Author: Jason Curtis

Reducing Cancellations in Angiography (2026)

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Type of publication:

Service improvement case study

Author(s):

*M Hough, *S Boyd, *A Fedder, *M Akhtar, *S Jones

Citation:

SaTH Improvement Hub, March 2026

SMART Aim:

To identify the primary reason for cancellations. Apply an intervention in order to reduce the number cancellations by a minimum of 1, in planned angiography procedures in Room 4 of the radiology department by 16/3/26.

Link to PDF poster

ReSPECT Documentation (2026)

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Type of publication:

Service improvement case study

Author(s):

*Dr Sultan Ahmed

Citation:

SaTH Improvement Hub, March 2026

SMART Aim:

To increase the proportion of A&E patients with a documented ReSPECT form at initial triage or early assessment from 10 % to 0-60 % by 31/12/2026) using a nursing-led, triage-focused intervention.

Link to PDF poster

Variation, temporal trends and factors associated with ileostomy reversal after anterior resection surgery for rectal cancer in England: An observational study using administrative data (2026)

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Type of publication:

Journal article

Author(s):

*Olagunju N; *Cheetham M; Savage K; Briggs TWR; Gray WK

Citation:

Colorectal Disease. 28(3):e70427, 2026 Mar.

Abstract:

AIMS: The presence of a temporary ileostomy following anterior resection for rectal cancer substantially impacts the quality of life of patients and long-term functional outcomes. Timely reversal of the ileostomy can help to minimise negative impacts. Using an administrative dataset for England, this study aimed to explore temporal trends in ileostomy reversal rates, variation in reversal rates across trusts and factors associated with delayed reversal.

METHODS: This was an exploratory retrospective analysis of observational data from the Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) dataset for England. All patients aged >=17 years undergoing a planned anterior resection for rectal cancer with ileostomy creation between April 1, 2016, and March 31, 2023, were identified. The primary outcome of interest was ileostomy reversal within 18 months.

RESULTS: Data were available for 5,275 ileostomy creations during the study period. Ileostomy was reversed within 18 months in 3,338 (63.5%) patients. Frailty, socio-economic deprivation, open surgery and anastomotic leak were associated with failure to reverse ileostomy within 18 months. There was a steady decrease in rates of ileostomy reversal within 18 months over the course of the study period.

CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights a need to review current ileostomy closure pathways across England, provide equitable access to timely reversal and improve the shared decision-making process between clinicians and patients undergoing surgery for rectal cancer.

DOI: 10.1111/codi.70427

Consensus Statements on the Definition of Surgical Success Following Obstetric Urinary Pelvic Floor Fistula Repair: An IUGA-ICS Proposal (2026)

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Type of publication:

Journal article

Author(s):

Maljaars LP; Corcos J; Ghoniem G; Goh JTW; Greenwell TJ; Kupualor D; Pope R; *Rachaneni S; Regmi MC

Citation:

International Urogynecology Journal. 2026 Mar 18.

Abstract:

INTRODUCTION: Standardized definitions for surgical success after obstetric urinary pelvic floor fistula (UPF) repair are lacking. This study aimed to establish a consensus among fistula surgeons on defining surgical success for UPF repair caused by obstetric (childbirth-related) injuries.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A working group was initiated by the International Urogynecology Association (IUGA) in collaboration with the International Continence Society (ICS). Following a systematic literature review, statements were developed, and a Delphi method was applied to reach a consensus on each statement.

RESULTS: Consensus was reached on 34/44 statements (77.3%). These were grouped into five categories: (1) definition of outcome, (2) treatment and outcome assessment, (3) post-fistula repair urinary incontinence, (4) incurable fistula, and (5) quality of life.

DISCUSSION: The consensus group recommends defining surgical success as anatomical closure of the fistula without residual urinary incontinence, as closure alone is insufficient. Women with residual urinary incontinence should not be classified as cured and require further diagnostic and therapeutic intervention. A postoperative dye test at catheter removal is advised as an objective measure of surgical success. The group also underscores the importance of basic urodynamic evaluation to assess residual incontinence following fistula closure. A diagnosis of "incurable" fistula should only be considered after three failed repairs and requires independent assessments by two expert surgeons. Finally, clinical success should include improvements in patient quality of life, and a specialized, validated quality-of-life questionnaire is essential to evaluate the physical, social, and emotional impact of UPF on patients and to assess treatment effectiveness from the patient's perspective.

CONCLUSION: The consensus statements aim to standardize the definition of successful outcomes in obstetric UPF repair, guiding future research and patient counseling. The group encourages further investigation into existing knowledge gaps in obstetric urinary pelvic floor fistula.

DOI: 10.1007/s00192-025-06413-6

Link to full-text [open access - no password required]

Exploring Correlations Between Holistic Needs In Lung Cancer Patients: Insights From Dependancy Tool Data (2026)

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Type of publication:

Conference abstract

Author(s):

Rayson V.; *Greenway T.; Kelly M.; Barnett N.; Kelly S.; Dalrymple P.; Ross J.; Middleton E.; Glover S.; Smith B.; Wilson J.; Weir J.; Shepherd P.; Laguardia A.

Citation:

Lung Cancer. Conference: 24th Annual British Thoracic Oncology Group Conference 2026. EICC Edinburgh, Edinburgh United Kingdom. 212(Supplement 1) (no pagination), 2026. Article Number: 109110. Date of Publication: 01 Feb 2026.

