Endoscopic diverticulotomy for Killian-Jamieson diverticulum: mid-term outcome and description of an ultra-short tunnel technique

Background and study aims Killian-Jamieson Diverticulum (KJD) is a rarer and more recently described upper pharyngeal diverticulum than Zenker’s diverticulum (ZD). KJD is more difficult to manage than ZD because it tends to extend lower into the upper mediastinum and the diverticulum neck is in close proximity to the recurrent laryngeal nerve. There is limited literature on KJD management and transcervical surgical diverticulectomy is the mainstay of therapy. Patients and methods Here we describe two methods of endoscopic diverticulotomy to treat KJD – direct and tunneling diverticulotomy (with hypopharyngeal tunnel or ultra-short tunnel – the latter being our preferred technique). Results This was a retrospective study including 13 consecutive patients between March 2015 and April 2018. Three patients received direct and 10 received tunneling diverticulotomy (7 with the hypopharyngeal tunnel and 3 with the ultra-short tunnel). All procedures were completed in 16 to 52 minutes. There was no incidence of bleeding, mediastinitis, or sign of recurrent laryngeal nerve injury. At follow up of 9 to 79 months (median 33), the clinical success rate was 92 % (12/13); 11 patients had complete symptom resolution (post-operative symptom score = 0) and one patient had near-complete symptom resolution (occasional residual dysphagia). One patient receiving direct myotomy had limited symptom relief (frequent residual dysphagia and occasional residual regurgitation), possibly related to incomplete myotomy. Conclusions Endoscopic tunneling diverticulotomy is a feasible, safe, and effective method to treat KJD.

Exploring the Outcomes and Experiences of Black and White Athletes Following a Sport-Related Concussion: A Retrospective Cohort Study

ObjectiveYoung American athletes, at risk of sport-related concussion (SRC), represent many races, however, it is unknown how race influences the experience and outcome of SRC. Our objective was to compare White and Black athletes' recovery and subjective experiences after SRC.BackgroundNA.Design/MethodsA retrospective study was performed using the Vanderbilt Sport Concussion registry. Self-reported White (n = 211) and Black (n = 36) athletes (ages 12–23) treated for SRC between 2012 and 15 were included. Athletes with learning disabilities or psychiatric conditions were excluded. Data was collected by EMR review and phone calls to athletes and parents/guardians. The primary outcomes were: (1) days to symptom resolution (SR), (2) days to return-to-school, (3) changes in any daily activity (binary), (4) and sport behavior (binary). Secondary outcomes were changes in specific activities such as sleep, schoolwork, television time, as well as equipment (binary), playing style (more reckless, unchanged, less reckless) and whether the athlete retired from sport. Descriptive analyses, multivariable Cox proportional hazards and logistic regression were performed.ResultsA retrospective study was performed using the Vanderbilt Sport Concussion registry. Self-reported White (n = 211) and Black (n = 36) athletes (ages 12–23) treated for SRC between 2012 and 15 were included. Athletes with learning disabilities or psychiatric conditions were excluded. Data was collected by EMR review and phone calls to athletes and parents/guardians. The primary outcomes were: (1) days to symptom resolution (SR), (2) days to return-to-school, (3) changes in any daily activity (binary), (4) and sport behavior (binary). Secondary outcomes were changes in specific activities such as sleep, schoolwork, television time, as well as equipment (binary), playing style (more reckless, unchanged, less reckless) and whether the athlete retired from sport. Descriptive analyses, multivariable Cox proportional hazards and logistic regression were performed.ConclusionsRacial differences appear to exist in the outcomes and experience of SRC for young athletes, as Black athletes reached symptom resolution and return-to-school sooner than White athletes. Race should be considered as an important social determinant in SRC treatment.

