, R., Remington, A., Curtin, C., McDonald, K. M., Bhattacharya, J., Hernandez-Boussard, T. 2017: 1-6

  Abstract

  OBJECTIVE Orthopedic procedures are an important focus in efforts to reduce surgical site infections (SSIs). In 2008, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) stopped reimbursements for additional charges associated with serious hospital-acquired conditions, including SSI following certain orthopedic procedures. We aimed to evaluate the CMS policy's effect on rates of targeted orthopedic SSIs among the Medicare population. DESIGN We examined SSI rates following orthopedic procedures among the Medicare population before and after policy implementation compared to a similarly aged control group. Using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample database for 2000-2013, we estimated rate ratios (RRs) of orthopedic SSIs among Medicare and non-Medicare patients using a difference-in-differences approach. RESULTS Following policy implementation, SSIs significantly decreased among both the Medicare and non-Medicare populations (RR, 0.7; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.6-0.8) and RR, 0.8l; 95% CI, 0.7-0.9), respectively. However, the estimated decrease among the Medicare population was not significantly greater than the decrease among the control population (RR, 0.9; 95% CI, 0.8-1.1). CONCLUSIONS While SSI rates decreased significantly following the implementation of the CMS nonpayment policy, this trend was not associated with policy intervention but rather larger secular trends that likely contributed to decreasing SSI rates over time. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2017;1-6.

  View details for DOI 10.1017/ice.2017.86

  View details for PubMedID 28487001

• A Double-Blind Placebo Randomized Controlled Trial of Minocycline to Reduce Pain After Carpal Tunnel and Trigger Finger Release. journal of hand surgery Curtin, C. M., Kenney, D., Suarez, P., Hentz, V. R., Hernandez-Boussard, T., Mackey, S., Carroll, I. R. 2017; 42 (3): 166-174

  Abstract

  Minocycline is a microglial cell inhibitor and decreases pain behaviors in animal models. Minocycline might represent an intervention for reducing postoperative pain. This trial tested whether perioperative administration of minocycline reduced time to pain resolution (TPR) after standardized hand surgeries with known prolonged pain profiles: carpal tunnel release (CTR) and trigger finger release (TFR).This double-blinded randomized controlled trial included patients undergoing CTR or TFR under local anesthesia. Before surgery, participants recorded psychological and pain measures. Participants received oral minocycline, 200 mg, or placebo 2 hours prior to procedure, and then 100 mg of minocycline or placebo 2 times a day for 5 days. After surgery, participants were called daily assessing their pain. The primary end point of TPR was when participants had 3 consecutive days of 0 postsurgical pain. Futility analysis and Kaplan-Meier analyses were performed.A total of 131 participants were randomized and 56 placebo and 58 controls were analyzed. Median TPR for CTR was 3 weeks, with 15% having pain more than 6 weeks. Median TPR for TFR was 2 weeks with 18% having pain more than 6 weeks. The overall median TPR for the placebo group was 2 weeks (10% pain > 6 weeks) versus 2.5 weeks (17% pain > 6 weeks) for the minocycline group. Futility analysis found that the likelihood of a true underlying clinically meaningful reduction in TPR owing to minocycline was only 3.5%. Survival analysis found minocycline did not reduce TPR. However, subgroup analysis of those with elevated posttraumatic distress scores found the minocycline group had longer TPR.Oral administration of minocycline did not reduce TPR after minor hand surgery. There was evidence that minocycline might increase length of pain in those with increased posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms.Therapeutic I.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jhsa.2016.12.011

  View details for PubMedID 28259273

• Effect of Perioperative Gabapentin on Postoperative Pain Resolution and Opioid Cessation in a Mixed Surgical Cohort: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA surgery Hah, J., Mackey, S. C., Schmidt, P., McCue, R., Humphreys, K., Trafton, J., Efron, B., Clay, D., Sharifzadeh, Y., Ruchelli, G., Goodman, S., Huddleston, J., Maloney, W. J., Dirbas, F. M., Shrager, J., Costouros, J., Curtin, C., Carroll, I. 2017

  Abstract

  Guidelines recommend using gabapentin to decrease postoperative pain and opioid use, but significant variation exists in clinical practice.To determine the effect of perioperative gabapentin on remote postoperative time to pain resolution and opioid cessation.A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of perioperative gabapentin was conducted at a single-center, tertiary referral teaching hospital. A total of 1805 patients aged 18 to 75 years scheduled for surgery (thoracotomy, video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery, total hip replacement, total knee replacement, mastectomy, breast lumpectomy, hand surgery, carpal tunnel surgery, knee arthroscopy, shoulder arthroplasty, and shoulder arthroscopy) were screened. Participants were enrolled from May 25, 2010, to July 25, 2014, and followed up for 2 years postoperatively. Intention-to-treat analysis was used in evaluation of the findings.Gabapentin, 1200 mg, preoperatively and 600 mg, 3 times a day postoperatively or active placebo (lorazepam, 0.5 mg) preoperatively followed by inactive placebo postoperatively for 72 hours.Primary outcome was time to pain resolution (5 consecutive reports of 0 of 10 possible levels of average pain at the surgical site on the numeric rating scale of pain). Secondary outcomes were time to opioid cessation (5 consecutive reports of no opioid use) and the proportion of participants with continued pain or opioid use at 6 months and 1 year.Of 1805 patients screened for enrollment, 1383 were excluded, including 926 who did not meet inclusion criteria and 273 who declined to participate. Overall, 8% of patients randomized were lost to follow-up. A total of 202 patients were randomized to active placebo and 208 patients were randomized to gabapentin in the intention-to-treat analysis (mean [SD] age, 56.7 [11.7] years; 256 (62.4%) women and 154 (37.6%) men). Baseline characteristics of the groups were similar. Perioperative gabapentin did not affect time to pain cessation (hazard ratio [HR], 1.04; 95% CI, 0.82-1.33; P = .73) in the intention-to-treat analysis. However, participants receiving gabapentin had a 24% increase in the rate of opioid cessation after surgery (HR, 1.24; 95% CI, 1.00-1.54; P = .05). No significant differences were noted in the number of adverse events as well as the rate of medication discontinuation due to sedation or dizziness (placebo, 42 of 202 [20.8%]; gabapentin, 52 of 208 [25.0%]).Perioperative administration of gabapentin had no effect on postoperative pain resolution, but it had a modest effect on promoting opioid cessation after surgery. The routine use of perioperative gabapentin may be warranted to promote opioid cessation and prevent chronic opioid use. Optimal dosing and timing of perioperative gabapentin in the context of specific operations to decrease opioid use should be addressed in further research.clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01067144.

  View details for DOI 10.1001/jamasurg.2017.4915

  View details for PubMedID 29238824

• Nerve entrapment as a cause of shoulder pain in the spinal cord injured patient. Spinal cord series and cases Curtin, C. M., Hagert, C. G., Hultling, C., Hagert, E. 2017; 3: 17034

  Abstract

  Many people with chronic spinal cord injury (SCI) develop shoulder pain, which can adversely impact transfers and independence. Yet effective treatments remain elusive.This report presents two patients with tetraplegia who had long-standing shoulder pain. Our exam showed muscle weakness and point tenderness, suggestive of nerve entrapments of the radial and axillary nerves in the posterior shoulder. These nerves were surgically decompressed and post-operatively the patients' pain resolved.Shoulder nerve entrapments are uncommon but SCI patients may be at more risk due to their unique upper extremity demands. SCI providers should consider proximal nerve entrapments as a possible cause of shoulder pain.

  View details for DOI 10.1038/scsandc.2017.34

  View details for PubMedID 28616261

  View details for PubMedCentralID PMC5463175

• Emergency Department Visits Following Elective Total Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery: Identifying Gaps in Continuity of Care. The Journal of bone and joint surgery. American volume Finnegan, M. A., Shaffer, R., Remington, A., Kwong, J., Curtin, C., Hernandez-Boussard, T. 2017; 99 (12): 1005–12

  Abstract

  Major joint replacement surgical procedures are common, elective procedures with a care episode that includes both inpatient readmissions and postoperative emergency department (ED) visits. Inpatient readmissions are well studied; however, to our knowledge, little is known about ED visits following these procedures. We sought to characterize 30-day ED visits following a major joint replacement surgical procedure.We used administrative records from California, Florida, and New York, from 2010 through 2012, to identify adults undergoing total knee and hip arthroplasty. Factors associated with increased risk of an ED visit were estimated using hierarchical regression models controlling for patient variables with a fixed hospital effect. The main outcome was an ED visit within 30 days of discharge.Among the 152,783 patients who underwent major joint replacement, 5,229 (3.42%) returned to the inpatient setting and 8,883 (5.81%) presented to the ED for care within 30 days. Among ED visits, 17.94% had a primary diagnosis of pain and 25.75% had both a primary and/or a secondary diagnosis of pain. Patients presenting to the ED for subsequent care had more comorbidities and were more frequently non-white with public insurance relative to those not returning to the ED (p < 0.001). There was a significantly increased risk (p < 0.05) of isolated ED visits with regard to type of insurance when patients with Medicaid (odds ratio [OR], 2.28 [95% confidence interval (CI), 2.04 to 2.55]) and those with Medicare (OR, 1.38 [95% CI, 1.29 to 1.47]) were compared with patients with private insurance and with regard to race when black patients (OR, 1.38 [95% CI, 1.25 to 1.53]) and Hispanic patients (OR, 1.12 [95% CI, 1.03 to 1.22]) were compared with white patients. These increases in risk were stronger for isolated ED visits for patients with a pain diagnosis.ED visits following an elective major joint replacement surgical procedure were numerous and most commonly for pain-related diagnoses. Medicaid patients had almost double the risk of an ED or pain-related ED visit following a surgical procedure. The future of U.S. health-care insurance coverage expansions are uncertain; however, there are ongoing attempts to improve quality across the continuum of care. It is therefore essential to ensure that all patients, particularly vulnerable populations, receive appropriate postoperative care, including pain management.Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

  View details for DOI 10.2106/JBJS.16.00692

  View details for PubMedID 28632589

• Drug-Free Interventions to Reduce Pain or Opioid Consumption After Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA surgery Tedesco, D., Gori, D., Desai, K. R., Asch, S., Carroll, I. R., Curtin, C., McDonald, K. M., Fantini, M. P., Hernandez-Boussard, T. 2017: e172872

