The cost of primary care: An experience analysis in an urban setting

Objectives@#PhilHealth’s present health benefit scheme is largely centered on in-patient services. This inadvertently incentivizes hospital admissions for increased access to benefit coverage. To address this problem, this study proposes a costing method to comprehensively finance outpatient care. The objective of this paper is to estimate an annual primary care benefit package (PCBP) cost based on experience analysis (actual benefit usage) on the first year of implementation at an urban pilot site. @*Methods@#A cost analysis was conducted to assess a disease-agnostic primary care benefit package for an urban outpatient government facility over the first year of implementation. Costing information was gathered through staff interviews, accounting documents, and usage data from the electronic health records system available on-site. @*Results@#The annual primary care cost was defined as the estimated financial coverage for eligible employees and their eligible dependents (n=15,051). The annual utilization rate for consultations was reported at 51%. Of patients who consulted, approximately 38% accessed free available diagnostic procedures and 48% availed of free available medicines. Based on these usage rates, the annual primary care cost for the first year was computed at PhP 403.22 per capita. @*Conclusion@#Our study shows that on the first year of coverage in a government run urban outpatient facility, an allocation of PhP 403.22 per capita can allow coverage for a disease-agnostic package (comprehensive); this amount excludes out-of-pocket expenses incurred by the target population of this study. This amount is feasible only when coopted with opportunistic registration, reduction of untargeted check-ups, prior contextual community engagement, and streamlining of patient-transactions through an electronic health record (EHR).

Health benefit utilization and out-of-pocket expenses in outpatient care and hospitalizations: Baseline surveys of three primary care sites in the Philippines

Background@#The Philippine Primary Care Studies (PPCS) is a network of pilot studies that developed, implemented, and tested strategies to strengthen primary care in the country. These pilot studies were implemented in an urban, rural, and remote setting. The aim is to use the findings to guide the policies of the national health insurance program (PhilHealth), the main payor for individualized healthcare services in the country.@*Objective@#The objective of this report is to compare baseline outpatient benefit utilization, hospitalization, and health spending, including out-of-pocket (OOP) expenses, in three health settings (urban, rural, and remote). These findings were used to contextualize strategies to strengthen primary care in these three settings.@*Methods@#Cross-sectional surveys were carried out using an interviewer-assisted questionnaire on a random sample of families in the urban site, and a stratified random sample of households in the rural and remote sites. The questionnaire asked for out-patient and hospitalization utilization and spending, including the OOP expenses. @*Results@#A total of 787 families/households were sampled across the three sites. For outpatient benefits, utilization was low in all sites. The remote site had the lowest utilization at only 15%. Unexpectedly, the average annual OOP expenses for outpatient consults in the remote site was PhP 571.92/per capita. This is 40% higher than expenses shouldered by families in the rural area, but similar with the urban site. For hospital benefits, utilization was lowest in the remote site (55.7%) compared to 75.0% and 78.1% for the urban and rural sites, respectively. OOP expenses per year were highest in the remote site at PhP 2204.44 per capita, probably because of delay in access to healthcare and consequently more severe conditions. Surprisingly, annual expenses per year for families in the rural sites (PhP 672.03 per capita) were less than half of what families in the urban sites spent (PhP 1783.38 per capita). @*Conclusions@#Compared to families in the urban site and households in the rural sites, households in remote areas have higher disease rates and consequently, increased need for outpatient and inpatient health services. When they do get sick, access to care is more difficult. This leads to lower rates of benefit utilization and higher out-of-pocket expenses. Thus, provision of “equal” benefits can inadvertently lead to “inequitable” healthcare, pushing disadvantaged populations into a greater disadvantage. These results imply that health benefits need to be allocated according to need. Families in poorer and more remote areas may require greater subsidies.

Pericapsular Nerve Group (PENG) block versus fascia iliaca compartment (FI) block for hip surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Abstract Background: This study compares Fascia Iliaca compartment (FI) block and Pericapsular Nerve Group (PENG) block for hip surgery. Methods: Pubmed, Embase and Cochrane were systematically searched in April 2022. Inclusion criteria were: Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs); comparing PENG block versus FI block for hip surgery; patients over 18 years of age; and reporting outcomes immediately postoperative. We excluded studies with overlapped populations and without a head-to-head comparison of the PENG block vs. FI block. Mean-Difference (MD) with 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) were pooled. Trial Sequential Analyses (TSA) were performed to assess inconsistency. Quality assessment and risk of bias were performed according to Cochrane recommendations. Results: Eight RCTs comprising 384 patients were included, of whom 196 (51%) underwent PENG block. After hip surgery, PENG block reduced static pain score at 12h post-surgery (MD = 0.61 mm; 95% CI 1.12 to -0.09; p = 0.02) and cumulative postoperative oral morphine consumption in the first 24h (MD = -6.93 mg; 95% CI -13.60 to -0.25; p = 0.04) compared with the FI group. However, no differences were found between the two techniques regarding dynamic and static pain scores at 6 h or 24 h post-surgery, or in the time to the first analgesic rescue after surgery. Conclusion: The findings suggest that PENG block reduced opioid consumption in the first 24 h after surgery and reduced pain scores at rest at 12 h post-surgery. Further research is needed to fully understand the effects of the PENG block and its potential benefits compared to FI block. PROSPERO registration: CRD42022339628 PROSPERO registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php? RecordID=339628

