Feasibility of Goal-Directed Fluid Therapy in Patients with Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement - An Ambispective Analysis

ABSTRACT Introduction: Goal-directed fluid therapy (GDFT) has been shown to reduce postoperative complications. The feasibility of GDFT in transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) patients under general anesthesia has not yet been demonstrated. We examined whether GDFT could be applied in patients undergoing TAVR in general anesthesia and its impact on outcomes. Methods: Forty consecutive TAVR patients in the prospective intervention group with GDFT were compared to 40 retrospective TAVR patients without GDFT. Inclusion criteria were age ≥ 18 years, elective TAVR in general anesthesia, no participation in another interventional study. Exclusion criteria were lack of ability to consent study participation, pregnant or nursing patients, emergency procedures, preinterventional decubitus, tissue and/or extremity ischemia, peripheral arterial occlusive disease grade IV, atrial fibrillation or other severe heart rhythm disorder, necessity of usage of intra-aortic balloon pump. Stroke volume and stroke volume variation were determined with uncalibrated pulse contour analysis and optimized according to a predefined algorithm using 250 ml of hydroxyethyl starch. Results: Stroke volume could be increased by applying GDFT. The intervention group received more colloids and fewer crystalloids than control group. Total volume replacement did not differ. The incidence of overall complications as well as intensive care unit and hospital length of stay were comparable between both groups. GDFT was associated with a reduced incidence of delirium. Duration of anesthesia was shorter in the intervention group. Duration of the interventional procedure did not differ. Conclusion: GDFT in the intervention group was associated with a reduced incidence of postinterventional delirium.

Neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio, red cell distribution width and mean platelet volume as practical markers in febrile seizure classification / Proporção entre linfócitos e neutrófilos, amplitude de distribuição de hemácias e volume médio de plaquetas como marcadores práticos na classificação de convulsões febris

ABSTRACT Objective: To examine the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio, red cell distribution width and mean platelet volume in patients with febrile seizure and to determine their role in febrile seizure classification. Methods: This was a retrospective hospital-based study conducted among patients aged 5 to 72 months admitted with febrile seizure. Children who had febrile seizures due to upper respiratory tract infection were included in the study. The children were divided into two groups: simple febrile seizures and complex febrile seizures. Patients with a history of febrile status epilepticus, previous convulsions, use of antiepileptic or other chronic drugs, foci of infection other than the upper respiratory tract infection, abnormal biochemical parameters, and chronic mental or physical disease were excluded from the study. Clinical and laboratory findings of the patients were obtained from digital medical records. Results: The records of 112 febrile seizure patients were reviewed, and 89 were grouped as simple and 23 as complex febrile seizures. Although there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of the mean red cell distribution width values (p=0.703), neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio and mean platelet volume were significantly higher in patients with complex febrile seizures (p=0.034, p=0.037; respectively). Conclusions: This study showed that neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio and mean platelet volume could be practical and inexpensive clinical markers for febrile seizure classification. A similar result could not be reached for red cell distribution width in this study. These findings should be supported by multicenter studies with large samples.

RESUMO Objetivo: Examinar a relação linfócitos-neutrófilos, amplitude de distribuição de hemácias e volume médio de plaquetas em pacientes com convulsão febril, e determinar seu papel na classificação de convulsão febril. Métodos: Este foi um estudo retrospectivo de base hospitalar realizado com pacientes de 5 a 72 meses admitidos com convulsão febril. Crianças que tiveram convulsões febris em razão de infecção do trato respiratório superior foram incluídas no estudo. As crianças foram divididas em dois grupos: convulsões febris simples e complexas. Pacientes com história de Status epiléptico febril, convulsões prévias, uso de drogas antiepilépticas ou outras drogas crônicas, com focos de infecção que não a do trato respiratório superior, parâmetros bioquímicos anormais e doenças crônicas mentais ou físicas foram excluídos do estudo. Os achados clínicos e laboratoriais dos pacientes foram obtidos a partir dos prontuários médicos digitais. Resultados: Registros de 112 pacientes com convulsão febril foram revisados: 89 com convulsões febris simples e 23 com complexas. Embora não tenha havido diferença estatisticamente significativa entre os dois grupos em termos de valor médio de amplitude de distribuição de hemácias (p=0,703), a relação linfócitos-neutrófilos e o volume médio de plaquetas foram significativamente mais elevados em pacientes com convulsões febris simples (p=0,034, p=0,037; respectivamente). Conclusões: Este estudo mostrou que a relação linfócitos-neutrófilos e o volume médio de plaquetas podem ser marcadores clínicos práticos e de baixo custo para a classificação de convulsão febril. Um resultado semelhante não pôde ser alcançado para a amplitude de distribuição de hemácias neste estudo. Esses achados devem ser apoiados por estudos multicêntricos com grandes amostras.

Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Uses in Refractory Cardiogenic Shock After Open-Heart Surgery

ABSTRACT Introduction: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is the first-line therapy for temporary mechanical circulatory support allowing cardiac and pulmonary recovery or as a bridge to further therapeutic alternatives. The aim of this study was to report clinical outcomes in adult patients with refractory cardiac failure after open-heart surgery undergoing ECMO in a single center with an ECMO unit in Chile. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed adults with refractory cardiac failure after open-heart surgery who required a venoarterial (VA) ECMO between 2016 and 2021. Results: Of 16 patients with VA ECMO, 60% were men (n=10), 90% had hypertension (n=14), 69% had < 30% of left ventricular ejection fraction (n=11), and the mean European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation II score was 12 ± 11%. ECMO support with central cannulation accounts for 81% (n=13), and an intra-aortic balloon pump was used in nine patients (56%). The mean time of support was 4.7 ± 2.6 days (1.5 - 12 days). ECMO weaning was achieved in 88% of patients, and in-hospital mortality was 44% (n=7) after discharge. The freedom from all-cause mortality at one year of follow-up of the entire cohort was 38% (n=6). Conclusion: VA ECMO is now a well-known life-saving therapeutic option, but mortality and morbidity remain high. Implementation of an ECMO program with educational training is mandatory in order to find the proper balance between patient benefits, ethical considerations, and public health financial input in South America.

