Neuralgic amyotrophy: a paradigm shift in diagnosis and treatment

2020 ◽  
Vol 91 (8) ◽  
pp. 879-888 ◽  
Author(s):  
Clemens Gstoettner ◽  
Johannes A Mayer ◽  
Stephanie Rassam ◽  
Laura A Hruby ◽  
Stefan Salminger ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
High Resolution ◽  
Peripheral Nerve ◽  
Clinical Decision Making ◽  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Treatment Options ◽  
Treatment Algorithm ◽  
Clinical Decision ◽  
Neuralgic Amyotrophy ◽  
Positive Effects ◽  
Nerve Surgery

Neuralgic amyotrophy (NA), also known as Parsonage-Turner syndrome, is characterised by sudden pain attacks, followed by patchy muscle paresis in the upper extremity. Recent reports have shown that incidence is much higher than previously assumed and that the majority of patients never achieve full recovery. Traditionally, the diagnosis was mainly based on clinical observations and treatment options were confined to application of corticosteroids and symptomatic management, without proven positive effects on long-term outcomes. These views, however, have been challenged in the last years. Improved imaging methods in MRI and high-resolution ultrasound have led to the identification of structural peripheral nerve pathologies in NA, most notably hourglass-like constrictions. These pathognomonic findings have paved the way for more accurate diagnosis through high-resolution imaging. Furthermore, surgery has shown to improve clinical outcomes in such cases, indicating the viability of peripheral nerve surgery as a valuable treatment option in NA. In this review, we present an update on the current knowledge on this disease, including pathophysiology and clinical presentation, moving on to diagnostic and treatment paradigms with a focus on recent radiological findings and surgical reports. Finally, we present a surgical treatment algorithm to support clinical decision making, with the aim to encourage translation into day-to-day practice.

Management of thoracic aortic lesions - the future is endovascular

VASA ◽  
2012 ◽  
Vol 41 (3) ◽  
pp. 163-176 ◽  
Author(s):  
Weidenhagen ◽  
Bombien ◽  
Meimarakis ◽  
Geisler ◽  
A. Koeppel
Keyword(s):  
Thoracic Aorta ◽  
Clinical Decision Making ◽  
Treatment Options ◽  
Clinical Decision ◽  
Clinical Results ◽  
Treatment Modalities ◽  
Traumatic Rupture ◽  
Descending Thoracic Aorta ◽  
New Treatment ◽  
Aneurysm Dissection

Open surgical repair of lesions of the descending thoracic aorta, such as aneurysm, dissection and traumatic rupture, has been the “state-of-the-art” treatment for many decades. However, in specialized cardiovascular centers, thoracic endovascular aortic repair and hybrid aortic procedures have been implemented as novel treatment options. The current clinical results show that these procedures can be performed with low morbidity and mortality rates. However, due to a lack of randomized trials, the level of reliability of these new treatment modalities remains a matter of discussion. Clinical decision-making is generally based on the experience of the vascular center as well as on individual factors, such as life expectancy, comorbidity, aneurysm aetiology, aortic diameter and morphology. This article will review and discuss recent publications of open surgical, hybrid thoracic aortic (in case of aortic arch involvement) and endovascular repair in complex pathologies of the descending thoracic aorta.

Fascicular Ratio Pilot Study: High-Resolution Neurosonography—A Possible Tool for Quantitative Assessment of Traumatic Peripheral Nerve Lesions Before and After Nerve Surgery

Neurosurgery ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 85 (3) ◽  
pp. 415-422 ◽  
Author(s):  
Christian Heinen ◽  
Patrick Dömer ◽  
Thomas Schmidt ◽  
Bettina Kewitz ◽  
Ulrike Janssen-Bienhold ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
High Resolution ◽  
Peripheral Nerve ◽  
Quantitative Assessment ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Structural Reorganization ◽  
Magnetic Resonance Neurography ◽  
Nerve Lesions ◽  
Peripheral Nerve Lesions ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Nerve Surgery