  Abstract

  There is increased interest in nonpharmacological treatments to reduce pain after total knee arthroplasty. Yet, little consensus supports the effectiveness of these interventions.To systematically review and meta-analyze evidence of nonpharmacological interventions for postoperative pain management after total knee arthroplasty.Database searches of MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE (OVID), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Web of Science (ISI database), Physiotherapy Evidence (PEDRO) database, and ClinicalTrials.gov for the period between January 1946 and April 2016.Randomized clinical trials comparing nonpharmacological interventions with other interventions in combination with standard care were included.Two reviewers independently extracted the data from selected articles using a standardized form and assessed the risk of bias. A random-effects model was used for the analyses.Postoperative pain and consumption of opioids and analgesics.Of 5509 studies, 39 randomized clinical trials were included in the meta-analysis (2391 patients). The most commonly performed interventions included continuous passive motion, preoperative exercise, cryotherapy, electrotherapy, and acupuncture. Moderate-certainty evidence showed that electrotherapy reduced the use of opioids (mean difference, -3.50; 95% CI, -5.90 to -1.10 morphine equivalents in milligrams per kilogram per 48 hours; P = .004; I2 = 17%) and that acupuncture delayed opioid use (mean difference, 46.17; 95% CI, 20.84 to 71.50 minutes to the first patient-controlled analgesia; P < .001; I2 = 19%). There was low-certainty evidence that acupuncture improved pain (mean difference, -1.14; 95% CI, -1.90 to -0.38 on a visual analog scale at 2 days; P = .003; I2 = 0%). Very low-certainty evidence showed that cryotherapy was associated with a reduction in opioid consumption (mean difference, -0.13; 95% CI, -0.26 to -0.01 morphine equivalents in milligrams per kilogram per 48 hours; P = .03; I2 = 86%) and in pain improvement (mean difference, -0.51; 95% CI, -1.00 to -0.02 on the visual analog scale; P < .05; I2 = 62%). Low-certainty or very low-certainty evidence showed that continuous passive motion and preoperative exercise had no pain improvement and reduction in opioid consumption: for continuous passive motion, the mean differences were -0.05 (95% CI, -0.35 to 0.25) on the visual analog scale (P = .74; I2 = 52%) and 6.58 (95% CI, -6.33 to 19.49) opioid consumption at 1 and 2 weeks (P = .32, I2 = 87%), and for preoperative exercise, the mean difference was -0.14 (95% CI, -1.11 to 0.84) on the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index Scale (P = .78, I2 = 65%).In this meta-analysis, electrotherapy and acupuncture after total knee arthroplasty were associated with reduced and delayed opioid consumption.

  View details for DOI 10.1001/jamasurg.2017.2872

  View details for PubMedID 28813550

• Opioid Abuse And Poisoning: Trends In Inpatient And Emergency Department Discharges. Health affairs (Project Hope) Tedesco, D., Asch, S. M., Curtin, C., Hah, J., McDonald, K. M., Fantini, M. P., Hernandez-Boussard, T. 2017; 36 (10): 1748–53

  Abstract

  Addressing the opioid epidemic is a national priority. We analyzed national trends in inpatient and emergency department (ED) discharges for opioid abuse, dependence, and poisoning using Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project data. Inpatient and ED discharge rates increased overall across the study period, but a decline was observed for prescription opioid-related discharges beginning in 2010, while a sharp increase in heroin-related discharges began in 2008.

  View details for DOI 10.1377/hlthaff.2017.0260

  View details for PubMedID 28971919

• Chronic Opioid Use After Surgery: Implications for Perioperative Management in the Face of the Opioid Epidemic. Anesthesia and analgesia Hah, J. M., Bateman, B. T., Ratliff, J., Curtin, C., Sun, E. 2017; 125 (5): 1733–40

  Abstract

  Physicians, policymakers, and researchers are increasingly focused on finding ways to decrease opioid use and overdose in the United States both of which have sharply increased over the past decade. While many efforts are focused on the management of chronic pain, the use of opioids in surgical patients presents a particularly challenging problem requiring clinicians to balance 2 competing interests: managing acute pain in the immediate postoperative period and minimizing the risks of persistent opioid use after the surgery. Finding ways to minimize this risk is particularly salient in light of a growing literature suggesting that postsurgical patients are at increased risk for chronic opioid use. The perioperative care team, including surgeons and anesthesiologists, is poised to develop clinical- and systems-based interventions aimed at providing pain relief in the immediate postoperative period while also reducing the risks of opioid use longer term. In this paper, we discuss the consequences of chronic opioid use after surgery and present an analysis of the extent to which surgery has been associated with chronic opioid use. We follow with a discussion of the risk factors that are associated with chronic opioid use after surgery and proceed with an analysis of the extent to which opioid-sparing perioperative interventions (eg, nerve blockade) have been shown to reduce the risk of chronic opioid use after surgery. We then conclude with a discussion of future research directions.

  View details for DOI 10.1213/ANE.0000000000002458

  View details for PubMedID 29049117

• Cost-Minimization Analysis of Open and Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release. journal of bone and joint surgery. American volume Zhang, S., Vora, M., Harris, A. H., Baker, L., Curtin, C., Kamal, R. N. 2016; 98 (23): 1970-1977

  Abstract

  Carpal tunnel release is the most common upper-limb surgical procedure performed annually in the U.S. There are 2 surgical methods of carpal tunnel release: open or endoscopic. Currently, there is no clear clinical or economic evidence supporting the use of one procedure over the other. We completed a cost-minimization analysis of open and endoscopic carpal tunnel release, testing the null hypothesis that there is no difference between the procedures in terms of cost.We conducted a retrospective review using a private-payer and Medicare Advantage database composed of 16 million patient records from 2007 to 2014. The cohort consisted of records with an ICD-9 (International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision) diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome and a CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) code for carpal tunnel release. Payer fees were used to define cost. We also assessed other associated costs of care, including those of electrodiagnostic studies and occupational therapy. Bivariate comparisons were performed using the chi-square test and the Student t test.Data showed that 86% of the patients underwent open carpal tunnel release. Reimbursement fees for endoscopic release were significantly higher than for open release. Facility fees were responsible for most of the difference between the procedures in reimbursement: facility fees averaged $1,884 for endoscopic release compared with $1,080 for open release (p < 0.0001). Endoscopic release also demonstrated significantly higher physician fees than open release (an average of $555 compared with $428; p < 0.0001). Occupational therapy fees associated with endoscopic release were less than those associated with open release (an average of $237 per session compared with $272; p = 0.07). The total average annual reimbursement per patient for endoscopic release (facility, surgeon, and occupational therapy fees) was significantly higher than for open release ($2,602 compared with $1,751; p < 0.0001).Our data showed that the total average fees per patient for endoscopic release were significantly higher than those for open release, although there currently is no strong evidence supporting better clinical outcomes of either technique.Value-based health-care models that favor delivering high-quality care and improving patient health, while also minimizing costs, may favor open carpal tunnel release.

  View details for PubMedID 27926678

• Analyzing treatment aggressiveness and identifying high-risk patients in diabetic foot ulcer return to care. Wound repair and regeneration Remington, A. C., Hernandez-Boussard, T., Warstadt, N. M., Finnegan, M. A., Shaffer, R., Kwong, J. Z., Curtin, C. 2016; 24 (4): 731-736

  Abstract

  Rates of diabetes and its associated comorbidities have been increasing in the United States, with diabetic foot ulcer treatment representing a large cost to the patient and healthcare system. These ulcers often result in multiple hospital admissions. This study examined readmissions following inpatient care for a diabetic foot ulcer and identified modifiable factors associated with all-cause 30-day readmissions to the inpatient or emergency department (ED) setting. We hypothesized that patients undergoing aggressive treatment would have lower 30-day readmission rates. We identified patient discharge records containing International Classification of Disease ninth revision codes for both diabetes mellitus and distal foot ulcer in the State Inpatient and Emergency Department databases from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project in Florida and New York, 2011-2012. All-cause 30-day return to care visits (ED or inpatient) were analyzed. Patient demographics and treatment characteristics were evaluated using univariate and multivariable regression models. The cohort included 25,911 discharges, having a mean age of 63 and an average of 3.8 comorbidities. The overall rate of return to care was 30%, and 21% of subjects underwent a toe or midfoot amputation during their index stay. The most common diagnosis codes upon readmission were diabetes mellitus (19%) and infection (13%). Patients with a toe or midfoot amputation procedure were less likely to be readmitted within 30 days (odds ratio: 0.78; 95% confidence interval: 0.73, 0.84). Presence of comorbidities, black and Hispanic ethnicities, and Medicare and Medicaid payer status were also associated with higher odds of readmission following initial hospitalization (p < 0.05). The study suggests that there are many factors that affect readmission rates for diabetic foot ulcer patients. Understanding patients at high-risk for readmission can improve counseling and treatment strategies for this fragile patient population.

  View details for DOI 10.1111/wrr.12439

  View details for PubMedID 27144893

• Understanding and Overcoming Barriers to Upper Limb Surgical Reconstruction After Tetraplegia: The Need for Interdisciplinary Collaboration ARCHIVES OF PHYSICAL MEDICINE AND REHABILITATION Punj, V., Curtin, C. 2016; 97 (6): S81-S87

  Abstract

  There are approximately 300,000 persons with spinal cord injury living in the United States, and nearly 60% of these persons have suffered tetraplegia with resultant alterations in body function, activity, and therefore participation. Restoring hand function can improve independence, and various studies have shown that persons with tetraplegia rate restoration of arm and hand function higher than bowel and bladder control, walking, or sexuality. There are conservative options to improve upper limb function in this population (eg, orthoses, neuroprostheses). Surgical interventions are also available, and 70% of surgical patients report satisfaction and improvement in various activities of daily living after surgery to restore arm and hand function. Despite these positive surgical outcomes, <10% of the eligible population of 60% to 70% undergo tendon transfer surgery to restore function. Underutilization of surgical interventions can be explained by population-, provider-, and health care systems-specific barriers. With further education of providers and patients and team building across disciplines these barriers can be overcome, ultimately leading to reduced disability and improved quality of life for persons with tetraplegia.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.apmr.2015.11.022

  View details for Web of Science ID 000377237200003

  View details for PubMedID 27233595

• Management of Pain in Complex Nerve Injuries HAND CLINICS Davis, G., Curtin, C. M. 2016; 32 (2): 257-?

  Abstract

  Traumatic nerve injuries can be devastating and life-changing events, leading to functional morbidity and psychological stress and social constraints. Even in the event of a successful surgical repair with recovered motor function, pain can result in continued disability and poor quality of life. Pain after nerve injury can also prevent recovery and return to preinjury life. It is difficult to predict which patients will develop persistent pain; once incurred, pain can be even challenging to manage. This review seeks to define the types of pain following peripheral nerve injuries, investigate the pathophysiology and causative factors, and evaluate potential treatment options.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.hcl.2015.12.011

  View details for Web of Science ID 000376330500014

  View details for PubMedID 27094896

• Electronic Health Records and Quality of Care: An Observational Study Modeling Impact on Mortality, Readmissions, and Complications MEDICINE Yanamadala, S., Morrison, D., Curtin, C., McDonald, K., Hernandez-Boussard, T. 2016; 95 (19)

  Abstract

  Electronic health records (EHRs) were implemented to improve quality of care and patient outcomes. This study assessed the relationship between EHR-adoption and patient outcomes.We performed an observational study using State Inpatient Databases linked to American Hospital Association survey, 2011. Surgical and medical patients from 6 large, diverse states were included. We performed univariate analyses and developed hierarchical regression models relating level of EHR utilization and mortality, readmission rates, and complications. We evaluated the effect of EHR adoption on outcomes in a difference-in-differences analysis, 2008 to 2011.Medical and surgical patients sought care at hospitals reporting no EHR (3.5%), partial EHR (55.2%), and full EHR systems (41.3%). In univariate analyses, patients at hospitals with full EHR had the lowest rates of inpatient mortality, readmissions, and Patient Safety Indicators followed by patients at hospitals with partial EHR and then patients at hospitals with no EHR (P < 0.05). However, these associations were not robust when accounting for other patient and hospital factors, and adoption of an EHR system was not associated with improved patient outcomes (P > 0.05).These results indicate that patients receiving medical and surgical care at hospitals with no EHR system have similar outcomes compared to patients seeking care at hospitals with a full EHR system, after controlling for important confounders.To date, we have not yet seen the promised benefits of EHR systems on patient outcomes in the inpatient setting. EHRs may play a smaller role than expected in patient outcomes and overall quality of care.

