Our Summary

This research paper looks at how fluorescence-based imaging, specifically with a dye called indocyanine green (ICG), can be used in emergency surgeries like gallbladder inflammation, blocked blood supply to the intestines, and trauma surgery. The researchers reviewed 36 studies on the use of ICG in emergency situations. They found that in many cases, using ICG helped doctors identify structures and make operations safer, particularly for gallbladder inflammation. It also helped doctors make better decisions during surgeries related to blocked blood supply to the intestines. Moreover, ICG was found useful in trauma cases to check the health of the intestines and other organs, and to evaluate the success of surgeries in terms of blood supply. The study concludes that ICG is a safe and useful tool in emergency surgeries, helping doctors make better decisions during procedures and potentially improving patient outcomes.

FAQs

  1. What is indocyanine green (ICG) and how is it used in emergency surgeries?
  2. How does ICG help doctors improve the safety and success of surgeries, particularly for gallbladder inflammation and blocked blood supply to the intestines?
  3. Based on the reviewed studies, what is the conclusion on the effectiveness and safety of ICG in emergency surgeries?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing craniofacial surgery to follow all pre-operative instructions carefully, such as avoiding certain medications or foods before surgery. They may also advise the patient to have realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery and to follow post-operative care instructions closely to ensure proper healing and recovery. Additionally, the doctor may emphasize the importance of attending follow-up appointments to monitor progress and address any concerns.

Suitable For

Craniofacial surgery is typically recommended for patients with congenital anomalies such as cleft lip and palate, craniosynostosis, and hemifacial microsomia. It may also be recommended for patients with acquired conditions such as facial trauma, tumors affecting the face and skull, and craniofacial deformities resulting from previous surgeries or medical treatments. Additionally, craniofacial surgery may be recommended for patients with facial paralysis, facial nerve disorders, and other conditions affecting the structure and function of the face and skull. Patients undergoing craniofacial surgery may include infants, children, adolescents, and adults, depending on the specific condition and treatment plan.

Timeline

  • Before craniofacial surgery:
  1. Patient consultation and evaluation with a craniofacial surgeon to discuss the procedure, risks, and potential outcomes.
  2. Pre-operative testing and imaging to assess the structure and function of the craniofacial region.
  3. Planning and preparation for the surgery, including discussion of anesthesia options and post-operative care.
  4. Pre-operative instructions for the patient, such as fasting before surgery and discontinuing certain medications.
  5. Day of surgery: patient arrives at the hospital or surgical center, undergoes pre-operative preparations, and is taken to the operating room for the procedure.
  • After craniofacial surgery:
  1. Recovery in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) immediately after surgery, where vital signs are monitored and pain management is initiated.
  2. Transfer to a hospital room or surgical recovery area for further monitoring and recovery.
  3. Gradual resumption of activities, guided by the surgeon’s post-operative instructions.
  4. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing, address any concerns, and assess the final results of the surgery.
  5. Long-term follow-up care to monitor the patient’s progress and address any potential complications or additional treatment needs.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. How will craniofacial surgery improve my quality of life?

  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with craniofacial surgery?

  3. What is the recovery process like after craniofacial surgery?

  4. How many craniofacial surgeries have you performed and what is your success rate?

  5. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that I should consider before undergoing craniofacial surgery?

  6. Will I need additional surgeries or procedures in the future after undergoing craniofacial surgery?

  7. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery and what are the potential side effects?

  8. How long will the results of the craniofacial surgery last?

  9. What post-operative care and follow-up appointments will be necessary after the surgery?

  10. Are there any specific lifestyle changes or precautions I should take after undergoing craniofacial surgery?

Reference

Authors: Fransvea P, Fico V, Puccioni C, D’Agostino L, Costa G, Biondi A, Brisinda G, Sganga G. Journal: Langenbecks Arch Surg. 2023 Sep 25;408(1):375. doi: 10.1007/s00423-023-03109-7. PMID: 37743419