Governance in primary care systems: Experiences and lessons from urban, rural, and remote settings in the Philippines

Methods@#Data on governance issues were obtained from participant observation and regular meetings facilitated over one year. Conducted across urban, rural, and remote settings, the present study outlines experience-near insights throughout a hierarchy of system implementers—from those in positions of authority to frontline workers. These insights were thematically analyzed and organized following the Health System Dynamics Framework.@*Results@#This study identified six governance challenges: 1) establishing a health information system; 2) engaging leaders, healthcare staff, and communities; 3) assuring efficient financing; 4) assuring health workforce sufficiency; 5) addressing legal challenges; and 6) planning evaluation and monitoring. To address these challenges, this study forwards systemic solutions to advance effective governance and improve healthcare performance.@*Conclusion@#A renewed approach to strengthening primary care systems is fundamental to achieving universal healthcare. This entails good governance that develops strategies, equips people with tools for proper implementation, and provides data for evidence-based policies. The experiences outlined in the present study envisions guiding policymakers toward improving health outcomes in a devolved setting.

Intracranial Metastasis of Extracranial Chondrosarcoma: Systematic Review With Illustrative Case

Background@#Cerebral chondrosarcoma metastases are rare and aggressive neoplasms. The rarity of presentation has precluded rigorous analysis of diagnosis, risk factors, treatment, and survival. We analyzed every reported case through exhaustive literature review. We further present the first case with Maffucci syndrome. @*Methods@#Three databases, PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar, and crossed references were queried for cerebral chondrosarcoma metastases. Extracted variables included demographics, risk factors, tumor characteristics, interventions, and outcomes. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. @*Results@#Fifty-six patients were included from 1,489 literature results. The average age at brain metastasis was 46.6±17.6 years and occurred at a median of 24±2.8 months from primary diagnosis. Primary tumor histology (dedifferentiated 5.0±1.5 months, mesenchymal 24±3.0 months, conventional 41±7.4 months, p<0.05) and grade (low grade 54±16.7 months vs. high-grade 10±6.4 months, p<0.001) correlated with time interval until brain metastasis. A multiple enchondromatosis syndrome occurred in 13.2% of cases. At time of brain metastases diagnosis, extracranial metastases were identified in 76.2% of cases. Median survival after the development of brain metastasis was 2.0±0.78 months with a 1-year survival of 10.0%. On regression analysis, surgery reduced brain metastasis mortality risk and radiation trended towards reduced mortality risk (surgery: hazard ratio [HR] 0.22, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.064–0.763, p=0.017; radiation: HR 0.31, 95% CI 0.091–1.072, p=0.064). @*Conclusion@#We present a systematic review of cerebral chondrosarcoma metastases. Primary tumor histology and grade correlate with time until cerebral metastasis. Following cerebral metastasis, these tumors have poor prognosis and modestly benefit from surgery.

Octogenarian Brain Tumor Registry: Single-Institution Surgical Outcomes and Mortality Study

Background@#Surgical intervention for brain tumor patients aged 80 to 89 years is controversial, as the comorbidities and physiology associated with aging are often thought to increase surgical risks. Surgical outcomes, however, are not well characterized for octogenarians. This review therefore assessed the outcomes and mortality risk associated with tumor removal in octogenarians at our academic institution. @*Methods@#Retrospective review of patients aged 80 to 89 who underwent craniotomy for tumor resection (CTR) at our institution between 2004–2021 and who were diagnosed with meningioma, glioblastoma, or metastatic disease. Primary outcome was 30-day mortality. @*Results@#Sixty-one CTRs were included in analysis. Median age was 83 (interquartile range 81–85) years, and the most common preoperative comorbidity was hypertension (n=44). Most patients (n=35) had a preoperative modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score between 0–2. Seventeen (27.9%) patients experienced postoperative complications (i.e., urinary tract infection, deep venous thrombosis, etc.), and 26.2% (n=16) experienced new-onset neurologic deficits postoperatively (i.e., aphasia, motor deficits, etc.). Upon discharge, most patients (n=43) had an mRS score of 3–4. Within 30 days of surgery, 14.8% (n=9) of patients were readmitted to the hospital and 8.2% (n=5) of patients died: 2 with meningioma, 1 with glioblastoma, and 2 with metastatic disease. The most common cause of death was intracranial hemorrhage (n=3). Three-month mortality was 23.0% (n=14). Mean survival after surgery was 33 months for meningioma patients, 6.9 months for glioblastoma patients, and 15 months for patients with metastatic lesions. @*Conclusion@#Our review found a 30-day mortality rate of 8.2% across all tumor types, and mean survival was similar to that previously reported for patients across all age groups. Surgical intervention for octogenarian tumor patients is therefore feasible, safe, and likely worthwhile for extending and improving lives.

Awake Craniotomy and Intraoperative Musical Performance for Brain Tumor Surgery: Case Report and Literature Review

Music experience and creation is a complex phenomenon that involves multiple brain structures. Music mapping during awake brain surgery, in addition to standard speech and motor mapping, remains a controversial topic. Music function can be impaired selectively, despite overlap with other neural networks commonly tested during direct cortical stimulation. We describe the case of a 34-year-old male patient presenting with a glioma located within eloquent cortex, who is also a professional musician and actor. We performed an awake craniotomy (AC) that mapped the standard motor and speech areas, while the patient played guitar intraoperatively and sang. Outcomes were remarkable with preservation of function and noted improvements in his musical abilities in outpatient follow-up. In addition, we performed a review of the literature in which awake craniotomies were performed for the removal of brain tumors in patients with some background in music (e.g., score reading, humming/singing). To date, only 4 patients have played a musical instrument intraoperatively during an AC for brain tumor resection. Using awake cortical mapping techniques and paradigms for preserving speech function during an intraoperative musical performance with singing is feasible and can yield a great result for patients. The use of standard brain mapping over music processing mapping did not yield a negative outcome. More experience is needed to understand and standardize this procedure as the field of brain mapping continues to grow for tumor resections.