  View details for DOI 10.1097/MD.0000000000003332

  View details for Web of Science ID 000376927000010

  View details for PubMedID 27175631

  View details for PubMedCentralID PMC4902473

• Digital Sympathectomy in Patients With Scleroderma: An Overview of the Practice and Referral Patterns and Perceptions of Rheumatologists. Annals of plastic surgery Chiou, G., Crowe, C., Suarez, P., Chung, L., Curtin, C., Chang, J. 2015; 75 (6): 637-643

  Abstract

  Periarterial sympathectomy is a treatment option for patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) suffering from digital vasculopathy. Despite potential benefits of ulcer healing, pain improvement, and amputation prevention, this operation appears to be infrequently performed. The aims of our study are as follows: (1) to assess national digital sympathectomy rates in patients with SSc and (2) to improve our understanding of referring physicians' perceptions of operative management and access to hand surgeons. Our hypothesis is that rheumatologists' practices largely influence their referral patterns for digital sympathectomy.To determine the rates and demographics of hospitalized patients with SSc who had undergone digital sympathectomy, we queried the Nationwide Inpatient Sample from 2006 to 2010. Additionally, we mailed a self-administered survey to a national sample of 500 board-certified rheumatologists to elicit their practice patterns and perceptions of digital sympathectomy. Using logistic regression, we analyzed potential predictor variables associated with rheumatologists performing the following: (1) routinely counseling patients about digital sympathectomy and (2) expressing the desire to refer these patients for operative evaluation.Of 348,539 hospitalizations associated with a diagnosis of SSc, only 0.2% were for digital sympathectomy. Our questionnaire revealed that only 50% of rheumatologists routinely counseled, whereas 67% expressed the desire to refer. Factors associated with increased rheumatologists' interest in surgical management for patients with SSc included positive perception of the operation's efficacy, comfort with postoperative management, and interdisciplinary relationship with a hand surgeon.Critical components to increasing appropriate utilization of digital sympathectomy include enhancing rheumatologists' understanding of the operation, comfort with postoperative management, and promoting strong, interdisciplinary relationships with hand surgeons. Increasing education and awareness, as well as establishing a solid referral network of hand surgeons may thereby improve patient access to digital sympathectomy.

  View details for DOI 10.1097/SAP.0000000000000614

  View details for PubMedID 26418780

• Optical Biopsy of Peripheral Nerve Using Confocal Laser Endomicroscopy: A New Tool for Nerve Surgeons? Archives of plastic surgery Crowe, C. S., Liao, J. C., Curtin, C. M. 2015; 42 (5): 626-629

  Abstract

  Peripheral nerve injuries remain a challenge for reconstructive surgeons with many patients obtaining suboptimal results. Understanding the level of injury is imperative for successful repair. Current methods for distinguishing healthy from damaged nerve are time consuming and possess limited efficacy. Confocal laser endomicroscopy (CLE) is an emerging optical biopsy technology that enables dynamic, high resolution, sub-surface imaging of live tissue. Porcine sciatic nerve was either left undamaged or briefly clamped to simulate injury. Diluted fluorescein was applied topically to the nerve. CLE imaging was performed by direct contact of the probe with nerve tissue. Images representative of both damaged and undamaged nerve fibers were collected and compared to routine H&E histology. Optical biopsy of undamaged nerve revealed bands of longitudinal nerve fibers, distinct from surrounding adipose and connective tissue. When damaged, these bands appear truncated and terminate in blebs of opacity. H&E staining revealed similar features in damaged nerve fibers. These results prompt development of a protocol for imaging peripheral nerves intraoperatively. To this end, improving surgeons' ability to understand the level of injury through real-time imaging will allow for faster and more informed operative decisions than the current standard permits.

  View details for DOI 10.5999/aps.2015.42.5.626

  View details for PubMedID 26430636

• The Effect of Moving Carpal Tunnel Releases Out of Hospitals on Reducing United States Health Care Charges. journal of hand surgery Nguyen, C., Milstein, A., Hernandez-Boussard, T., Curtin, C. M. 2015; 40 (8): 1657-1662

  Abstract

  To better understand how perioperative care affects charges for carpal tunnel release (CTR).We developed a cohort using ICD9-CM procedure code 04.43 for CTR in the National Survey of Ambulatory Surgery 2006 to test perioperative factors potentially associated with CTR costs. We examined factors that might affect costs, including patient characteristics, payer, surgical time, setting (hospital outpatient department vs. freestanding ambulatory surgery center), anesthesia type, anesthesia provider, discharge status, and adverse events. Records were grouped by facility to reduce the impact of surgeon and patient heterogeneity. Facilities were divided into quintiles based on average total facility charges per CTR. This division allowed comparison of factors associated with the lowest and highest quintile of facilities based on average charge per CTR.A total of 160,000 CTRs were performed in 2006. Nearly all patients were discharged home without adverse events. Mean charge across facilities was $2,572 (SD, $2,331-$2,813). Patient complexity and intraoperative duration of surgery was similar across quintiles (approximately 13 min). Anesthesia techniques were not significantly associated with patient complexity, charges, and total perioperative time. Hospital outpatient department setting was strongly associated with total charges, with $500 higher charge per CTR. Half of all CTRs were performed in hospital outpatient departments. Facilities in the lowest quintile charge group were freestanding ambulatory surgery centers.Examination of charges for CTR suggests that surgical setting is a large cost driver with the potential opportunity to lower charges for CTRs by approximately 30% if performed in ASCs.Economic/decision analysis II.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jhsa.2015.04.023

  View details for PubMedID 26070229

  View details for PubMedCentralID PMC4516645

• Interpositional Nerve Grafting of the Prostatic Plexus after Radical Prostatectomy. Plastic and reconstructive surgery. Global open Kung, T. A., Waljee, J. F., Curtin, C. M., Wei, J. T., Montie, J. E., Cederna, P. S. 2015; 3 (7)

  Abstract

  Injury to the prostatic plexus may occur during radical prostatectomy even with the use of minimally invasive techniques. Reconstruction of these nerves by interpositional nerve grafting can be performed to reduce morbidity. Although the feasibility of nerve reconstruction has been shown, long-term functional outcomes are mixed, and the role of nerve grafting in these patients remains unclear.A retrospective study was performed on 38 consecutive patients who underwent immediate unilateral or bilateral nerve reconstruction after open prostatectomy. Additionally, 53 control patients who underwent unilateral, bilateral, or non-nerve-sparing open prostatectomy without nerve grafting were reviewed. Outcomes included rates of urinary continence, erections sufficient for sexual intercourse, and ability to have spontaneous erections. Analysis was performed by stratifying patients by D'Amico score and laterality of nerve involvement.Unilateral nerve grafting conferred no significant benefit compared with unilateral nerve-sparing prostatectomy. Bilateral nerve-sparing patients demonstrated superior functional outcomes compared with bilateral non-nerve-sparing patients, whereas bilateral nerve-grafting patients displayed a trend toward functional improvement. With increasing D'Amico score, there was a trend toward worsening urinary continence and erectile function regardless of nerve-grafting status.In the era of robotic prostatectomy, interpositional nerve reconstruction is not a routine practice. However, the substantial morbidity experienced in patients with bilateral nerve resections remains unacceptable, and therefore, nerve grafting may still improve functional outcomes in these patients. Further investigation is needed to improve the potential of bilateral nerve grafting after non-nerve-sparing prostatectomy.

  View details for DOI 10.1097/GOX.0000000000000422

  View details for PubMedID 26301141

• Patient safety in plastic surgery: identifying areas for quality improvement efforts. Annals of plastic surgery Hernandez-Boussard, T., McDonald, K. M., Rhoads, K. F., Curtin, C. M. 2015; 74 (5): 597-602

  Abstract

  Improving quality of health care is a global priority. Before quality benchmarks are established, we first must understand rates of adverse events (AEs). This project assessed risk-adjusted rates of inpatient AEs for soft tissue reconstructive procedures.Patients receiving soft tissue reconstructive procedures from 2005 to 2010 were extracted from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample. Inpatient AEs were identified using patient safety indicators (PSIs), established measures developed by Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.We identified 409,991 patients with soft tissue reconstruction and 16,635 (4.06%) had a PSI during their hospital stay. Patient safety indicators were associated with increased risk-adjusted mortality, longer length of stay, and decreased routine disposition (P < 0.01). Patient characteristics associated with a higher risk-adjusted rate per 1000 patients at risk included older age, men, nonwhite, and public payer (P < 0.05). Overall, plastic surgery patients had significantly lower risk-adjusted rate compared to other surgical inpatients for all events evaluated except for failure to rescue and postoperative hemorrhage or hematoma, which were not statistically different. Risk-adjusted rates of hematoma hemorrhage were significantly higher in patients receiving size-reduction surgery, and these rates were further accentuated when broken down by sex and payer.In general, plastic surgery patients had lower rates of in-hospital AEs than other surgical disciplines, but PSIs were not uncommon. With the establishment of national basal PSI rates in plastic surgery patients, benchmarks can be devised and target areas for quality improvement efforts identified. Further prospective studies should be designed to elucidate the drivers of AEs identified in this population.

  View details for DOI 10.1097/SAP.0b013e318297791e

  View details for PubMedID 24108144

• Access to surgical upper extremity care for people with tetraplegia: an international perspective SPINAL CORD Fox, P. M., Suarez, P., Hentz, V. R., Curtin, C. M. 2015; 53 (4): 302-305

  Abstract

  Survey.To determine whether upper extremity reconstruction in patients with tetraplegia is underutilized internationally and, if so, what are the barriers to care.International-attendees of a meeting in Paris, France.One hundred and seventy attendees at the Tetrahand meeting in Paris in 2010 were sent a 13-question survey to determine the access and utilization of upper limb reconstruction in tetraplegic patients in their practice.Respondents ranged the globe including North America, South America, Europe, Asia and Australia. Fifty-nine percent of respondents had been practicing for more than 10 years. Sixty-four percent of respondents felt that at least 25% of people with tetraplegia would be candidates for surgery. Yet the majority of respondents found that <15% of potential patients underwent upper extremity reconstruction. Throughout the world direct patient referral was the main avenue of surgeons meeting patients with peer networking a distant second. Designated as the top three barriers to this care were lack of knowledge of surgical options by patients, lack of desire for surgery and poor referral patterns to appropriate upper extremity surgeons.The results of this survey, of a worldwide audience, indicate that many of the same barriers to care exist regardless of the patient's address. This was a preliminary opinion survey and thus the results are subjective. However, these results provide a roadmap to improving access to care by improving patient education and interdisciplinary physician communication.