Application of valve removal technique in improved endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy / 国际眼科杂志(Guoji Yanke Zazhi)

AIM: To investigate the efficacy of valve removal technology in improved endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy.METHODS: Prospective randomized controlled study. A total of 92 patients(98 eyes)with nasolacrimal duct obstruction who underwent endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy in our hospital from November 2020 to September 2022 were selected as the study subjects and they were randomly divided into group A(traditional group)and group B(improved group). The nasal mucosal flap was preserved after incision of the nasal mucosa in group A, the lacrimal sac flap and nasal mucosal flap were trimmed to an appropriate shape after the incision of the lacrimal sac, and the lacrimal sac flap the nasal mucosal flap were matched up. Group B made a “□” shaped incision on the nasal mucosa to remove the complete square nasal mucosa tissue. After the lacrimal sac was incised, the lacrimal sac mucosa was preserved as much as possible, and then the residual nasal mucosa was trimmed to make the lacrimal sac flap close to but not in contact with the residual nasal mucosa. Furthermore, the intraoperative bleeding volume and surgical duration of two groups of patients were recorded, and follow up until 3 mo postoperative. Nasal endoscopy and lacrimal duct flushing examinations were performed at 1 and 3 mo postoperative, respectively. The proliferation of granulation tissue within 5 mm of the ostial postoperative and the therapeutic effect were observed.RESULTS: At 3 mo postoperatively, 6 patients(7 eyes)who were lost to follow-up were excluded. A total of 44 eyes were included in group A, and 47 eyes were included in group B. The bleeding volume [27.00(22.00, 41.00)mL] and the surgical duration [35.00(33.00, 42.00)min] in group B were significantly lower than those in the group A(P&#x0026;#x003C;0.001). At 1 mo postoperatively, granulation tissue hyperplasia was observed within 5 mm of the ostial in 12 eyes of group A. In group B, granulation tissue hyperplasia was observed within 5 mm of the ostial in 1 eye. At 3 mo postoperatively, there were 9 eyes in group A with ostial adhesions but incomplete closure, and 2 eyes with complete closure; group B had 1 eye with mild adhesions at the ostial site and no ostial closure. The postoperative complications in the group B were significantly less than those in the group A(P&#x0026;#x003C;0.05), and the therapeutic effect was better than that in the group A(P&#x0026;#x003C;0.05).CONCLUSION: The application of valve removal technology in improving endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy not only significantly reduces intraoperative bleeding and surgical duration, but also effectively reduces postoperative complications and improves surgical efficacy.

Effect of Bimaxillary Orthognathic Surgery on Pharyngeal Airway Volume / Efecto de Cirugía Ortognática Bimaxilar en el Volumen de la Vía Aérea Faríngea

SUMMARY: Subjects with maxillary skeletal classes II and III not only express alterations in the hard and soft maxillofacial tissues, but also in the morphology and dimensions of the upper airway. A small space in the upper airway has been associated with sleep disorders, such as snoring and mainly obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS). Consequently, interest has increased due to the influence of orthognathic surgery in the airway space. Although there are studies in the literature that have compared upper airway spaces, most have evaluated the changes using two-dimensional images, mainly lateral skull X-rays. The present study aimed to determine the airway volume in subjects with skeletal classes II and III who underwent bimaxillary orthognathic surgery. 80 CBCT exams from 40 subjects obtained before and 6 months after surgery were used. There were 20 class II and 20 class III subjects. For the volumetric analysis, a 3D rendering of the upper airway was made in previously established segments, and then the airway volume was calculated using the 3D Slicer® software version 4.11 (Slicer, USA). The statistical analysis by t-test of related samples revealed statistically significant volumetric increases in the nasopharynx, laryngopharynx, and total volume in class II patients. However, in class III patients, there were significant increases in the nasopharynx and total volume, while the volume was maintained in the oropharynx and laryngopharynx.

Sujetos con clases esqueletales II y III maxilares, no solamente expresan alteraciones en los tejidos duros y blandos maxilofaciales, sino también en la morfología y dimensiones de la vía aérea superior. Un espacio reducido a nivel de la vía aérea superior se asocia a trastornos del sueño como ronquidos y principalmente el síndrome de apnea/hipoapnea obstructiva del sueño (AOS); debido a esto, ha aumentado el interés por la influencia de la cirugía ortognática en el espacio de la vía aérea. Si bien existen en la literatura estudios que han comparado los espacios de la vía aérea superior, la mayoría de los estudios han evaluado los cambios utilizando imágenes bidimensionales, principalmente radiografías laterales de cráneo. El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar el volumen de la vía aérea en sujetos con clases esqueletales II y III sometidos a cirugía ortognática bimaxilar. Se utilizaron 80 exámenes CBCT pertenecientes a 40 sujetos obtenidos previo a la cirugía y 6 meses después de realizada. Veinte sujetos clase II y 20 clase III. Para el análisis volumétrico se realizó un renderizado 3D de la vía área superior en segmentos previamente establecidos y posteriormente se calculó el volumen de dicha vía aérea con la utilización del software 3D Slicer ®versión 4.11 (Slicer, USA). El análisis estadístico realizado por t-test de muestras relacionadas, arrojó en pacientes clase II aumentos volumétricos estadísticamente significativos en nasofaringe, laringofaringe y volumen total. Mientras que en pacientes clase III, se observó aumentos significativos en Nasofaringe y volumen total y mantención de volumen en orofaringe y laringofaringe.

