1.A unified framework for postoperative complications after gastrectomy for gastric cancer: insights from the Korean Quality Improvement Platform in Surgery program
Jeong Ho SONG ; Chang Seok KO ; Han Hong LEE ; Hong Man YOON ; Hyoung-Il KIM ; In Gyu KWON ; Ji Yeon PARK ; Ji Yeong AN ; Jong Won KIM ; Mi Ran JUNG ; Sang-Il LEE ; Seong Ho KONG ; Sun-Hwi HWANG ; Yun-Suhk SUH ; Sang-Yong SON ; Sang-Uk HAN
Annals of Surgical Treatment and Research 2026;110(5):290-298
Purpose:
Postoperative complications following gastric cancer surgery significantly impact patient outcomes, yet standardized definitions for these events have not been consistently applied across institutions in Korea. This study aimed to develop a consensus-based, standardized complication classification system specific to gastrectomy for gastric cancer as part of the Korean Quality Improvement Platform in Surgery (K-QIPS) initiative.
Methods:
As part of K-QIPS, a dedicated task force team (TFT) was formed with surgical experts from fourteen high-volume hospitals across Korea. The TFT conducted ten formal meetings to review existing literature and international guidelines, and incorporated findings from randomized controlled trials. The final complication list was developed through expert consensus and structured into a standardized framework. A Data Entry Manual was created to support consistent data collection by surgical clinical reviewers.
Results:
The TFT defined specific postoperative complications following gastrectomy for gastric cancer, including anastomotic leakage, duodenal stump leakage, pancreatic fistula, intra-abdominal and luminal bleeding, delayed gastric emptying, and internal hernia. Notably, internal hernia was described in standardized form for the first time. General complications were developed first and overlapped in part with the gastric cancer-specific list. The task force also produced a Data Entry Manual that provides practical instructions to ensure consistency and accuracy in complication reporting.
Conclusion
This nationwide consensus initiative established the first standardized complication classification system for gastric cancer surgery in Korea. The proposed definitions and data entry system are expected to improve complication reporting, enable multicenter research, support surgical quality benchmarking, and ultimately enhance patient outcomes.
2.Stress Accelerates Depressive-Like Behaviors through Increase of Notch2 Expression in N141I Mutation Presenilin-2 Transgenic Mice
Seung Sik YOO ; Sun Mi GU ; Kyung Tak NAM ; Jeong Soon CHOI ; Yong Sun LEE ; In Jun YEO ; Ji Eun YU ; Sanghyeon KIM ; Dong Won LEE ; Hyeon Joo HAM ; Ju Young CHANG ; Jaesuk YUN ; Dong Ju SON ; Sang-Bae HAN ; Jin Tae HONG
Biomolecules & Therapeutics 2026;34(3):544-555
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by progressive cognitive deterioration and significant depression. However, the mechanisms linking depression to AD pathology remain unclear. Here, we investigated whether Notch2 signaling mediates depressionlike behaviors in presenilin-2 (PS2) N141I mutant mice, an early-onset AD model. PS2 wild-type (WT) and mutant (MT) mice aged 12-15 months were subjected to unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS) for 4 weeks, followed by sucrose preference, tail-hanging, and forced swimming tests. Behavioral assessments showed that UCMS exacerbated anhedonia and immobility only in PS2 MT mice. Molecular analysis revealed concomitant increases in plasma corticosterone, hippocampal γ-secretase activity, and Notch2 expression, and elevated total and phosphorylated glucocorticoid receptor levels in PS2 MT-UCMS mice. Gene expression profiling of human hippocampal datasets confirmed upregulation of NOTCH2 in Alzheimer’s disease and depression.Pharmacological inhibition of γ-secretase and Notch signaling with DAPT normalizes depressive behavior, reduces corticosterone release, attenuates GR phosphorylation, and inhibits Notch2 signaling in PS2 MT mice. These findings identify Notch2 as a pivotal mediator linking chronic stress to molecular changes associated with depression and AD, and suggest that targeting Notch2 signaling may provide therapeutic benefits for comorbid mood and neurodegenerative disorders.
