scholarly journals Does Post-Mastectomy Radiation Therapy Worsen Outcomes in Immediate Autologous Breast Flap Reconstruction? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Belle Liew ◽  
Clea Southall ◽  
Muholan Kanapathy ◽  
Dariush Nikkhah
Keyword(s):  
Breast Reconstruction ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Fat Necrosis ◽  
Clinical Complications ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Patient Reported ◽  
Delayed Breast Reconstruction ◽  
Comprehensive Search ◽  
Meta Analyses ◽  
Psychosocial Benefits

Background There is great uncertainty regarding the practice of immediate autologous breast reconstruction (IBR) when post-mastectomy radiotherapy (PMRT) is indicated. Many plastic surgery units differ in their protocols, with some recommending delayed breast reconstruction (DBR) instead. Nevertheless, the cosmetic and psychosocial benefits offered by IBR are significant. The aim of this study was to comprehensively review and analyse existing literature to compare irradiated and unirradiated autologous flaps. Methods A comprehensive search in MEDLINE, EMBASE and CENTRAL databases was conducted in November 2020 for primary studies assessing outcomes of IBR with and without PMRT. Primary outcomes were the incidence of clinical complications, observer- and patient-reported outcomes. Meta-analyses were performed to obtain the pooled risk ratio of individual complications where possible. Results Twenty-one articles involving 3817 patients were included. Meta-analysis of pooled data demonstrated risk ratios for fat necrosis (RR=1.91, p<0.00001), secondary surgery (RR=1.62, p=0.03) and volume loss (RR=8.16, p<0.00001) favouring unirradiated flaps, but no significant difference in all other reported complications. The unirradiated group scored higher in observer-reported outcome measures, but self-reported aesthetic and general satisfaction rates were similar. Conclusions IBR should still be offered to patients as a viable option after mastectomy, even if they require PMRT. Despite the statistically significant higher risks of fat necrosis and contracture, these changes appear to be less clinically relevant, as corroborated by generally positive self-reported scores from patients who developed the aforementioned complications. Preoperative and intraoperative measures can further optimize reconstruction and mitigate post-radiation sequelae. Careful management of patients’ expectations is also imperative.

A comparison of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) between short and conventional stem hip replacements: a systematic review and meta-analysis

2019 ◽  
Vol 30 (5) ◽  
pp. 513-522
Author(s):  
Satish Babu ◽  
Prashant Singh ◽  
Anatole Wiik ◽  
Oliver Shastri ◽  
Khalid Malik ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Outcome Measures ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Patient Reported Outcome Measures ◽  
Patient Reported Outcome ◽  
Total Hip Replacements ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Patient Reported ◽  
Hip Replacements ◽  
Meta Analyses

Introduction: Short stem hip replacements may allow preservation of proximal bone stock and minimise soft tissue disruption, easing future revision surgery. However patient satisfaction with these implants must be determined before widespread use. We aimed to compare patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) between short and conventional stem hip replacements. Methods: A systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines for studies comparing short and conventional stem hip replacements with validated PROMs. Meta-analyses were performed for studies reporting Harris Hip and WOMAC scores. Study bias was assessed with the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool and Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Results: 24 studies, incorporating 2593 total hip replacements were included for qualitative analysis. 17 studies were included in the meta-analyses. Of the 7 excluded, 1 study reported the Japanese Orthopaedic Association score and 2 others reported the Oxford Hip score. All three showed no difference between the stems. A meta-analysis of 17 studies reporting Harris hip scores showed no statistically significant difference between short and conventional stems (standard mean difference (SMD) −0.06, 95% CI −0.20—0.07, p = 0.35). 6 studies reported WOMAC scores with higher scores indicating worse outcome. No difference was seen between the two groups (SMD 0.21, 95%CI, −0.01—0.42, p = 0.06). 4 studies reported higher WOMAC scores as better. Once again, a meta-analysis showed no statistically significant difference between the stems (SMD 0.28, 95% CI −0.07—0.63, p = 0.12). Conclusions: Our systematic review showed no difference in PROMs between short and conventional stem total hip replacements. This is in keeping with previous evidence but is a more comprehensive analysis. Short stems may have an important role in younger individuals as they allow preservation of proximal femoral bone, minimal access surgery and are amenable to abnormal anatomy. The current literature is hindered by non-uniform methodologies and outcome assessments across studies. Further, standardised, high quality evidence is required before widespread changes in practice.

