scholarly journals The impact of COVID-19 on primary retinopexy in preventing retinal detachment in a tertiary eye hospital emergency department

2021 ◽  
pp. 112067212199472
Author(s):  
George Moussa ◽  
Emma Samia-Aly ◽  
Walter Andreatta ◽  
Kim Son Lett ◽  
Arijit Mitra ◽  
...  

Purpose: To review the effect of COVID-19 on rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) rate following primary retinopexy. Methods: Retrospective consecutive case series of 183 patients attending Birmingham and Midlands Eye Centre undergoing primary retinopexy (cryotherapy and laser) between March 23rd to June 30th in 2019 (Group 1) and 2020 (Group 2). Results: In total we reviewed 183 retinopexies, 122 in Group 1 and 61 in Group 2, a reduction of 50%. In Group 2 compared to Group 1, we showed a significant difference in characteristics of patients having primary retinopexy with an increase in proportion of male patients from 50 (41.0%) to 39 (63.9%) ( p = 0.005), increase in high myopes from 1 (0.8%) to 4 (6.6%) ( p = 0.043), more slit lamp laser retinopexy from 83 (68.0%) to 52 (85.2%) ( p = 0.013) and less cryopexy from 21 (17.2%) to 2 (3.3%) ( p = 0.008). In Group 2, primary retinopexy resulted in significantly more 3-month RRD rate 1 (0.8%) to 5 (8.2%) ( p = 0.016). There were no changes in number of patients requiring further retinopexy ( p = 1.000) Conclusion: This study demonstrates a reduction of primary retinopexy, an increased risk for RRD following primary retinopexy and a significant shift in type of primary retinopexy performed, demographics, operator and change in characteristics of type of retinal break observed during this pandemic. This study contributes to the growing literature of the secondary effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on other aspects of healthcare that is not just limited to the virus itself.

2020 ◽  
Vol 11 (2) ◽  
pp. 29-39
Author(s):  
Yu. N. Belenkov ◽  
I. V. Menshikova ◽  
I. S. Ilgisonis ◽  
Yu. I. Naimann ◽  
Yu. V. Pak ◽  
...  

Hydroxychloroquine (HCH) is included in guidelines for treatment of novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19). Data on increased risk of cardiovascular complications when using it have been published. Aim. To evaluate the safety and tolerability of HCH and azithromycine (AZM) combination for the treatment of the patients with COVID-19 in recommended by Russian Ministry of Health doses in real practice.Methods. 132 patients (62 men and 70 women of average age 59.2 ± 9.3 years), 59% of whom had cardiovascular comorbidities, were included in prospective сohort study. 112 patients took HCH + AZM (group 1) and 20 patients took other medications without potential cardiotoxicity (group 2). At the admission to the hospital and after 5–7 days of the treatment corrected QT interval was calculated, new rhythm and conduction disorders, other side effects and hospital mortality have been registering. Relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated. Results. Elongation of corrected QT-interval within the normal range was registered in 22.3% of patients in group 1 and in 15% — in group 2. An increase in the QT length to the upper limit of the norm (480 msec) was observed in 1.8% of patients in group 1. There were no statistically significant differences between the groups in the number of patients with prolonged QT interval (RR = 1.488, 95% CI: 0.496–4.466, р = 0.478). The occurrence of new arrhythmias, conduction disturbances and allergic reactions was not recorded. Tolerability of combination HCH + AZM was satisfactory in the majority of patients. The hospital mortality in group 1 was 1.8%, in group 2 — 5% without statistically significant difference (p = 0.374). Conclusion. A combination of HCL + AZM according to the scheme recommended by the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation for the treatment of the patients with COVID-19 and cardiovascular comorbidity in inpatient conditions is safe.


2019 ◽  
Vol 81 (1-2) ◽  
pp. 81-86
Author(s):  
Pierre Koskas ◽  
Mouna Romdhani ◽  
Olivier Drunat

As commonly happens in epidemiological research, none of the reported studies were totally free of methodological problems. Studies have considered the influence of social relationships on dementia, but the mechanisms underlying these associations are not perfectly understood. We look at the possible impact of selection bias. For their first memory consultation, patients may come alone or accompanied by a relative. Our objective is to better understand the impact of this factor by retrospective follow-up of geriatric memory outpatients over several years. All patients over 70 who were referred to Bretonneau Memory Clinic for the first time, between January 2006 and 2018, were included in the study. The patients who came alone formed group 1, the others, whatever type of relative accompanied them, formed group 2. We compared the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores of patients; and for all patients who came twice for consultation with at least a 60-day interval, we compared their first MMSE with the MMSE performed at the second consultation. In total, 2,935 patients were included, aged 79.7 ± 8.4 years. Six hundred and twenty-five formed group 1 and 2,310 group 2. We found a significant difference in MMSE scores between the 2 groups of patients; and upon second consultation in group 2, but that difference was minor in group 1. Our finding of a possible confounding factor underlines the complexity of choosing comparison groups in order to minimize selection bias while maintaining clinical relevance.


