AL-FARAAZ KASSAM, M.D.

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This study looked at the emotional and psychological toll on transplant surgeons when patients experience severe complications or die after surgery. It found that 29% of these surgeons reported feeling morally injured due to factors like public scrutiny and institutional blame, which can lead to fewer transplants for higher-risk patients and less acceptance of donor organs. Addressing moral injury is crucial to improving surgeon well-being and ensuring that patients have access to potentially life-saving transplants. Who this helps: Patients in need of organ transplants.

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This study looked at lung transplants using donor organs from outside the continental United States. It found that only 1.1% of the 35,638 transplants were from nonmainland donors, but these donors tended to be younger, slimmer, and less likely to have a smoking history. Despite the longer distances and longer times before the organs were transplanted, patients who received these nonmainland lungs had similar survival rates after one and five years as those who received organs from mainland donors. Who this helps: This research benefits patients in need of lung transplants by expanding the potential donor pool and increasing their chances for successful outcomes.

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This study looked at liver transplants using donor organs from places outside the mainland United States from 2010 to 2022. Researchers found that while these non-mainland organs traveled farther and had longer delays before being transplanted, recipients had similar survival rates at 1, 5, and 10 years compared to those who received organs from the mainland. Specifically, survival was nearly identical with a 1-year rate of 1.02 times and 10-year rate of 0.96 times those from mainland donors, meaning that using non-mainland organs is just as effective. Who this helps: This benefits patients needing liver transplants by expanding the available donor pool.

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This study looked at how state Medicaid eligibility affects waitlist times and survival rates for children needing liver transplants, comparing citizens and non-citizens. Researchers found that after Medicaid expansion, the chances of getting a transplant improved by 9.2% for non-citizen children in states with broader coverage, while waitlist deaths dropped by 77.1%. These findings highlight that where you live and your Medicaid eligibility can significantly impact health outcomes for pediatric patients needing transplants. Who this helps: This benefits non-citizen children who need liver transplants and their families.

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A national transplant database study found that 24% of transplant surgeons who entered the field between 2008 and 2018 had left the field within a median of 2.75 years. Surgeons who left had lower case volumes, performed fewer pediatric transplants, and made up a smaller share of their center's volume — and their patients had worse outcomes. This is the first study to quantify how common early career departure is in transplant surgery and its association with poorer patient results.

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This study looked at how integrated thoracic surgery programs (I-6) affect the surgical training of general surgery residents. Researchers found that general surgery residents at hospitals with I-6 programs saw their total thoracic surgery cases increase from 3,710 to 4,451 over a span of five years, which is about 85 more cases annually. Importantly, the overall training of general surgery residents did not suffer – they maintained the same number of thoracic cases performed as before the I-6 program started. Who this helps: This benefits general surgery residents training in hospitals with integrated thoracic surgery programs.

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This study looked at the diversity of surgical residents in the U.S. from 2011 to 2020, analyzing data from nearly 185,000 surgical trainees. It found that White residents were overrepresented in 8 out of 9 surgical specialties, while Black residents were underrepresented in 8 out of 9 specialties. Improving diversity in surgical training is important for ensuring equitable representation and support for underrepresented groups in medicine. Who this helps: This helps patients by promoting a more diverse and relatable medical workforce.

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After a 2017 policy change gave liver transplant recipients with persistent kidney failure faster access to kidney transplants, the number of patients listed for and receiving a kidney after liver transplant increased substantially. Post-policy kidney after liver transplant recipients received more locally sourced organs and waited less time, while outcomes — including graft and patient survival — were equivalent to those seen in matched kidney transplant alone and simultaneous liver-kidney recipients. The safety-net policy achieved its intended goal.

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This study looked at burnout in fellows training to become abdominal transplant surgeons. It found that 22.7% of these fellows experienced burnout, and those with lower resilience were more likely to feel burned out. Burnout led to long working hours, severe stress, a high likelihood of considering quitting, and an increased risk of making medical errors, highlighting the need for better support systems to help these doctors. Who this helps: This helps transplant surgery fellows and their patients by improving surgeon well-being and patient care.

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This study looked at the surgical experiences of general surgery residents in the U.S. from 2010 to 2018, analyzing reports from over 10,000 trainees. It found that while the number of core surgeries they performed increased by seven cases per year, the advanced surgeries decreased by 1.4 cases per year. This shift means residents are getting more experience in basic surgeries but less in specialized ones, which is important as it may affect their overall training and readiness for complex cases. Who this helps: This benefits surgical residents and the patients they will treat, ensuring residents have essential skills while also raising concerns about their preparedness for advanced surgical challenges.

