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Purpose: To assess the accuracy of e?Paarvai, an artificial intelligence?based smartphone application (app) that detects and grades cataracts using images taken with a smartphone by comparing with slit lamp?based diagnoses by trained ophthalmologists. Methods: In this prospective diagnostic study conducted between January and April 2022 at a large tertiary?care eye hospital in South India, two screeners were trained to use the app. Patients aged >40 years and with a best?corrected visual acuity <20/40 were recruited for the study. The app is intended to determine whether the eye has immature cataract, mature cataract, posterior chamber intra?ocular lens, or no cataract. The diagnosis of the app was compared with that of trained ophthalmologists based on slit?lamp examinations, the gold standard, and a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was estimated. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) were computed. Results: The two screeners used the app to screen 2,619 eyes of 1,407 patients. In detecting cataracts, the app showed high sensitivity (96%) but low specificity (25%), an overall accuracy of 88%, a PPV of 92.3%, and an NPV of 57.8%. In terms of cataract grading, the accuracy of the app was high in detecting immature cataracts (1,875 eyes, 94.2%), but its accuracy was poor in detecting mature cataracts (73 eyes, 22%), posterior chamber intra?ocular lenses (55 eyes, 29.3%), and clear lenses (2 eyes, 2%). We found that the area under the curve in predicting ophthalmologists’ cataract diagnosis could potentially be improved beyond the app’s diagnosis based on using images only by incorporating information about patient sex and age (P < 0.0001) and best?corrected visual acuity (P < 0.0001). Conclusions: Although there is room for improvement, e?Paarvai app is a promising approach for diagnosing cataracts in difficult?to?reach populations. Integrating this with existing outreach programs can enhance the case detection rate.
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Purpose: To compare the slit?lamp method and wavefront aberrometry method based on outcomes of toric realignment surgeries. Settings: Tertiary care ophthalmic hospital. Design: Retrospective study. Methods: This study included all eyes undergoing toric intraocular lens (TIOL) realignment surgery between January 2019 and December 2021 for which TIOL axis assessment by slit?lamp method and wavefront aberrometry method was available. Data were retrieved from electronic medical records, and we documented demographics, uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), subjective refraction, and TIOL axis by slit?lamp and wavefront aberrometry methods on postoperative day 1 and day 14. In patients with misalignment, TIOL was realigned to the original position in group 1 (27 patients) and to an axis based on calculations provided by wavefront aberrometer in group 2 (25 patients). Post?realignment surgery, UCVA, subjective refraction, and TIOL axis by slit?lamp and wavefront aberrometry methods were assessed and analyzed. Results: We analyzed 52 eyes and found that the mean preoperative misalignment with the slit?lamp method (44.9° ±20.0°) and wavefront aberrometry (47.1° ±19.5°) was similar. The corresponding degrees of misalignment post?TIOL repositioning surgeries were 5.2° ±5.2° (slit?lamp method) and 4.7° ±5.1° (wavefront aberrometry) (P = 0.615). Both groups showed significant improvement in median log of minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) UCVA and reduction in median refractive cylinder. Conclusions: Slit?lamp method is as good as wavefront aberrometer method to assess TIOL axis. Toric realignment surgery is found to be safe, and realigning TIOL based on either slit?lamp method or wavefront aberrometer method equally improved UCVA and decreased residual refractive cylinder.