2021 ◽  
Vol 12 ◽  
pp. 215145932110096
Author(s):  
Christina Polan ◽  
Heinz-Lothar Meyer ◽  
Manuel Burggraf ◽  
Monika Herten ◽  
Paula Beck ◽  
...  

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic is challenging healthcare systems worldwide. This study examines geriatric patients with proximal femur fractures during the COVID-19 pandemic, shifts in secondary disease profile, the impact of the pandemic on hospitalization and further treatment. Methods: In a retrospective monocentric study, geriatric proximal femur fractures treated in the first six months of 2020 were analyzed and compared with the same period of 2019. Pre-traumatic status (living in a care home, under supervision of a legal guardian), type of trauma, accident mechanism, geriatric risk factors, associated comorbidities, time between hospitalization and surgery, inpatient time and post-operative further treatment of 2 groups of patients, aged 65-80 years (Group 1) and 80+ years (Group 2) were investigated. Results: The total number of patients decreased (70 in 2019 vs. 58 in 2020), mostly in Group 1 (25 vs. 16) while the numbers in Group 2 remained almost constant (45 vs. 42). The percentage of patients with pre-existing neurological conditions rose in 2020. This corresponded to an increase in patients under legal supervision (29.3%) and receiving pre-traumatic care in a nursing home (14.7%). Fractures were mostly caused by minor trauma in a home environment. In 2020, total number of inpatient days for Group 2 was lower compared to Group 1 (p = 0.008). Further care differed between the years: fewer Group 1 patients were discharged to geriatric therapy (69.6% vs. 25.0%), whereas in Group 2 the number of patients discharged to a nursing home increased. Conclusions: Falling by elderly patients is correlated to geriatric comorbidities, consequently there was no change in the case numbers in this age group. Strategic measures to avoid COVID-19 infection in hospital setting could include reducing the length of hospital stays by transferring elderly patients to a nursing home as soon as possible and discharging independent, mobile patients to return home.


2010 ◽  
Vol 23 (04) ◽  
pp. 240-244 ◽  
Author(s):  
J.K. Roush ◽  
K. L. Bilicki ◽  
G.Baker. Baker ◽  
M.D. Unis

Summary Objective: To compare the effects of bandaging on immediate postoperative swelling using a modified Robert-Jones bandage after tibial plateau levelling osteotomy (TPLO) in dogs. Study design: Prospective case series. Methods: Dogs undergoing a TPLO were randomly placed into two groups. Group 1 received a modified Robert-Jones bandage postoperatively for a 24 hour period and Group 2 was not bandaged. Hindlimb circumference was measured at the level of the mid-patella, the distal aspect of the tibial crest, the midpoint of the tibial diaphysis and the hock. Measurements were recorded and compared in each group preoperatively and at 24 hours and 48 hours post-operatively. Interobserver variability was compared between the two observers. Results: There was no significant difference in postoperative swelling, as measured by the percentage change in circumference, between bandaged and unbandaged operated limbs after the TPLO at 24 and 48 hours at any site. Some significant differences in measurement at particular sites were observed between the two different observers, but there was a significant linear correlation at all sites between observers. The observer with the least experience consistently had slightly higher measurements at these sites. Clinical relevance: The use of a modified Robert-Jones bandage after TPLO did not prevent statistically significant postoperative swelling, and thus may not be indicated for this purpose. Postoperative bandages placed to control swelling after other small animal orthopaedic procedures should be evaluated individually for efficacy.


Author(s):  
Ismail Cem Sormaz ◽  
Ahmet Yalin Iscan ◽  
Ilker Ozgur ◽  
Seyma Karakus ◽  
Fatih Tunca ◽  
...  

Background: To investigate the impact of the percent change of postoperative parathormone (PoPTH) level from baseline value (∆PTH) on the rate of hypocalcemia after total thyroidectomy. Methods: Assays of serum PTH and calcium (Ca) were performed preoperatively and at 24 hours postoperatively in 222 consecutive patients who underwent total thyroidectomy. Postoperative hypocalcemia was defined as serum calcium level corrected for albumin concentration (cCa) <8.5mg/dl. Patients with postoperative hypocalcemia were classified as group1 (n=100) and those with normal Ca levels as group 2 (n=122). The PoPTH levels and ∆PTH were compared between the two groups. ROC analysis was performed to determine the cut off values for PoPTH and ∆PTH. Results: The mean PoPTH level was significantly lower in group 1 compared to group 2 (18.6±15.3 pg/ml vs 32.3±15.6 pg/ml, respectively; P<0.0001). PoPTH values were within normal range in 54% of the patients with hypocalcemia and 35% of those with symptomatic hypocalcemia. PoPTH <28pg/ml or ∆PTH >45 were significantly associated with increased risk of post-thyroidectomy hypocalcemia (P=0.0001). A ∆PTH >70% ,PoPTH ≤ 15.5pg/ml and postoperative serum cCa concentrations<8.0mg/dl significantly predicted symptomatic hypocalcemia(P=0.009;P=0.006;andP=0.0001;respevtively).The sensitivities of ∆PTH,PoPTH level and postoperative serum cCa concentration to predict symptomatic hypocalcemia were 67%,64% and100, respectively. Conclusion: Although, PTH decline significantly correlate with symptomatic hypocalcemia, a considerable number of patients may experience hypocalcemic symptoms in spite of normal PoPTH levels. Analysis of serum Ca concentrations at 24 hours postoperatively help to achieve a more precise prediction of patients who bear a high risk for developing hypocalcemic symptoms.