  View details for DOI 10.1038/sc.2015.3

  View details for Web of Science ID 000352725500008

  View details for PubMedID 25687516

• Comparative Effectiveness of Infraclavicular and Supraclavicular Perineural Catheters for Ultrasound-Guided Through-the-Catheter Bolus Anesthesia. Journal of ultrasound in medicine Harrison, T. K., Kim, T. E., Howard, S. K., Funck, N., Wagner, M. J., Walters, T. L., Curtin, C., Chang, J., Ganaway, T., Mariano, E. R. 2015; 34 (2): 333-340

  Abstract

  Using a through-the-needle local anesthetic bolus technique, ultrasound-guided infraclavicular perineural catheters have been shown to provide greater analgesia compared to supraclavicular catheters. A through-the-catheter bolus technique, which arguably "tests" the anesthetic efficacy of the catheter before initiating an infusion, has been validated for infraclavicular catheters but not supraclavicular catheters. This study investigated the through-the-catheter bolus technique for supraclavicular catheters and tested the hypothesis that infraclavicular catheters provide faster onset of brachial plexus anesthesia.Preoperatively, patients were randomly assigned to receive either a supraclavicular or an infraclavicular catheter using an ultrasound-guided nonstimulating catheter insertion technique with a mepivacaine bolus via the catheter and ropivacaine perineural infusion initiated postoperatively. The primary outcome was time to achieve complete sensory anesthesia in the ulnar and median nerve distributions. Secondary outcomes included procedural time, procedure-related pain and complications, and postoperative pain, opioid consumption, sleep disturbances, and motor weakness.Fifty patients were enrolled in the study; all but 2 perineural catheters were successfully placed per protocol. Twenty-one of 24 (88%) and 24 of 24 (100%) patients in the supraclavicular and infraclavicular groups, respectively, achieved complete sensory anesthesia by 30 minutes (P= .088). There was no difference in the time to achieve complete sensory anesthesia. Supraclavicular patients reported more sleep disturbances postoperatively, but there were no statistically significant differences in other outcomes.Both supraclavicular and infraclavicular perineural catheters using a through-the-catheter bolus technique provide effective brachial plexus anesthesia.

  View details for DOI 10.7863/ultra.34.2.333

  View details for PubMedID 25614407

• Readmissions After Treatment of Distal Radius Fractures JOURNAL OF HAND SURGERY-AMERICAN VOLUME Curtin, C. M., Hernandez-Boussard, T. 2014; 39 (10): 1926-1932

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jhsa.2014.07.041

  View details for Web of Science ID 000342733500006

• Readmissions after treatment of distal radius fractures. journal of hand surgery Curtin, C. M., Hernandez-Boussard, T. 2014; 39 (10): 1926-1932

  Abstract

  To assess the rates and associated diagnoses of readmissions for patients having received an intervention for treatment of distal radius fracture.We analyzed patient discharges from 2005-2011 for California, Florida, and New York. We used Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality data sets: (1) State Inpatient Database, (2) State Ambulatory Surgery Database, and (3) State Emergency Department Database. We examined inpatient, outpatient, and emergency room treatment locations. We identified patients by diagnosis code for distal radius fracture (813.41). Patients were stratified based on procedure codes for open reduction, closed reduction, and external fixation. The cohort was followed for 30 days to examine all-cause 30-day inpatient admissions and emergency department visits.We identified 35,241 discharges with a primary diagnosis of distal radius facture. Of those, 18,388 patients underwent a procedure for their fracture, and 1,679 (9%) were readmitted within 30 days of discharge. Readmission rates varied by procedure type: internal fixation 8%, closed reduction 14%, and external fixation 11%. The most common diagnosis codes associated with readmission were general distal radius fracture codes (11%) and pain diagnoses (10%). Open procedures had higher odds of having a readmission associated with pain compared with closed treatment and external fixation.Readmissions after treatment of distal radius fracture care are common. Our results show many distal radius fracture patients return to the health care system for pain-related issues. As more emphasis is placed on quality health care delivery, implementation of better pain management will be important to health care providers and patients.This study highlights that improved perioperative pain control may improve patient care and reduce readmissions.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jhsa.2014.07.041

  View details for PubMedID 25257486

• Analysis of Efficacy and Safety of Treatment With Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum Among Subgroups of Patients With Dupuytren Contracture. Annals of plastic surgery Raven, R. B., Kushner, H., Nguyen, D., Naam, N., Curtin, C. 2014; 73 (3): 286-290

  Abstract

  Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum (CCH) injection is a nonoperative treatment of hand contractures from Dupuytren disease. This study assessed the efficacy and safety of CCH in several subgroups of patients with increased surgical risk.Data were pooled from 3 randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trials. This analysis included 271 patients with metacarpophalangeal (n = 167) or proximal interphalangeal (n = 104) joint contractures greater than or equal to 20 degrees treated with CCH (0.58 mg collagenase per injection). Subgroups included age, sex, and diabetes status. End points included rate of clinical success (reduction in contracture to 0-5 degrees of normal) and percentage of adverse events.There was no significant difference in clinical success by age, diabetes status, or sex with 63% reaching the end point. There was no difference in adverse events among the subgroups, with peripheral edema, contusion, and injection-site hemorrhage being most common.High-risk subgroups do not demonstrate differences in efficacy or safety with CCH treatment of Dupuytren-related contractures.

  View details for DOI 10.1097/SAP.0b013e31827ae9d0

  View details for PubMedID 23511746

• Analysis of Efficacy and Safety of Treatment With Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum Among Subgroups of Patients With Dupuytren Contracture ANNALS OF PLASTIC SURGERY Raven, R. B., Kushner, H., Dat Nguyen, D., Naam, N., Curtin, C. 2014; 72 (3): 286-290

  Abstract

  Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum (CCH) injection is a nonoperative treatment of hand contractures from Dupuytren disease. This study assessed the efficacy and safety of CCH in several subgroups of patients with increased surgical risk.Data were pooled from 3 randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trials. This analysis included 271 patients with metacarpophalangeal (n = 167) or proximal interphalangeal (n = 104) joint contractures greater than or equal to 20 degrees treated with CCH (0.58 mg collagenase per injection). Subgroups included age, sex, and diabetes status. End points included rate of clinical success (reduction in contracture to 0-5 degrees of normal) and percentage of adverse events.There was no significant difference in clinical success by age, diabetes status, or sex with 63% reaching the end point. There was no difference in adverse events among the subgroups, with peripheral edema, contusion, and injection-site hemorrhage being most common.High-risk subgroups do not demonstrate differences in efficacy or safety with CCH treatment of Dupuytren-related contractures.

  View details for DOI 10.1097/SAP.0b013e31827ae9d0

  View details for Web of Science ID 000341079300006

• A reflection of outcomes research and its impact on the practice of hand surgery. journal of hand surgery, European volume Curtin, C. M., Chung, K. C. 2014; 39 (7): 790-793

  View details for DOI 10.1177/1753193414524138

  View details for PubMedID 25139931

• Quality Assessment in Hand Surgery HAND CLINICS Waljee, J. F., Curtin, C. 2014; 30 (3): 329-?

  Abstract

  Measuring quality assessment in hand surgery remains an underexplored area. However, measuring quality is becoming increasingly transparent and important. Patients now have direct access to hospital and physician metrics and large payers have linked financial incentives to quality metrics. It is critical for hand surgeons to understand the essential elements of quality and its assessment. This article reviews several areas of hand surgery quality assessments including safety, outcomes, satisfaction, and cost.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.hcl.2014.04.009

  View details for Web of Science ID 000340735100008

  View details for PubMedID 25066851

• Squamous cell carcinoma in a patient with dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa: a wound management strategy. Dermatologic surgery Ng, F. Y., Nguyen, C., Curtin, C. M. 2014; 40 (8): 918-920

  View details for DOI 10.1097/DSS.0000000000000088

  View details for PubMedID 25022710

• Multiple Collagenase Injections Are Safe for Treatment of Dupuytren's Contractures. Orthopedics Gajendran, V. K., Hentz, V., Kenney, D., Curtin, C. M. 2014; 37 (7): e657-60

  Abstract

  The authors report the case of a 65-year-old, right-hand-dominant man who had severe Dupuytren's disease with multiple cords and flexion contractures of the metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal joints of both hands and underwent repeated collagenase injections for treatment. Collagenase has been shown to be safe and effective in the treatment of Dupuytren's contractures when administered as a single dose, but the results of multiple injections over a prolonged period are unknown. Antibodies to collagenase develop in all patients after several treatments, raising concerns about safety and efficacy as a result of sensitization from repeated exposures. The antibodies generated as a result of repeated exposure to collagenase could theoretically render it less effective with time and could also lead to immune reactions as severe as anaphylaxis. The authors present the case of a single patient who experienced continued correction of his contractures with only minor and self-limited adverse reactions after administration of 12 collagenase doses through 15 injections during a 4-year period. Over time, the injections continued to be effective at correcting metacarpophalangeal joint contractures, but less effective at correcting proximal interphalangeal joint contractures. The patient did eventually require a fasciectomy, but the safety and modest success of the repeated collagenase injections shows promise for a less invasive treatment with a better risk profile than open fasciectomy. Although further studies are needed, repeated administration of collagenase appears to be safe and modestly effective for severe Dupuytren's contractures, although a fasciectomy may ultimately be required in the most severe cases.

  View details for DOI 10.3928/01477447-20140626-64

  View details for PubMedID 24992063

• Cleft palate surgery: an evaluation of length of stay, complications, and costs by hospital type. Cleft palate-craniofacial journal Nguyen, C., Hernandez-Boussard, T., Davies, S. M., Bhattacharya, J., Khosla, R. K., Curtin, C. M. 2014; 51 (4): 412-419

  Abstract

  Objective : The purpose of this study was to assess length of stay (LOS), complication rates, costs, and charges of cleft palate repair by various hospital types. We hypothesized that pediatric hospitals would have shorter LOS, fewer complications, and lower costs and charges. Methods : Patients were identified by ICD-9-CM code for cleft palate repair (27.62) using databases from the Agency for Health Research and Quality Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Kids' Inpatient Database from 1997, 2000, 2003, and 2006. Patient characteristics (age, race, gender, insurer, comorbidities) and facility resources (hospital beds, cleft palate surgery volume, nurse-to-bed ratio, pediatric intensive care unit [PICU], PICU intensivist, burn unit) were examined. Hospitals types included pediatric hospitals, general hospitals, and nonaccredited children's hospital. For each hospital type, mean LOS, extended LOS (LOS > 2), and complications were assessed. Results : A total of 14,153 patients had cleft repair with a mean LOS of 2 days (SD, 0.04), mortality 0.01%, transfusion 0.3%, and complication <3%. Pediatric hospitals had fewer patients with extended hospital stays. Patients with an LOS >2 days were associated with fourfold higher complications. Comorbidities increased the relative rate of LOS >2 days by 90%. Pediatric hospitals had the highest comorbidities, yet 35% decreased the relative rate of LOS >2 days. Median total charges of $10,835 increased to $15,104 with LOS >2 days; median total costs of $4367 increased to $6148 with a LOS >2 days. Conclusion : Pediatric hospitals had higher comorbidities yet shorter LOS. Pediatric resources significantly decreased the relative rate of LOS >2 days. Median costs and charges increased by 41% with LOS >2 days. Further research is needed to understand additional aspects of pediatric hospitals associated with lower LOS.