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Purpose: To evaluate the outcomes of lensectomy with a glued intraocular lens (IOL) in spherophakic eyes with secondary glaucoma and assess factors associated with failure. Methods: We prospectively evaluated outcomes of lensectomy with glued IOL in 19 eyes with spherophakia and secondary glaucoma (intraocular pressure (IOP) ?22 mm Hg and/or glaucomatous optic disc damage) between 2016 and 2018. The vision, refractive error, IOP, antiglaucoma medications (AGMs), optic disc changes, need for glaucoma surgery, and complications were assessed. Success was defined as complete when IOP was ?5 and ?21 mmHg without AGMs; qualified success as similar IOP with up to 3 AGM; the need for >3AGM/additional surgery for IOP control was considered a failure. Results: Preoperatively, the median (interquartile range: IQR) age was 18 (13.5–30) years. IOP was 16 (14–22.5) mmHg on a median of 3 (2,3) AGMs. Median postoperative follow up was 27.7 months (11.9, 39.7). Postsurgery, most patients achieved emmetropia, with significantly decreased refractive error from a median spherical equivalent of ?12.5D to + 0.5D, P < 0.0002. The complete success probability was 47% (95% confidence intervals (CIs): 29–76%) at 3 months and was 21% (8 ? 50%) at 1 year and 3 years. The qualified success probability was 93% (82–100%) at 1 year, which reduced to 79% (60–100%) in 3 years. None of the eyes had any retinal complications. The higher number of preoperative AGM was found to be a significant risk factor (p < 0.02) for the failure of complete success. Conclusion: One?third of the eyes had IOP control without the need for AGM postlensectomy with glued IOL. Surgery resulted in significant improvement in visual acuity. The higher number of preoperative AGM was associated with poor glaucoma control after glued IOL surgery
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Background & objectives: Demographic attributes of cancer patients are associated with the awareness of diagnosis, the prognosis of cancer and their associated psychological distress. This study was aimed to assess the knowledge of diagnosis, prognosis and psychological distress among patients reporting to the pain and palliative care department in a tertiary cancer hospital, south India. Methods: Data of all patients visiting the palliative care outpatient department of a tertiary cancer centre in south India between January and June 2018 were included in the study (n=754). A structured pro forma was used to collect information on the sociodemographic details and clinical aspects and a distress thermometer was used to assess the level of distress. Information, thus collected, were analysed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression. Results: Around 16.2 per cent of the patients were unaware of their diagnosis while two third (68%) were unaware of the prognosis. More than half of the patients reported significant distress (54.1%). Gender, education, not working and being diagnosed with head-and-neck cancers were associated with knowledge of diagnosis, while educational level predicted the knowledge of prognosis. Younger age group, head-and-neck cancer, haematology cancer, state of being unaware of diagnosis and prognosis were found to be associated with distress. Interpretation & conclusions: Higher educational levels and better socio-economic status increase the likelihood of patients being aware of their diagnosis and prognosis. Being unaware of the prognosis remains associated with the higher level of distress
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Schwannomas are neurogenic tumors arising from the Schwann cells present in the neural sheath of the myelinated nerves. These are benign tumors that can arise anywhere in the body. Schwannomas are rarely seen in the nose and paranasal sinuses representing <4% of all head-and-neck schwannomas. Surgical excision is the treatment of choice in these cases. Nasal polyps are common nasal cavity lesions which are usually inflammatory polyps. Schwannoma of the nasal cavity usually presented with headache, unilateral nasal obstruction due to mass obliterating the nasal cavity, and epistaxis. Here, we report the case of a 47-year-old female who presented with a mass in the left nasal cavity causing the nasal blockage.
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Introduction: To compare the flexural strength of autopolymerizing poly methyl methacrylate resins (PMMA) resin, CAD/CAM milled PMMA and CAD/CAM milled poly ether ether ketone (PEEK) when used as provisional restorative materials for long span situations in full mouth rehabilitation after aging and thermocycling. Materials and Methods: Sixty samples (25 mm × 2 mm × 2 mm) were fabricated using autopolymerizing PMMA resin (GROUP I), CAD/CAM milled PMMA (GROUP II) and PEEK (GROUP III). The groups were subdivided into A and B and subjected to 7 days of aging and 500 cycles of thermocycling (subgroup A) and 14 days of aging and 1000 cycles of thermocycling (subgroup B), respectively, and flexural strength was evaluated using a three?point bend test. The data were analyzed with student t test and pair?wise comparison of mean values was done by ANOVA. Results: The flexural strength of PEEK subjected to 7 days of aging and 500 cycles of thermocycling (III (A) ? 6628.70 MPa) was the highest among all groups followed by PEEK subjected to 14 days of aging and 1000 cycles of thermocycling (III (B) ? 3760.50 MPa). Conclusion: The mean flexural strength of PEEK was statistically significant than the other two materials tested and hence can be recommended for use as a provisional restorative material for long span situations in full mouth rehabilitation. However, the mean flexural strength of PEEK reduced approximately by 44% when subjected to further aging
