Protocol
Surgical Site Infections in Major Lower Limb Amputation: An International Multicentre Audit (SIMBA): Study Protocol
Introduction Background and rationale Surgical site infection (SSI) is a significant potential complication of any surgical procedure, acknowledged by the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) as a leading cause of in-hospital morbidity and mortality.1 In vascular surgery, patients undergoing major lower limb amputation (MLLA) may be at an increased risk of developing…
Read MoreThe FraiLTI (Frailty in chronic Limb-Threatening Ischaemia) Protocol
Introduction Frailty, a concept gaining significant attention in recent years, is defined as a clinically recognisable state of increased vulnerability resulting from ageing-associated decline in reserve and function across multiple physiologic systems such that the ability to cope with everyday or acute stressors is compromised.1 Frailty leaves patients vulnerable to stressors such as illness, trauma…
Read MoreThe clinical effectiveness of waxing or epilation compared with other methods of hair removal in reducing the incidence of surgical site infections: a protocol for a systematic review
Background Hair has traditionally been removed from surgical sites preoperatively, but there is gathering evidence that some methods of hair removal can increase the risk of surgical site infections (SSIs).1,2 The most recent Cochrane review (2021) found that, while hair removal using clippers or depilatory cream does not significantly increase the risk of SSIs, razors…
Read MoreUse of Shockwave® intravascular lithotripsy in the treatment of calcific peripheral vascular disease of the crural vessels: a protocol for a systematic review
Introduction Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a systemic atherosclerotic disease with an increasing prevalence currently estimated at over 230 million adults globally.1,2 PAD prevalence in the infrapopliteal/ crural arterial bed is increasing, influenced by the ageing population, as well as the increasing prevalence of diabetes and chronic kidney disease.1–3 Chronic limb-threatening ischaemia (CLTI), the most…
Read MoreThe DEFINITE Audit: a prospective audit of diabetic foot debridement in theatre – a protocol
Introduction People with diabetes are at high risk of developing foot ulceration (DFU). Once established, diabetic foot ulcers are at risk of rapid deterioration and infection which can lead to bacteraemia and sepsis. Infected DFU is associated with high morbidity, limb loss and death.1–3 The development of severe infection requires emergency hospital admission and surgery…
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