1.Development of an artificial intelligence-based prediction platform for early recurrence of resectable pancreatic cancer after curative surgery–toward future use as an indication for neoadjuvant treatment: a retrospective multicenter cohort study
So Jeong YOON ; Sung Hyun KIM ; Hongbeom KIM ; Sang Hyun SHIN ; Jin Seok HEO ; Seung Soo HONG ; Chang Moo KANG ; Kyung Sik KIM ; Ho Kyoung HWANG ; In Woong HAN
Annals of Surgical Treatment and Research 2026;110(2):76-83
Purpose:
Neoadjuvant treatment (NAT) is now the standard for borderline resectable pancreatic cancer (RPC) and is being considered for RPC. Early recurrence after curative surgery in RPC is often seen as a treatment failure, prompting considerations for NAT. Our goal was to develop an artificial intelligence (AI)-based predictive model utilizing preoperatively available factors to forecast early recurrences of resected RPC.
Methods:
This study included 469 patients who underwent surgery for RPC between 2011 and 2019. Clinicopathologic and oncologic data were retrospectively reviewed. Preoperative variables, including laboratory data and imaging findings, were collected. Early recurrence was defined as recurrence occurring within a year after surgery. Deep neural networks were then used to select variables by assessing their importance. A new model predicting early recurrence of RPC was subsequently developed.
Results:
Of the patients evaluated, 199 (42.4%) experienced early recurrence. The predictive model included 14 preoperative variables: CA 19-9, preoperative pancreatitis, serum albumin, platelet count, lymphocyte count, the American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status classification, tumor size, monocyte count, age, body mass index, CRP, hemoglobin, WBC count, and CEA. The area under the curve for the model was 0.786 in the training set and 0.734 in the test set.
Conclusion
We developed an AI-based model to predict the early recurrence of RPC using preoperative parameters. By identifying patients at risk of early recurrence, optimal individualized treatments such as NAT can be considered. Future prospective studies are crucial to establish clear indications for NAT in RPC.
2.Real-World Efficacy of Intravesical Gemcitabine for BCG-Unresponsive Non–muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer
Hye Won LEE ; Eui Hyun JUNG ; Kyung Hwan KIM ; Hong Koo HA ; Jong Jin OH ; Seok Ho KANG ; Seung-hwan JEONG ; Hyeong Dong YUK ; Ji Eun HEO ; Won Sik HAM ; Eu Chang HWANG ; Seung Il JUNG ; Wan SONG ; Bumjin LIM ; Bumsik HONG ; Byung Chang JEONG ; Ho Kyung SEO
Cancer Research and Treatment 2026;58(2):591-602
Purpose:
This study aimed to report the real-world outcomes of intravesical gemcitabine for bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG)–unresponsive, high-risk, non–muscle-invasive bladder cancer (HR-NMIBC) in Korean patients who were unable or unwilling to undergo radical cystectomy (RC).
Materials and Methods:
This retrospective study included 131 patients (median age, 69 years; 88.5% men) treated with intravesical gemcitabine for BCG-unresponsive HR-NMIBC at nine centers between May 2019 and April 2022. The primary endpoint was 1-year recurrence-free survival (RFS). The secondary endpoints included factors influencing RFS, progression-free survival (PFS), cystectomy- free survival, cancer-specific survival (CSS), overall survival (OS), and safety. Survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan-Meier method, and risk factors for recurrence were assessed using Cox regression models.
Results:
Patients were followed up for a median duration of 25 months, with carcinoma in situ (CIS) in 41.9% of the patients. The 1-year and 2-year RFS rates were 68% and 42%, while the 1-year and 2-year PFS rates were 87% and 77%, respectively. No significant factors influencing RFS were identified. Seventeen patients underwent RC during a median follow-up of 16 months, with the condition in three patients progressing to muscle-invasive disease on final pathological analysis. The 2-year CSS and OS rates were 98% and 97%, respectively. Intravesical gemcitabine was well-tolerated, with only seven patients (5.3%) unable to complete the full induction course.
Conclusion
Our research highlights the potential of intravesical gemcitabine as a viable bladder-sparing treatment option for BCG-unresponsive HR-NMIBC, providing real-world evidence on its safety, efficacy, and tolerability.
3.Guideline for the Management of Obesity in Adult Patients With Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Soo-Kyoung PARK ; Yun Jin KANG ; Seung Hoon LEE ; Chan-Soon PARK ; Seok Jin HONG ; Ji Ho CHOI ; Jae Hoon CHO
Clinical and Experimental Otorhinolaryngology 2026;19(2):107-119
Objectives:
. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep-related breathing disorder that is strongly influenced by obesity, the most important modifiable risk factor. Effective weight management is therefore essential for optimal OSA care. This guideline provides updated, evidence-based recommendations for the evaluation and management of obesity in adults with OSA, incorporating recent advances in lifestyle, pharmacologic, and surgical interventions.