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Aim: Irrational use of medicines is a global problem. In India, one contributing factor is the availability of a large number of fixed-dose combinations (FDCs). To improve rational use and to strengthen policies, it is important to assess the usage patterns and rationality of FDCs. Methods: This study was conducted as part of a 1-year prospective cross-sectional analysis of prescriptions in the outpatient clinics of broad specialities from 13 tertiary care hospitals across India. Five most commonly prescribed FDCs in each center were analyzed. In addition, all the prescribed FDCs were classified as per the Kokate Committee classification and it was noted whether any of the FDCs were irrational or banned as per the reference lists released by regulatory authorities. Results: A total of 4,838 prescriptions were analyzed. Of these, 2,093 (43.3%) prescriptions had at least one FDC. These 2,093 prescriptions had 366 different FDCs. Of the 366 FDCs, 241 were rational; 10 were irrational; 14 required further data generation; and the remaining 96 FDCs could not be categorized into any of the above. Vitamins and minerals/supplements, antibacterial for systemic use, and drugs for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and peptic ulcer were the most used FDCs. Conclusion: Based on the finding that some prescriptions contained irrational FDCs, it is recommended that a rigorous, regular, and uniform method of evaluation be implemented to approve/ban FDCs and that prescribers be periodically notified about the status of the bans.
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Objective: To determine early breastfeeding problems using LATCH tool, and analyze the impact of breastfeeding supportive measures in improving LATCH score. Methods: This prospective study included all inborn term neonates born at our center between September, 2019 and March, 2020. Breastfeeding problems were identified by LATCH score at 6-12h after birth, and were addressed by the study team providing breastfeeding support, education and training to mothers. LATCH scores were reassessed at 24-48h. Results: Among 400 mother-infant dyads, 399 (99.7%) required support to position the neonate, 190 (47.5%) had poor latch and 52 (13%) had nipple problems during initial assessment. Breastfeeding supportive measures improved the LATCH score [median (IQR) 7 (5,8) vs 8 (8,8) at 6-12 and 24-48 hours, respectively; P <0.001], and reduced the number of mothers with LATCH score <8 [288 (72%) vs 63 (15.8%); P <0.001]. Conclusion: LATCH is a comprehensive yet simple tool to identify breastfeeding problems. Given the high incidence of breastfeeding problems during early postpartum period, systematic assessment of breastfeeding related problems using LATCH tool can help timely intervention and improvement in the breastfeeding technique.
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Purpose: Our study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of intravenous erythropoietin (EPO) in patients with indirect traumatic optic neuropathy (TON), assess the side effects, and compare the visual function results among three groups of patients who had received different treatment options – EPO, steroids, and observation. Methods: Patients with indirect TON presenting to the neuro?ophthalmology clinic from August 2019 to March 2020, were assigned to three groups, with six patients in each group. In group 1, patients were recruited prospectively and received recombinant human erythropoietin, whereas, in groups 2 and 3, patients were recruited retrospectively and received intravenous methylprednisolone followed by oral steroids and multivitamins, respectively. Groups 1 and 2 included patients presenting within 2 weeks of trauma, whereas group 3 included those presenting beyond that. Best?corrected visual acuity, pupillary reaction, color vision, and visual fields following treatment were measured. Results: Initial visual acuity in the EPO group ranged from 20/80 to no perception of light (No PL). The mean initial BCVA (1.82 logMAR, standard deviation [SD] = 0.847) improved to 1.32, SD = 0.93 logMAR after treatment recorded at the third month (P = 0.0375), with no significant adverse effects. The initial BCVA of group 2 ranged from 20/120 to No PL. The mean initial BCVA (1.95, SD = 0.77 logMAR) improved to 1.45 logMAR, SD = 0.97 after treatment (P = 0.0435) but three patients had side effects of steroids. Initial visual acuity in Group 3 ranged from 20/40 to no PL. The mean initial BCVA (1.09 logMAR, SD = 1.10) worsened to 1.19 logMAR, SD = 1.06 after treatment after treatment (P = 0.0193). The improvement in BCVA when compared between the three groups was not significant. Conclusion: Both erythropoietin and steroids are effective in the management of traumatic optic neuropathy. However, erythropoietin shows lesser or no side effects when compared to steroids