Laser Influence on Dental Sensitivity Compared to Other Light Sources Used During In-office Dental Bleaching: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

2020 ◽  
Vol 45 (6) ◽  
pp. 589-597
Author(s):  
BGS Casado ◽  
EP Pellizzer ◽  
JR Souto Maior ◽  
CAA Lemos ◽  
BCE Vasconcelos ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Randomized Clinical Trials ◽  
Color Change ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Present Review ◽  
Cochrane Library ◽  
Light Sources ◽  
Eligibility Criteria ◽  
Tooth Color ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Meta Analyses

Clinical Relevance The use of laser light during bleaching will not reduce the incidence or severity of sensitivity and will not increase the degree of color change compared with nonlaser light sources. SUMMARY Objective: To evaluate whether the use of laser during in-office bleaching promotes a reduction in dental sensitivity after bleaching compared with other light sources. Methods: The present review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) and is registered with PROSPERO (CDR42018096591). Searches were conducted in the PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases for relevant articles published up to August 2018. Only randomized clinical trials among adults that compared the use of laser during in-office whitening and other light sources were considered eligible. Results: After analysis of the texts retrieved during the database search, six articles met the eligibility criteria and were selected for the present review. For the outcome dental sensitivity, no significant difference was found favoring any type of light either for intensity (mean difference [MD]: −1.60; confidence interval [CI]: −3.42 to 0.22; p=0.09) or incidence (MD: 1.00; CI: 0.755 to 1.33; p=1.00). Regarding change in tooth color, no significant differences were found between the use of the laser and other light sources (MD: −2.22; CI: −6.36 to 1.93; p=0.29). Conclusions: Within the limitations of the present study, laser exerts no influence on tooth sensitivity compared with other light sources when used during in-office bleaching. The included studies demonstrated that laser use during in-office bleaching may have no influence on tooth color change.

scholarly journals Management of anticoagulants in delayed bleeding after endoscopic resection: A systematic review and meta-analysis

2021 ◽  
Vol 09 (07) ◽  
pp. E1128-E1135
Author(s):  
Xianhong Zhao ◽  
Yangxue Huang ◽  
Jiarong Li ◽  
Aoqiang Zhou ◽  
Gengxin Chen ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Endoscopic Resection ◽  
Clinical Effect ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Oral Anticoagulants ◽  
Direct Oral Anticoagulants ◽  
Delayed Bleeding ◽  
Best Management ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Meta Analyses ◽  
Bridge Therapy

Abstract Background and study aims Delayed bleeding and thrombotic events are uncontrolled adverse events that are hard to balance in patients receiving anticoagulants after endoscopic resection. The present study aims to assess the clinical effect of warfarin, when compared to direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), in terms of delayed bleeding and thrombotic events. Methods A comprehensive electronic literature search was conducted for eligible literature. Pairwise meta-analyses were performed on outcomes of delayed bleeding and thrombotic events. Two networks within the Bayesian framework were established based on the management of anticoagulants and type of DOAC. Results Eight cohort studies with 2,046 patients were eligible for inclusion, including 1,176 patients treated with warfarin and 870 with DOACs. There was no significant difference between warfarin and DOACs, in terms of delayed bleeding (OR = 1.29, 95 % CI [0.99–1.69]) and thromboembolism (OR = 2.0, 95 % CI [0.32–12.39]). In the network meta-analyses for delayed bleeding, the rank probabilities revealed that the safest management was discontinuous warfarin without heparin bridge therapy (HBT). Rank probabilities for the types of DOACs demonstrated that the safest drug was dabigatran. Conclusions There was no significant difference in delayed bleeding and thromboembolism between warfarin and DOACs in patients receiving endoscopic treatment. In terms of delayed bleeding, discontinuous warfarin without HBT was suggested as the best management, and dabigatran was recommended as the best type of DOAC.

scholarly journals Breast softness in patients randomised to postmastectomy breast reconstruction with an expander prosthesis or DIEP flap

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Linda Tallroth ◽  
Håkan Brorson ◽  
Nathalie Mobargha ◽  
Patrik Velander ◽  
Stina Klasson ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Breast Reconstruction ◽  
Subjective Evaluation ◽  
Objective Evaluation ◽  
Applanation Tonometry ◽  
Diep Flap ◽  
Level Of Evidence ◽  
Patient Reported ◽  
Delayed Breast Reconstruction ◽  
Level I ◽  
Therapeutic Study