  View details for DOI 10.1597/12-150

  View details for PubMedID 24063682

• Needle aponeurotomy for the treatment of Dupuytren's disease. Hand clinics Diaz, R., Curtin, C. 2014; 30 (1): 33-38

  Abstract

  Surgical treatment of Dupuytren's disease includes radical fasciectomy, limited fasciectomy, percutaneous needle aponeurotomy (PNA), and treatment with collagenase injections. The most commonly performed procedure is limited fasciectomy. However, techniques such as PNA and collagenase injections are being performed with higher frequency because they are minimally invasive. PNA is generally recommended for older patients with less severe contractures who desire a faster recovery with a low complication rate. Patients undergoing PNA should be informed that recurrence rates appear to be higher with PNA in comparison with limited fasciectomy.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.hcl.2013.09.005

  View details for PubMedID 24286740

• Minimally invasive hand surgery. Preface. Hand clinics Curtin, C. 2014; 30 (1): ix-x

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.hcl.2013.09.007

  View details for PubMedID 24286748

• Soft-Tissue Coverage of the Hand: A Case-Based Approach PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY Eberlin, K. R., Chang, J., Curtin, C. M., Sammer, D. M., Saint-Cyr, M., Taghinia, A. H. 2014; 133 (1): 91-101

  Abstract

  Adequate soft-tissue coverage of the hand is paramount to achieve optimal aesthetic and functional results in patients with complex hand defects. In this article, the authors present four illustrative clinical cases and discuss potential reconstructive modalities. For each scenario, two surgical options are discussed: one established and one nontraditional method of reconstruction. The authors' preferred method and technical pearls for execution are presented.

  View details for DOI 10.1097/01.prs.0000436831.73323.88

  View details for Web of Science ID 000329164900044

  View details for PubMedID 24105089

• Surgical versus nonsurgical treatment of femur fractures in people with spinal cord injury: an administrative analysis of risks. Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation Bishop, J. A., Suarez, P., DiPonio, L., Ota, D., Curtin, C. M. 2013; 94 (12): 2357-2364

  Abstract

  To assess the risks associated with surgical and nonsurgical care of femur fractures in people with spinal cord injury (SCI).Retrospective cohort study; an analysis of Veterans Affairs (VA) data from the National Patient Care Database.Administrative data from database.The cohort was identified by searching the administrative data from fiscal years 2001 to 2006 for veterans with a femur fracture diagnosis using the International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, Clinical Modification codes. This group was subdivided into those with (n=396) and without (n=13,350) SCI and those treated with and without surgical intervention.Not applicable.Rates of mortality and adverse events.The SCI group was younger with more distal fractures than the non-SCI group. In the non-SCI population, 78% of patients had associated surgical codes compared with 37% in the SCI population. There was higher mortality in the non-SCI group treated nonoperatively. In the SCI population, there was no difference in mortality between patients treated nonoperatively and operatively. Overall adverse events were similar between groups except for pressure sores in the SCI population, of which the nonoperative group had 20% and the operative had 7%. Rates of surgical interventions for those with SCI varied greatly among VA institutions.We found lower rates of surgical intervention in the SCI population. Those with SCI who had surgery did not have increased mortality or adverse events. Surgical treatment minimizes the risks of immobilization and should be considered in appropriate SCI patients.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.apmr.2013.07.024

  View details for PubMedID 23948614

• A national study on craniosynostosis surgical repair. Cleft palate-craniofacial journal Nguyen, C., Hernandez-Boussard, T., Khosla, R. K., Curtin, C. M. 2013; 50 (5): 555-560

  Abstract

  Objective :  Our study aimed to use national data to assess the perioperative outcomes of craniosynostosis surgical repair. Design :  Data were obtained from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Kids Inpatient Database from 1997, 2000, 2003, and 2006. Setting :  Community hospitals in the United States. Patients :  The cohort was identified using the ICD-9-CM procedure codes for craniosynostosis surgical repair (2.01, 2.03, 2.04, 2.06). Main Outcome Measures(s) :  We determined patient and hospital characteristics. We clustered patients by age group (<7 months, 7 to 12 months, 1 to 3 years) and assessed mortality, comorbidities, mean length of stay (LOS), and total charge. We performed logistic regression with our dependent variable being longer average hospital stay: LOS >4.2 days. Results :  We found 3426 patients. Average age at the time of surgery was 181 days (SD 84). Average length of stay was 4.2 days. The majority of the patients were boys (66%), white (71%), and insured (93%). Nearly all patients underwent surgery in a teaching hospital (98%) in urban centers (99%). Approximately 10% of patients experienced an acute complication, most commonly hemorrhages or hematomas and airway or respiratory failure. Patients ages 1 to 3 years had the highest rates of comorbidities and a longer LOS. Mortality rate was <1%. Conclusions :  Craniosynostosis surgery is safe with low rates of mortality and acute complications. LOS >4.2 appears to be associated more with comorbidities than with complications. Higher rates of comorbidities and LOS >4.2 days for patients age 1 to 3 years warrant addition research to assess potential barriers to care.

  View details for DOI 10.1597/11-324

  View details for PubMedID 23030675

• A National Study on Craniosynostosis Surgical Repair CLEFT PALATE-CRANIOFACIAL JOURNAL Christine Nguyen, C., Hernandez-Boussard, T., Khosla, R. K., Curtin, C. M. 2013; 50 (5): 555-560

  Abstract

  Objective :  Our study aimed to use national data to assess the perioperative outcomes of craniosynostosis surgical repair. Design :  Data were obtained from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Kids Inpatient Database from 1997, 2000, 2003, and 2006. Setting :  Community hospitals in the United States. Patients :  The cohort was identified using the ICD-9-CM procedure codes for craniosynostosis surgical repair (2.01, 2.03, 2.04, 2.06). Main Outcome Measures(s) :  We determined patient and hospital characteristics. We clustered patients by age group (<7 months, 7 to 12 months, 1 to 3 years) and assessed mortality, comorbidities, mean length of stay (LOS), and total charge. We performed logistic regression with our dependent variable being longer average hospital stay: LOS >4.2 days. Results :  We found 3426 patients. Average age at the time of surgery was 181 days (SD 84). Average length of stay was 4.2 days. The majority of the patients were boys (66%), white (71%), and insured (93%). Nearly all patients underwent surgery in a teaching hospital (98%) in urban centers (99%). Approximately 10% of patients experienced an acute complication, most commonly hemorrhages or hematomas and airway or respiratory failure. Patients ages 1 to 3 years had the highest rates of comorbidities and a longer LOS. Mortality rate was <1%. Conclusions :  Craniosynostosis surgery is safe with low rates of mortality and acute complications. LOS >4.2 appears to be associated more with comorbidities than with complications. Higher rates of comorbidities and LOS >4.2 days for patients age 1 to 3 years warrant addition research to assess potential barriers to care.

  View details for DOI 10.1597/11-324

  View details for Web of Science ID 000327536100011

• Breast reconstruction national trends and healthcare implications. breast journal Hernandez-Boussard, T., Zeidler, K., Barzin, A., Lee, G., Curtin, C. 2013; 19 (5): 463-469

  Abstract

  Breast reconstruction improves quality-of-life of breast cancer patients. Different reconstructive options exist, yet commentary in the plastic surgery literature suggests that financial constraints are limiting access to autologous reconstruction (AR). This study follows national trends in breast reconstruction and identifies factors associated with reconstructive choices. Data were obtained from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample from 1998 to 2008. Patients were categorized as having either implant or ARs. Bivariate and multivariate regression analysis identified variables associated with receiving implants versus AR. Physician fee schedules were analyzed using national average Medicare physician reimbursement rates. From 1998 to 2008, 324,134 breast reconstructions were performed. Reconstructions increased 4% per year. The proportion of implant reconstructions increased 11% per year, whereasARs decreased 5% per year (p < 0.05). Our model showed that the odds of having implant-based versus AR were significantly associated with age, disease severity, payer type, hospital teaching status, and year of surgery. Year of surgery was the strongest predictor of implant reconstruction; patients receiving breast reconstructive surgery in 2009 were three times more likely to have implant breast reconstructive surgery compared with similar patients in 2002. Medicare reimbursement steadily declined for AR over a similar time frame. From 1998 to 2008, autologous breast reconstruction has significantly declined, parallel to a decrease in physician reimbursement. Our data found no significant change in patient characteristics supporting the lack of choice of AR. Further research is warranted to better understand this shift to implant reconstruction and to ensure future access of these complex reconstructive procedures.

  View details for DOI 10.1111/tbj.12148

  View details for PubMedID 23758582

• Management of Chronic Pain Following Nerve lnjuries/CRPS Type II HAND CLINICS Carroll, I., Curtin, C. M. 2013; 29 (3): 401-?

  Abstract

  Chronic pain affects quality of life and adversely affects functional outcomes. Chronic postoperative pain is a frustrating problem for the surgeon because it ruins a technically perfect procedure, and the surgeon may be unsure of treatment strategies. There is much information on chronic pain and its treatment, but it is often published outside of surgery and diffusion of this information across disciplines is slow. This article synthesizes some of this literature and provides a systematic presentation of the evidence on pain associated with peripheral nerve injury. It highlights the use of perioperative and early intervention to decrease this debilitating problem.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.hcl.2013.04.009

  View details for Web of Science ID 000323627800009

  View details for PubMedID 23895720

• Perioperative interventions to reduce chronic postsurgical pain. Journal of reconstructive microsurgery Carroll, I., Hah, J., Mackey, S., Ottestad, E., Kong, J. T., Lahidji, S., Tawfik, V., Younger, J., Curtin, C. 2013; 29 (4): 213-222

  Abstract

  Approximately 10% of patients following a variety of surgeries develop chronic postsurgical pain. Reducing chronic postoperative pain is especially important to reconstructive surgeons because common operations such as breast and limb reconstruction have even higher risk for developing chronic postsurgical pain. Animal studies of posttraumatic nerve injury pain demonstrate that there is a critical time frame before and immediately after nerve injury in which specific interventions can reduce the incidence and intensity of chronic neuropathic pain behaviors-so called "preventative analgesia." In animal models, perineural local anesthetic, systemic intravenous local anesthetic, perineural clonidine, systemic gabapentin, systemic tricyclic antidepressants, and minocycline have each been shown to reduce pain behaviors days to weeks after treatment. The translation of this work to humans also suggests that brief perioperative interventions may protect patients from developing new chronic postsurgical pain. Recent clinical trial data show that there is an opportunity during the perioperative period to dramatically reduce the incidence and severity of chronic postsurgical pain. The surgeon, working with the anesthesiologist, has the ability to modify both early and chronic postoperative pain by implementing an evidence-based preventative analgesia plan.