Caracterización clínica de insuficiencia cardiaca en pacientes internados en el Instituto Nacional de Cardiología, Paraguay

Introducción: la insuficiencia cardiaca es una de las enfermedades cardiovasculares más prevalentes en la población general y el estadio obligatorio de todas las patologías cardiovasculares, la cual irá en aumento a medida que crezca la expectativa de vida de la población. Objetivo: determinar las características de pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca internados en el Instituto Nacional de Cardiología de Paraguay, durante un periodo de tres meses del año 2020. Metodología: estudio descriptivo de una muestra de 140 pacientes con diagnóstico de insuficiencia cardiaca. Los criterios para establecer este diagnóstico fueron clínicos y/o ecocardiográficos. Resultados: la media de edad fue 66 años, 57% del sexo masculino. El 88% de los pacientes presentaron hipertensión arterial. La etiología más frecuente fue la isquémica (26%), la mayoría consultó en clase funcional III y presentó fracción de eyección reducida, calculándose una prevalencia institucional 7,2%. Conclusión: el perfil del paciente con diagnóstico de insuficiencia cardiaca que consulta en este servicio es de un hombre de aproximadamente 66 años en clase funcional III, con fracción de eyección reducida y de etiología isquémica, cuyas patologías de base son hipertensión arterial y diabetes mellitus.

Introduction: Heart failure is one of the most prevalent cardiovascular diseases in the general population and the mandatory stage of all cardiovascular pathologies, which will increase as the life expectancy of the population grows. Objective: To determine the characteristics of patients with heart failure hospitalized at the National Institute of Cardiology of Paraguay, during a period of three months of the year 2020. Methodology: Descriptive study of a sample of 140 patients diagnosed with heart failure. The criteria to establish this diagnosis were clinical and/or echocardiographic. Results: The average age was 66 years, 57% male, and 88% of the patients had arterial hypertension. The most frequent etiology was ischemic (26%), the majority consulted in functional class III and presented reduced ejection fraction, calculating an institutional prevalence of 7.2%. Conclusion: The profile of the patient with a diagnosis of heart failure who consults in this service is that of a man of approximately 66 years old, in functional class III, with reduced ejection fraction and ischemic etiology, whose underlying pathologies are arterial hypertension and diabetes mellitus.

Insuficiencia cardiaca con fracción de eyección reducida: interrogantes comunes en la práctica médica

Introducción: la insuficiencia cardíaca es un síndrome clínico complejo con síntomas y signos que resultan de cualquier alteración estructural o funcional del llenado ventricular o la eyección de sangre. La prevalencia de insuficiencia cardiaca exhibe una variabilidad de 0,2% a 17,7% en naciones industrializadas Materiales y métodos: se realizó una revisión utilizando base de datos como: PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scielo, incluyendo estudios de tipo observacionales, artículos de revisión, ensayos clínicos, y guías clínicas sobre el manejo de pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca con fracción de eyección reducida. Resultados y conclusiones: la terapia en la insuficiencia cardíaca con fracción de eyección ventricular izquierda (FEVI) reducida busca contrarrestar los mecanismos deletéreos contrarreguladores. La disfunción sistólica del ventrículo izquierdo implica una FEVI ≤ 40%, mientras que la insuficiencia cardíaca se diagnostica por síntomas y signos de congestión, no solo por la FEVI. Los péptidos natriuréticos ayudan en el diagnóstico, pero niveles elevados pueden tener causas no cardíacas. La hipotensión arterial no contraindica el inicio del tratamiento farmacológico. La lesión renal aguda en estos pacientes indica un mal pronóstico, pero los diuréticos de asa de Henle pueden mejorar la función renal. Durante exacerbaciones agudas por insuficiencia cardiaca, no se deben suspender los medicamentos recomendados, ya que su continuidad reduce la mortalidad y las readmisiones. Terapias como la ivabradina, digoxina, hidralazina e isosorbida dinitrato no han demostrado beneficios en insuficiencia cardiaca y FEVI reducida. Sin embargo, vericiguat y omecamtiv mecarbil obtuvieron resultados significativos en reducción de muertes y hospitalizaciones por IC. Además, se recomienda el desfibrilador automático implantable para prevenir muerte cardíaca súbita. El uso de soporte mecánico circulatorio y el trasplante cardiaco debe ser considera en pacientes con IC avanzada que no responde adecuadamente al tratamiento farmacológico.

Introduction: Heart failure is a complex clinical syndrome with symptoms and signs resulting from any structural or functional alteration of ventricular filling or blood ejection. The prevalence of heart failure varies from 0.2% to 17.7% in industrialized nations. Materials and methods: A review was carried out using databases such as: PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scielo, including observational studies, review articles, clinical trials, and clinical guidelines on the management of patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. Results and conclusions: Therapy in heart failure with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) seeks to counteract deleterious counterregulatory mechanisms. Left ventricular systolic dysfunction implies an LVEF ≤ 40%, while heart failure is diagnosed by symptoms and signs of congestion, not LVEF alone. Natriuretic peptides aid in diagnosis, but elevated levels may have non-cardiac causes. Arterial hypotension does not contraindicate the start of pharmacological treatment. Acute kidney injury in these patients indicates a poor prognosis, but Henle loop diuretics may improve renal function. During acute exacerbations of heart failure, recommended medications should not be discontinued, because they reduce mortality and readmissions. Therapies such as ivabradine, digoxin, hydralazine, and isosorbide dinitrate have not demonstrated benefits in heart failure and reduced LVEF. However, vericiguat and omecamtiv mecarbil obtained significant results in reducing deaths and hospitalizations due to HF. Additionally, implantable cardioverter-defibrillator is recommended to prevent sudden cardiac death. The use of mechanical circulatory support and cardiac transplantation should be considered in patients with advanced HF that does not respond adequately to pharmacological treatment.