Examining Initial Post-Concussion Dizziness and Postural Stability as Potential Recovery Predictors

ObjectiveTo examine the association between acute post-concussion dizziness, initial symptom severity, and postural stability with time to symptom resolution among adolescents.BackgroundIdentifying early post-concussion symptoms and functional deficits that predict symptom resolution can guide treatment strategies. Dizziness is among the most common concussion symptoms, and existing literature investigating the association between dizziness and recovery time is mixed.Design/MethodsParticipants underwent initial evaluation = 14 days post-concussion, and self-reported symptom severity using the Post-Concussion Symptom Inventory (PCSI). We used PSCI dizziness ratings to group participants: a difference between current and pre-injury dizziness ≥3 = dizzy; difference <3 = not dizzy. We evaluated postural stability using modified Balance Error Scoring System (mBESS) and tandem gait (TG). Patients were followed until symptom resolution, and our primary outcome of interest was time from concussion to symptom resolution. Using a univariable Cox proportional hazard model, we examined the association of dizziness and symptom resolution time. We then used a multivariable Cox proportional hazard model to adjust for variables that differed between groups.ResultsWe examined 89 participants, grouped as dizzy (n = 34; age = 14.7 ± 2.7 years; 7.1 ± 3.4 days post-injury; symptom resolution time = 40.8 ± 5.7 days) or not dizzy (n = 55; age = 14.4 ± 2.3 years; 7.2 ± 3.1 days post-injury; symptom resolution time = 23.3 ± 3.2 days). Upon univariable examination, dizziness was independently associated with symptom resolution time (HR = 0.49; 95% CI: 0.28, 0.83; p = 0.009). After adjusting for potential confounding variables (initial symptom severity, mBESS tandem stance errors, TG time, and loss of consciousness) multivariable model results indicated initial symptom severity was the only variable associated with symptom resolution time (HR = 0.98; 95% CI: 0.96, 0.997; p = 0.025).ConclusionsTotal symptom severity, but not dizziness or postural stability, was significantly associated with symptom resolution time among adolescents following concussion. Individuals with moderate to severe post-concussion dizziness had higher average symptom scores indicating self-reported dizziness should be interpreted in the context of total concussion symptom burden.

Mixed Method Examination of the Brain Health of Former NCAA Division I Football Players and Former NFL Players

ObjectiveYoung American athletes, at risk of sport-related concussion (SRC), represent many races; however, it is unknown how race influences the experience and outcome of SRC. Our objective was to compare White and Black athletes' recovery and subjective experiences after SRC.BackgroundNA.Design/MethodsA retrospective study was performed using the Vanderbilt Sport Concussion registry. Self-reported White (n = 211) and Black (n = 36) athletes (ages 12–23) treated for SRC between 2012 and 15 were included. Athletes with learning disabilities or psychiatric conditions were excluded. Data was collected by EMR review and phone calls to athletes and parents/guardians. The primary outcomes were: (1) days to symptom resolution (SR), (2) days to return-to-school, (3) changes in any daily activity (binary), (4) and sport behavior (binary). Secondary outcomes were changes in specific activities such as sleep, schoolwork, television time, as well as equipment (binary), playing style (more reckless, unchanged, less reckless) and whether the athlete retired from sport. Descriptive analyses, multivariable Cox proportional hazards and logistic regression were performed.ResultsA retrospective study was performed using the Vanderbilt Sport Concussion registry. Self-reported White (n = 211) and Black (n = 36) athletes (ages 12–23) treated for SRC between 2012 and 15 were included. Athletes with learning disabilities or psychiatric conditions were excluded. Data was collected by EMR review and phone calls to athletes and parents/guardians. The primary outcomes were: (1) days to symptom resolution (SR), (2) days to return-to-school, (3) changes in any daily activity (binary), (4) and sport behavior (binary). Secondary outcomes were changes in specific activities such as sleep, schoolwork, television time, as well as equipment (binary), playing style (more reckless, unchanged, less reckless) and whether the athlete retired from sport. Descriptive analyses, multivariable Cox proportional hazards and logistic regression were performed.ConclusionsRacial differences appear to exist in the outcomes and experience of SRC for young athletes, as Black athletes reached symptom resolution and return-to-school sooner than White athletes. Race should be considered as an important social determinant in SRC treatment.

