M+M e-mail responses

M+M e-mail responses

The following are sample correspondences from the weekly M+M e-mail correspondences at Cedars-Sinai In Los Angeles sent to Leo A. Gordon, MD, FACS, associate director of surgical education:

An attending surgeon writes: "I did not understand the point made about approaching the duodenum laterally in the fistula case."

The M+M moderator responds: The surgeon who made this comment is an "anatomic strategist." If the anterior approach to the abdomen was difficult, the speaker recommended a retroperitoneal approach, much like the RP approach to an abdominal aortic aneurysm.

An attending surgeon writes: "Are the residents aware of the Department of Medical Photography? The description of the abdomen in the fistula case, while I am sure it was accurate, was tough to envision."

The M+M moderator responds: Photodocumentation would have made the case presentation more understandable. The resident staff will be reminded of the availability of this service.