Abstract BACKGROUND Clinical and electrophysiological assessments prevail in evaluation of traumatic nerve lesions and their regeneration following nerve surgery in humans. Recently, high-resolution neurosonography (HRNS) and magnetic resonance neurography have gained significant importance in peripheral nerve imaging. The use of the grey-scale-based “fascicular ratio” (FR) was established using both modalities allowing for quantitative assessment. OBJECTIVE To find out whether FR using HRNS can assess nerve trauma and structural reorganization in correlation to postoperative clinical development. METHODS Retrospectively, 16 patients with operated traumatic peripheral nerve lesions were included. The control group consisted of 6 healthy volunteers. All imaging was performed with a 15 to 6 MHz ultrasound probe (SonoSite X-Porte; Fujifilm, Tokyo, Japan). FR was calculated using Fiji (兠) on 8-bit-images (“MaxEntropy” using “Auto-Threshold” plug-in). RESULTS Thirteen of 16 patients required autologous nerve grafting and 3 of 16 extra-intraneural neurolysis. There was no statistical difference between the FR of nonaffected patients’ nerve portion with 43.48% and controls with FR 48.12%. The neuromatous nerve portion in grafted patients differed significantly with 85.05%. Postoperatively, FR values returned to normal with a mean of 39.33%. In the neurolyzed patients, FR in the affected portion was 78.54%. After neurolysis, FR returned to healthy values (50.79%). Ten of 16 patients showed clinical reinnervation. CONCLUSION To our best knowledge, this is the first description of FR using HRNS for quantitative assessment of nerve damage and postoperative structural reorganization. Our results show a significant difference in healthy vs lesioned nerves and a change in recovering nerve portions towards a more “physiological” ratio. Further evaluation in larger patient groups is required.

scholarly journals Pet owners’ and veterinarians’ perceptions of information exchange and clinical decision-making in companion animal practice

PLoS ONE ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 16 (2) ◽  
pp. e0245632
Author(s):  
Natasha Janke ◽  
Jason B. Coe ◽  
Theresa M. Bernardo ◽  
Cate E. Dewey ◽  
Elizabeth A. Stone
Keyword(s):  
Decision Making ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Information Exchange ◽  
Clinical Decision Making ◽  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Exchange Process ◽  
Clinical Decision ◽  
Decision Making Process ◽  
Pet Owners ◽  
Pet Owner

One of the most complex aspects of the veterinarian-client-patient interaction is the clinical decision-making process. Research suggests that the approach to communication used by veterinarians can impact veterinary clients’ involvement in the decision-making process and their ultimate satisfaction. Using different approaches to the decision-making process may affect how information is exchanged and consequently how decisions are made. The objective of this study was to determine pet owners’ expectations with respect to information exchange and decision-making during veterinarian-client-patient interactions and to compare veterinarians’ perceptions of those expectations and the challenges they face in meeting them. Five pet owner focus groups (27 owners) and three veterinarian focus groups (24 veterinarians) were conducted with standardized open-ended questions and follow-up probes. Thematic analysis of the transcribed data was conducted to identify trends and patterns that emerged during the focus groups. Three pet owner-based themes were identified: 1) understanding the client; 2) providing information suitable for the client; and 3) decision-making. In addition, three barriers for veterinarians affecting information exchange and decision-making were identified: 1) time constraints; 2) involvement of multiple clients; and 3) language barriers. Results suggest that pet owners expect to be supported by their veterinarian to make informed decisions by understanding the client’s current knowledge, tailoring information and educating clients about their options. Breakdowns in the information exchange process can impact pet owners’ perceptions of veterinarians’ motivations. Pet owners’ emphasis on partnership suggests that a collaborative approach between veterinarians and clients may improve client satisfaction.

Aortoiliac Reconstruction

2017 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mark K. Eskandari ◽  
Michael J Nooromid
Keyword(s):  
Clinical Decision Making ◽  
Preoperative Evaluation ◽  
Treatment Options ◽  
Surgical Techniques ◽  
Clinical Decision ◽  
Occlusive Disease ◽  
Aortobifemoral Bypass ◽  
Aortoiliac Occlusive Disease ◽  
Atherosclerotic Occlusive Disease ◽  
Aortoiliac Reconstruction

This review outlines the preoperative evaluation, clinical decision making, and surgical treatment options for patients with aortoiliac occlusive disease. It also details the open surgical techniques for the treatment of aortoiliac occlusive disease and reviews endovascular treatment options. The discussion of treatment options includes the potential complications and expected outcomes, as well as steps that can be taken to optimize surgical results. Key words: aortobifemoral bypass, aortoiliac reconstruction, atherosclerotic occlusive disease, endovascular reconstruction, femoral endarterectomy, iliac angioplasty, iliac stenting, peripheral vascular disease 

scholarly journals Management of Cardiac Toxicity Induced by Chemotherapy

2020 ◽  
Vol 9 (9) ◽  
pp. 2885 ◽  
Author(s):  
Dario Trapani ◽  
Paola Zagami ◽  
Eleonora Nicolò ◽  
Gabriella Pravettoni ◽  
Giuseppe Curigliano
Keyword(s):  
Clinical Decision Making ◽  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Early Recognition ◽  
Clinical Decision ◽  
Cancer Treatments ◽  
Drug Induced ◽  
Medical Interventions ◽  
Clinical Scenarios ◽  
New Biomarkers ◽  
Chemotherapy Agents