Modelo de aceptación tecnológica de la aplicación móvil de seguimiento ControlVit® en pacientes con falla cardiaca / Technological acceptance model of the ControlVit® mobile monitoring application in patients with heart failure

Resumen Introducción: Los sistemas de monitoreo remoto basados en teléfonos inteligentes para pacientes con falla cardiaca podrían ser herramientas sencillas y económicas para mejorar el seguimiento ambulatorio. Objetivo: Identificar la utilidad y aceptación de la aplicación ControlVit® en pacientes con falla cardiaca. Método: Estudio piloto observacional descriptivo, en 20 pacientes ambulatorios con fracción de eyección reducida, que asisten a un programa de falla cardiaca. Durante seis meses, los pacientes utilizaron la aplicación ControlVit®, que suministra al paciente información para mejorar su autocuidado y permite el registro diario de variables médicas relevantes. Los datos se consignaron en la bitácora del sistema para verificar la frecuencia y el envío de datos. Se aplicó un cuestionario de aceptación tecnológica (TAM) a todos los pacientes y profesionales. Resultados: 100% de los pacientes reconoció la utilidad de la aplicación frente a su autocuidado, 90% niegan ansiedad tecnológica o temor para emplearla por la facilidad de uso. En general, se detectaron 164 alertas en tiempo real ―el aumento de peso fue la más frecuente (49%)―, y en 91% de los pacientes no se registraron reingresos hospitalarios. Conclusión: la aplicación ControlVit® es útil para la detección temprana de síntomas que permiten identificar, de forma precoz, complicaciones y modificar su tratamiento. La excelente aceptación de la aplicación por parte de los pacientes y su facilidad de uso plantean la posibilidad de implementarla como una estrategia complementaria de seguimiento en pacientes con falla cardiaca.

Abstract Introduction: Mobile phone based remote monitoring systems for heart failure patients could become simple and affordable tools to improve home management. Objective: to identify utility and acceptance of ControlVit® in heart failure patients. Method: descriptive observational pilot study in 20 outpatients with reduced ejection fraction, attending at hospital heart failure program. For six months, patients use the ControlVit® application, which supplies patient information to improve self-care and allows daily recording of specific medical variables. The data was recorded in the system log to verify frequency and data transmission. A technological acceptance questionnaire (TAM) was applied to all patients and professionals. A descriptive analysis with absolute and relative frequency distribution was also performed. Results: 100% of patients recognized the usefulness of the application compared to self-care, 90 % deny technological anxiety or fear of using it due to the ease of use. Overall, 164 real-time alerts were detected, weight gain was the most frequent (49 %) and 91 % of patients had no hospital readmissions. Conclusion: The ControlVit® application is useful for the early detection of symptoms that allow timely detection of complications and early modification of treatment. The excellent acceptance of the application by patients and its ease of use, raise the possibility of implementing it as a complementary monitoring strategy in patients with heart failure.

Investigación pedagógica en el campo de las ciencias médicas / Pedagogical research in the field of medical sciences

Introducción: Al sistematizar las diferentes definiciones sobre la investigación científica, se pueden identificar ideas comunes que ofrecen una comprensión más acertada sobre esta y que se puede resumir en considerarla como una actividad eminentemente humana que transcurre por etapas, lo que le da carácter de proceso que tiende al logro de un objetivo general, dirigido a caracterizar profunda y esencialmente un objeto de estudio, con el fin de resolver un problema científico, en cualquier campo del conocimiento y la praxis social; y que se desarrolla sobre la base de determinadas leyes, principios, categorías y metodología. Objetivo: Valorar las posibilidades de la investigación pedagógica en el campo de las Ciencias Médicas. Métodos: La dialéctica materialista como método universal del conocimiento y los propios del nivel teórico: histórico-lógico, analítico-sintético, inductivo-deductivo y el enfoque de sistema. Resultados: Una plataforma teórico metodológica para sustentar la aplicación de futuras investigaciones de corte pedagógico, en sus relaciones con las ciencias biomédicas(AU)

Introduction: When systematizing the different definitions on the scientific investigation, common ideas can be identified that offer an understanding more guessed right on the same one and that you can summarize in considering it like an eminently human activity that lapses for stages what gives him process character that spreads to the achievement of an objective, directed to characterize deep and essentially a study object, with the purpose of solving a scientific problem, in any field of the knowledge and the social practice; and that it is developed on the base of certain laws, principles, categories and methodology. To tenor with the above-mentioned is our Objective: To value the possibilities of the pedagogic investigation in the field of the Medical Sciences. Methods: The dialectical one materialistic as universal method of the knowledge and those characteristic of the theoretical level: historical-logical, analytic - synthetic, inductive - deductive and the system focus. Results: A methodological theoretical platform to sustain the application of future investigations of pedagogic court, in their relationships with the Medical Sciences(AU)