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Introduction:SGLT2i is a new class of drugs used for type 2 diabetes. SGLT2i are known to cause EuKA in the perioperative period. Euglycemic ketoacidosis (EuKA) can cause life?threatening metabolic acidosis in the perioperative setting. Though the event rate of SGLT2i associated diabetic ketoacidosis in nonoperative setting is low, incidence among peri?operative patients can be very high and remains unknown. Aim: The aim of this study was to find the incidence, analyze outcome, and establish correlation between risk factors and EuKA in cardiac surgical patients on SGLT2i. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective study analyzing 24 cardiac surgical patients who were on SGLT2i for type 2 diabetes mellitus. Data collection included age, sex, BMI, preoperative HbA1C, albumin, creatinine, type of SGLT2i and timing of stopping before surgery, insulin administration in the immediate pre?operative period; use of CPB, GI infusion and inotropes in the intraoperative period; blood ketone, duration of ventilation, hydration status and length of postoperative stay in postoperative period. Patients were diagnosed to have EuKA if any one of the serially measured postoperative ketone values was more than 0.6 mmol/L(ketone positive). The collected data were used to find an association between the risk factors and the occurrence of EuKA. Results: Of the 24 patients, 17 patients developed EuKA. (70.8.%). 10 of the 17 EuKA in our study required preoperative Insulin for diabetic control whereas none in the ketone negative patients required insulin. This was statistically significant (P = 0.019). Association of other factors to EuKA were not statistically significant. Conclusion: Though the event rate of SGLT2i associated Diabetic ketoacidosis in nonoperative setting is low, (17), the occurrence of EUKA in cardiac surgical patients on SGLT2i in our study was 70.8% (17 out of 24 patients). Patients who require insulin in addition to other oral hypoglycemic drugs for immediate preoperative glycemic control are at risk for the development of SGLT2 inhibitor?induced EuKA postoperatively. Missing the diagnosis of EuKA is fatal in these patients. We couldn’t make a diagnosis in our first patient whom we lost. Since it was diagnosed in all our study patients by measuring serial ketone values, there was no mortality and insignificant morbidity. Cessation of SGLT2i before surgery, expectant watch for blood ketones, and treatment with GI infusion reduce morbidity and mortality in cardiac surgical patients.
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Objective:To report our initial experience with on?table extubation following cardiac surgery for congenital heart disease, assessing its efficacy and safety, and the potential for fast?tracking these patients through the intensive care unit (ICU). Methods: We decided to implement a multidisciplinary protocol aiming toward on?table extubation following congenital cardiac surgery at our hospital. Between December 2018 and January 2020, 376 patients underwent congenital cardiac surgery. The management strategy involved choosing the patients preoperatively, a specific anesthetic technique, application of a standard extubation protocol, multidisciplinary team approach, and perioperative echocardiogram for assessment of surgical repair. Relevant data were collected and analyzed. Results: Out of the 376 patients who underwent congenital cardiac surgery during the study period, 44 patients were extubated on?table. Although a majority of these patients belonged to Risk Adjustment for Congenital Heart Surgery?1 score (RACHS?1) 1 and 2 categories, 18% of the patients who were extubated on?table were of RACHS?3 category. This included a wide spectrum of anatomical substrates such as endocardial cushion defects, pulmonary venous anomalies, single ventricle physiology, valvular defects, and others such as cor triatriatum and sinus of Valsalva aneurysm. There was no in?hospital mortality related to on?table extubation. Only one patient was reintubated following on?table extubation resulting in a reintubation rate of 2.27% among those patients extubated on?table. The patients extubated on?table had a shorter ICU stay (25.89 ± 7.20 h) compared with those patients who underwent delayed extubation (59.30 ± 6.80 h). The duration of the hospital stay was also significantly reduced in these patients (91.09 ± 20.40 h) leading to an earlier discharge compared with those patients who underwent delayed extubation (134.40 ± 16.20 h). Conclusion: On?table extubation is an attractive alternative in limited?resource environments to enhance recovery in patients following congenital cardiac malformations. Owing to the lack of significant comorbidities such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in this patient population, corrective surgery for cardiac malformation usually optimizes the cardiorespiratory status. This results in more chances of successful extubation immediately following surgery. However, this requires proper perioperative planning, a careful discussion about the choice of patients, adoption of an extubation protocol, and most importantly, a multidisciplinary team approach. It is associated with low morbidity and mortality, with reduced length of stay in the ICU and hospital. This preliminary study demonstrated that on?table extubation is feasible following congenital cardiac surgery at our center and greatly reduces the intensive care requirements. This article focuses mainly on the decision?making process which determines the ideal candidates for on?table extubation and the anesthetic protocol implemented in a low?resource environment to enable the same