  View details for DOI 10.1055/s-0032-1329921

  View details for PubMedID 23463498

• Perioperative Interventions to Reduce Chronic Postsurgical Pain JOURNAL OF RECONSTRUCTIVE MICROSURGERY Carroll, I., Hah, J., Mackey, S., Ottestad, E., Kong, J. T., Lahidji, S., Tawfik, V., Younger, J., Curtin, C. 2013; 29 (4): 213-222

  Abstract

  Approximately 10% of patients following a variety of surgeries develop chronic postsurgical pain. Reducing chronic postoperative pain is especially important to reconstructive surgeons because common operations such as breast and limb reconstruction have even higher risk for developing chronic postsurgical pain. Animal studies of posttraumatic nerve injury pain demonstrate that there is a critical time frame before and immediately after nerve injury in which specific interventions can reduce the incidence and intensity of chronic neuropathic pain behaviors-so called "preventative analgesia." In animal models, perineural local anesthetic, systemic intravenous local anesthetic, perineural clonidine, systemic gabapentin, systemic tricyclic antidepressants, and minocycline have each been shown to reduce pain behaviors days to weeks after treatment. The translation of this work to humans also suggests that brief perioperative interventions may protect patients from developing new chronic postsurgical pain. Recent clinical trial data show that there is an opportunity during the perioperative period to dramatically reduce the incidence and severity of chronic postsurgical pain. The surgeon, working with the anesthesiologist, has the ability to modify both early and chronic postoperative pain by implementing an evidence-based preventative analgesia plan.

  View details for DOI 10.1055/s-0032-1329921

  View details for Web of Science ID 000317597000001

  View details for PubMedID 23463498

• Changes resembling complex regional pain syndrome following surgery and immobilization. journal of pain Pepper, A., Li, W., Kingery, W. S., Angst, M. S., Curtin, C. M., Clark, J. D. 2013; 14 (5): 516-524

  Abstract

  The study of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) in humans is complicated by inhomogeneities in available study cohorts. We hoped to characterize early CRPS-like features in patients undergoing hand surgery. Forty-three patients were recruited from a hand surgery clinic that had elective surgeries followed by cast immobilization. On the day of cast removal, patients were assessed for vasomotor, sudomotor, and trophic changes, and edema and pain sensitization using quantitative sensory testing. Pain intensity was assessed at the time of cast removal and after 1 additional month, as was the nature of the pain using the Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs (LANSS). Skin biopsies were harvested for the analysis of expression of inflammatory mediators. We identified vascular and trophic changes in the surgical hands of most patients. Increased sensitivity to punctate, pressure, and cold stimuli were observed commonly as well. Moreover, levels of IL-6, TNF-alpha, and the mast cell marker tryptase were elevated in the skin of hands ipsilateral to surgery. Moderate-to-severe pain persisted in the surgical hands for up to 1 month after cast removal. Exploratory analyses suggested interrelationships between the physical, quantitative sensory testing, and gene expression changes and pain-related outcomes.This study has identified CPRS-like features in the limbs of patients undergoing surgery followed by immobilization. Further studies using this population may be useful in refining our understanding of CRPS mechanisms and treatments for this condition.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jpain.2013.01.004

  View details for PubMedID 23453564

• Ultrasound-guided Continuous Median Nerve Block to Facilitate Intensive Hand Rehabilitation CLINICAL JOURNAL OF PAIN Maxwell, B. G., Hansen, J. A., Talley, J., Curtin, C. M., Mariano, E. R. 2013; 29 (1): 86-88

  Abstract

  Continuous brachial plexus blocks for postoperative analgesia after upper extremity surgery are well described, but they can result in undesirable motor block and lack of specificity for minor hand procedures. We present the use of extended-duration continuous local anesthetic infusion through an ultrasound-guided median nerve catheter inserted at the forearm to facilitate hand physical therapy in a patient who had previously failed rehabilitation due to pain unrelieved by systemic opioids.A 54-year-old man presented with an inability to flex his index finger after proximal phalangeal fracture. He underwent hardware removal and extensive scar release. He had severe postoperative pain that limited his ability to comply with hand therapy, which is required to achieve functional goals after surgery. A perineural catheter was placed under ultrasound guidance adjacent to the median nerve in the proximal forearm; then a continuous infusion of ropivacaine 0.2% was initiated and maintained for 11 days. The patient had focused sensory loss in the median nerve distribution but maintained active flexion of the fingers. He subsequently was able to participate in hand physical therapy and discontinued the use of oral opioid medications.Ultrasound-guided perineural catheters targeting terminal branch nerves may have potential benefits beyond the immediate postoperative period and in nonoperative management of patients requiring physical therapy and rehabilitation.

  View details for DOI 10.1097/AJP.0b013e318246d1ca

  View details for Web of Science ID 000311945500014

  View details for PubMedID 22751029

• Advances in the Management of Dupuytren Disease Collagenase HAND CLINICS Hentz, V. R., Watt, A. J., Desai, S. S., Curtin, C. 2012; 28 (4): 551-?

  Abstract

  Dupuytren disease (DD) is a benign, generally painless connective tissue disorder affecting the palmar fascia that leads to progressive hand contractures. Mediated by myofibroblasts, the disease most commonly begins as a nodule in the palm or finger, and can progress where pathologic cords form leading to progressive flexion deformity of the involved fingers. The palmar skin overlying the cords may become excessively calloused and contracted and involved joints may develop periarticular fibrosis. Although there is no cure, the sequellae of this affliction can be corrected. This article focuses on the role of collagen in DD and the development of a collagen-specific enzymatic treatment for DD contractures.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.hcl.2012.08.003

  View details for Web of Science ID 000311875800011

  View details for PubMedID 23101605

• Who are the women and men in Veterans Health Administration's current spinal cord injury population? Journal of rehabilitation research and development Curtin, C. M., Suarez, P. A., Di Ponio, L. A., Frayne, S. M. 2012; 49 (3): 351-360

  Abstract

  Spinal cord injury (SCI) care is a high priority for the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Aging Veterans, new cases of SCI from recent conflicts, and increasing numbers of women Veterans have likely changed the profile of the VHA SCI population. This study characterizes the current Veteran population with SCI with emphasis on healthcare utilization and women Veterans. We analyzed VHA administrative data from 2002-2003 and 2007-2008, analyzing composition, demographics, and healthcare use. The population is mostly male (>97%) and largely between 45 and 64 years old. Over 30% are over the age of 65. They are frequent users of healthcare, with an average of 21 visits per year. Women Veterans with SCI form a small but distinct subpopulation, being younger and less likely to be married and having a higher burden of disease. We must understand how the VHA population with SCI is changing to anticipate and provide the best care for these complex patients.

  View details for PubMedID 22773195

• Is carpal tunnel release under-utilized in veterans with spinal cord injury? JOURNAL OF SPINAL CORD MEDICINE Barr, C., Suarez, P., Ota, D., Curtin, C. M. 2011; 34 (6): 563-568

  Abstract

  Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common disorder among individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). Although carpal tunnel release is highly effective, the procedure may be under-utilized in this population. This study attempts to identify if CTS is under-treated in Veterans with SCI.The Veterans Affairs (VA) National Patient Care Database was used for data compilation within fiscal years 2007 and 2008. Using ICD-9-CM diagnoses codes, individuals with SCIs were identified, including those diagnosed with CTS. Current procedural terminology (CPT) codes further showed those who had undergone surgical intervention including open and endoscopic release of the transverse carpal ligament. The VA SCI cohort was compared to the general VA population with regard to demographics, diagnosis, surgical intervention, and treatment location.A total of 19 296 veterans with SCI were identified within the 2-year period. The prevalence of CTS within this cohort was 3.5%, compared to 2.1% in the general VA population. The rate of transverse carpal ligament release was similar between the VA SCI cohort and general population (0.24 and 0.17%, respectively). The majority of surgical treatment (89%) occurred within the VA 'hub-and-spoke' system of SCI care.CTS appears to be under-diagnosed and under-treated in veterans with SCI.

  View details for DOI 10.1179/2045772311Y.0000000031

  View details for Web of Science ID 000298669100006

  View details for PubMedID 22330111

• Chronic Psychological and Functional Sequelae After Emergent Hand Surgery JOURNAL OF HAND SURGERY-AMERICAN VOLUME Richards, T., Garvert, D. W., McDade, E., Carlson, E., Curtin, C. 2011; 36A (10): 1663-1668

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jhsa.2011.06.028

  View details for Web of Science ID 000295855800015

• Flexor tendon rupture after collagenase injection for Dupuytren contracture: case report. journal of hand surgery Zhang, A. Y., Curtin, C. M., Hentz, V. R. 2011; 36 (8): 1323-1325

  Abstract

  Rupture of both flexor tendons after collagenase injection for Dupuytren contracture is a rare and problematic complication. We performed a 2-stage tendon reconstruction to treat this problem, with an acceptable result.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jhsa.2011.05.016

  View details for PubMedID 21705158

• Flexor Tendon Rupture After Collagenase Injection for Dupuytren Contracture: Case Report JOURNAL OF HAND SURGERY-AMERICAN VOLUME Zhang, A. Y., Curtin, C. M., Hentz, V. R. 2011; 36A (8): 1323-1325

  Abstract

  Rupture of both flexor tendons after collagenase injection for Dupuytren contracture is a rare and problematic complication. We performed a 2-stage tendon reconstruction to treat this problem, with an acceptable result.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jhsa.2011.05.016

  View details for Web of Science ID 000293669400011

• Adverse events following digital replantation in the elderly. journal of hand surgery Barzin, A., Hernandez-Boussard, T., Lee, G. K., Curtin, C. 2011; 36 (5): 870-874

  Abstract

  The decision to proceed with digital replantation in the elderly can be challenging. In addition to success of the replanted part, perioperative morbidity and mortality must be considered. The purpose of this study was to compare adverse events in patients less than 65 years of age compared with those 65 years and older after digital replantation. We hypothesize that there is an increased incidence of mortality and sentinel adverse events in patients aged 65 and older.We obtained data from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample over a 10-year period from 1998 to 2007. Replantation was identified using International Classification of Diseases-9 procedure codes for finger and thumb reattachment (84.21 and 84.22). Adverse events were identified using Patient Safety Indicators (PSI) to identify adverse events occurring during hospitalization. We used the Charlson index to study medical comorbidities and bivariate statistics.During the study period 15,413 finger and thumb replantations were performed in the United States, with 616 performed on patients age 65 and older. The overall in-hospital mortality was 0.04% with no statistical difference when factoring age. For the entire group, the percentage of PSI was 0.6%, the most common being postoperative deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolus. Overall, there was no difference in PSI between the 2 groups. The older group had a higher rate of transfusion, 4% versus 8% (p < .05) and were more likely to have a nonroutine disposition (ie, nursing home) (p < .001). We found no correlation between the Charlson index and PSI.This study found no difference in sentinel perioperative complications or mortality when comparing replantation patients under 65 years of age and those age 65 and older. Age alone should not be an absolute contraindication to finger replantation. Instead, the patient's functional demands, type of injury, general state of health, and rehabilitative potential should drive the decision of whether to proceed with replantation.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jhsa.2011.01.031