Aneurisma de la aorta abdominal asociado a íctero / Aneurysm of the abdominal aorta associated with icterus

El aneurisma de la aorta abdominal como causa de íctero obstructivo es una situación de excepción en la clínica. El objetivo de esta presentación fue exponer la coexistencia del aneurisma de la aorta abdominal y el íctero. Una asociación muy poco frecuente y de difícil diagnóstico, que coloca al cirujano vascular en la toma de una especial conducta terapéutica. La cuidadosa revisión de los antecedentes patológicos y el análisis del comportamiento clínico del paciente permitieron la solución terapéutica adecuada. Se logró demostrar que el íctero obedecía a una lesión maligna de vías biliares conocida como colangiocarcinoma, que concomitó con la existencia de un aneurisma del V segmento aórtico y no fue el resultado de una compresión extrínseca de la dilatación de la aorta, sobre las vías biliares. La conducta quirúrgica, encaminada a erradicar el íctero y evitar la ruptura aneurismática con resección del aneurisma y colocación de prótesis, no resultó posible por lo avanzado de la lesión tumoral y el grado de metástasis ya establecidos. Solo se realizó resección de la vesícula biliar y seguimiento posterior por oncología(AU)

Abdominal aortic aneurysm as a cause of obstructive icterus is an exceptional situation in the clinic. The aim of this presentation was to expose the coexistence of abdominal aortic aneurysm and icterus. A very rare and difficult to diagnose association, which places the vascular surgeon in a special therapeutic approach. The careful review of the pathological history and the analysis of the patient's clinical behavior allowed the appropriate therapeutic solution. It was possible to demonstrate that the icterus was due to a malignant lesion of the biliary tract known as cholangiocarcinoma, which concomitated with the existence of an aneurysm of the V aortic segment and was not the result of extrinsic compression of the dilatation of the aorta on the biliary tract. The surgical procedure, aimed at eradicating the icterus and avoiding aneurysmal rupture with aneurysm resection and prosthesis placement, was not possible due to the advanced tumor lesion and the degree of metastasis already established. Only gallbladder resection was performed and subsequent follow-up by oncology(AU)

Perfil clínico e terapêutico dos pacientes com hipertireoidismo do ambulatório de endocrinologia de um hospital universitário do sul do Brasil / Perfil clínico e terapêutico dos pacientes com hipertireoidismo do ambulatório de endocrinologia de um hospital universitário do sul do BrasilClinical and therapeutic profile of patients with hyperthyroidism in an outpatient endocrine clinic at a university hospital in southern Brazil

.Introdução: O hipertireoidismo decorre da elevação sérica dos hormônios tireoidianos, secundária à hiperfunção da glândula tireoide, sendo as principais causas a Doença de Graves (DG) e os Bócios Nodulares Tóxicos (BNT). Objetivos: Avaliar o perfil clínico e modalidades terapêuticas aplicadas em pacientes com diagnóstico de hipertireoidismo acompanhados em um Hospital Universitário no Sul do Brasil. Métodos: Estudo observacional, transversal e descritivo, com inclusão de pacientes com diagnóstico de hipertireoidismo por DG e BNT; foram coletados dados epidemiológicos, clínicos, laboratoriais e de tratamento. Resultados: A maioria dos pacientes foi referenciada pela atenção primária e encontrava-se em uso prévio de droga antitireoidiana (DAT). A variável idade obteve diferença estatisticamente significativa entre as etiologias de DG e BNT; em ambas houve predomínio de incidência no sexo feminino. A DG apresentou maior frequência de sinais e sintomas de tireotoxicose, ao passo que o BNT mostrou mais sinais e sintomas de compressão. Houve remissão da doença em 23,2% dos pacientes com DG tratados com DAT; em 23,2% dos pacientes optou-se pela manutenção de metimazol em baixa dose por mais de 36 meses e em 16,1% foi realizado tratamento definitivo. No BNT foram preferidas terapias definitivas, principalmente a tireoidectomia, em 27,5% dos pacientes. Doses baixas de metimazol por mais de 36 meses foram utilizados também no BNT, em 22,5% dos pacientes. Conclusão: O hipertireoidismo é uma doença heterogênea, desde a clínica inicial até a terapêutica, entre suas etiologias mais prevalentes. Observou-se uma tendência de priorizar as terapias medicamentosas em longo prazo com baixas doses, tanto na DG quanto no BNT. (AU)

Perfil clínico e terapêutico dos pacientes com hipertireoidismo do ambulatório de endocrinologia de um hospital universitário do sul do BrasilClinical and therapeutic profile of patients with hyperthyroidism in an outpatient endocrine clinic at a university hospital in southern Brazil ARTIGO ORIGINALRafael Antonio Parabocz1, Renata Soares Carvalho1, Gianna Carla Alberti Schrut1, Ana Claudia Garabeli Cavalli Kluthcovsky1, Matheo Augusto Morandi Stumpf1Introduction: Hyperthyroidism results from the serum elevation of thyroid hormones, secondary to hyperfunction of the thyroid gland. The main causes are Graves' disease (DG) and Toxic Nodular Goiters (BNT). Objectives: Evaluate the clinical profile and therapeutic modalities applied in patients diagnosed with hyperthyroidism followed up at a University Hospital in Southern Brazil. Methods: Observational, cross-sectional and descriptive study, including patients diagnosed with hyperthyroidism by DG and BNT; epidemiological, clinical, laboratory and treatment data were collected. Results: Most patients were referred by primary care and had been using antithyroid drugs (DAT). The age variable obtained showed a statistically significant difference between the etiologies of DG and BNT; in both, there was a predominance of incidence in females. DG showed a higher frequency of signs and symptoms of thyrotoxicosis, while BNT showed more signs and symptoms of compression. There was remission of the disease in 23.2% of patients with DG treated with DAT; in 23.2% of the patients, low-dose methimazole was maintained for more than 36 months and in 16.1%, definitive treatment was performed. In BNT, definitive therapies were preferred, mainly thyroidectomy, in 27.5% of patients. Low doses of methimazole for more than 36 months were also used in BNT in 22.5% of patients. Conclusion: Hyperthyroidism is a heterogeneous disease, from initial clinic to therapy, among its most prevalent etiologies. There was a tendency to prioritize long-term drug therapies with low doses, both in DG and BNT. (AU)