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Abstract Introduction Psychoeducational counselling and residual inhibition therapy (RIT) are traditional approaches used in many clinics to manage tinnitus. However, neurophysiological studies to evaluate posttreatment perceptual and functional cortical changes in humans are scarce. Objectives The present study aims to explore whether cortical auditory-evoked potentials (CAEPs; N1 and P3) reflect the effect of modified RIT and psychoeducational counselling, and whether there is a correlation between the behavioral and electrophysiological measures. Methods Ten participants with continuous and bothersome tinnitus underwent a session of psychoeducational counselling and modified RIT. Perceptual measures and CAEPs were recorded pre- and posttreatment. Further, the posttreatment measures were compared with age and gender-matched historical control groups. Results Subjectively, 80% of the participants reported a reduction in the loudness of their tinnitus. Objectively, there wasasignificant reductioninthe posttreatment amplitude of N1 and P3, with no alterations in latency. There was no correlation between the perceived difference in tinnitus loudness and the difference in P3 amplitude (at Pz). Conclusion The perceptual and functional (as evidenced by sensory, N1, and cognitive, P3 reduction) changes after a single session of RIT and psychoeducational counselling are suggestive of plastic changes at the cortical level. The current study serves as preliminary evidence that event-related potentials (ERPs) can be used to quantify the physiological changes that occur after the intervention for tinnitus.
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Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare and analyze the endothelial cell loss during manual small-incision cataract surgery (MSICS) using the viscoelastic-assisted nucleus removal versus basal salt solution plus technique. Methods: This was a prospective randomized trial of 204 patients who underwent MSICS using viscoelastic-assisted nucleus removal (Group 1- OVD) versus basal salt solution plus technique (Group 2- BSS) at a tertiary eye care hospital in North India from January 2018 to 2021. Of these 204 patients, 103 (50.5%) and 101 (49.5%) were allocated to Group 1 and 2, respectively. The parameters assessed were detailed history, demographics, and anterior and posterior segment details. Visual acuity, intraocular pressure (IOP), keratometry, pachymetry, and endothelial cell density were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively on day 1 and 30. Results: The mean age of the patients was 64.5 � 8.2 years (range 48� years). There were 129 (63.2%) males and 75 (36.8%) females. The mean LogMAR visual acuity for both groups on day 1 (Group 1- 0.3 � 0.1, Group 2- 0.5 � 0.2) and day 30 (Group 1- 0.1 � 0.2, Group 2- 0.1 � 0.1) was statistically significant (P < 0.001), and the mean IOP value showed a statistically significant value (P < 0.009) on day 1 in Group 2 (15.0 � 2.4 mmHg) and on day 30 (P < 0.001) in both the groups (Group 1- 13.6 � 1.8 mmHg, Group 2- 13.5 � 2 mmHg). The horizontal and vertical k values also showed a statistically significant difference on day 1 and day 30 (P < 0.001). The mean percentage change of central corneal thickness (CCT) in Group 1 was 17.7% and in Group 2 was 17.4% on day 1, and it was 1.1% on day 30 in both the groups, which was statistically significant (P < 0.001) compared to preoperative values. The percentage change in endothelial cell density on day 1 was 9% in Group 1 and 4.6% in Group 2, which was statistically significant (P < 0.001). On day 30, it was 9.7% and 4.8%, respectively, which was statistically significant (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Our study highlights statistically significant endothelial cell loss with viscoelastic-assisted nuclear delivery compared to BSS-assisted nuclear delivery during MSICS in a short follow-up of 1 month. The CCT values showed a slight increase, and the keratometry and IOP were unaffected compared to the preoperative parameters in both the groups
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Mammary analogue secretory carcinoma (MASC) is an unusual and rare salivary gland malignancy that recapitulates the genetic and microscopic features of secretory carcinoma of the breast (SCB) which is an equally rare entity. MASC and SCB express S-100 protein, vimentin, mammaglobin, and harbor a t (12; 15) (p13; q25) translocation which leads to ETV6-NTRK3 fusion product. The morphology of MASC is not specific and can overlap with many salivary gland tumors. S100 and mammaglobin抯 strong positivity confirm the diagnosis of MASC. The morphology along with immunohistochemical findings provides important clues for diagnosis. Recent advances in molecular pathology help in investigating both differential diagnosis and prognosis in salivary gland oncology. Molecular testing is recommended to arrive at a diagnosis of MASC. We report a case of MASC of the parotid gland in a 47-year-old male patient with his immunohistochemical profile.