A Randomized Trial of Incentivization to Maximize Retention For Real-Time Symptom and Activity Monitoring Using Ecological Momentary Assessment in Pediatric Concussion

ObjectiveTo determine the incentivization strategy that maximizes patient adherence to report symptoms and activity via ecological momentary assessment (EMA) following pediatric concussion.BackgroundConcussion is a common pediatric injury. Traditionally, outcome assessment has occurred at discrete points-in-time, days or weeks apart, relying on patient's subjective recall of symptoms and activity. EMA is a behavioral measurement approach that allows for reporting of real-time symptoms and behaviors in real-life settings. While feasible in adolescents, the ideal strategy to maximize responsiveness from the emergency department (ED) setting is unknown.Design/MethodsThis was a randomized controlled trial of patients age 13–18 with concussion presenting to an urban, academic pediatric ED within 5 days of injury. Patients were randomized to one of 4 incentive-based arms: 2 dynamic (loss-based and streak) and 2 flat-rate (monetary and electronic device). Through the ReCoUPS app, patients reported symptoms 3 times per day and cognitive activity once each evening for 3 weeks. Physical activity (step count) and sleep were monitored using a FitBit (which was kept by the participant in the electronic device flat-rate arm). The primary outcome was proportion of prompts to which patients responded. Secondary outcomes included daily symptom change and time to symptom resolution.ResultsThirty participants were enrolled, median age 15.5 years, 60% female. Median proportion completed was 81% in the loss-based arm, 59% in the streak accrual arm, 50% in the FitBit-received arm, and 57% monetary flat rate arm. Retention was higher in the dynamic compared to the flat arms (68% v. 54%, p = 0.065). There was no significant difference between morning, afternoon, and evening symptoms. Sixty-four percent of participants had symptom resolution during the 3-week follow-up.ConclusionsDynamic incentivization showed higher rates of response to tri-daily symptom prompts compared with flat-fee incentivization. This data shows tracking concussed youth using EMA from ED is feasible using a dynamic incentivization strategy.

Clinical responses following inspiratory muscle training in exercise-induced laryngeal obstruction

Purpose Exercise-induced laryngeal obstruction (EILO) is relatively common in young people. Treatment rests on poor evidence; however, inspiratory muscle training (IMT) has been proposed a promising strategy. We aimed to assess laryngeal outcomes shortly after IMT, and to compare self-reported symptoms with a control group 4–6 years later. Methods Two groups were retrospectively identified from the EILO-register at Haukeland University Hospital, Norway; one group had received only information and breathing advice (IBA), and another additionally IMT (IBA + IMT). At diagnosis, all participants performed continuous laryngoscopy during exercise (CLE), with findings split by glottic and supraglottic scores, and completed a questionnaire mapping exercise-related symptoms. After 2–4 weeks, the IBA + IMT-group was re-evaluated with CLE-test. After 4–6 years, both groups were re-assessed with a questionnaire. Results We identified 116 eligible patients from the EILO-register. Response rates after 4–6 years were 23/58 (40%) and 32/58 (55%) in the IBA and IBA + IMT-group, respectively. At diagnosis, both groups rated symptoms similarly, but laryngeal scores were higher in the IBA + IMT-group (P = 0.003). After 2–4 weeks, 23/32 in the IBA + IMT-group reported symptom improvements, associated with a decrease of mainly glottic scores (1.7–0.3; P < 0.001), contrasting unchanged scores in the 9/32 without symptom improvements. After 4–6 years, exercise-related symptoms and activity levels had decreased to similar levels in both groups, with no added benefit from IMT; however, full symptom resolution was reported by only 8/55 participants. Conclusion Self-reported EILO symptoms had improved after 4–6 years, irrespective of initial treatment. Full symptom resolution was rare, suggesting individual follow-up should be offered.

Median Nerve and Carpal Tunnel Morphology Before and After Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release: A 6-Year Follow-up Study

Background: Our purpose was to describe structural and morphological features of the median nerve and carpal tunnel on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies obtained before, immediately after, 6 weeks after, and 6 years after endoscopic carpal tunnel release (ECTR). Methods: In this prospective cohort study, 9 patients with a diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) underwent ECTR. Standardized MRI studies were obtained before ECTR, immediately after ECTR, and 6 weeks and 6 years after surgery. Structural and morphological features of the median nerve and carpal tunnel were measured and assessed for each study with comparisons made between each time point. Results: All 9 patients had complete symptom resolution postoperatively. On the immediate postoperative MRI, there was a discrete gap in the transverse carpal ligament in all patients. There was retinacular regrowth noted at 6 weeks in all cases. The median nerve cross-sectional area and the anterior-posterior dimension of the carpal tunnel at the level of the hamate increased immediately after surgery and these changes were maintained at 6 years. Conclusions: We defined structural and morphological changes on MRI for the median nerve and carpal tunnel in patients with continued symptom resolution 6 years after ECTR. Changes in median nerve and carpal tunnel morphology that occur immediately after surgery remain unchanged at mid-term follow-up in asymptomatic patients. Established imaging criteria for CTS may not apply to postoperative patients. Magnetic resonance imaging appears to be of limited clinical utility in the workup of persistent or recurrent CTS.