Methods:
. The Korean Society of Sleep and Breathing convened a multidisciplinary panel. A systematic literature search was performed across major databases through 2025. Evidence was appraised using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach, and recommendations were formulated by consensus using the Evidence-to-Decision framework.
Results:
. Eight statements were developed. Key recommendations include recognizing obesity as a major risk factor; routinely assessing overweight and obesity; and implementing structured weight reduction through diet, exercise, and behavioral therapy. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists are recommended when lifestyle interventions are insufficient, and bariatric/metabolic surgery is advised for severe obesity unresponsive to nonsurgical treatment. Weight loss improves the apnea-hypopnea index, symptoms, and cardiometabolic markers and may reduce positive airway pressure needs. Continued follow-up is recommended even after clinical improvement.
Conclusion
. Weight management is a core component of OSA treatment. This guideline offers practical, evidence-based strategies to support clinicians in delivering effective, obesity-focused care for adults with OSA.
4.Impact of Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Levels on Atherosclerotic Vascular Changes: Analysis of Korean Treat Stroke to Target Trial
Sang Hee HA ; Jae-Chan RYU ; Sung Hee AHN ; Jae-Kwan CHA ; Sang Min SUNG ; Tae-Jin SONG ; Kyung Bok LEE ; Eung-Gyu KIM ; Yong-Won KIM ; Ji Hoe HEO ; Man Seok PARK ; Kyusik KANG ; Byung-Chul LEE ; Keun-Sik HONG ; Oh Young BANG ; Jei KIM ; Jong S. KIM
Journal of Stroke 2026;28(2):330-333
5.Postoperative Readmission Is Associated With Worse Oncologic Outcomes After Radical Cystectomy for Bladder Cancer: A Multicenter Study of 3,972 Patients
Jungwon PARK ; Jong Ho PARK ; Sangchul LEE ; Seung-Hwan JEONG ; Ja Hyeon KU ; Kyung Hwan KIM ; Jong Kil NAM ; Bumjin LIM ; BumSik HONG ; Wook NAM ; Sung Gu KANG ; Seok Ho KANG ; Tae Gyun KWON ; Tae-Hwan KIM ; Jieun HEO ; Won Sik HAM ; Geehyun SONG ; Ho Kyung SEO ; Wan SONG ; Hyun Hwan SUNG ; Byong Chang JEONG ; Jong Jin OH
Journal of Urologic Oncology 2026;24(1):69-78
Purpose:
Radical cystectomy (RC) is associated with substantial postoperative morbidity, and unplanned readmission remains common despite advances in perioperative management. However, the association between postoperative readmission due to complications and oncologic outcomes after RC for bladder cancer has not been clearly defined. We evaluated the impact of postoperative readmission on overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) after RC for bladder cancer.
Materials and Methods:
We retrospectively analyzed 3,972 patients who underwent RC for bladder cancer in a multicenter cohort. Postoperative readmission was defined as unplanned hospitalization within 90 days postsurgery due to surgery-related complications. Survival outcomes were assessed using the Kaplan-Meier method and compared using the log-rank test. Univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression analyses were performed to identify independent predictors of OS and CSS.
Results:
Among the study population, 916 patients (23.1%) experienced postoperative readmission. Baseline and perioperative characteristics were generally comparable between patients with and without readmission. Kaplan-Meier analyses demonstrated significantly worse OS and CSS among patients who experienced postoperative readmission (both log-rank p<0.001). In multivariable analyses adjusting for clinicopathological factors, postoperative readmission remained independently associated with worse OS (hazard ratio [HR], 1.654; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.464–1.868; p<0.001) and CSS (HR, 1.761; 95% CI, 1.509–2.055; p<0.001).
Conclusion
Postoperative readmission within 90 days after RC was independently associated with inferior long-term oncologic outcomes. These findings suggest the importance of strategies aimed at preventing postoperative complications and subsequent readmission.