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Background: Due to the rigorous academic standards and demanding professionals, the medical field is thought to be a stressful subject of study. This has a negative impact on the student’s mental and physical health. The long-term effects of this study will have an impact on identifying major issues that our students are facing, which will ultimately improve the level of medical treatment offered by future doctors. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from October to December 2020 at a tertiary care institution in Tamil Nadu, India for three months. After getting the necessary ethical permissions from the institution with reference number GEMC/2020/002, the undergraduate students from the first year to the internship were included in the study. Results: The educational status of the students indicated that around 147 (31.1%) of respondents belonged in the first year. The mean + Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was observed to be 6.33 + 2.13, where undesirable sleep quality was predominant among 370 (78.3%) of the respondents with a p-value of less than 0.0001. The majority of the students (70.1%) have normal levels of stress which were significant with a p-value of 0.0027. Conclusion: Medical students experience poor sleep and ongoing stress, which can result in harmful behaviors like overindulging in junk food and a reduced likelihood of exercising. They are undeniably more prone to developing chronic illnesses. If these issues are not addressed, they will affect the medical care that is given to their incoming patients.
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Perimenopause is the transition period from reproductive to non-reproductive phase. It usually begins with menstrual cycle irregularity and extends to one year after permanent cessation of menstruation. There is manifestation of varied physical, psychological and somatic symptoms. Menopause may be correlated to Rajakshaya. It usually occurs as part of the ageing process and is the period of transition from Pitta predominant middle age to vata predominant old age. Treatment in modern medicine includes hormone replacement therapy and use of anti-depressants etc. Acharyas mention Jara among Swabhavabala pravritta Vyadhi, and its management is to be done with drugs having Rasayana property. Here we present a 48-year-old lady who presented with complaints of hot flushes, severe sweating especially during night hours, reduced sleep, irritability, multiple joint pain, loss of interest in most daily activities and stress incontinence. Vayasthapana gana was administered as Ksheerapaka. Vayasthapana gana include ten drugs which are Rasayana, Medhya, Tridosha samana and possess anti-oxidant, free radical scavenging and anti-stress activity. Ksheera is Vata pitta samana, Rasayana, and Jeevaneeya. Vayasthapana gana ksheerapaka is given in the dose of 48ml twice daily one hour before food for thirty days. After treatment intensity of these symptoms were reduced. Follow up was done thirty days after stopping the medication, here also intensity of these symptoms remained less when compared to before treatment. Here we reviewed the probable role of Vayasthapana gana ksheerapaka in alleviating perimenopausal symptoms.