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This study looked at how effective a surgical boot camp was in teaching new interns important surgical skills. After attending eight training sessions, interns became faster and better at tasks like knot-tying and skin closure, with significant improvements in completion times (for example, reducing skin closure time from 9.9 minutes to 8.3 minutes). By the end of the year, they maintained these skills and even got better at certain techniques. Who this helps: This benefits new surgical interns as well as the patients they will treat.

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This study looked at a specific type of immune cell called OLFM4-positive neutrophils in trauma patients who experienced severe injuries. Researchers found that patients with higher levels of these neutrophils after injury tended to stay longer in the hospital and spend more time in intensive care, indicating that these cells are linked to worse health outcomes. This is important because it helps us understand how certain neutrophils may worsen inflammation and recovery after injuries, which could lead to better treatment strategies. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare providers in managing trauma patients.

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This study looked at who leads academic general surgery departments and found that leadership is still largely made up of men and white individuals. Out of 118 programs, 79% of department chairs were white and 85% were men, while only a small number of minority surgeons held leadership roles. Addressing these disparities in leadership is important because increasing diversity can lead to better mentorship and improved patient care. Who this helps: This helps patients and aspiring surgeons by promoting a more diverse leadership that can improve mentorship and healthcare outcomes.

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This study looked at how a surgery called total pancreatectomy with islet autotransplantation (TPIAT) affects costs and hospital visits in children with severe chronic pancreatitis. Researchers found that after the surgery, the number of hospital admissions dropped from an average of 5 to 2, and medical costs decreased from about $36,000 to $24,900 in the year following the operation. This is important because it shows that TPIAT not only helps improve the child's health but also reduces the financial burden on families and the healthcare system. Who this helps: This benefits children suffering from chronic pancreatitis and their families.

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This study looked at how competitive applying to general surgery, surgical subspecialties, and integrated programs has become over the past decade. It found that fewer applicants were interested in general surgery compared to subspecialties like orthopedic and neurosurgery, with a median of 1.21 applicants per position for general surgery. The research also identified key factors like exam scores and research experience that help applicants get matched into these programs, highlighting that general surgery has become less competitive over time. Who this helps: This information is useful for medical students deciding their careers and for programs looking to attract top talent.

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A PubMed search of 26 general and surgical subspecialty journals from 2015 to 2019 found that surgical education research makes up only about 1% of all surgical publications. General surgery journals published a significantly higher proportion of education research than subspecialty journals. The low overall volume and uneven distribution suggest that the field lacks a systematic, rigorous scientific approach to studying how surgeons should be trained.

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This study looked at the training experience of general surgery residents in the U.S. regarding hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) surgery, which includes surgeries on the liver, pancreas, and bile ducts, over 27 years. It found that while the number of surgeries residents performed increased—by 30% for biliary surgeries, 33% for liver surgeries, and 27% for pancreatic surgeries—most of these operations were laparoscopic cholecystectomies, which made up 90% of all biliary procedures. This focus on one type of surgery means that trainees may not get enough varied exposure to other important HPB surgeries, which is concerning for their overall training. Who this helps: This helps surgical residents and educators by highlighting the need for a more balanced surgical training experience.

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This study looked at a new training program designed to help surgery residents prepare for the challenges of transplant surgery after spending two years doing research. The program included hands-on labs where residents practiced techniques, which resulted in increased confidence when performing complex surgeries. Specifically, residents reported feeling more confident in their skills after completing the program, and it can be carried out in an affordable way. Who this helps: This benefits surgery residents as they return to clinical practice, enhancing their skills for transplant procedures.

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This study looked at two methods for performing a combined liver and kidney transplant: the en bloc technique, where both organs are transplanted together, and the traditional method, where they are done separately. The researchers found that patients who received the en bloc transplant had a shorter time for the kidneys to be without blood supply and a quicker surgery, which could mean less risk during the operation. Overall, the outcomes were similar for both methods, with about 88% of en bloc kidney grafts surviving for a year. Who this helps: This research benefits patients needing a liver and kidney transplant, as it provides options that may lead to better surgery experiences.