Abstract:

Introduction Holistic assessment is central to personalised cancer care, capturing physical, emotional, practical, and family-related concerns. Understanding how these domains interact can inform integrated care planning and resource allocation. This analysis investigates correlations between patient-reported concerns using the Macmillan Holistic Needs Assessment (HNA), and an adapted dependency tool, aiming to identify patterns that influence complexity and support needs. Method A retrospective secondary analysis was conducted using patient-reported HNA data collected from 210 lung cancer patients across the UK, covering all disease stages. Five domains were examined: Physical Symptoms (0-40), Physical Concerns (0-76), Practical Concerns (0-64), Emotional Concerns (0-48), and Family Concerns (0-20). Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated, where 1.00 indicates perfect correlation and 0.00 indicates no correlation. Data interpretation focused on identifying strong, moderate, and weak associations and exploring potential drivers based on patient responses. Outcomes Strongest correlation: Physical Symptoms Physical Concerns (r = 0.75) Emotional Concerns strongly linked to Practical (r = 0.65) and Family Concerns (r = 0.62) Practical Concerns moderately correlated with Physical Symptoms (r = 0.49) and Family Concerns (r = 0.54) Weakest correlation: Physical Symptoms Family Concerns (r = 0.40) Interpretation: Physical burden drives broader physical concerns, while emotional distress is amplified by practical and family-related challenges. Variability suggests influence from coping strategies, socio-economic context, and perceived family impact. Conclusion The Dependency Tool data gathered does demonstrate a correlation between several types of patient concerns. The strongest link identified is between physical symptoms and physical concerns. Despite CNS's subjective identification of a strong link between patients' emotional concerns and their physical concerns, the evidence only demonstrates a moderate correlation. There is stronger evidence that psychosocial distress is closely tied to logistical challenges and perceived family burden. Disclosure No significant relationship.

DOI: 10.1016/j.lungcan.2026.109110

Paediatric and adult neurological point-of-care ultrasound: Review of the evidence, and the UK accreditation pathway (2026)

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Type of publication:

Journal article

Author(s):

Waraich M.; Zoica B.; Alexander E.; Stephens J.; Conway H.; Griksaitis M.; Kirk-Bayley J.; *Miller A.; Parulekar P.; Peck M.; Rubino A.; Wilkinson J.N.

Citation:

Journal of the Intensive Care Society. (no pagination), 2026. Date of Publication: 2026. [epub ahead of print]

Abstract:

Neurological emergencies such as stroke and traumatic brain injury are major contributors to morbidity and mortality in critically ill patients. These conditions frequently result in alterations in cerebral haemodynamics, including raised intracranial pressure, which require timely recognition and management to optimise outcomes. Neuro point-of-care ultrasound (NeuroPOCUS), incorporating transcranial Doppler (TCD), transcranial colour-coded duplex (TCCD) ultrasound, and optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) measurement, offers a non-invasive, bedside means of assessing cerebral physiology and is increasingly recognised as a valuable adjunct in neurocritical care. Despite the successful adoption of point-of-care ultrasound in critical care through established accreditation pathways such as FUSIC and CACTUS, the UK has lacked a dedicated framework for NeuroPOCUS. To address this gap, we have developed and launched a UK-specific NeuroPOCUS accreditation programme, combining structured theoretical teaching with supervised practical training. The pathway addresses the distinct needs of both paediatric and adult populations, combining theoretical learning with practical application. Core learning materials include neuroanatomy, Doppler principles, standardised insonation techniques, and interpretation of cerebral blood flow velocities and indices such as pulsatility (PI) and resistivity (RI). Supporting resources feature videos of transcranial colour-coded Duplex (TCCD) imaging in normal subjects and clinical case examples. Participants will complete a logbook of 50 supervised cases, facilitated by remote mentorship. A novel accreditation pathway provides an opportunity for further research into the use of NeuroPOCUS in neurocritical care. This article outlines the core techniques of NeuroPOCUS, the physiological insights it offers, key clinical applications, and the proposed accreditation pathway aimed at standardising practice and clinician training in the care of critically ill patients with neurological injury or dysfunction.

DOI: 10.1177/17511437261428885

Link to full-text [no password required]

Is Follow Up for Lung Cancer Surgery Evidence Based Within the UK - a Critical Review of Protocols (2025)

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Type of publication:

Conference abstract

Author(s):

Barton P.W.J.; *McAdam J.; James T.; Gomez S.; Morley J.; Dalrymple P.; Smith C.; Ivey S.

Citation:

Journal of Thoracic Oncology. Conference: 2025 World Conference on Lung Cancer. Barcelona Spain. 20(10 Supplement 1) (pp S873), 2025. Date of Publication: 01 Oct 2025.

Abstract:

Introduction: Our aim is to look at surgical follow-up protocols in different UK trusts to critically review and see if follow up varies postsurgical patient with lung cancer. Method(s): A literature review around this topic was conducted to establish if there was an evidence based approach. We collected follow up protocols from 10 trusts in the UK and applied 6 questions to each to allow us to compare the results. Responses were collated, compared and interpreted by the authors. Result(s): Our literature review highlighted there is limited evidence to support how lung cancer patients should be followed up post-surgery. Overall, the literature supports CT based imaging although no specific period is supported. From the protocols reviewed there were common themes identified. Post-surgical follow-up was predominantly nurse led, face to face appointments or mixed with virtual were more common. Frequency of follow-up varied between 3 and 8 months, but apart from one site was consistently over 5 years. Similarly, radiology modality predominantly used CT scan either solely or mixed with chest x-rays. Only one site only used chest x-rays to follow up patients Conclusion(s): Both the literature review and critical review of protocols highlight that further research would be beneficial, looking at a wider population of protocols could help encourage a more standardised approach across the UK to ensure optimum care for patients.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jtho.2025.09.1695