Tromboembolismo pulmonar que simula síndrome coronario agudo sin elevación del segmento ST

RESUMEN El tromboembolismo pulmonar se produce como consecuencia de la migración de un trombo hacia el árbol vascular pulmonar. Frecuentemente los pacientes refieren dolor torácico que puede simular un síndrome coronario agudo. Se presenta el caso de un paciente de 57 años de edad que acudió al servicio de urgencias con dolor torácico agudo y disnea. Fue diagnosticado como un síndrome coronario agudo sin elevación del segmento ST, debido a los cambios electrocardiográficos que presentaba al ingreso, pero los hallazgos ecocardiográficos demostraron aumento de las presiones pulmonares y la coronariografía, arterias coronarias normales; por lo que se realizó angiografía pulmonar con tomografía multicorte, la cual confirmó el diagnóstico de tromboembolismo pulmonar bilateral.

ABSTRACT Pulmonary embolism takes place as a consequence of the migration of a thrombus towards the pulmonary vascular tree. Patients frequently report chest pain that can mimic an acute coronary syndrome. We present the case of a 57-year-old patient who came to the emergency department with acute chest pain and dyspnea. He was diagnosed as a non-ST segment elevation acute coronary syndrome, due to the electrocardiographic changes that he presented at admission, but the echocardiographic findings showed increased pulmonary pressures, and the invasive coronary angiography, normal coronary arteries; therefore, a pulmonary angiography with multislice tomography was performed, which confirmed the diagnosis of bilateral pulmonary embolism.

Aneurismas por Estreptococo Pneumoniae / Aneurysms by Streptococcal Pneumoniae

El Estreptococo Pneumoniae es un microorganismo patógeno capaz de causar en humanos diversas infecciones y procesos invasivos severos, siempre graves y potencialmente letales. El objetivo de este trabajo fue mostrar la infrecuente presencia del Estreptococo Pneumoniae en la aparición de los aneurismas micóticos aórticos y de arterias periféricas, una asociación muy particular que coloca al cirujano vascular ante una especial conducta terapéutica encaminada a erradicar la infección, evitar la ruptura y sustituir la arteria, para mantener la continuidad de la luz del vaso y prevenir situaciones graves de isquemia(AU)

Streptococcal Pneumoniae is a pathogenic microorganism capable of causing in humans various infections and severe, always serious and potentially lethal invasive processes. The objective of this work was to show the rare presence of Streptococcal Pneumoniae in the onset of aortic mycotic aneurysms and peripheral arteries, a very particular association that places the vascular surgeon in an special therapeutic behavior aimed at eradicating the infection, preventing ruptures and replacing the artery, to maintain the continuity of vessel's light and prevent serious ischemia's situations(AU)

Principales medidas anatómicas de las cavidades cardíacas y grandes vasos por tomografía computarizada cardíaca de doble fuente / Main anatomical sizes of the cardiac chambers and great vessels by dual-source cardiac computed tomography

RESUMEN Introducción: Los avances tecnológicos en tomografía computarizada han hecho posible la evaluación de estructuras pequeñas y móviles, como las arterias coronarias y el resto del corazón. La tomografía cardíaca aporta información anatómica y funcional. Objetivo: Identificar los valores de las principales medidas anatómicas de las cavidades cardíacas y los grandes vasos, y compararlos con los valores de referencia utilizados. Método: Se realizó un estudio analítico de investigación y desarrollo con un universo de 325 pacientes normotensos, no obesos, sin enfermedad estructural cardiopulmonar o de grandes vasos, arritmia o enfermedad coronaria significativa, de donde se seleccionaron 100 pacientes por muestreo probabilístico aleatorio simple, a quienes se les realizó tomografía computarizada cardíaca de doble fuente en el Cardiocentro Ernesto Che Guevara, Santa Clara, Cuba. Resultados: Las mediciones ventriculares izquierda y derecha mostraron diferencias con la mayoría de los valores referenciales. Los diámetros de la aorta, aumentaron con la edad, fueron superiores en los hombres y difieren de los valores de referencia con excepción del medido en eje corto de la raíz aórtica en telediástole, y el diámetro en eje corto de la aorta descendente en telesístole. La arteria pulmonar mostró diferencias significativas con relación a los valores de referencia. Conclusiones: Las mediciones de las cavidades cardíacas y los grandes vasos basados en las técnicas tomográficas constituyen una necesidad en determinados grupos poblacionales para lograr una estandarización adecuada debido a su gran variabilidad en relación a distintas variables. La diferencia significativa con los valores de referencia indica le necesidad de estudios multicéntricos con poblaciones mayores para lograr su homogeneidad.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Technological advances in computed tomography have made it possible to assess small, mobile structures such as the coronary arteries and the rest of the heart. Cardiac tomography provides anatomical and functional information. Objective: To identify the values of the main anatomical sizes of the cardiac chambers and great vessels, and compare them with the reference values. Method: An analytical research and development study was conducted with a population of 325 normotensive, non-obese patients without cardiopulmonary or great vessel structural disease, arrhythmia or significant coronary artery disease. One hundred patients were selected by simple random probability sampling, who underwent dual-source cardiac computed tomography at the Cardiocentro Ernesto Che Guevara, Santa Clara, Cuba. Results: Left and right ventricular measurements showed differences when compared with most reference values. Aortic diameters increased with age. They were higher in men and were different from the reference values except for the short-axis diameter of the aortic root in end-diastole and short-axis diameter of the descending aorta in end-systole. The pulmonary artery showed significant differences in relation to the reference values. Conclusions: Measurements of cardiac chambers and great vessels by tomographic techniques are necessary in certain population groups to achieve adequate standardization due to their great variability in relation to different variables. The significant difference with the reference values indicates the need for multicenter studies with larger populations to achieve homogeneity.