A reliable and valid measure of COVID-19 patient-reported symptoms in outpatients: the Symptoms Evolution of COVID-19 (SE-C19) instrument

Background: There is no valid and reliable patient self-reported measure assessing symptomology among outpatients with COVID-19. The Symptoms Evolution of COVID-19 (SE-C19) is a self-administered new instrument that includes 23 symptoms, each rated for severity at their worst moment within the last 24 hours. We studied the psychometric properties of SE-C19. Methods: Reliability, validity, and sensitivity to change of the SE-C19 were assessed in 657 outpatients with confirmed COVID-19 enrolled in NCT04425629. SE-C19 and Patient Global Impression of Severity (PGIS) were administered daily from baseline (predose at Day 1) to end of study (Day 29). Findings: Most patients (70.0%) were aged ≤50 years and white (85.5%). At baseline, patients reported an average (SD) of 6.6 (3.9) symptoms (ie, rated as at least Mild) with 3.8 (3.3) of these symptoms being rated as Moderate or Severe. By Day 29, most symptoms had resolved; 74.4% of patients reported no symptoms and on average, only 0.6 (SD 1.5) were reported as at least Mild. Stable patients according to the PGIS showed scores with intraclass correlation values indicating moderate-to-good test-retest reliability (ie, 0.50-0.90). At baseline, 20 item scores (87%) varied significantly across PGIS defined groups supporting the validity of SE-C19. A symptom resolution endpoint was defined after excluding the item 'Sneezing', due to its low ability to discriminate severity levels, and 'Confusion', 'Rash', and 'Vomiting', due to their low prevalence in this population. Symptoms resolution required complete absence of all remaining items, except 'Cough', 'Fatigue', and 'Headache', which could be Mild or Moderate in severity. Interpretation: We identified 19 items that are valid and reliable to measure disease-related symptoms in COVID-19 outpatients and propose a definition of symptom resolution that could be used in future clinical trials and potentially, also in clinical practice.

Inhaled Corticosteroids for Outpatients with Covid-19: A Meta-Analysis

The role of inhaled corticosteroids for outpatient COVID-19 is evolving. We meta-analyzed reported clinical trials and estimated probability of any effect and number needed to treat of 50 or 20 for symptom resolution by day 14 [100%, 99.8%, 93.1%] and hospitalization [88.6%, 72.7%, 26.3%] respectively.

Identifying women’s preferences for treatment of urinary tract infection: a discrete choice experiment

ObjectiveTo identify the preferences of women regarding management of urinary tract infections (UTIs).DesignA discrete choice experiment of the preferences for certain treatment attributes was conducted by survey. Attributes included treatment duration, time to complaint resolution, complication risk, side effect risk and contribution to antimicrobial resistance.SettingGeneral population in the Netherlands, recruited via social media.ParticipantsWomen aged 18 years or older.Primary and secondary outcome measuresThe primary outcome was the relative importance of the attributes for treatment choice, using a conditional logit model. The secondary outcome was the heterogeneity in these preferences.ResultsThe discrete choice experiment was completed by 833 women. Most attributes were important to decisions for UTI treatment. Women were willing to accept management with, for example, a higher chance of complications or longer time to resolution, if it could help avoid antimicrobial resistance. However, there was heterogeneity in the preferences. Women who had one previous UTI had a stronger preference for faster symptom resolution compared with those who had no previous UTI. Younger women also preferred faster symptom resolution. Finally, women with a low or middle education level gave less importance to preventing antimicrobial resistance than women with a high education level.ConclusionsThe current study indicated that a considerable part of women valued alternatives to antimicrobial treatment and were prepared to tolerate management that was less optimal in certain respects to avoid antimicrobial treatment.