Cardiotoxicity encompasses a spectrum of adverse cardiological effects experienced by cancer patients during and after receiving antineoplastic treatments. The intersection of cancer care with the management of the multiple comorbid non-communicable diseases carried by patients or related to cancer treatments motivates the need for an integrated and multidisciplinary approach to therapeutic clinical decision-making. This present review aimed to provide a perspective and an update of the current pharmacotherapy approaches for the prevention and management of cardiotoxicity from antiblastic chemotherapy; as such, it addresses myocardial, vascular, and arrhythmic disorders associated to chemotherapy, by navigating the current knowledge and clinical indications in support of the medical interventions. Clinical scenarios of pharmacological interventions take place with patients receiving anthracycline and, by extrapolation, other agents with cardiotoxic potentials and non-chemotherapy agents, including various small molecules and immunotherapy agents. Analysis of these scenarios aims to provide practical evidence-based guidance for the management of drug-induced cardiac dysfunctions. The possible role of new biomarkers for the early recognition of cardiotoxicity is mentioned across the clinical studies, with reference to the pharmacological biomarker-driven interventions delivered. To best inform survivorship care, the management and context of cardio-oncology services are discussed within the broader network of providers and settings of care.

A Multiscale Specimen-Specific Data Set to Enable Comprehensive Modeling and Simulation of the Tibiofemoral Joint

2013 ◽  
Author(s):  
Snehal Chokhandre ◽  
Ahmet Erdemir
Keyword(s):  
Clinical Decision Making ◽  
Mechanical Response ◽  
Multiple Scales ◽  
Treatment Options ◽  
Complex Structure ◽  
Clinical Decision ◽  
Fe Analysis ◽  
Data Set ◽  
Tibiofemoral Joint ◽  
Joint Biomechanics

The tibiofemoral joint is a complex structure and its overall mechanical response is dictated by its numerous substructures at both macro and micro levels. An in-depth understanding of the mechanics of the joint is necessary to develop preventative measures and treatment options for pathological conditions and common injuries. Finite element (FE) analysis is a widely used tool in joint biomechanics studies focused on understanding the underlying mechanical behavior at joint, tissue and cell levels [1]. Studies, regardless of their purpose (descriptive or predictive), when employing FE analysis, require anatomical and mechanical data at single or multiple scales. It is also critical that FE representations are validated and closely represent specifics of the joint of interest, anatomically and mechanically. This is an utmost need if these models are intended to be used to support clinical decision making (in surgery or for rehabilitation) and for the development of implants.

scholarly journals Orthodontic treatment time: can it be shortened?

2018 ◽  
Vol 23 (6) ◽  
pp. 90-105 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ricardo Moresca
Keyword(s):  
Orthodontic Treatment ◽  
Clinical Decision Making ◽  
Tooth Movement ◽  
Treatment Time ◽  
Treatment Options ◽  
Clinical Decision ◽  
Orthodontic Appliances ◽  
Factors Influencing ◽  
Determining Factors ◽  
Major Factors

Abstract Introduction: In the literature, no consensus has been reached about orthodontic treatment time. Similarly, the determining factors of the latter have not yet been completely elucidated. Objective: The aim of the present article was to deepen the discussion on the major factors influencing orthodontic treatment time, as well as to present some strategies that have proven effective in controlling and shortening it. Method: Based on evidences found in the literature, the method focussed in providing the basis for clinical decision-making. Conclusions: Treatment time varies according to the type of malocclusion and treatment options. Orthodontist’s influence, patient’s characteristics and compliance are all decisive in determining treatment time, while the effects provided by orthodontic appliances and methods used to speed tooth movement up seem little effective.

scholarly journals How Much? How Frequent? How Long? A Clinical Guide to New Therapies in Myelodysplastic Syndromes

Hematology ◽  
2010 ◽  
Vol 2010 (1) ◽  
pp. 314-321 ◽  
Author(s):  
William Blum
Keyword(s):  
Quality Of Life ◽  
Myelodysplastic Syndromes ◽  
Clinical Decision Making ◽  
Treatment Options ◽  
Clinical Decision ◽  
Clinical Results ◽  
Improve Quality ◽  
Substantial Impact ◽  
History Of

AbstractAdvances in the treatment of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDSs) over the last decade have given patients and their hematologists a multitude of treatment options. Therapeutic options now exist that reduce disease-related symptoms, improve quality of life, and alter the natural history of the disease. Three drugs are now specifically Food and Drug Administration-approved for treatment of MDS: (1) azacitidine, (2) decitabine, and (3) lenalidomide. Clinical results with each of these agents, plus results with immunosuppressive therapy, are reviewed to guide clinical decision making. Although each therapy has made a substantial impact in improving the care of patients with MDS, unfortunately MDS treatment in 2010 ultimately fails in most patients, but these therapies provide a foundation on which we can build to further improve outcomes.

Mutation landscape of Chinese melanoma patients.