Infusiones a base de plantas medicinales durante el embarazo: una actualización en la temática / Herbal teas during pregnancy: an UpDate on the subject

Introducción: en las últimas décadas es creciente el empleo de plantas medicinales en todo el ciclo vital debido, por un lado, a una tendencia a revalorizar los saberes que forman parte de las culturas regionales de algunas comunidades y, por el otro, al uso cada vez más frecuente en los países desarrollados de medicinas alternativas complementarias. Objetivos: el presente trabajo tiene el propósito de realizar una actualización en relación al consumo de infusiones de plantas medicinales durante la gestación, con énfasis en las posturas sobre el tema emitidas por organismos de referencia. Desarrollo: las plantas medicinales presentadas en este documento son las que cuentan con un mayor aval científico respecto de la seguridad de su consumo en forma de infusiones durante el embarazo e incluyen al jengibre, la manzanilla, la menta piperita y el tilo. Se presentan las características de cada planta, la zona de producción en Argentina, los compuestos bioactivos presentes, los potenciales riesgos, y la postura de organismos nacionales e internacionales sobre su inocuidad durante la gestación. Conclusiones: en todos los casos, durante el embarazo el consumo seguro es en forma de infusión, no más de dos a tres tazas por día de cada planta, e idealmente se recomienda alternar su consumo o combinarlo. Además, se destaca que la comunidad debe reconocer la necesidad de consultar al profesional médico antes de usar una planta medicinal

Introduction: in the last decades, the use of medicinal plants throughout the life cycle is increasing due, on the one hand, to a tendency to revalue knowledges that are part of the regional cultures of some communities and, on the other hand, to the use increasingly frequent in developed countries of complementary alternative medicines. Objectives: the purpose of this work is to carry out an update in relation to the consumption of medicinal herbal teas during pregnancy with emphasis on the positions on the subject issued by reference organisms. Development: the medicinal plants presented in this document are the ones that have the greatest scientific endorsement regarding the safety of their consumption in the form of infusions during pregnancy and include ginger, chamomile, peppermint, and linden. The characteristics of each plant, the production area in Argentina, the bioactive compounds present, the potential risks and the position of national and international organizations regarding their safety during pregnancy are presented. Conclusions: In all cases during pregnancy, safe consumption is in the form of an infusion, not more than two to three cups per day of each plant, and ideally it is recommended to alternate its consumption or combine it. In addition, it is highlighted that the community must recognize the need to consult a medical professional before using a medicinal plant

Oleoresins from chili pepper and turmeric could substitute for salinomycin in broilers / Oleoresinas de pimiento y cúrcuma podrian reemplazar la salinomicina en pollos de engorde / Oleoresinas de pimenta chilli e cúrcuma podem substituir a salinomicina em frangos de corte

Abstract Background: Coccidiosis is the infectious disease with the greatest economic impact in poultry production. Additionally, chemotherapeutic growth promoters are being substituted for safer alternative strategies. Objective: To evaluate the effect of feeding oleoresins from chili pepper (Capsicum annuum) and turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) on the performance, survival rate, and the Productive Efficiency Index of broilers from 1 to 21d challenged by Eimeria sp. Methods: A total of 700 male 1-day-old chicks (Cobb 500) challenged with Eimeria sp, were assigned to a completely randomized design with four treatments: (1) negative control diet, without anticoccidial agent or growth promoters; (2) control diet+0.05% salinomycin; (3) negative control diet+100g/ton; and (4) negative control diet +140g/ton of test product (Curcuma longa L. plus Capsicum annuum oleoresins). Results: Body weight, weight gain, feed conversion and Productive Efficiency Index did not differ between broilers fed anticoccidial chemotherapeutics and oleoresins. In addition, there was no difference in feed intake and survival rate between dietary treatments. Conclusion: Broilers supplemented with chili pepper and turmeric oleoresins from 1 to 21d present similar body weight, weight gain, feed conversion, and Productive Efficiency Index compared to broilers supplemented with chemotherapeutic anticoccidials without affecting feed intake or survival rate.