6.Korean Thyroid Association Guidelines on the Management of Differentiated Thyroid Cancers; Part II. Follow-up Surveillance after Initial Treatment 2026
Eun Kyung LEE ; Seung Heon KANG ; Bon Seok KOO ; Mijin KIM ; Min Joo KIM ; Bo Hyun KIM ; Ji Won KIM ; Dong Gyu NA ; Sohyun PARK ; Ji-In BANG ; Kyorim BACK ; Youngduk SEO ; Young-Ik SON ; Young Shin SONG ; Dong Yeob SHIN ; Jong-Hyuk AHN ; Hwa Young AHN ; So Won OH ; Ho-Ryun WON ; Won Sang YOO ; Min Kyoung LEE ; Sang-Woo LEE ; Jeongmin LEE ; Ji Ye LEE ; Dong-Jun LIM ; Ki-Wook CHUNG ; Ari CHONG ; Jin Hyang JUNG ; Sun Wook CHO ; Yoon Young CHO ; Chae Moon HONG ; Young Joo PARK ;
International Journal of Thyroidology 2026;19(1):1-40
In patients with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC), initial recurrence risk stratification based on clinical, histopathological, and perioperative data remains the key determinant for guiding management strategies during the first 1-2 years post-treatment. However, the adoption of ongoing risk stratification (ORS), which dynamically reassesses risk by integrating longitudinal clinical data and treatment response, enables more precise long-term prognostic assessment and facilitates highly individualized management. Building upon recent guidelines, the 2026 KTA guideline has been further refined by incorporating robust evidence from large-scale national cohorts and comprehensive systematic reviews. These updated recommendations outline contemporary concepts of ORS, risk-adapted TSH suppression targets, optimized surveillance modalities for recurrence detection, and disease-specific long-term follow-up strategies. Reflecting the paradigm shift toward de-escalated treatment, this revision integrates evolved perspectives on TSH suppression intensity, the clinical interpretation of thyroglobulin levels, and tailored follow-up intervals. These evidence-based recommendations aim to minimize unnecessary treatment and excessive surveillance in the large proportion of patients with excellent prognosis after initial therapy, while ensuring that each patient receives appropriately tailored and effective long-term management.
7.Impact of Poloxamer/Alginate (Guardix-SGⓇ ) Volume on Drainage after Thyroid Lobectomy
Seok-Kyung KANG ; Miri RYU ; Meehyun LEE ; Hye Won KIM ; Han Pyo HONG ; Seungju LEE
International Journal of Thyroidology 2026;19(1):78-84
Background and Objectives:
Anti-adhesion agents based on hyaluronate-carboxymethyl cellulose (HA-CMC) are widely used in thyroid surgery to reduce postoperative adhesions. However, concerns persist that higher application volumes may increase postoperative drainage and prolong hospitalization. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of different doses of an HA-CMC solution (Guardix-SGⓇ ) on postoperative drainage and clinical outcomes after hemithyroidectomy.
Materials and Methods:
This prospective study included 107 patients who underwent hemithyroidectomy with central neck lymph node dissection for thyroid cancer between January and October 2024. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either 3 g (n=57) or 6 g (n=50) of Guardix-SGⓇ intraoperatively.Postoperative drainage volume, drain duration, and length of hospital stay were compared between groups.Analysis of covariance and quantile regression were performed to assess the effects of HA-CMC dose and clinical covariates on drainage outcomes.
Results:
Baseline demographic and pathological characteristics were comparable between the two groups. Total postoperative drainage volume did not differ significantly between the 3 g and 6 g groups, even after adjustment for hospital stay (p=0.283), nor did drain duration. Quantile regression analysis revealed that hypertension was independently associated with increased drainage volume in higher quantiles (0.25– 0.75), whereas the dose of HA-CMC solution had no significant effect across any quantile.
Conclusion
Application of a higher dose (6 g) of HA-CMC solution did not increase postoperative drainage or prolong drain duration after hemithyroidectomy. These findings support the safe and effective use of higher-dose Guardix-SGⓇ in thyroid surgery.
8.Differences in Treatment Outcomes Depending on the Adjuvant Treatment Modality in Craniopharyngioma
Byung Min LEE ; Jaeho CHO ; Dong-Seok KIM ; Jong Hee CHANG ; Seok-Gu KANG ; Eui-Hyun KIM ; Ju Hyung MOON ; Sung Soo AHN ; Yae Won PARK ; Chang-Ok SUH ; Hong In YOON
Yonsei Medical Journal 2025;66(3):141-150
Purpose:
Adjuvant treatment for craniopharyngioma after surgery is controversial. Adjuvant external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) can increase the risk of long-term sequelae. Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is used to reduce treatment-related toxicity.In this study, we compared the treatment outcomes and toxicities of adjuvant therapies for craniopharyngioma.
Materials and Methods:
We analyzed patients who underwent craniopharyngioma tumor removal between 2000 and 2017. Of the 153 patients, 27 and 20 received adjuvant fractionated EBRT and SRS, respectively. We compared the local control (LC), progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival between groups that received adjuvant fractionated EBRT, SRS, and surveillance.