3.Detection Ability of Quality of Life Changes and Responsiveness of the KOQUSS-40 and the EORTC QLQ-C30/STO22 in Patients Who Underwent Gastrectomy: A Prospective Comparative Study
Bang Wool EOM ; Keun Won RYU ; Ji Yeong AN ; Yun-Suhk SUH ; In CHO ; Sung Geun KIM ; Ji-Ho PARK ; Hoon HUR ; Hyung-Ho KIM ; Sang-Hoon AHN ; Sun-Hwi HWANG ; Hong Man YOON ; Ki Bum PARK ; Hyoung-Il KIM ; In-Gyu KWON ; Han-Kwang YANG ; Byoung-Jo SUH ; Sang-Ho JEONG ; Tae-Han KIM ; Oh Kyoung KWON ; Hye-Seong AHN ; Ji Yeon PARK ; Ki Young YOON ; Myoung Won SON ; Seong-Ho KONG ; Young-Gil SON ; Geum Jong SONG ; Jong Hyuk YUN ; Jung-Min BAE ; Do Joong PARK ; Sol LEE ; Jun-Young YANG ; Kyung Won SEO ; You-Jin JANG ; So Hyun KANG ; Joongyub LEE ; Hyuk-Joon LEE ;
Cancer Research and Treatment 2026;58(1):221-231
Purpose:
The aim of this study is to compare the detection ability of quality of life (QoL) changes and responsiveness of the KOrean QUality of life in Stomach cancer patients Study group (KOQUSS)-40 and European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ).
Materials and Methods:
A multicenter prospective observational study was conducted to evaluate QoL changes after various gastrectomies between January 2021 and April 2022. Participants were instructed to complete the KOQUSS-40 and EORTC QLQ-C30/STO22 preoperatively and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. QoL changes over time and QoL responsiveness were assessed for each questionnaire.
Results:
Data from 491 patients who underwent curative gastrectomy for gastric cancer at 22 institutions were analyzed. The summary scores of the KOQUSS-40 and EORTC QLQ-STO22 showed significant differences between the total and proximal gastrectomy groups (p=0.044 and p=0.038, respectively), but no difference was observed for the EORTC QLQ-C30. Dysphagia on the KOQUSS-40 was significantly different between the total and proximal gastrectomy groups (p=0.031); however, dysphagia on the EORTC QLQ-STO22 did not differ. The responsiveness of the KOQUSS-40 was similar to that of the EORTC QLQ in patients who experienced ≥ 10% body weight loss, but approximately 10% less in patients receiving adjuvant chemotherapy than the EORTC QLQ.
Conclusion
KOQUSS-40 has several advantages over EORTC QLQ-C30/STO22 when comparing QoL between the total and proximal gastrectomy groups. The findings provide information for researchers investigating the QoL of patients who have undergone curative gastrectomy for gastric cancer.
4.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.
5.Remission of diabetes with glutamic acid decarboxylase antibody positivity that developed after the administration of olanzapine: a case report
Kyuho KIM ; Soo Hyun SEO ; Yun Ji HONG ; Woojae MYUNG ; Bomi KIM ; Chang Ho AHN ; Sung Hee CHOI ; Hak Chul JANG ; Tae Jung OH
Precision and Future Medicine 2026;10(1):51-56
Olanzapine is a second-generation antipsychotic drug associated with the development of type 2 diabetes. However, the development and remission of diabetes with glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) antibody (Ab) positivity related to olanzapine treatment have not been reported. Here, we present the case of a 33-year-old man taking olanzapine who was diagnosed with diabetes with GAD Ab positivity complicated by diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). After discontinuation of the drug and tight glycemic control, his diabetes remitted, and the GAD Ab became negative spontaneously after 18 months. The classification of diabetes is challenging because of overlapping autoimmune and metabolic features. Olanzapine may have contributed to pancreatic β-cell apoptosis, which could potentially trigger autoimmunity and the development of type 1 diabetes-like features (DKA as the initial presentation, a low C-peptide level, and GAD Ab positivity). The rapid amelioration of hyperglycemia and weight reduction may be responsible for the remission of diabetes after the discontinuation of olanzapine.