2022 ◽  
Vol 9 ◽  
pp. 238212052110632
Author(s):  
Miraal S. Dharamsi ◽  
D. Anthony Bastian ◽  
Heather A. Balsiger ◽  
Joel T. Cramer ◽  
Ricardo Belmares

INTRODUCTION As virtual education becomes more widespread, particularly considering the recent COVID-19 pandemic, studies that assess the impact of online teaching strategies are vital. Current anatomy curriculum at Paul L. Foster School of Medicine consists of self-taught PowerPoint material, clinical vignette-centered team-based learning (dry lab), and prosection-based instruction (wet lab). This study examined the impact of video-based muscle model (VBMM) instruction using a student-designed forearm muscle model on anatomy quiz scores and student perceptions of its effectiveness with regards to learning outcomes. METHODS Students divided into Group 1 (54 students) and Group 2 (53 students) were assessed prior to and following a 3.5-minute video on anterior forearm compartment musculature using the muscle model. Group 1 began by completing a pretest, then received VBMM instruction, and then completed a posttest prior to participating in the standard dry lab and 1 hour wet lab. Group 2 completed the wet lab, then received the pretest, VBMM instruction, and posttest prior to participating in the dry lab. Both groups took an identical five-question quiz covering locations and functions of various anterior forearm muscles each time. RESULTS Mean scores were higher than no formal intervention with exposure to VBMM instruction alone (0.73 points, P = .01), wet lab alone (0.88 points, P = .002), and wet lab plus VBMM instruction (1.35 points, P= <.001). No significant difference in scores was found between instruction with VBMM versus wet lab alone ( P = 1.00), or between either instruction method alone compared to a combination of the two methods ( P = .34, .09). Student survey opinions on the VBMM instruction method were positive. CONCLUSION VBMM instruction is comparable to prosection-based lab with regards to score outcomes and was well received by students as both an independent learning tool and as a supplement to cadaveric lab. When compared to either instruction method alone, the supplementation of VBMM with cadaveric prosection instruction was best. VBMM instruction may be valuable for institutions without access to cadaveric specimens, or those looking to supplement their current anatomy curriculum.


Stroke ◽  
2013 ◽  
Vol 44 (suppl_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Thomas M Hemmen ◽  
Rema Raman ◽  
Karin Ernstrom ◽  
Debra Paulson ◽  
Valerie Lake ◽  
...  

Background: Dysphagia is common after stroke and is associated with an increased risk for pulmonary complications and mortality. Current standards mandate screening for dysphagia before oral intake in all acute stroke patients. We aimed to show if this early screening affects long-term outcomes after stroke. Methods: We included all UCSD Medical Center discharges with diagnosis AIS, ICH and SAH between July 1 2008 and June 30 2011; and evaluated baseline demographics, admission diagnosis (AIS, ICH, SAH), admission source (ED or transfer) length of hospital stay (LOS), ICU-LOS, aspiration pneumonia, in-hospital, 30-day and 6-month mortality by public death records for all patients. Patients were grouped as: 1) no dysphagia screening performed, 2) Nil per os (NPO) until discharge, 3) dysphagia screening performed. Adjustments for stroke severity and CMI were not possible. Statistical comparisons were done with the Kruskal-Wallis test (continuous variables) or Fisher-Freeman-Halton test (categorical variables). For pairwise comparisons we used the Wilcoxon tests (continuous variables) or Fisher’s Exact test (categorical variables), with Holm’s adjusted p-values. Results: A total of 476 patients were included, Group 1: 47, Group 2: 119, Group 3: 310. There was no significant difference in age, gender, race/ethnicity, and diagnosis of HTN, DM, afib, prior stroke and admission source. More patients with SAH and ICH were in Group 2. Overall, LOS and ICU LOS, aspiration pneumonia, in-hospital, 30-day and 6-month mortality were found to be different among groups (p<0.0001). Pair-wise comparisons showed that all outcomes were significantly higher in Group 2, but similar between Groups 1 and 3 (NS). Conclusion: We found no difference in outcomes between patients who received dysphagia screening versus not (Group 1 vs 3). Excluding patients who were left NPO and are more likely to suffer from ICH, SAH with increased morbidity and mortality, it remains uncertain if a targeted early dysphagia screening can reduce morbidity and mortality after stroke. Further studies are needed to find the appropriate population that most benefits from dysphagia screening.