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF HAEMATOLOGICAL PARAMETERS AMONG INFREQUENT AND REGULAR REPEAT WHOLE BLOOD DONORS IN A TERTIARY CARE CENTRE-A PILOT STUDY

Blood transfusion service is a vital part of our health care system. Stringent blood donor screening and medical examination plays a vital role in maintaining the quality and safety of blood components. Voluntary non-remunerated blood donors form the backbone of blood transfusion services. However, regular donation by such voluntary donors may cause significant depletion of iron stores in the body. This has the potential to adversely affect the donor's health, and also to lower the quality of blood being collected subsequently. Even though a pre-donation hemoglobin estimation is routinely done in blood centres, it may fail to recognize subclinical iron store depletion. Testing Ferritin level of all donors is not cost effective and practical in resource limited centres. This study was aimed to identify any significant changes in hematological parameters over repeated blood donations, that may point towards a potential Iron deficiency in an otherwise healthy donor. This was a cross sectional study involving 138 whole blood donors who had attended the blood centre, Department of Transfusion Medicine, Government Medical college, Thiruvananthapuram. The study subjects were categorized into 2 groups based on the number of donations and a Complete blood count (CBC) was done for each group. Data was analyzed using SPSS software, quantitative variables expressed as Mean and Standard Deviation, p value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results were analysed by Independent Samples T test. Statistically significant variables were further analysed using Kruskal-Wallis test. Second time blood donors constituted major part of sample size (20/138). Mean Hemoglobin value showed no significant change among the two donor categories. Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) of repeat whole blood donors is significantly lower than infrequent donors independent samples T test, tvalue=3.309. (p-value=0.001). Donors were further subdivided into 5 groups in the order of increasing number of donations and significant difference was observed in MCV and proved by Kruskal-Wallis test(H=19.1344) As per our study, a significant reduction in MCV among repeat donors with a normal hemoglobin value compared to infrequent donors. This might point towards an impending Iron deficiency anemia in near future. A prompt detection of subclinical iron deficiency in voluntary blood donors is the need of the hour since it can cause adverse consequences in donor health and can considerably lower the donor availability as well. Blood centres should take measures like routine Iron stores evaluation of regular repeat donors, educating donors regarding the importance of maintaing a healthy diet, Iron tablet supplementation to prevent donor Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) etc.

Changes in brain gray matter volume in nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients after radiotherapy in long-term follow-up

Abstract Objectives The aim of this study was to examine the changes in gray matter in nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients with normal hearing (Group 1) and nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients with hearing loss (Group 2) after radiotherapy using voxel-based morphological analysis and to analyze the relationship with the radiation doses of the temporal lobe. Methods 21 patients in Group 1, 14 patients in Group 2, and 21 healthy volunteers were selected. All participants underwent an otologic examination and three-dimensional magnetization preparatory rapid acquisition gradient echo sequence scan. The correlation between the variation of whole brain gray matter volume and the doses of the temporal lobe was analyzed by Data Processing & Analysis for Brain Imaging software. Results Compared with the normal control group, the brain areas with reduced gray matter volume in nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients after radiotherapy were mainly in the left posterior cerebellar lobe (T = −8.797), left insular lobe (T = −7.96), and the right insular lobe (T = −6.632). Compared to Group 1, the brain areas of Group 2 patients with reduced gray matter volume were mainly in the left superior temporal gyrus (T = −2.366), left olfactory bulb (T = −2.52), left Rolandic operculum (T = −2.431), and right olfactory bulb (T = −3.100). Compared with Group 1, the brain areas of Group 2 patients with increased gray matter volume were mainly in the left calcarine sulcus (T = 3.425) and right calcarine sulcus (T = 3.169). There were no correlations between the changes of brain gray matter volume and the radiation doses of the temporal lobe in both Group 1 and Group 2. Conclusions The radiotherapy may cause the changes of brain areas associated with cognitive function in nasopharyngeal carcinoma in a long-term follow-up. At the same time, nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients with the radiation-induced hearing loss had abnormal gray matter volumes in the auditory center and other sensory centers. Our findings might provide new understanding into the pathogenesis of radiation-induced brain damage in normal-appearing brain tissue. Yet this exploratory study should be taken with caution.

The effect of primary tumor volume on the prognosis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma in era of volumetric modulated arc therapy: a propensity score matched cohort study

Abstract Objective The role of Primary Tumor Volume (PTV) in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma (NPC) treated with Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT) is still unclear. The aim of this study was to access the effect of PTV in prognosis prediction of nasopharyngeal carcinoma in era of VMAT. Methods Between January 20 and November 2011, 498 consecutive NPC patients with stage I-IVA disease who received VMAT at a single center were retrospectively analyzed. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) was performed to access the cut-off point of PTV. Univariate Kaplan-Meier and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to evaluate prognostic value for PTV. The Propensity Score Matching (PSM) was used to adjust baseline potential confounders. Results The 5-year Locol-Regional Failure-Free (L-FFR), Distant Failure-Free Survival (D-FFR), Disease-Free Survival (DFS) and Overall Survival (OS) were 90.6%, 83.7%, 71.5% and 79.3%, respectively. Before PSM, the 5-year L-FFR, D-FFR, DFS, OS rates for NPC patients with PTV ≤ 38 mL vs. PTV > 38 mL were 94.1% vs. 90.4% (p= 0.063), 87.9% vs. 76.3% (p< 0.001), 78.5% vs. 58.5% (p< 0.001) and 86.3% vs. 66.7% (p< 0.001) respectively. Multivariate analysis showed PTV was an independent prognostic factor for D-FFS (p= 0.034), DFS (p= 0.002) and OS (p= 0.001). PTV classified was still an independent prognostic factor for OS after PSM (HR = 2.034, p= 0.025. Conclusions PTV had a substantial impact on the prognosis of NPC patients treated with VMAT before and after PSM simultaneously. PTV > 38 mL may be considered as an indicator of the clinical stage of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Level of evidence III.