6.Novel non-invasive and quantitative assessment of the renal function of transplanted kidneys using Doppler ultrasonography with the vascular index of superb microvascular imaging
Sung Hwan BAE ; Eun Ji LEE ; Jiyoung HWANG ; Seong Sook HONG ; Yun-Woo CHANG ; Boda NAM
Ultrasonography 2025;44(2):160-169
Purpose:
This study assessed the reproducibility and clinical value of the vascular index (VI), derived from superb microvascular imaging (SMI) using Doppler ultrasonography, for evaluating renal function in transplanted kidneys.
Methods:
This retrospective study included 63 renal transplant patients who underwent grayscale and Doppler ultrasonography with SMI from January 2022 to February 2023. The VI of the transplanted kidneys was measured using three methods (VIbox, VIF1, VIF2). The VI was compared across chronic kidney disease (CKD) groups categorized by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) CKD risk groups based on eGFR and albuminuria. The correlation between VI and renal function was evaluated. Univariate and multivariate linear regression analyses were used to identify predictors of eGFR.
Results:
Significant differences in VI were observed among CKD groups based on eGFR (VIbox, P=0.001; VIF1, P<0.001; VIF2, P<0.001) and KDIGO CKD groups based on eGFR and albuminuria (VIbox, P=0.039; VIF1, P=0.001; VIF2, P<0.001). VIF1 and VIF2 demonstrated moderate/high correlations with eGFR (r=0.627, P<0.001 and r=0.657, P<0.001, respectively) and serum creatinine (r=-0.626, P<0.001 and r=-0.649, P<0.001, respectively). VIbox moderately correlated with eGFR (r=0.445, P<0.001). Multivariate regression identified the urine albumincreatinine ratio (ACR) (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.122; 95% confidence interval [CI], -0.007 to, 0.000; P=0.030) and VIF2 (aOR, 1.114; 95% CI, 0.466 to 1.235; P<0.001) were independently associated with eGFR.
Conclusion
The VI measured by drawing a region of interest along the border of the transplanted kidney in SMI (VIF2) is highly reproducible and correlates well with eGFR. Both VIF2 and ACR independently predict eGFR.
7.Anatomical Variations, Genitourinary Anomalies and Clinical Presentations in Obstructed Hemivagina and Ipsilateral Renal Anomaly Syndrome: Case Series
Hyun Jeong KIM ; Eun Ji LEE ; Yun-Woo CHANG ; Seong Sook HONG ; Jiyoung HWANG ; Boda NAM ; Sung Hwan BAE
Journal of the Korean Society of Radiology 2025;86(1):129-140
Obstructed hemivagina and ipsilateral renal anomaly (OHVIRA) syndrome is a rare Müllerian duct anomaly, commonly characterized by uterus didelphys, obstructed hemivagina, and ipsilateral renal agenesis. While these are the three most common genitourinary anomalies in OHVIRA syndrome, a spectrum of urogenital anomalies can be present. Knowledge of this spectrum is crucial for proper patient management and treatment planning. In this case series, we report on five patients with OHVIRA syndrome, each presenting with a urogenital anomaly other than the typical renal agenesis or uterus didelphys. We highlight the gynecological complications encountered, which clinicians and radiologists should be aware of.
8.Risk Factors for the Occurrence of Peripheral Venous Catheter-Related Phlebitis in Hospitalized Patients with Neurosurgery: A Retrospective Study
Yun Hee HONG ; Soon Yeo JOO ; Nam Hee CHAE ; Ji Yoon KIM ; Min-Jung CHOI
Journal of Korean Clinical Nursing Research 2025;31(1):80-90
Purpose:
This study aimed to identify the risk factors for peripheral intravenous catheter-related phlebitis in hospitalized neurosurgery patients.