2019 ◽  
Vol 37 (15_suppl) ◽  
pp. 9563-9563
Author(s):  
Fuxue Huang ◽  
Dandan Li ◽  
Xizhi Wen ◽  
Fang Wang ◽  
Xiaoshi Zhang ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Cutaneous Melanoma ◽  
Clinical Decision Making ◽  
Treatment Options ◽  
Clinical Decision ◽  
Genomic Profiling ◽  
Primary Tumors ◽  
Positive Correlation ◽  
Mutation Burden ◽  
Frequent Mutations ◽  
Melanoma Patients

9563 Background: Treatment options for melanoma, which has the highest mutation burden among common cancers, has proliferated in the past decade. Genomic profiling has becoming essential to clinical decision making. However, limited studies have interrogated the genomic landscape of Chinese melanoma patients. We also investigated the correlation between tumor mutation burden (TMB) and clinical outcomes of immunotherapy (IO). Methods: In this study, we retrospectively surveyed the genomic profiling of primary tumors of 81 (40 males, 41 females) metastatic Chinese melanoma patients with a median age of 52, using a panel consisting of 295 cancer-related genes, spanning 2.02MB of human genome. Patients used IO as first line treatment (n = 25) were enrolled for survival analyses. Results: In this cohort, 15, 24 and 42 were acral, mucosal and cutaneous melanoma, respectively. Collectively, we identified 1,114 mutations, spanning 248 genes, with BRAF, MYC and NBN being the most frequently mutated genes, occurring in 40%, 27% and 21% of patients, respectively. Mutation spectrum varied significantly by subtypes. BRAF (57%) and LRP1B (26%) were the most frequently mutated genes in cutaneous melanoma (CM). KIT and NRAS, reported to be frequently mutated in CM, each occurred in only 12% patients in this cohort. MYC amplification was the most commonly seen mutation in acral and mucosal melanoma (MM). Other frequent mutations in MM included: NBN (38%) RUNX1T1(29%) and TP53 (29%). In acral melanoma (AM), CCND1, FGF3/19, NF1and NBN were frequently mutated. It is interesting to note that no TP53 mutation was observed in AM. AM and MM had significantly more CNVs than CM. Of the 25 patients underwent IO, our data revealed a positive correlation between TMB and PFS (p = 0.007). Such correlation also exited in each subtype. Furthermore, we derived a cutoff of 15, which can effectively distinguish clinical response. Patients with TMB > 15 mut/Mb had a significantly longer PFS than patients harboring TMB < 15 mut/Mb (P = 0.02). Patients with CM had a longer PFS than patients with AM or MM (p = 0.018). No correlation between PDL1 expression and PFS was observed. Conclusions: Our study revealed a distinctive mutation landscape for each subtype. Furthermore, we also revealed a positive correlation between TMB and PFS as well as a lack of correlation between PDL1 expression and PFS.

The ‘Number Needed to Treat’ and the ‘Adjusted NNT’ in Health Care Decision-Making

1998 ◽  
Vol 3 (1) ◽  
pp. 44-49 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jack Dowie
Keyword(s):  
Health Care ◽  
Decision Making ◽  
Evidence Based Medicine ◽  
Clinical Decision Making ◽  
Treatment Options ◽  
Clinical Decision ◽  
Population Based ◽  
Number Needed To Treat ◽  
Evidence Based ◽  
Based Medicine

Within ‘evidence-based medicine and health care’ the ‘number needed to treat’ (NNT) has been promoted as the most clinically useful measure of the effectiveness of interventions as established by research. Is the NNT, in either its simple or adjusted form, ‘easily understood’, ‘intuitively meaningful’, ‘clinically useful’ and likely to bring about the substantial improvements in patient care and public health envisaged by those who recommend its use? The key evidence against the NNT is the consistent format effect revealed in studies that present respondents with mathematically-equivalent statements regarding trial results. Problems of understanding aside, trying to overcome the limitations of the simple (major adverse event) NNT by adding an equivalent measure for harm (‘number needed to harm’ NNH) means the NNT loses its key claim to be a single yardstick. Integration of the NNT and NNH, and attempts to take into account the wider consequences of treatment options, can be attempted by either a ‘clinical judgement’ or an analytical route. The former means abandoning the explicit and rigorous transparency urged in evidence-based medicine. The attempt to produce an ‘adjusted’ NNT by an analytical approach has succeeded, but the procedure involves carrying out a prior decision analysis. The calculation of an adjusted NNT from that analysis is a redundant extra step, the only action necessary being comparison of the results for each option and determination of the optimal one. The adjusted NNT has no role in clinical decision-making, defined as requiring patient utilities, because the latter are measurable only on an interval scale and cannot be transformed into a ratio measure (which the adjusted NNT is implied to be). In any case, the NNT always represents the intrusion of population-based reasoning into clinical decision-making.

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