Factores clínico-ecocardiográficos de terapéutica fallida en síndrome coronario agudo y fibrilación auricular paroxística

Introducción: la fibrilación auricular es la taquiarritmia sostenida más frecuente del ser humano. Su manejo requiere un abordaje holístico para que los resultados sean óptimos, por lo que se considera la epidemia cardiovascular del siglo XXI. Objetivo: establecer las variables ecocardiográficas asociadas al fracaso de la cardioversión en pacientes con diagnóstico clínico de fibrilación auricular y síndrome coronario agudo. Materiales y métodos: se realizó un estudio retrospectivo, analítico, no experimental de casos y controles en pacientes con fibrilación auricular y síndrome coronario agudo, durante el período comprendido entre los años 2017 y 2021. Resultados: la cardioversión eléctrica se observó en 55 pacientes (68,8 %) (OR = 0,24; IC 95 %: 0,08-0,7; p = 0,008). La terapia trombolítica se aplicó en 47 pacientes (58,8 %) (OR = 5,03; IC 95 %: 1,67-15,12; p = 0,0026). En cuanto a parámetros ecocardiográficos, la variable volumen de la aurícula izquierda ≥ 34 ml/sc predominó en 50 pacientes (62,5 %) (OR = 3,5; IC 95 %: 1,22-10,04; p = 0,016); la presión de la aurícula izquierda > 15 mmHg en 23 pacientes (OR = 3,61; IC 95 %: 1,23-10,54; p = 0,015), y el diámetro del ventrículo izquierdo > 57 mm en 20 pacientes (OR = 4,33; IC 95 %: 1,35-13,87; p = 0,009). Conclusiones: el volumen de la aurícula izquierda elevada, la presión de aurícula izquierda, el diámetro del ventrículo izquierdo, la terapia eléctrica y trombolítica, se asocian al fracaso de la cardioversión en pacientes con fibrilación auricular e infarto agudo de miocardio.

Introduction: atrial fibrillation is the most frequent sustained tachyarrhythmia in humans. Its management requires a holistic approach for the results to be optimal; it is considered the cardiovascular epidemics of the 21st century. Objective: to establish echo-cardiographic variables associated with cardioversion failure in patients with clinical diagnosis of atrial fibrillation and acute coronary syndrome. Materials and methods: a retrospective, analytical, non-experimental study of cases and controls was carried out in patients with atrial fibrillation and acute coronary syndrome, during the period between 2017 and 2021. Results: electrical cardioversion was observed in 55 patients (68.8%) (OR = 0.24; CI 95%: 0.08-0.7; p = 0.008). Thrombolytic therapy was applied in 47 patients (58.8%) (OR = 5.03; CI 95%: 1.67-15.12; p = 0.0026). Regarding echocardiographic parameters, the variable left atrial volume ≥ 34 ml/sc predominated in 50 patients (62.5%) (OR = 3.5; CI 95%: 1.22-10.04; p = 0.016); left atrial pressure > 15 mmHg predominated in 23 patients (OR = 3.61; CI 95%: 1.23-10.54; p = 0.015), and left ventricular diameter > 57 mm in 20 patients (OR = 4.33; CI 95%: 1.35-13.87; p = 0.009). Conclusions: elevated left atrial volume, left atrial pressure, and left ventricular diameter, electric and thrombolytic therapy, are all associated to cardioversion failure in patients with atrial fibrillation and acute myocardial infarction.

Clinical profile of spontaneous cerebellar hemorrhage - An original article

Spontaneous cerebellar hemorrhages are rare when compared to cerebral hemorrhages. They are characterized by occipital headache, repeated vomiting, and ataxia of gait. In mild cases there may be only gait ataxia. There may be Dizziness or vertigo, paresis of conjugate lateral gaze towards the side of the lesion, forced deviation of the eyes to the opposite side, or an ipsilateral sixth nerve palsy, blepharospasm, and skew deviation. Dysarthria and dysphagia may occur. The patient often becomes stuporous and then comatose from brainstem compression or obstructive hydrocephalus; immediate surgical evacuation before brainstem compression occurs, may be lifesaving. The introduction of computed tomography (CT) scan, had brought about a sea change in diagnosis and management. The most significant prognostic factors determining the outcome at one month were the grade of quadrigeminal cistern obliteration on the initial CT scan and the Glasgow Coma Scale on admission. The introduction of drugs like nimodepine made all the difference in the outcomes. We hereby share our experience in managing 12 cases of spontaneous cerebellar hemorrhage.