Abstract Background Objectively measured breast softness in reconstructed breasts and its relation to patients’ subjective satisfaction with breast softness has not yet been investigated. The aim of this study was to evaluate breast softness in patients 1 year following delayed breast reconstruction with an expander prosthesis (EP) or deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap, using objective and subjective methods. Methods Seventy-three patients were randomised to breast reconstruction with an EP or DIEP flap between 2012 and 2018. Of these, 69 completed objective evaluation at a mean of 25 (standard deviation, SD 9.4) months following breast reconstruction. Objective evaluation included measurements of breast volume, jugulum-nipple distance, clavicular-submammary fold distance, ptosis and Baker scale grading. Breast softness was assessed with applanation tonometry. Subjective evaluation was performed using the BREAST-Q questionnaire. Results Objectively, DIEP flaps were significantly softer than EP breast reconstructions. Non-operated contralateral breasts were significantly softer compared with reconstructed breasts. In the subjective evaluation, the median score on the question (labelled 1.h) “How satisfied or dissatisfied have you been with the softness of your reconstructed breast (s)?” was higher in the DIEP flap group corresponding to greater satisfaction in this group. A fair correlation was found between the applanation tonometry and the patient-reported satisfaction with the reconstructed breast’s softness (rs = 0.37). Conclusions In terms of breast softness, breast reconstructions with DIEP flaps result in more satisfied patients. Concerning applanation tonometry as an objective tool for softness assessment, future studies on interobserver agreement are warranted. Level of evidence: Level I, therapeutic study

scholarly journals Acupuncture for post-stroke depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis

2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Ran Liu ◽  
Kun Zhang ◽  
Qiu-yu Tong ◽  
Guang-wei Cui ◽  
Wen Ma ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Adverse Events ◽  
Randomized Clinical Trials ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Quality Of Evidence ◽  
Post Stroke ◽  
Assessment Development ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Post Stroke Depression ◽  
Meta Analyses

Abstract Background Acupuncture for post-stroke depression (PSD) has been evolving, but uncertainty remains. To assess the existing evidence from randomized clinical trials (RCTs) of acupuncture for PSD, we sought to draw conclusions by synthesizing RCTs. Methods An exhaustive literature search was conducted in seven electronic databases from their inception dates to April 19, 2020, to identify systematic reviews (SRs) and meta-analyses (MAs) on this topic. The primary RCTs included in the SRs/MAs were identified. We also conducted a supplementary search for RCTs published from January 1, 2015, to May 12, 2020. Two reviewers extracted data separately and pooled data using RevMan 5.3 software. The quality of evidence was critically appraised with the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system. Results A total of 17 RCTs involving 1402 patients were included. Meta-analysis showed that participants who received a combination of acupuncture and conventional treatments exhibited significantly lower scores on the HAM-D17, HAM-D24 and HAM-D (MD, − 5.08 [95% CI, − 6.48 to − 3.67], I2 = 0%), (MD, − 9.72 [95% CI, − 14.54 to − 4.91], I2 = 65%) and (MD, − 2.72 [95% CI, − 3.61 to − 1.82], respectively) than those who received conventional treatment. However, there was no significant difference in acupuncture versus antidepressants in terms of the 17-item, 24-item and HAM-D scales (MD, − 0.43 [95% CI, − 1.61 to 0.75], I2 = 51%), (MD, − 3.09 [95% CI, − 10.81 to 4.63], I2 = 90%) and (MD, − 1.55 [95% CI, − 4.36 to 1.26], I2 = 95%, respectively). For adverse events, acupuncture was associated with fewer adverse events than antidepressants (RR, 0.16 [95% CI, 0.07 to 0.39], I2 = 35%), but there was no significant difference in the occurrence of adverse events between the combination of acupuncture and conventional treatments versus conventional treatments (RR, 0.63 [95% CI, 0.21 to 1.83], I2 = 38%). The quality of evidence was low to very low due to the substantial heterogeneity among the included studies. Conclusions The current review indicates that acupuncture has greater effect on PSD and better safety profile than antidepressants, but high-quality evidence evaluating acupuncture for PSD is still needed.