Resumen Antecedentes: El impacto económico generado por la coccidiosis en el sector avícola es el mayor en relación con otras enfermedades. Adicionalmente, los promotores de crecimiento quimioterapéuticos se han venido reemplazando por estrategias alternativas. Objetivo: Evaluar el efecto de oleorresinas de pimiento (Capsicum annuum) y cúrcuma (Curcuma longa L.) sobre el desempeño zootécnico, tasa de supervivencia y el Índice de Eficiencia Productiva en pollos de engorde de 1 a 21 dias desafiados con Eimeria sp. Métodos: Se utilizaron 700 pollos machos (Cobb500) de 1 día de edad, distribuidos en un diseño completamente al azar con cuatro tratamientos: (1) dieta control negativo sin agentes anticoccidianos ni promotores de crecimiento; (2) dieta control+0,05% de salinomicina; (3) dieta control negativa+100g/ton; y (4) dieta control negativa +140g/ton del producto a evaluar (oleorresina de Curcuma longa L. y Capsicum annuum). Resultados: Se obtuvieron resultados similares repecto a peso corporal, ganancia de peso, conversión alimenticia e Índice de Eficiencia Productiva en los tratamientos que contenían anticoccidiano quimioterapéutico y los que contenian oleorresinas. Además, no se observaron diferencias en el consumo de alimento ni en la tasa de supervivencia entre los tratamientos dietarios. Conclusión: Los pollos de engorde suplementados entre 1 y 21 d con oleorresinas de pimiento y cúrcuma presentan similar peso corporal, ganancia de peso, conversión alimenticia e Índice de Eficiencia Productiva en comparación con los suplementados con anticoccidianos quimioterapéuticos, sin afectar el consumo de alimento ni la viabilidad.

Resumo Antecedentes: O impacto econômico da coccidiose é o maior quando comparado a outras doenças na produção avícola. Além disso, promotores de crescimento quimioterápicos tem sido substituídos por estratégias alternativas. Objetivo: Avaliar o efeito das oleoresinas da pimenta Chilli (Capsicum annuum) e açafrão-da-terra (Curcuma longa L.) no desempenho zootécnico, taxa de sobrevivência e Índice de Eficiência Produtiva de frangos de corte de 1 a 21d desafiados por Eimeria sp Métodos: Foram utilizados 700 pintos de 1d, machos (Cobb500) distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em quatro tratamentos: (1) dieta controle negativo, sem agente anticoccidiano ou promotores de crescimento; (2) dieta controle+0,05% de salinomicina; (3) dieta controle negativa+100g/ton; e (4)+140g/ton de produto teste (oleoresina de Curcuma longa L. mais Capsicum annuum) e desafiados por Eimeria sp. Resultados: Houve resultados similares para peso, ganho de peso, conversão alimentar e Índice de Eficiência Produtiva entre frangos alimentados com dietas contendo anticocidiano quimioterápico e dietas contendo oleoresinas. Além disso, não houve diferença para consumo de ração e a taxa de sobrevivência entre os tratamentos dietéticos. Conclusão: Frangos de corte alimentados com dietas suplementadas com oleorresinas de pimenta chili e açafrão-da-terra apresentaram resultados similares para peso, ganho de peso, conversão alimentar e Índice de Eficiência Produtiva que frangos de corte alimentados com dietas suplementadas com anticoccidianos quimioterápicos de 1 a 21d, sem afetar o consumo de ração e a taxa de sobrevivência dos animais.

Periodontal disease and its complications in cats from a shelter in the Central Region of Rio Grande do Sul / Doença periodontal e suas complicações em gatos de um abrigo na Região Central do Rio Grande do Sul

Periodontal disease is the most common infectious disease that occurs in feline patients. Although it occurs in both sexes, different age groups, and any breeds, the prevalence and severity seem much higher in cats living in animal shelters. This paper aimed to describe the clinical, radiological, cytopathological, and virological aspects of periodontal disease and its complications in cats, based on these aspects and, consequently, on the importance it brings to cat feline medicine in shelter cats. For this, nine cats with periodontal disease from a single animal shelter were evaluated. These cats demonstrated a disease characterized by halitosis, excessive salivation, and oral discomfort. Lymphadenomegaly of the mandibular and retropharyngeal lymph nodes was observed in 44.4% of the cases. Oral lesions consisted of varying degrees of gingival hyperemia, complete loss of free gingival margins, and consequently gingival retraction, dental calculus deposition, dental mobility, complete exposure of the furcation of premolars and molars, and dental roots of canines and incisors, loss of bone radiopacity due to alveolar bone resorption and tooth loss. Complications included chronic ulcerative paradental stomatitis (22.2%), faucitis (22.2%), and chronic gingivostomatitis (11.1%). None of the cats affected by periodontal disease was positive for FIV or FeLV. In 33.3% of the cases, cats were carriers of feline calicivirus, but not feline herpesvirus.(AU)