Analysis of Set Up Margin Required during Delivery of Conformal Radiotherapy in Head and Neck Malignancy Using On Board Imaging: Experience from Tertiary Care Center

Background : Adequate dose to Clinical Target Volume is needed to control tumour and to deliver adequate dose without missing the target, this Clinical Target Volume must be encompassed by two margins for uncertainties; first, Internal margin uncertainties and second, set up margin uncertainty will form Planning Target Volume. Three mm setup error of couch location resulted in 38% decrease of minimum target radiation dose and 42 % increase of minimal Spinal Cord and Parotid Gland radiation dose. Aims and Objectives : Objectives of this retrospective study are, before implementation of high precession radiotherapy technique for Head and Neck Malignancy, we want determine optimal 3-dimensional Clinical Target Volume to planning target volume margin and to assess our setup accuracy in our institute, NRS Medical College & Hospital, Kolkata. Material and Methods : We analyzed retrospectively set up error from 691 set Cone Beam CT images of 94 patients. According to Standard Guidelines Target Volume delineated and for creation Clinical Target Volume to Planning target volume margin, we have used 5-7 mm margin around Clinical Target Volume. Results : In 99% patients’ setup deviation were within 0.5 cm. The population systematic error (?) in in Super Inferior; mediolateral; and anterior posterior direction were 0.13 cm, 0.12 cm and 0.14 cm respectively. The population random error in Super Inferior; mediolateral; and anterior posterior direction were 0.021 cm, 0.022 cm and 0.173 cm respectively. Using van Herk formula Clinical Target Volume to Planning Target Volume margin in Super Inferior; mediolateral; and anterior posterior direction were 0.34, 0.47 and 0.32 cm respectively. Corresponding values with Stroom formula 0.28, 0.40 and 0.26 cm respectively. Conclusions : In our study Set up margin of 5mm all around the CTV to create PTV is found to be safe and adequete

Relación entre dimensiones antropométricas de tronco y valores de espirometría / Association between anthropometric dimensions of trunk and spirometry indices

Los objetivos del presente estudio fueron primero evaluar la asociación de dimensiones antropométricas de tórax y tronco con índices espirométricos, segundo, ajustar una ecuación de predicción con dimensiones antropométricas de tronco y tercero, comparar nuestro modelo predictivo con dos ecuaciones diagnósticas. Se evaluaron 59 estudiantes universitarios entre 20 y 40 años, de ambos sexos, sin hábito tabáquico. Las variables consideradas fueron: edad, sexo, peso, estatura, diámetro transverso de tórax, diámetro anteroposterior de tórax, perímetro de tórax, altura de tórax, altura de tronco, flujo espiratorio máximo (FEM), volumen espiratorio forzado en el primer segundo (VEF1) y capacidad vital forzada (CVF). Se utilizó el análisis de regresión múltiple para estimar los valores espirométricos en función de las variables demográficas y antropométricas. La CVF y el VEF1 tienen asociación lineal directa con el diámetro transverso de tórax, altura de tórax, perímetro de tórax y altura de tronco. Se ajustó una ecuación de regresión lineal múltiple que indicó que es posible estimar la CVF y el VEF11 en función de la altura de tronco y el perímetro de tórax para ambos sexos. Estas variables son capaces de explicar el 74 % de los valores de CVF y el 68 % de los valores de VEF1. Al comparar los valores obtenidos por nuestras ecuaciones predictivas con las ecuaciones de referencia nacional observamos que nuestros resultados son más cercanos a los de Quanjer et al. (2012) que a los de Knudson et al. (1983). La altura de tronco y el perímetro de tórax tienen asociación directa con el VEF1 y CVF y son buenos predictores del VEF1 y CVF en estudiantes universitarios. Nuestros valores estimados son más cercanos a las ecuaciones de Quanjer et al. (2012) en comparación a las estimaciones de Knudson (1983).

SUMMARY: The purposes of the present study were first to evaluate the association between anthropometric dimensions of the thorax and trunk with spirometric indices, second, to fit a prediction equation with anthropometric dimensions of the trunk, and third, to compare our predictive model with two diagnostic equations. Fifty-nine university students between 20 and 40 years old, of both sexes and non-smokers were recruited. Variables considered were age, sex, weight, height, chest transverse diameter, chest anteroposterior diameter, chest perimeter, chest height, trunk height, maximum expiratory flow (PEF), forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC). Multiple regression analysis was used to estimate spirometric values based on demographic and anthropometric variables. FVC and FEV1 have a direct linear association with chest transverse diameter, chest height, chest circumference, and trunk height. A multiple linear regression equation was fitted, indicating that it is possible to estimate FVC and FEV1 as a function of trunk height and chest girth for both sexes. These variables can explain 74% of the FVC values and 68% of the FEV1 values. Comparing the values obtained by our predictive equations with the national reference equations, we observe that our results are closer to those of Quanjer et al. (2012) than to those of Knudson et al. (1983). Trunk height and chest circumference have a direct association with FEV1 and FVC and are good predictors of FEV1 and FVC in university students. Our estimated values are closer to Quanjer et al. (2012) than Knudson et al. (1983) prediction equations.

Evaluation of changes in anterior segment morphology using Sirius Scheimpflug-Placido disk topographer following laser peripheral iridotomy in primary angle-closure disease

Purpose: To assess the morphological changes in the anterior segment following laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI) in primary angle?closure disease (PACD) using Sirius Scheimpflug?Placido disk corneal topographer. Methods: This was a prospective observational study. A total of 52 eyes of 27 patients with PACD who underwent LPI were analyzed for iridocorneal angle (ICA), anterior chamber depth (ACD), anterior chamber volume (ACV), horizontal visible iris diameter (HVID), corneal volume (CV), central corneal thickness (CCT), and horizontal anterior chamber diameter (HACD) 1 week following LPI, using Sirius Scheimpflug?Placido disk corneal topographer. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 19.0, and paired t?test was used to assess the statistical significance. Results: Laser peripheral iridotomy was performed in 43 eyes with primary angle?closure suspect (PACS), six eyes with primary angle closure (PAC), and three eyes with primary angle?closure glaucoma (PACG). The analysis of the data showed statistically significant changes in anterior segment parameters of ICA, ACD, and ACV. Post?laser increase in ICA from 34.13° ± 2.64° to 34.75° ± 2.84° (P < 0.041), mean ACD increase from 2.21 ± 0.25 to 2.35 ± 0.27 mm (P = 0.01), and mean ACV increase from 98.19 ± 12.13 to 104.15 ± 11.16 mm3 (P = 0.001) were noted. Conclusion: Significantly quantifiable short?term changes in the anterior chamber parameters of ICA, ACD, and AC volume were seen after LPI in patients with PACD on Sirius Scheimpflug?Placido disc corneal topographer.