2020 ◽  
Vol 102 (6) ◽  
pp. 457-462 ◽  
Author(s):  
R Patel ◽  
AJ Hainsworth ◽  
K Devlin ◽  
JH Patel ◽  
A Karim

Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic has put significant stress on healthcare systems globally. This study focuses on emergency general surgery services at a major trauma centre and teaching hospital. We aimed to identify whether the number of patients and the severity of their presentation has significantly changed since the implementation of a national lockdown. Materials and methods This study is a retrospective review of acute referrals (from general practice and accident and emergency) to the emergency general surgery team over a 14-day period before (group 1) and during (group 2) lockdown. Results A total of 151 patients were reviewed by the general surgical team in group 1 and 75 in group 2 (a 50.3% reduction). The number of days with symptoms prior to presentation was significantly shorter in group 1 compared with group 2 (3 vs 4, p = 0.04). There was no significant difference in the National Early Warning Score, white blood cell count, lymphocytes and C-reactive protein on admission between the two groups of patients. There were significantly fewer patients admitted after lockdown compared with pre-lockdown (66% vs 48%, p = 0.01). Length of hospital stay was significantly shorter during lockdown compared with pre-lockdown (5 days vs 4 days, p = 0.04). Conclusion Fewer patients were referred and admitted during lockdown compared with pre-lockdown, and the length of stay was also significantly reduced. There was also a delay in presentation to hospital, although these patients were not more unwell based on the scoring criteria used within this study.


2018 ◽  
Vol 46 (2) ◽  
pp. 145
Author(s):  
Maja Račić ◽  
Bojan N. Joksimović ◽  
Smiljka Cicmil ◽  
Srebrenka Kusmuk ◽  
Nedeljka Ivković ◽  
...  

<div class="WordSection1"><p><strong>Objectives</strong>. Interprofessional teamwork is best attained through education that promotes mutual trust and effective communication. The primary aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of interprofessional learning on knowledge about diabetes. <strong>Methods</strong>. The cross-sectional study included students of medicine, dentistry and nursing at the Faculty of Medicine Foča, Bosnia and Herzegovina. The students were randomly allocated into one of two groups. Group 1 attended an interprofessional course on diabetes while group 2 was divided into three subgroups and each of the subgroups attended an uniprofessional diabetes course. The measuring instrument used in the course in order to assess the participants’ knowledge about diabetic care was a test containing multiple-choice questions about diabetes. The Interprofessional Questionnaire was used to explore the attitudes, views, values and beliefs of students regarding interprofessional education (IPE). <strong>Results</strong>. No statistically significant difference in total score on the test was found between the groups at baseline, but at follow-up the difference was highly statistically significant (F=10.87; p=0.002). The students from Group 1 had better results (21.82 points), compared to Group 2 (18.77 points). The statistically significant difference was observed in mean values (t=-3.997; p=0.001), between Groups 1 and 2; the students from Group 1 obtained 20.42 points, which is considered to indicate a respectively positive self-assessment of communication and teamwork skills. However, Group 2 indicated a negative self-assessment of communication and teamwork skills. <strong>Conclusion</strong>. The findings suggest that IPE activities may provide health profession students with valuable collaborative learning opportunities.</p></div>


2018 ◽  
Vol 5 (5) ◽  
pp. 1657
Author(s):  
Hytham R. Yassin ◽  
Soliman ALShakhs ◽  
Mohammed Hamed ◽  
Adel Karam ◽  
Mohammed Mouneer

Background: Objective of present study was to compare the results of lymphaenectomy (pelvic and para-aortic) between laparoscopy and laparotomy in gynecological malignancies.Methods: Authors analyze the results of 30 patients suffering from gynecological malignancies (Enometrial, Ovarian and cervical) submitted to surgery as apart of treatment. Patients were classified in Two Groups Group (1) included15 patients were submitted to open radical surgery and group (2) included 15 patients Were submitted to laparoscopic radical surgery between May 2016 and October 2017.Results: In present comparative study, there was significant difference regarding intra operative blood loss, operative time and post operative hospital stay (P<0.001) and there was no significant difference regarding intra-operative complications, post-operative complications, total number of lymph node harvested, number of positive lymphnodes (P>0.05).Conclusions: Laparoscopic lymphadenectomy is a technically feasible and safe procedure. Authors recommend further study in large number of patients with longer duration and follow up period for assessment of oncological out-come.


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