Alternative Tendon Coaptations to the Pulvertaft Weave Technique: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Biomechanical Studies

Hand ◽  
2021 ◽  
pp. 155894472110432
Author(s):  
Emily M. Graham ◽  
Jeremie D. Oliver ◽  
Russell Hendrycks ◽  
Dino Maglic ◽  
Shaun D. Mendenhall
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Yield Strength ◽  
Random Effects ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Dichotomous Data ◽  
Inverse Variance ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Alternative Techniques ◽  
Meta Analyses

Background The Pulvertaft weave technique (PT) is frequently used during tendon repairs and transfers. However, this technique is associated with limitations. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, quantitative and qualitative analyses were performed on in vitro, biomechanical studies that compared the PT with alternative techniques. Methods Articles included for qualitative and/or qualitative analysis were identified following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Studies included in the meta-analysis were analyzed either as continuous data with inverse variance and random effects or as dichotomous data using a Mantel-Haenszel analysis assuming random effects to calculate an odds ratio. Results A comprehensive electronic search yielded 8 studies meeting inclusion criteria for meta-analysis. Two studies with a total of 65 tendon coaptations demonstrated no significant difference in strength between the PT and traditional side-to-side (STS) techniques ( P = .92). Two studies with a total of 43 tendon coaptations showed that the STS with 1 weave has a higher yield strength than the PT ( P = .03). Two studies with a total of 62 tendon repairs demonstrated no significant difference in strength between the PT and the step-cut (SC) techniques ( P = .70). The final 2 studies included 46 tendon repairs and demonstrated that the wrap around (WA) technique has a higher yield strength than the PT ( P < .001). Conclusions The STS, SC, and WA techniques are preferred for improving tendon form. The STS and WA techniques have superior yield strengths than the PT, and the SC technique withstands similar stress to failure as the PT.

Sinus Radiological Findings in General Asymptomatic Populations: A Systematic Review of Incidental Mucosal Changes

2021 ◽  
pp. 019459982110350
Author(s):  
Basil Razi ◽  
Adam Perkovic ◽  
Raquel Alvarado ◽  
Anna Stroud ◽  
Jacqueline Ho ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Reviews ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Population Groups ◽  
Bibliographic Search ◽  
Comprehensive Search ◽  
Mucosal Changes ◽  
Meta Analyses ◽  
Asymptomatic Subjects ◽  
Mucosal Thickening ◽  
Retention Cysts

Objective To determine the range of incidental mucosal changes in a general sinonasally asymptomatic population on radiology. Data Sources Medline (1996-present) and Embase (1974-present) were searched on March 14, 2020, to identify articles that reported radiological sinus mucosal findings in asymptomatic population groups. Bibliographic search of included studies was conducted to identify additional articles. Review Methods The review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. A comprehensive search strategy was formulated and articles screened to extract data reporting Lund-Mackay (LM) score, presence of mucous retention cysts, and maxillary mucosal thickening. A random-effects model was used in meta-analysis. Results A total of 950 articles were identified, of which 33 manuscripts met the inclusion criteria. The included studies involved 16,966 sinonasally asymptomatic subjects. The mean LM score was 2.24 (95% CI, 1.61-2.87), and an LM score of ≥4 in 14.71% (95% CI, 6.86-24.82%) was present across all general asymptomatic population groups. Mucous retention cysts were noted in 13% (95% CI, 8.33-18.55%) and maxillary mucosal thickening of ≥2 mm in 17.73% (95% CI, 8.67-29.08%). Conclusion The prevalence of incidental mucosal changes in a general asymptomatic population on radiology needs to be considered when making a diagnosis of chronic rhinosinusitis.

scholarly journals Relevance of hMLH1 -93G>A, 655A>G and 1151T>A polymorphisms with colorectal cancer susceptibility: a meta-analysis based on 38 case-control studies

2018 ◽  
Vol 64 (10) ◽  
pp. 942-951 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mohammad Zare ◽  
Jamal Jafari-Nedooshan ◽  
Mohammadali Jafari ◽  
Hossein Neamatzadeh ◽  
Seyed Mojtaba Abolbaghaei ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Colorectal Cancer ◽  
Cancer Susceptibility ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Asian Population ◽  
Case Control ◽  
Biomedical Literature ◽  
Case Control Studies ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Comprehensive Search ◽  
Meta Analyses