Screening Parameters for COPD-OSA Overlap Syndrome in COPD Patients: Indian Perspective

Introduction: As Indian patients have different predisposing morphological characteristics, we undertook this study to evaluate the clinical profile of overlap syndrome and compare them with COPD patients to find out the screening tools for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in Indian chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. Aims and objectives: • To study the clinical profile of patients with overlap syndrome. • To compare them with COPD patients. • To develop screening tools for overlap syndrome in COPD. Materials and methods: A prospective case-control study was carried out in a tertiary care center. Overnight pulse oximetry was carried out for all COPD patients. Those having snoring or saw-tooth pattern on overnight oximetry were subjected to level 1 polysomnography. About 30 patients of overlap syndrome were compared with 65 COPD patients. Results: The mean age in overlap syndrome group (56.9 ± 6.86 years) was significantly lower (p < 0.01). The daytime PaO2 and lowest nocturnal saturation were significantly lower in overlap group. PaCO2 and forced expiratory volume at 1 second (FEV1) were significantly higher. For diagnosing overlap syndrome, the positive and the negative predictive values of snoring were 84.42 and 100%; of body mass index (BMI) ?25 kg/m2 were 86.67 and 98.88%; and of excessive daytime sleepiness were 37.57 and 97.86%, respectively. Conclusion: Absence of snoring and BMI <25 kg/m2 virtually rules out overlap syndrome. The EDS has a high false-positive rate for predicting OSA. Patients having overlap syndrome have poor daytime and nocturnal oxygenation despite good lung functions.

Testicular Volume of Boys Aged 5-17 Years in Relation to Sexual Maturity Rating and Clinical Onset of Puberty in an Urban Setting in Gujarat, India

Background : Assessment of Sexual Maturity Rating and Testicular Volume are indispensable in the routine assessment of puberty in boys. There is paucity of data in Indian population for Testicular Volume particularly in early adolescence. Aims : The aims of the study were to collect data for testicular volume,correlate testicular volume with Sexual Maturity Rating (SMR) and the clinical onset of puberty; and to identify Testicular abnormalities in boys aged 5 to 17 years in an Urban setting in Gujarat, India. Materials and Methods : A prospective observational study was undertaken in boys aged5 to 17years of age from Gujarat from April, 2019 to August, 2019. Mean Testicular Volume was measured with a Prader抯 orchidometer. Parameters like Age, Weight and Height were also measured and Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated. Pubertal stage was categorized using Tanner staging. Data was statistically analyzed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS software. Results : 977 boys were included in the study. Mean age at SMR stage 2 was 11.22 years. SMR stage 2 was earliest seen at 6 years and latest at 15 years of age. 15% of boys in pre-adolescence, 60% in early adolescence and 94% in middle adolescence showed changes of Puberty. Precocious puberty was detected in 33 boys (3.38%). Delayed Puberty was detected in 4 boys (0.4%) and Undescended Testes in 4 boys (0.4%). Testicular Volume showed positive correlation with Weight, Height and BMI.

Índice neutrófilo/linfocito en anestesia general con ventilación controlada por volumen versus ventilación controlada por presión: ensayo clínico aleatorizado / Neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio in general anesthesia with volume-controlled ventilation versus pressure-controlled ventilation: a randomized clinical trial

Resumen: Introducción: se ha demostrado que la ventilación mecánica induce la producción de citocinas proinflamatorias. El IN/L es un parámetro sencillo que se utiliza para evaluar el estado inflamatorio. Objetivo: comparar los promedios y porcentajes del índice neutrófilo/linfocito (IN/L) elevado, entre pacientes con anestesia general con ventilación mecánica controlada por volumen (VMCV) y ventilación mecánica controlada por presión (VMCP). Material y métodos: se seleccionaron adultos ≥ 18 años, ASA I-III con cirugía electiva y anestesia general. Ensayo clínico aleatorizado: 25 pacientes con VMCV y 25 con VMCP. A todos los pacientes se les determinó dos biometrías hemáticas: antes y 2 horas después de la cirugía. El IN/L fue medido en forma de razón y dicotómica (< 3 o ≥ 3). Análisis estadístico: se utilizaron las pruebas t de Student, χ2 y McNemar. Resultados: se estudiaron 50 pacientes (27 mujeres y 23 hombres) con un promedio de edad de 47 ± 16 años. El grupo de VMCV tuvo tendencia a presentar valores más bajos de promedios y porcentajes IN/L; sin embargo, no fue estadísticamente significativa (p = 0.06). En la comparación pareada ambos grupos presentaron incremento estadísticamente significativo de los promedios y porcentajes de IN/L. No obstante, el porcentaje de IN/L > 3 en el grupo de VMCP fue de 64%, mientras que en el grupo de VMCV fue de 40%. Conclusiones: la VMCV presenta promedios y porcentajes más bajos del IN/L comparados con VMCP; sin embargo, no fueron estadísticamente significativos.