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This study examined the long-term effects of sleeve gastrectomy (SG) on patients with severe obesity and kidney disease. The researchers found that after SG, 72% of patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) reduced their body mass index to 40 or less, and many experienced significant weight loss—averaging about 19%. Additionally, complications like high blood pressure and diabetes decreased dramatically, and many patients became eligible for kidney transplants, with 45 out of 71 patients who lost enough weight receiving transplants. Who this helps: This benefits patients with obesity and kidney disease who are seeking weight loss and possible kidney transplants.

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This study explored how interest in surgery affects medical students' performance during their surgical training and their future career choices. Out of 62 students surveyed, 51.6% were interested in surgery, with no minority students expressing that interest, compared to 51.1% of Caucasian and 71.4% of Asian students. Students who were not interested in surgery experienced more emotional exhaustion, scoring 25 on average compared to 20 for interested students, but there was no significant difference in their grades. Who this helps: This information benefits medical schools and educators by highlighting the importance of fostering interest in surgery among all student groups.

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This study looked at how burnout affects general surgery residents over their training from 2015 to 2018. Researchers found that burnout levels were highest during the first and third years of residency, with the risk of burnout significantly increasing during the third year (nearly 12 times more likely). Additionally, residents who experienced burnout had lower grit scores, which measure perseverance and resilience. This research highlights the importance of addressing burnout in training programs to better support surgical residents and their well-being. Who this helps: This helps residents and residency programs aiming to reduce burnout and improve training experiences.

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This study looked at the effects of weight loss surgery (sleeve gastrectomy) on patients who received kidney transplants. It found that patients lost weight and lowered their high blood pressure medications after the surgery, with no new cases of diabetes occurring post-transplant. These findings are important because they show that weight loss surgery can help severely obese patients become eligible for kidney transplants and have successful outcomes. Who this helps: This helps morbidly obese patients who need a kidney transplant.

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This study looked at the effects of positive sterility cultures in children undergoing surgery to remove the pancreas and transplant insulin-producing cells. Out of 41 patients, 24 had positive cultures, but whether the cultures were positive or negative did not significantly affect their risk of fever or infections after the surgery. The findings show that having a pancreatic stent during surgery is linked to positive cultures, but it doesn’t increase the likelihood of post-surgery complications, indicating that the current antibiotic treatment is effective. Who this helps: This helps doctors and pediatric patients undergoing pancreas surgery and islet transplantation.

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This study focused on a training workshop for transplant surgery fellows to help them perform high-stakes kidney donation surgeries safely. Before the workshop, only 39% of fellows felt confident in their ability to perform laparoscopic living donor nephrectomy, but after participating, 95% reported improved confidence, and there was a 30% increase in their confidence levels three months later. This matters because better-trained fellows can ensure safer procedures for healthy kidney donors. Who this helps: This helps kidney donors and the surgeons caring for them.

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This study looked at how sleeve gastrectomy—a weight-loss surgery—affects kidney function in people with chronic kidney disease (CKD), specifically focusing on different stages of CKD. The researchers found that patients with CKD stages 2 and 3 experienced significant improvements in their kidney function measurements after surgery, while those with stages 1 and 4 did not show improvement. This matters because improving kidney function can help delay or prevent serious kidney conditions, potentially enhancing the overall health of these patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with chronic kidney disease, especially those in stages 2 and 3.

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This study looked at whether the photos applicants provide when applying for surgical residency programs influence selection decisions. Researchers analyzed 422 applications from 2018-2019 and found that certain factors like research experience and the overall photo score impacted interview invitations, but interestingly, the applicants' looks did not affect final selection. Specifically, scores for a photo's perceived professionalism significantly correlated with getting interviews, but this was less influential in final decisions, indicating that while appearance plays a role, other qualifications are ultimately more important. Who this helps: This helps applicants to surgical residency programs by highlighting the importance of qualifications over appearance.

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This study looked at how using opioids before surgery affects hospital costs and patient outcomes for people with intestinal obstruction. Out of 296 patients studied, 55 were active opioid users, and they stayed in the hospital two days longer and cost about $3,700 more than non-users. Fewer avoidable admissions and surgeries could lead to better care and lower health care costs. Who this helps: This helps patients preparing for surgery, hospitals, and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at whether pursuing an advanced degree, like a Master's in Public Health, during a designated research period in a general surgery residency affects how much research residents produce. It found that residents who obtained a degree published more papers and had a higher impact score from their research compared to those who did not, with an average of 9 papers versus 8 and a research impact score of 134 versus 84. However, earning a degree didn't seem to influence whether they chose to pursue an academic surgery career. Who this helps: This helps surgery residents and training programs aiming to boost research output.