Results:
The median follow-up period was 77.7 months. For SRS and surveillance, the 10-year LC was 57.2% and 57.4%, respectively. No local progression was observed after adjuvant fractionated EBRT. One patient in the adjuvant fractionated EBRT group died owing to glioma 94 months after receiving radiotherapy (10-year PFS: 80%). The 10-year PFS was 43.6% and 50.7% in the SRS and surveillance groups, respectively. The treatment outcomes significantly differed according to adjuvant treatment in nongross total resection (GTR) patients. Additional treatment-related toxicity was comparable in the adjuvant fractionated EBRT and other groups.
Conclusion
Adjuvant fractionated EBRT could be effective in controlling local failure, especially in patients with non-GTR, while maintaining acceptable treatment-related toxicity.
9.Assessing the Efficacy of Bortezomib and Dexamethasone for Induction and Maintenance Therapy in Relapsed/Refractory Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma: A Phase II CISL1701/BIC Study
Yoon Seok CHOI ; Joonho SHIM ; Ka-Won KANG ; Sang Eun YOON ; Jun Sik HONG ; Sung Nam LIM ; Ho-Young YHIM ; Jung Hye KWON ; Gyeong-Won LEE ; Deok-Hwan YANG ; Sung Yong OH ; Ho-Jin SHIN ; Hyeon-Seok EOM ; Dok Hyun YOON ; Hong Ghi LEE ; Seong Hyun JEONG ; Won Seog KIM ; Seok Jin KIM
Cancer Research and Treatment 2025;57(1):267-279
Purpose:
This multicenter, open-label, phase II trial evaluated the efficacy and safety of bortezomib combined with dexamethasone for the treatment of relapsed/refractory cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) in previously treated patients across 14 institutions in South Korea.
Materials and Methods:
Between September 2017 and July 2020, 29 patients with histologically confirmed CTCL received treatment, consisting of eight 4-week cycles of induction therapy followed by maintenance therapy, contingent upon response, for up to one year. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients achieving an objective global response.
Results:
Thirteen of the 29 patients (44.8%) achieved an objective global response, including two complete responses. The median progression-free survival (PFS) was 5.8 months, with responders showing a median PFS of 14.0 months. Treatment-emergent adverse events were generally mild, with a low incidence of peripheral neuropathy and hematologic toxicities. Despite the trend toward shorter PFS in patients with higher mutation burdens, genomic profiling before and after treatment showed no significant emergence of new mutations indicative of disease progression.
Conclusion
This study supports the use of bortezomib and dexamethasone as a viable and safe treatment option for previously treated CTCL, demonstrating substantial efficacy and manageability in adverse effects. Further research with a larger cohort is suggested to validate these findings and explore the prognostic value of mutation profiles.
10.Influence of Adipose-Derived Stem Cell-Enhanced Acellular Dermal Matrix on Capsule Formation in Rat Models
Hyun Su KANG ; Myeong Jae KANG ; Hyun Ki HONG ; Jeong Yeop RYU ; Joon Seok LEE ; Kang Young CHOI ; Ho Yun CHUNG ; Ho Yong PARK ; Jung Dug YANG
Journal of Wound Management and Research 2025;21(1):1-9
Background:
The use of acellular dermal matrix (ADM) in breast reconstruction can inhibit capsular contracture, increasing the success rate of surgery. Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) can effectively suppress foreign body reaction, which is a major cause of capsular contracture. This study aimed to elucidate the synergistic effects of combining ADSCs with ADM on capsule formation, utilizing a rat model.
Methods:
The study utilized 12 rats, equally divided into two experimental groups. Group A received silicone implants covered with ADM, while Group B was implanted with silicone prostheses wrapped in ADM, pre-seeded with ADSCs. Capsule formation was assessed through visual examination, histological analysis, and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) at 4 and 8 weeks post-implantation.
Results:
At 4 weeks, the mean capsular thickness was 177.16 μm in Group A and 170.76 μm in Group B; at 8 weeks, it was 196.69 μm in Group A and 176.10 μm in Group B. Statistical analysis showed no significant difference in capsule thickness between the groups (P>0.05). Histological findings indicated that Group A had more inflammatory cells and collagen fibers and reduced angiogenesis. RT-PCR showed that angiogenesis-promoting gene expression in Group B was 14% higher at 4 weeks and 156% higher at 8 weeks compared to Group A.
Conclusion
Although no statistically significant reduction in capsule thickness was observed, ADSC-seeded implants showed histological features associated with reduced inflammation and enhanced angiogenesis, suggesting potential benefits in capsule formation management.

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