Doença periodontal é a mais comum doença infecciosa que ocorre em pacientes felinos. Embora ocorra em gatos de ambos os sexos, diferentes faixas etárias e quaisquer raças, a prevalência e a gravidade parece muito maior em gatos que vivem em abrigos para animais. Baseado nesses aspectos e, consequentemente, na importância que ela traz para a medicina felina de gatos de abrigos, o objetivo desse artigo é descrever os aspectos clínicos, radiológicos, citopatológicos e virológicos da doença periodontal e suas complicações em gatos. Para isso, nove gatos com doença periodontal oriundos de um único abrigo de animais foram avaliados. Esses gatos demonstraram uma doença caracterizada por halitose, salivação excessiva e desconforto oral. Linfadenomegalia dos linfonodos mandibulares e retrofaríngeos foi observada em 44,4% dos casos. As lesões orais consistiam de graus variados de hiperemia gengival, perda completa das margens gengivais livres e, consequentemente, retração gengival, deposição de cálculo dental, mobilidade dentária, exposição completa da furca dos pré-molares e molares e das raízes dentárias dos caninos e incisivos, perda de radiopacidade óssea devido à reabsorção de osso alveolar e perda dentária. Complicações incluíram estomatite paradental ulcerativa crônica (22,2%), faucite (22,2%) e gengivoestomatite crônica (11,1%). Nenhum dos gatos afetados pela doença periodontal foi positivo para FIV ou FeLV. Em 33,3% dos casos, os gatos eram portadores do calicivírus felino, mas não do herpesvírus felino.(AU)

Sinonasal neoplasms in 49 dogs: clinical, macroscopic, and histopathological aspects / Neoplasmas nasossinusais em 49 cães: aspectos clínicos, macroscópicos e histopatológicos

This study aimed to quantify nasosinusal neoplasms diagnosed in dogs in 20 years (2000-2019) and characterize the main clinical, macroscopic, and histological aspects of these neoplasms. The sex, breed, age, skull conformation, the main clinical signs, and the anatomopathological characteristics (distribution, macroscopy, and histology) were computed. During this period, 49 dogs were affected by neoplasms in these regions, totaling 50 neoplasms (one dog had two neoplasms of different locations and histogenetic origins). Similar amounts of mixed-breed dogs (25/49) and purebred dogs (24/49) were affected, these distributed in 16 breeds. Among purebreds, it was noted that dogs with mesocephalic cranial conformation (12/24) were the most affected, followed by dolichocephalic (10/24) and brachycephalic (2/24). There were 22 cases in males and 27 in females, making a proportion of 1:1.23. There was an age variation from 11 months to 16 years old. The epithelial neoplasms have occurred in older dogs compared to those of other histogenic origins (mesenchymal and other origins/round cells). The main clinical signs were similar between the histogenetic categories, related to the involvement of the upper respiratory tract, sometimes accompanied by nervous signs (when there was brain invasion of nasal neoplasms or vice versa). The possible origin site was mostly in the nasal cavity concerning the paranasal sinuses (and other locations). Invasions occurred in different tissues adjacent to the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses, resulting in cranial and facial deformities (21/49). The frequency was 48% of epithelial neoplasms, 32% of mesenchymal neoplasms, and 10% of neoplasms with other origins and round cells. The neoplasms most frequently observed, in decreasing order of frequency, were: adenocarcinoma (9/50), squamous cell carcinoma (9/50), transmissible venereal tumor (5/50), osteosarcoma (5/50), chondrosarcoma (4/50), and undifferentiated sarcoma (4/50). Through this study, it was possible to establish the frequency of these neoplasms in 20 years and their clinical, macroscopic, and histological characteristics.(AU)

Este estudo teve como objetivo quantificar os neoplasmas nasossinusais diagnosticados em cães em 20 anos (2000-2019) e caracterizar os principais aspectos clínicos, macroscópicos e histológicos desses neoplasmas. Foram computados sexo, raça, idade, conformação do crânio, principais sinais clínicos e características anatomopatológicas (distribuição, macroscopia e histologia). Nesse período, 49 cães foram acometidos por neoplasmas nessas regiões, totalizando 50 neoplasmas (um cão tinha dois neoplasmas de localização e origens histogenéticas distintas). Foram acometidas quantidades semelhantes de cães sem raça definida (25/49) e de cães com raça definida (24/49), estes distribuídos em 16 raças. Entre os cães com raça definida, notou-se que os cães com conformação craniana mesocefálica (12/24) foram os mais acometidos, seguidos pelos dolicocefálicos (10/24) e braquicefálicos (2/24). Foram observados 22 casos em machos e 27 em fêmeas, perfazendo a relação de 1:1,23. Ocorreu uma variação de idade de 11 meses a 16 anos; tendo os neoplasmas epiteliais ocorrido em cães mais velhos quando comparado aos de outras origens histogênicas (mesenquimais e outras origens/células redondas). Os principais sinais clínicos foram semelhantes entre as categorias histogenéticas, sendo relacionados ao comprometimento do trato respiratório superior, por vezes acompanhados de sinais nervosos (quando houve invasão encefálica de neoplasmas nasais ou vice-versa). O possível local de origem em sua maioria foi na cavidade nasal em relação aos seios nasais (e de outras localizações). Ocorreram invasões para diferentes tecidos adjacentes à cavidade nasal e seios paranasais, tendo como consequência deformidades cranianas e faciais (21/49). A frequência foi de 48% de neoplasmas epiteliais, 32% de neoplasmas mesenquimais e 10% de neoplasmas com outras origens e de células redondas. Os neoplasmas mais frequentemente observados, em ordem decrescente de frequência, foram: adenocarcinoma (9/50), carcinoma de células escamosas (9/50), tumor venéreo transmissível (5/50), osteossarcoma (5/50), condrossarcoma (4/50) e sarcoma indiferenciado (4/50). Com isso, pode-se estabelecer a frequência desses neoplasmas em 20 anos, bem como suas características clínicas, macroscópicas e histológicas.(AU)