  View details for PubMedID 21489718

• Adverse Events Following Digital Replantation in the Elderly JOURNAL OF HAND SURGERY-AMERICAN VOLUME Barzin, A., Hernandez-Boussard, T., Lee, G. K., Curtin, C. 2011; 36A (5): 870-874

  Abstract

  The decision to proceed with digital replantation in the elderly can be challenging. In addition to success of the replanted part, perioperative morbidity and mortality must be considered. The purpose of this study was to compare adverse events in patients less than 65 years of age compared with those 65 years and older after digital replantation. We hypothesize that there is an increased incidence of mortality and sentinel adverse events in patients aged 65 and older.We obtained data from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample over a 10-year period from 1998 to 2007. Replantation was identified using International Classification of Diseases-9 procedure codes for finger and thumb reattachment (84.21 and 84.22). Adverse events were identified using Patient Safety Indicators (PSI) to identify adverse events occurring during hospitalization. We used the Charlson index to study medical comorbidities and bivariate statistics.During the study period 15,413 finger and thumb replantations were performed in the United States, with 616 performed on patients age 65 and older. The overall in-hospital mortality was 0.04% with no statistical difference when factoring age. For the entire group, the percentage of PSI was 0.6%, the most common being postoperative deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolus. Overall, there was no difference in PSI between the 2 groups. The older group had a higher rate of transfusion, 4% versus 8% (p < .05) and were more likely to have a nonroutine disposition (ie, nursing home) (p < .001). We found no correlation between the Charlson index and PSI.This study found no difference in sentinel perioperative complications or mortality when comparing replantation patients under 65 years of age and those age 65 and older. Age alone should not be an absolute contraindication to finger replantation. Instead, the patient's functional demands, type of injury, general state of health, and rehabilitative potential should drive the decision of whether to proceed with replantation.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jhsa.2011.01.031

  View details for Web of Science ID 000290185700017

• Posterior Interosseous Nerve: An Alternative to Sural Nerve Biopsy PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY Richards, T. A., Curtin, C. M. 2010; 126 (4): 213E-214E

  View details for DOI 10.1097/PRS.0b013e3181ea92fb

  View details for Web of Science ID 000282559100072

  View details for PubMedID 20885232

• Referring physicians' knowledge of hand surgery. Hand (New York, N.Y.) Curtin, C. M., Yao, J. 2010; 5 (3): 278-285

  Abstract

  Hand surgeons rely on referrals from general providers. Appropriate referral is dependent upon referring physicians having an understanding of the problem and available treatments. This study evaluates the referring physicians' knowledge and perceptions of basic hand problems and their treatment. This study also evaluates the impact of a brief lecture on our referring physicians' understanding of hand issues. A survey instrument was administered to referring physicians. The instrument addressed general hand knowledge and perceptions toward hand surgery. The physicians also attended a lecture on general hand problems and their treatments. The survey was repeated 2 weeks post-lecture. Subjects had a pre-lecture knowledge score of 65% correct and post-lecture a score of 85%, p < 0.05. The participants were knowledgeable about common hand problems, such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Knowledge gaps did exist, for example, only 37% recognized the symptoms of basilar thumb arthritis. Initially, the referring physicians had less positive views about surgical interventions, such as surgery to help the pain of basilar thumb arthritis. After the lecture, the responders had significantly more favorable attitudes toward surgery. This study found that referring physicians had variable knowledge about common hand problems, and they had doubts relating to the efficacy of some hand surgeries. This study also found that a directed lecture improved these providers' knowledge and their perceptions of hand surgical interventions. Hand surgeons can improve their referring physicians understanding and perceptions of hand surgery through a directed grand rounds type lecture.

  View details for DOI 10.1007/s11552-009-9256-x

  View details for PubMedID 21886547

• Collagenase injection as nonsurgical treatment of Dupuytren's disease: 8-year follow-up. journal of hand surgery Watt, A. J., Curtin, C. M., Hentz, V. R. 2010; 35 (4): 534-?

  Abstract

  Collagenase has been investigated in phase II and phase III clinical trials for the treatment of Dupuytren's disease. The purpose of this study is to report 8-year follow-up results in a subset of patients who had collagenase injection for the treatment of Dupuytren's contracture.Twenty-three patients who participated in the phase II clinical trial of injectable collagenase were contacted by letter and phone. Eight patients were enrolled, completed a Dupuytren's disease questionnaire, and had independent examination of joint motion by a single examiner.Eight patients completed the 8-year follow-up study: 6 had been treated for isolated metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint contracture, and 2 had been treated for isolated proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint contracture. Average preinjection contracture was 57 degrees in the MCP group. Average contracture was 9 degrees at 1 week, 11 degrees at 1 year, and 23 degrees at 8-year follow-up. Four of 6 patients experienced recurrence, and 2 of 6 had no evidence of disease recurrence at 8-year follow-up. Average preinjection contracture was 45 degrees in the PIP group. Average contracture was 8 degrees at 1 weeks, 15 degrees at 1 year, and 60 degrees at 8-year follow-up. Both patients experienced recurrence at 8-year follow-up. No patients had had further intervention on the treated finger in either the MCP or the PIP group. Patients subjectively rated the overall clinical success at 60%, and 88% of patients stated that they would pursue further injection for the treatment of their recurrent or progressive Dupuytren's disease.Enzymatic fasciotomy is safe and efficacious, with initial response to injection resulting in reduction of joint contracture to within 0 degrees -5 degrees of normal in 72 out of 80 patients. Initial evaluation of long-term recurrence rates suggests disease recurrence or progression in 4 out of 6 patients with MCP contractures and 2 patients with PIP contractures; however, recurrence was generally less severe than the initial contracture in the MCP group. In addition, patient satisfaction was high.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jhsa.2010.01.003

  View details for PubMedID 20353858

• Collagenase Injection as Nonsurgical Treatment of Dupuytren's Disease: 8-Year Follow-Up JOURNAL OF HAND SURGERY-AMERICAN VOLUME Watt, A. J., Curtin, C. M., Hentz, V. R. 2010; 35A (4): 534-539

  Abstract

  Collagenase has been investigated in phase II and phase III clinical trials for the treatment of Dupuytren's disease. The purpose of this study is to report 8-year follow-up results in a subset of patients who had collagenase injection for the treatment of Dupuytren's contracture.Twenty-three patients who participated in the phase II clinical trial of injectable collagenase were contacted by letter and phone. Eight patients were enrolled, completed a Dupuytren's disease questionnaire, and had independent examination of joint motion by a single examiner.Eight patients completed the 8-year follow-up study: 6 had been treated for isolated metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint contracture, and 2 had been treated for isolated proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint contracture. Average preinjection contracture was 57 degrees in the MCP group. Average contracture was 9 degrees at 1 week, 11 degrees at 1 year, and 23 degrees at 8-year follow-up. Four of 6 patients experienced recurrence, and 2 of 6 had no evidence of disease recurrence at 8-year follow-up. Average preinjection contracture was 45 degrees in the PIP group. Average contracture was 8 degrees at 1 weeks, 15 degrees at 1 year, and 60 degrees at 8-year follow-up. Both patients experienced recurrence at 8-year follow-up. No patients had had further intervention on the treated finger in either the MCP or the PIP group. Patients subjectively rated the overall clinical success at 60%, and 88% of patients stated that they would pursue further injection for the treatment of their recurrent or progressive Dupuytren's disease.Enzymatic fasciotomy is safe and efficacious, with initial response to injection resulting in reduction of joint contracture to within 0 degrees -5 degrees of normal in 72 out of 80 patients. Initial evaluation of long-term recurrence rates suggests disease recurrence or progression in 4 out of 6 patients with MCP contractures and 2 patients with PIP contractures; however, recurrence was generally less severe than the initial contracture in the MCP group. In addition, patient satisfaction was high.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jhsa.2010.01.003

  View details for Web of Science ID 000276604600002

• Invasive Aspergillosis of the Hand Caused by Aspergillus ustus: a Case Report. Hand (New York, N.Y.) Olorunnipa, O., Zhang, A. Y., Curtin, C. M. 2010; 5 (1): 102-105

  Abstract

  This is a case report of a 61-year-old cardiac transplant patient who developed a disseminated infection involving the upper extremity with a rare fungus known as Aspergillus ustus. The patient was successfully treated with aggressive serial debridements, antifungal medications, and reduction of immunosuppression. With these interventions, the patient avoided amputation despite the aggressive nature of this infection.

  View details for DOI 10.1007/s11552-009-9211-x

  View details for PubMedID 19568818

• Population-based utilities for upper extremity functions in the setting of tetraplegia. journal of hand surgery Ram, A. N., Curtin, C. M., Chung, K. C. 2009; 34 (9): 1674-81 e1

  Abstract

  People with tetraplegia face substantial physical and financial hardships. Although upper extremity reconstruction has been advocated for people with tetraplegia, these procedures are markedly underused in the United States. Population-based preference evaluation of upper extremity reconstruction is important to quantify the value of these reconstructive procedures. This study sought to establish the preferences for 3 health states: tetraplegia, tetraplegia with corrected pinch function, and tetraplegia with corrected elbow extension function.A computer-based, time trade-off survey was administered to a cohort of 81 able-bodied second-year medical students who served as a surrogate for the general public. This survey instrument has undergone pilot testing and has established face validity to evaluate the 3 health states of interest. Utilities were calculated based on an estimated 20 years of remaining life.The mean utility for the tetraplegic health state was low. On average, respondents gave up 10.8 +/- 5.0 out of a hypothetical 20 years for perfect health, for a utility of tetraplegia equal to 0.46. For recovery of pinch function, respondents gave up an average of 6.5 +/- 4.3 years, with a corresponding health utility of 0.68. For recovery of elbow extension function, respondents gave up an average of 7.6 +/- 4.5 years, with a corresponding health utility of 0.74.This study established the preferences for 2 upper extremity surgical interventions: tetraplegia with pinch and tetraplegia with elbow extension. The findings from this study place a high value on upper-limb reconstructive procedures with tetraplegia.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jhsa.2009.07.003

  View details for PubMedID 19896010

• Population-Based Utilities for Upper Extremity Functions in the Setting of Tetraplegia JOURNAL OF HAND SURGERY-AMERICAN VOLUME Ram, A. N., Curtin, C. M., Chung, K. C. 2009; 34A (9): 1674-1681

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jhsa.2009.07.003

  View details for Web of Science ID 000271598000013

• Cutaneous neuroma physiology and its relationship to chronic pain. journal of hand surgery Curtin, C., Carroll, I. 2009; 34 (7): 1334-1336

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jhsa.2009.04.003

  View details for PubMedID 19481362

• Cutaneous Neuroma Physiology and Its Relationship to Chronic Pain JOURNAL OF HAND SURGERY-AMERICAN VOLUME Curtin, C., Carroll, I. 2009; 34A (7): 1334-1336

