A team of UK researchers and doctors is halfway through a study aimed at further improving the safety of individuals undergoing pelvic surgery, and the early results are promising.
The HELP project, a collaboration between the University of Portsmouth and Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust, is the first of its kind to closely monitor blood circulation in the legs and brain during complex abdominopelvic operations.
So far, 13 men and women aged between 45 and 85 have participated in the study at Queen Alexandra Hospital, Portsmouth.
Dr Maria Perissiou, lead researcher from the University’s School of Psychology, Sport and Health Sciences, said: ‘Initial findings are encouraging. We’re beginning to better understand how surgical positioning affects circulation, and how that might be linked to rare but potentially serious complications after surgery. This study could help surgical teams spot problems earlier and ultimately save lives. It will also provide us with important data that will support the development of evidence-based protocols to reduce the risks of such complications in the future.’
Patients undergoing colorectal, gynaecological or urological surgery are often positioned on the operating table with their legs elevated and head tilted downwards. This position enables surgeons to access relevant internal and external structures more easily; however, over the prolonged duration of some operations, it can lead to changes in blood circulation in the legs and head. If left untreated, this condition can lead to tissue and organ damage, which can have a profound impact on individuals’ lives.
Currently, there are differing opinions on how to prevent these blood-flow-related risks during long operations.
This study aims to collect real-time data on oxygen levels and circulation to the calf muscles and brain, while also analysing blood samples for signs of related general changes in the body.
Alongside the main study, the research team conducted a global survey, led by medical doctor and PhD candidate Chukwuemeka Uzoma, to investigate how hospitals and clinicians worldwide approach this issue. The results, published in the journal Colorectal Disease, reveal a lack of consistent practices for monitoring or preventing blood flow complications during surgery.
Only a few of the nearly 600 participants reported having appropriate standard local protocols to address this problem.
Professor Jim Khan, colorectal consultant at QA Hospital and Professor of Surgery at the University of Portsmouth, added: ‘If the findings are significant from this initial study, we hope to expand the project further and eventually develop evidence-based guidelines for the UK and international surgical communities. Our colorectal unit is renowned for its expertise in bowel cancer management and robotic surgery. The research team at the University of Portsmouth possesses the necessary skills and experience to conduct such a project. This is genuinely an exciting collaboration.’
The study will continue over the coming months to recruit a total of 25 individuals.
The team hopes that the final results will lead to better protocols in operating rooms, reducing the risk of complications and improving outcomes for patients undergoing life-saving surgery.