Abstract: Introduction: it has been shown that mechanical ventilation induces production of proinflammatory cytokines. The Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (N/L r) is a simple parameter that is used to assess the inflammatory state. Objective: to compare the means and percentages of elevated neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (N/L r) in patients under general anesthesia with volume-controlled mechanical ventilation (VCMV) and pressure-controlled mechanical ventilation (PCMV). Material and methods: adults ≥ 18 years old, ASA I-III, with elective surgery and general anesthesia. Randomized clinical trial: 25 patients with VCMV and 25 with PCMV. All patients had two blood counts determined: before and 2 hours after surgery. N/L r was measured as a ratio and dichotomous (< 3 or ≥ 3). Statistical analysis: the t-Student, χ2 and McNemar tests were used. Results: 50 patients (27 women and 23 men) with a mean age of 47 ± 16 years (range 18-84 years) were studied. The VCMV group tended to present lower values of means and percentages N/L r, however, it was not statistically significant (p = 0.06). In the paired comparison, both groups presented a statistically significant increase in the means and percentages of N/L r. However, the percentage of N/L r > 3 in the PCMV group was 64%, while in the VCMV group it was 40%. Conclusions: the VCMV presents lower means and percentages of N/L r compared to PCMV, however, they were not statistically significant.

Relationship between optical coherence tomography findings and clinical variables in patients with opiate use disorder / Relação entre os achados da tomografia de coerência óptica e as variáveis clínicas em pacientes com transtorno por uso de opiáceos

ABSTRACT Purpose: This study aimed to examine optical coherence tomography findings in patients with opiate use disorder by comparing them with healthy controls. Methods: The study included 30 opiate use disorder patients and 30 controls. The participants' detailed biomicroscopic examinations, visual acuity, intraocular pressure, and both eye examinations were evaluated. A total of 120 eyes were evaluated using optical coherence tomography, measuring the central macular thickness, mean macular thickness, mean macular volume and retinal nerve fiber layer thickness. Moreover, all participants filled in the demographic data form and Barratt Impulsiveness Scale. Results: Upon examination of the optical coherence tomography findings, central macular thickness, mean macular thickness, and mean macular volume were thinner in both eyes in patients with opiate use disorder (p<0.01 in all measurements in both eyes). Similarly, the total values of the superior quadrant and retinal nerve fiber layer thickness were statistically significant in both eyes compared to that in the control group (p=0.007, p=0.002; p=0.049, p=0.007, in the right and left eyes, respectively). Only the left eye was positively correlated with retinal nerve fiber layer superior quadrant measurement and hospitalization (r=0.380, p=0.039). Conclusion: Our results revealed that the patients' central macular thickness, mean macular thickness, and mean macular volume values were thinner. Increase in the retinal nerve fiber layer thickness superior quadrant thickness and total value was also observed. Further studies with larger sampling groups that evaluate neuroimaging findings should be conducted.

RESUMO Objetivo: O objetivo foi investigar foi, os achados da tomografia de coerência óptica em pacientes com transtorno do uso de opiáceos, comparando-os com controles saudáveis. Métodos: O estudo incluiu 30 pacientes com transtorno do uso de opiáceos e 30 controles. Os exames biomicroscópicos detalhados de todos os participantes, acuidade visual, pressão intraocular e ambos os exames oculares foram avaliados com tomografia de coerência óptica. Um total de 120 olhos foram avaliados usando tomografia de coerência óptica, e a espessura macular central, espessura macular média, volume macular médio e a espessura da camada de fibra nervosa da retina dos participantes foram medidos. Além disso, todos os participantes preencheram o Formulário de Dados Demográficos e a Escala de Impulsividade Barratt (BIS-11). Resultados: Quando os achados de tomografia de coerência óptica foram examinados, espessura macular central, espessura macular média e volume macular médio eram mais finos de acordo com controles saudáveis em ambos os olhos em pacientes com transtorno do uso de opiáceos (p<0,01 em todas as medições em ambos os olhos). Da mesma forma, os valores totais do quadrante superior e espessura da camada de fibra nervosa da retina estavam mais em níveis estatisticamente significativos em ambos os olhos em comparação com o grupo controle (p=0,007, p=0,002; p=0,049, p=0,007, no olho direito e esquerdo, respectivamente). Estar internado em hospital e apenas a medida do quadrante superior da espessura da camada de fibra nervosa da retina do olho esquerdo associou-se positivamente (r=0,380, p=0,039). Conclusão: Em nossos resultados, descobrimos que os valores de espessura macular central, espessura macular média e volume macular médio dos pacientes eram mais finos. Verificamos também espessamento no quadrante superior e valor total da espessura da camada de fibra nervosa da retina. Nosso estudo deve ser apoiado por novos estudos com grupos de amostragem maiores, nos quais os achados de neuroimagem são avaliados.

Relationship between platelet indices and red cell distribution width and short-term mortality in traumatic brain injury with 30-day mortality

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: This study aimed at investigating whether there is a relationship between 7- or 30-day mortality and mean platelet volume, platelet distribution width, platelet count-to-total lymphocyte count ratio, or red cell distribution width in patients with traumatic brain injury. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed intensive care unit patients with traumatic brain injury. We recorded patients' ages; genders; diagnoses; Glasgow Coma Scale scores; length of intensive care unit stay (in days); mean platelet volume, platelet distribution width, platelet count-to-total lymphocyte count ratio, and red cell distribution width values upon hospital admission; and health on the 7th and 30th days of their stays. RESULTS: We analyzed data from 110 patients. Of these, 84 (76.4%) were male and 26 (23.6%) were female. On the 7- and 30-day mortality evaluations, compared to the living patients, the deceased patients had a significantly higher median age and a significantly lower median Glasgow Coma Scale. Thus, increased age and lower Glasgow Coma Scale scores were associated with increased 7- and 30-day mortality rates. mean platelet volume and platelet distribution width values were similar in living and deceased patients. platelet count-to-total lymphocyte count ratio values were lower in deceased patients, but this difference was not statistically significant. Within 30 days after traumatic brain injury, deceased patients' red cell distribution width values were significantly elevated in deceased patients compared to those of living patients. CONCLUSION: Mean platelet volume, platelet distribution width, and platelet count-to-total lymphocyte count ratio values were not associated with 7- and 30-day mortality, whereas only elevated red cell distribution width was associated with 30-day mortality.