Methods:
This study involved 443 neurosurgery patients who were admitted to a general hospital in Seoul. The analysis included 982 intravenous lines. Data were retrospectively extracted from electronic medical records for the period between November 1, 2022, and May 31, 2023. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t-test, x 2 test, and logistic regression.
Results:
The incidence rate of phlebitis was 13.6%, with the majority of cases classified as grade 2. Gender, present diseases, length of hospital stay, needle gauge size, and cardiovascular drugs were identified as risk factors for phlebitis in neurosurgery patients.
Conclusion
This study is significant as it provides basic data for the prevention and management of peripheral phlebitis in hospitalized neurosurgery patients. The risk factors identified in this study should be incorporated into nursing education to implement a systematic peripheral intravenous management program, and appropriate peripheral intravenous catheter-related nursing interventions are necessary based on the characteristics of each patient.
9.Risk Factors for the Occurrence of Peripheral Venous Catheter-Related Phlebitis in Hospitalized Patients with Neurosurgery: A Retrospective Study
Yun Hee HONG ; Soon Yeo JOO ; Nam Hee CHAE ; Ji Yoon KIM ; Min-Jung CHOI
Journal of Korean Clinical Nursing Research 2025;31(1):80-90
Purpose:
This study aimed to identify the risk factors for peripheral intravenous catheter-related phlebitis in hospitalized neurosurgery patients.
Methods:
This study involved 443 neurosurgery patients who were admitted to a general hospital in Seoul. The analysis included 982 intravenous lines. Data were retrospectively extracted from electronic medical records for the period between November 1, 2022, and May 31, 2023. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t-test, x 2 test, and logistic regression.
Results:
The incidence rate of phlebitis was 13.6%, with the majority of cases classified as grade 2. Gender, present diseases, length of hospital stay, needle gauge size, and cardiovascular drugs were identified as risk factors for phlebitis in neurosurgery patients.
Conclusion
This study is significant as it provides basic data for the prevention and management of peripheral phlebitis in hospitalized neurosurgery patients. The risk factors identified in this study should be incorporated into nursing education to implement a systematic peripheral intravenous management program, and appropriate peripheral intravenous catheter-related nursing interventions are necessary based on the characteristics of each patient.
10.Accuracy of continuous and real-time total hemoglobin during bimaxillary orthognathic surgery
Cheul-Hong KIM ; Ji-Young YOON ; Giyoung YUN ; Hee Young KIM ; Eun-Jung KIM
Journal of Dental Anesthesia and Pain Medicine 2025;25(1):23-32
Background:
Intraoperative hemoglobin (Hb) monitoring is critical for ensuring patient safety during bimaxillary orthognathic surgery. Intraoperative Hb monitoring performed using portable devices with arterial blood samples is invasive, is time-consuming, and lacks the ability to provide real-time information. This retrospective study investigated the correlation between continuous and real-time total Hb (SpHb) using a Masimo Radical 7 device and Hb levels derived by portable devices during bimaxillary orthognathic surgery.
Methods:
Patients who underwent elective bimaxillary orthognathic surgery were enrolled. The correlation between SpHb and laboratory Hb (Lab-Hb) was evaluated immediately after the induction of anesthesia (T1) and at surgical closure (T2) and compared with postoperative Hb.
Results:
Eighty-eight patients were included. The correlation coefficients between SpHb and Lab-Hb were 0.795 and 0.859 at T1 and T2, respectively. The correlation coefficient between Lab-Hb at T2 and postoperative Hb was 0.918. A Bland-Altman analysis of the Lab-Hb at T2 and postoperative Hb showed a mean bias of 0.49.
Conclusion
In conclusion, here we demonstrated acceptable accuracy of the SpHb measured by the Masimo Radical 7 device during bimaxillary orthognathic surgery. However, SpHb is valuable as an adjunct value to Lab-Hb and a substitute for Hb monitoring due to its wide limits of agreement. These findings suggest that SpHb can help guide the timing of invasive blood sampling for Hb measurements, which may facilitate earlier intervention and treatment.

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