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Vulvovaginal candidiasis is an infection caused by yeast like micro organisms called candida albicans. It is the second most common cause of vaginitis affecting women of reproductive age group. It is most distressing and irritating to women, hampers their day to day life and makes them irritable, depressed, anxious and disturbs their interpersonal relationships including marital life. In vulvovaginal candidiasis patients complain of vaginal discharge with intense vulvovaginal pruritus. The pruritus is out of proportion to the discharge. The symptoms of vulvovaginal candidiasis appear similar to the symptoms of Slaishmiki yoni vyapath mentioned in Ayurvedic classics. It is due to the vitiation of Kapha caused by usage of Abishyandi aharas and has symptoms like Pichila yonisrava, Kandu, Alpa vedhana or Avedhana in Yoni. Topical treatments have great importance in the treatment of several gynecological conditions (Yoni vyapaths). Yoni varti or vaginal pessary is used to cleanse the vaginal walls and make the local environment more healthy. It acts directly on the vaginal mucosa and enables easier and target specific action. They are also hygroscopic in property and act in accordance with the drugs they contain. Kandughna gana varti have Tiktha, Kashaya rasa, Laghu, Ruksha guna, Krimighna, Kandughna and Kaphaghna properties and all the ingredients have potent antifungal action also. This facilitates faster absorption of drugs through vaginal mucosa and relieves the symptoms more quickly. A pilot study was conducted in 5 cases to assess the effect of Kandughna gana varti in vulvovaginal candidiasis. It was found to be effective in vaginal discharge and vulvovaginal pruritus.
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Uterine prolapse is a type of pelvic organ prolapse where the supporting pelvic structures of uterus weakens and result in descent of uterus from its normal position. Among them, Prasramsini can be most suitably correlated with 1st and 2nd degree uterine prolapse. The management principle of pelvic organ prolapse includes Vathika yoniroga chikitsa along with Sthanika chikitsa. Treatment mainly aims at Vathasamana, Brimhana, Sandhana, Balya and strengthening of pelvic floor musculature. Sthanika chikitsa like Yonilepana, Yonipurana, Pichu dharana, etc can be done in pelvic organ prolapse. In Sthanika chikitsa, medicines are applied intravaginally. Vaginal wall and adjacent tissues are extremely vascular and this facilitates absorption of drugs through vagina. Anatomically backward position of vagina helps in self retaining of drugs for a longer duration. In the present case, Yonilepa as Sthanika chikitsa was tried. A 56 year old lady was presented with complaints of urinary incontinence, low back ache, dyspareunia and feeling of mass per vaginum. On examination, she was diagnosed with 1st degree uterine descend. USG was done to exclude other pelvic pathologies. Pap smear was done which was – ve for intraepithelial lesion or malignancy. Lodhradi lepa was applied for 7 days in 3 consecutive months. During follow up, she was relieved from symptoms like feeling of mass per vaginum, urinary incontinence, low back ache and dyspareunia. From this case report, it is evident that Yoni lepa is effective for the management of uterine prolapse.
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Background: Tooth discoloration has become a common esthetic problem in recent years. Removal of stains by bleaching is well-documented. Low concentration home bleaching products are available in market in different forms and concentrations. Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate and compare the efficacy of low concentration commercially available home bleaching products (whitening strip, gel, and mouthwash) in removing stains and whitening the tooth using clinical and digital methods. Materials and Methods: Sixty permanent enamel samples mounted in an acrylic block were artificially stained and randomly divided into four groups. Negative control, 15 % Carbamide peroxide gel group, 2% Hydrogen 16 peroxide mouthwash group and 6% Hydrogen peroxide strip group respectively. The samples were bleached with respective agents according to the manufacturer's instructions. The efficacy on 7th and 14th day was evaluated clinically (SGU change), photographically (?E), and using quantitative light-induced fluorescence (?F). The data were analyzed using paired t-test and analysis of variance. Results: Postbleaching, 6% hydrogen peroxide strips and 15% carbamide peroxide gel showed maximum improvement (??F – 15.73 and 11.89, ?E – 19.8 and 18.9, respectively) when compared to 2% hydrogen peroxide mouthwash and negative control group (??F – 9.68 and 6.59, ?E – 15.04 and 9.44, respectively). The difference was statistically significant (P = 0.001). Conclusion: 6% hydrogen peroxide strips and 15% carbamide peroxide gel showed maximum improvement in stain removal and tooth whitening however, the strips showed better efficacy than the gel. Strips have the added advantage of lesser contact period, less salivary dilution, and no gingival contact. Therefore, strips can be a better alternative for gels and mouthwashes.