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: There has been increasing interest in the study of the association between human mutL homolog 1 (hMLH1) gene polymorphisms and risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). However, results from previous studies are inconclusive. Thus, a meta-analysis was conducted to derive a more precise estimation of the effects of this gene. METHODS: A comprehensive search was conducted in the PubMed, EMBASE, Chinese Biomedical Literature databases until January 1, 2018. Odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to assess the strength of the association. RESULTS: Finally, 38 case-control studies in 32 publications were identified met our inclusion criteria. There were 14 studies with 20668 cases and 19533 controls on hMLH1 −93G>A, 11 studies with 5,786 cases and 8,867 controls on 655A>G and 5 studies with 1409 cases and 1637 controls on 1151T>A polymorphism. The combined results showed that 655A>G and 1151T>A polymorphisms were significantly associated with CRC risk, whereas −93G>A polymorphism was not significantly associated with CRC risk. As for ethnicity, −93G>A and 655A>G polymorphisms were associated with increased risk of CRC among Asians, but not among Caucasians. More interestingly, subgroup analysis indicated that 655A>G might raise CRC risk in PCR-RFLP and HB subgroups. CONCLUSION: Inconsistent with previous meta-analyses, this meta-analysis shows that the hMLH1 655A>G and 1151T>A polymorphisms might be risk factors for CRC. Moreover, the −93G>A polymorphism is associated with the susceptibility of CRC in Asian population.

scholarly journals Global Prevalence of Workplace Violence Against Paramedics: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

2021 ◽  
Vol 6 (4) ◽  
pp. 205-216
Author(s):  
Hamidreza Shabanikiya ◽  
◽  
Fatemeh Kokabisaghi ◽  
Morteza Mojtabaeian ◽  
Tara Sahebi ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Sexual Harassment ◽  
Workplace Violence ◽  
Service Providers ◽  
Physical Violence ◽  
Prehospital Care ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Group Analysis ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Verbal Violence ◽  
Meta Analyses

Background: Violence is increasing in societies and workplaces around the world. This study aimed to review the literature on violence against paramedics in the prehospital setting and estimate the related exposure rates and types. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted based on the guidelines of systematic reviews and meta-analyses. The literature on the prevalence of workplace violence against paramedics published from January 1990 to September 2019 was searched in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, ProQuest, and Embase databases. The prevalence of violence was measured by using the random-effects model in Stata software. Sub-group analysis and meta-regression models were applied to explain the sources of heterogeneities. Results: The prevalence of overall violence, physical violence, verbal violence, and sexual harassment among study subjects were calculated to be 0.66 (95% CI CI: 0.20-1.11), 0.25 (CI: 0.16- 0.34), 0.58 (CI: 0.29-0.86) and 0.16 (CI: 0.09-0.22), respectively. There was no significant difference between male and female paramedics in terms of violence types. However, the prevalence of sexual harassment among women was higher than men (24% vs. 6%). The highest rate of physical violence and sexual harassment belonged to Europe and North America, while they had the lowest verbal violence. Asia and Australia had the lowest rate of physical violence and sexual harassment. Conclusion: Prehospital emergency service providers face a higher risk of potential exposure to violence in health care settings. This issue necessitates the special attention of prehospital care administrators to reduce the risk and related consequences of workplace violence by taking effective measures.

scholarly journals Systematic review and meta-analyses of trendelenburg and prone position on intraocular pressure in adult patients undergoing surgery

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
◽  
Sharon Ann Van Wicklin
Keyword(s):  
Intraocular Pressure ◽  
Prone Position ◽  
Vision Loss ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Adult Patients ◽  
Trendelenburg Position ◽  
Time Points ◽  
Comprehensive Search ◽  
Meta Analyses ◽  
Difference Effect

Background. Patients undergoing surgery in the Trendelenburg and prone positions may be at risk for postoperative vision loss associated with increased intraocular pressure. The purpose of this dissertation research is to estimate the magnitude of the increase in intraocular pressure at specific perioperative time points in adult patients undergoing surgery in the Trendelenburg and prone positions. Methods. Comprehensive search strategies were used to identify eligible studies for two meta-analyses and to address the research questions. For each meta-analysis, standardized mean difference effect sizes were calculated for selected perioperative time points. Results. Using a random effects model, the meta-analysis examining the effect of Trendelenburg position, showed that intraocular pressure decreased significantly after induction and before arousal. Intraocular pressure increased significantly after abdominal insufflation and during Trendelenburg position. The meta-analysis examining the effect of prone position, showed that intraocular pressure increased significantly between induction of anesthesia and up to 10 minutes of prone position and continued to increase significantly until the end of the prone position. Conclusions. Intraocular pressure increases of the magnitude found in this research demonstrate the need for implementing interventions to reduce the risk for postoperative vision loss in patients undergoing surgery in the Trendelenburg and prone positions.

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