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This study looked at the causes and treatment outcomes of portal hypertension in children at a specialized liver center over a ten-year period, involving 151 patients. The findings revealed that patients with prehepatic portal hypertension had better survival rates, while those who did not receive any treatment had higher mortality rates—62.5% of these patients died compared to 8.5% who had surgical interventions. This research emphasizes the importance of early referral to specialist centers for better treatment and outcomes. Who this helps: This helps pediatric patients with liver conditions and their doctors by guiding treatment decisions.

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Medical students who assisted with organ procurements reported the experience was meaningful but lacked any formal educational structure. A survey of students who participated over several years found strong interest in surgery and donation but gaps in knowledge and guidance. The authors call for a standardized curriculum to make procurement education consistent and impactful.

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This study looked at the burnout levels of third-year medical students during their surgery training and whether it affected their performance. The researchers found that 22.6% of students reported burnout before the training, which dropped to 17.7% after, but this change wasn’t significant. Students who experienced burnout had lower "grit" scores, indicating they may have less perseverance, yet overall, burnout did not negatively affect their performance or experiences in the program. Who this helps: This research benefits medical students and educators by highlighting the importance of resilience while not increasing concerns about burnout affecting their training performance.

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This study looked at how the surgical training for general surgery residents in the U.S. has changed from 1990 to 2018, focusing on their roles as first assistants and teaching assistants during surgeries. The research found that the number of surgeries where residents acted as first assistants dropped from 21.8% to just 2.5%, and as teaching assistants from 7.4% to 3.5%. This is significant because it shows a concerning decline in hands-on surgical experience for trainees, which is crucial for their skills development. Who this helps: This benefits medical educators and the surgery residency program, ensuring they can maintain effective training standards for future surgeons.

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The study looked at how effective surgical shunts are in treating portal hypertension in children, a condition that can cause severe complications like bleeding. Out of 34 patients treated, 71% kept their shunts functioning well after one year, and 66% after five years, with only a small number experiencing serious complications. This is important because it shows that surgical shunts can be a safe and effective way to help children suffering from this serious condition. Who this helps: This helps pediatric patients with portal hypertension and their families.

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This study looked at how the surgical training experiences of medical residents have changed over the past 25 years, specifically comparing open surgery to laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery. Between 1994 and 2018, over 26,000 surgical residents graduated, and while they collectively performed around 955 major surgeries each, the study found an increase of nearly 10 laparoscopic surgeries performed each year and a decrease of over 3 open surgeries per year. This shift is important because it raises concerns that new surgeons may not be getting enough experience with open surgeries, which could be needed in more complex cases. Who this helps: This benefits surgical residents and their future patients by highlighting the need for balanced training in different surgical techniques.

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This study looked at how using opioids before colorectal surgery affects recovery and pain management. It found that patients who used opioids before surgery had a higher readmission rate (18% compared to 9%), used more pain medication after surgery (218 vs. 111 morphine milligram equivalents), and faced higher costs ($11,165 vs. $8,911). This matters because it shows that using opioids before surgery leads to worse outcomes and higher expenses, highlighting the need for better management strategies for pain before and after surgery. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing colorectal surgery and their doctors.

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This study looked at how a mandatory online learning program for surgical residents, called "This Week in SCORE" (TWIS), affected their test scores and overall well-being. After making TWIS participation required, the average test scores on the American Board of Surgery In-Training Examination increased from the 65th percentile to the 77th percentile, and satisfaction with the learning environment improved significantly. These findings suggest that structured learning and regular assessments can lead to better performance and reduced feelings of burnout among surgical residents. Who this helps: This benefits surgical residents and their education programs.

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This study looked at how an enhanced recovery protocol affects recovery after surgery for colon and rectal cancer. The findings showed that patients who followed the new protocol were able to eat regular food sooner and had shorter hospital stays—3 days instead of 4 for colon patients and 4 days instead of 6 for rectal patients. Additionally, those on the protocol used significantly fewer narcotics, with colon patients taking 44 milligrams compared to 184 milligrams, and rectal patients taking 121 milligrams compared to 393 milligrams. This is important because it means patients can recover faster and rely less on pain medications, which can reduce the risk of addiction. Who this helps: Patients recovering from colon and rectal cancer surgery.