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jhsa.2009.04.003

  View details for Web of Science ID 000269414600026

• Pinch and elbow extension restoration in people with tetraplegia: a systematic review of the literature. journal of hand surgery Hamou, C., Shah, N. R., DiPonio, L., Curtin, C. M. 2009; 34 (4): 692-699

  Abstract

  We conducted a systematic review of the literature to summarize the available data on reconstructive surgeries involving pinch reconstruction and elbow extension restoration in people with tetraplegia.English-language and French-language articles and abstracts published between 1966 and February 2007, identified through MEDLINE and EMBASE searches, bibliography review, and expert consultation, were reviewed for original reports of outcomes with pinch reconstruction and elbow extension restoration in tetraplegic patients after a spinal cord injury. Two reviewers independently extracted data on patient characteristics, surgical methods, and patient outcomes.Our search identified 765 articles, of which 37 met eligibility criteria (one article contained information on both elbow and pinch procedures). Results from 377 pinch reconstructions in 23 studies and 201 elbow extension restorations in 14 studies were summarized. The mean Medical Research Council score for elbow extension went from 0 to 3.3 after reconstruction. The overall mean postoperative strength measured after surgery for pinch reconstruction was 2 kg.More than 500 patients having these procedures experienced a clinically important improvement for both procedures-one restoring elbow extension, and the other, pinch strength. Upper-limb surgeries markedly improved the hand function of people with tetraplegia.Therapeutic IV.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jhsa.2008.12.002

  View details for PubMedID 19345872

• Pinch and Elbow Extension Restoration in People With Tetraplegia: A Systematic Review of the Literature JOURNAL OF HAND SURGERY-AMERICAN VOLUME Hamou, C., Shah, N. R., DiPonio, L., Curtin, C. M. 2009; 34A (4): 692-699

  Abstract

  We conducted a systematic review of the literature to summarize the available data on reconstructive surgeries involving pinch reconstruction and elbow extension restoration in people with tetraplegia.English-language and French-language articles and abstracts published between 1966 and February 2007, identified through MEDLINE and EMBASE searches, bibliography review, and expert consultation, were reviewed for original reports of outcomes with pinch reconstruction and elbow extension restoration in tetraplegic patients after a spinal cord injury. Two reviewers independently extracted data on patient characteristics, surgical methods, and patient outcomes.Our search identified 765 articles, of which 37 met eligibility criteria (one article contained information on both elbow and pinch procedures). Results from 377 pinch reconstructions in 23 studies and 201 elbow extension restorations in 14 studies were summarized. The mean Medical Research Council score for elbow extension went from 0 to 3.3 after reconstruction. The overall mean postoperative strength measured after surgery for pinch reconstruction was 2 kg.More than 500 patients having these procedures experienced a clinically important improvement for both procedures-one restoring elbow extension, and the other, pinch strength. Upper-limb surgeries markedly improved the hand function of people with tetraplegia.Therapeutic IV.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jhsa.2008.12.002

  View details for Web of Science ID 000264998800013

  View details for PubMedCentralID PMC2794307

• Perceptions of people with tetraplegia regarding surgery to improve upper-extremity function. journal of hand surgery Wagner, J. P., Curtin, C. M., Gater, D. R., Chung, K. C. 2007; 32 (4): 483-490

  Abstract

  In the United States, more than 100,000 Americans live with the disability of tetraplegia. These individuals must struggle through long and complicated rehabilitations. Upper-extremity reconstructive surgery can improve use of the upper limb for appropriate candidates; however, a prior national study showed that these procedures rarely are performed. This cross-sectional survey identified the attitudes and beliefs of people with tetraplegia that may dissuade potential candidates from receiving these procedures.An oral survey was designed to determine priorities of reconstruction in individuals with tetraplegia. This survey was administered to 50 people with tetraplegia.Among those surveyed, 13 (26%) had never heard of upper-extremity reconstructive surgery, but 22 (44%) were interested in upper-extremity reconstruction. People with tetraplegia who had a negative first impression of these procedures were far less likely to want reconstruction 0 (0%) vs. 11 (45%). Of patients who learned about these procedures from their physicians, 10 (67%) had a negative first impression after the physician consultation.Although many people with tetraplegia understand the benefits of upper-extremity reconstruction, a large number of them are unaware of or have unfavorable attitudes toward these procedures. These negative attitudes may account for the marked underuse of upper-extremity reconstructive procedures in the United States.

  View details for PubMedID 17398358

• Perceptions of people with tetraplegia regarding surgery to improve upper-extremity function JOURNAL OF HAND SURGERY-AMERICAN VOLUME Wagner, J. P., Curtin, C. M., Gater, D. R., Chung, K. C. 2007; 32A (4): 483-490

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jhsa.2007.01.015

  View details for Web of Science ID 000245641400008

• Opinions on the treatment of people with tetrapleqia: Contrasting perceptions of physiatrists and hand surgeons American-Spinal-Injury-Association/45th Annual Meeting of the International-Spinal-Cord-Society Curtin, C. M., Wagner, J. P., Gater, D. R., Chung, K. C. AMER PARAPLEGIA SOC. 2007: 256–62

  Abstract

  Upper-extremity reconstruction for people with tetraplegia is underused, and we felt that physicians' beliefs could be contributing to this phenomenon. This research sought to determine whether (a) physicians underestimate the importance of upper-extremity function for people with tetraplegia, (b) physiatrists and hand surgeons disagree on the quality of life of those with tetraplegia, (c) surgeons believe that social issues make people with tetraplegia poor surgical candidates, and (d) the 2 specialties disagree on the benefits of upper-extremity reconstruction.A self-administered questionnaire was mailed to a national sample of 384 physiatrists and 379 hand surgeons. The data were analyzed with bivariate statistics.The response rate was 62%. 65% of surgeons and 49% of physiatrists (P < 0.001) ranked upper-extremity function as the most important rehabilitative goal for people with tetraplegia. Both specialties believed the quality of life with tetraplegia was low (less than 60 on a scale of 0 to 100, with 100 representing perfect health). The 2 specialties have significantly different opinions regarding patient compliance, social support, and the effectiveness of surgery.The majority of physicians believe that upper-extremity function is a rehabilitative priority for people with tetraplegia. However, physiatrists and hand surgeons have significantly different views about people with tetraplegia and the benefits of reconstructive surgery. Physician preconceptions and interdisciplinary divergence may be contributing to the underuse of these procedures, and these issues should be considered when designing programs to improve access to these procedures.

  View details for Web of Science ID 000247888700008

  View details for PubMedID 17684892

• Upper extremity reconstruction in the tetraplegic population, a national epidemiologic study. journal of hand surgery Curtin, C. M., Gater, D. R., Chung, K. C. 2005; 30 (1): 94-99

  Abstract

  More than 100,000 Americans live with the disability of tetraplegia. For these people their level of independence often is related to the function of the upper extremity. Reconstructive procedures can improve the use of the upper limb and multiple case series have shown benefit from these procedures for appropriate candidates. Discussions with patients and surgeons, however, suggest that these procedures rarely are performed. This study attempted to assess whether upper extremity reconstruction for the tetraplegic population is being used properly.Data from 2 inpatient national databases were used (the National Inpatient Sample and Veterans Affairs patient treatment files) for 1988, 1989, 1999, and 2000. Patients were selected by International Classification of Diseases (ICD-9) diagnosis codes for tetraplegia and procedure codes that could represent upper extremity reconstruction. The recommended rate of these surgeries was based on the annual incidence of tetraplegia (5,000) and expert opinion that suggests at least 50% of these people would benefit from upper extremity surgery.Our health care data analysis showed that fewer than 355 of these surgeries were performed in the United States in any year queried. The calculated recommended rate was 2,500 procedures a year, meaning that only 14% of appropriate candidates were receiving upper extremity reconstruction. We also found changes in the expected primary payor, with Medicaid paying for far fewer procedures in 2000 compared with 1988 claims. Finally over the course of time it appears that far fewer of these procedures are being performed.Functional upper extremity reconstruction for the tetraplegic population is profoundly underused in the United States. Various factors could be causing this disparity of care and we recommend further research into the potential barriers to health care for this vulnerable population.

  View details for PubMedID 15680562

• Physician perceptions of upper extremity reconstruction for the person with tetraplegia JOURNAL OF HAND SURGERY-AMERICAN VOLUME Curtin, C. A., Hayward, R. A., Kim, H. M., Gater, D. R., Chung, K. C. 2005; 30A (1): 87-93

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jhsa.2004.08.014

  View details for Web of Science ID 000226917200013

• Upper extremity reconstruction in the tetraplegic population, a national epidermiologic study JOURNAL OF HAND SURGERY-AMERICAN VOLUME Curtin, C. M., Gater, D. R., Chung, K. C. 2005; 30A (1): 94-99

  View details for Web of Science ID 000226917200014

• Physician perceptions of upper extremity reconstruction for the person with tetraplegia. journal of hand surgery Curtin, C. M., Hayward, R. A., Kim, H. M., Gater, D. R., Chung, K. C. 2005; 30 (1): 87-93

  Abstract

  Upper extremity reconstruction for people with tetraplegia can improve upper-limb function substantially and enhance independence; however, these surgical procedures rarely are performed. This study attempted to identify barriers preventing appropriate candidates from receiving these procedures.A questionnaire was mailed to a national sample of 379 hand surgeons and 384 physiatrists with an interest in spinal cord medicine. The statistical model assessed 2 main outcomes of the physician survey: (1) whether the provider had been involved in at least one of these procedures in the past year and (2) whether the provider desired to be more involved. We hypothesized that these outcomes were associated with provider attitudes and beliefs and failures of the health care system referral networks.Most hand surgeons and physiatrists believed that these procedures were beneficial; however, few had either performed or referred even one case over the past year. Multivariable models suggested that a predominant factor in whether these procedures were being performed was the presence of a relationship between the surgeon and physiatrist.A lack of coordinated cross-specialty relationships appears to present the largest barrier to the appropriate use of upper extremity reconstruction for people with tetraplegia.

  View details for PubMedID 15680561

• Autonomic dysreflexia: A plastic surgery primer ANNALS OF PLASTIC SURGERY Curtin, C. M., Gater, D. R., Chung, K. C. 2003; 51 (3): 325-329

  Abstract

  Plastic surgeons are integral to the management team for patients with spinal cord injuries, with responsibilities including pressure sore management and upper extremity reconstruction. Injury to the spinal cord profoundly disrupts the body's ability to maintain homeostasis. In particular, the autonomic system can become unregulated, resulting in a massive sympathetic discharge called autonomic dysreflexia. Autonomic dysreflexia occurs in the majority of patients with injuries above the sixth thoracic vertebra and causes sudden, severe hypertension. If left untreated, autonomic dysreflexia can result in stroke or death. Because this syndrome causes morbidity and mortality, it is crucial for plastic surgeons to be able to recognize and treat autonomic dysreflexia. This article reviews the etiology, symptoms, and treatment of this syndrome.

  View details for Web of Science ID 000185324300018

  View details for PubMedID 12966249