Controversy on the CONVINCE study findings: the PRO take / Controvérsia sobre os achados do estudo CONVINCE: a perspectiva PRO

ABSTRACT The CONVINCE study, recently published in the New England Journal of Medicine, reveals a groundbreaking 23% reduction in the relative risk of all-cause mortality among end-stage kidney patients undergoing high convective volume hemodiafiltration. This significant finding challenges the conventional use of high-flux hemodialysis and offers hope for improving outcomes in chronic kidney disease patients. While some controversies surround the study's findings, including concerns about generalizability and the causes of death, it is essential to acknowledge the study's design and its main outcomes. The CONVINCE study, part of the HORIZON 2020 project, enrolled 1360 patients and demonstrated the superiority of hemodiafiltration in reducing all-cause mortality overall, as well as in specific patient subgroups (elderly, short vintage, non-diabetic, and those without cardiac issues). Interestingly, it was shown that hemodiafiltration had a protective effect against infection, including COVID-19. Future research will address sustainability, dose scaling effects, identification of subgroups especially likely to benefit and cost-effectiveness. However, for now, the findings strongly support a broader adoption of hemodiafiltration in renal replacement therapy, marking a significant advancement in the field.

RESUMO O estudo CONVINCE, publicado recentemente no New England Journal of Medicine, revela uma redução inovadora de 23% no risco relativo de mortalidade por todas as causas entre pacientes renais em estágio terminal submetidos à hemodiafiltração de alto volume de convecção. Esse achado significativo desafia o uso convencional da hemodiálise de alto fluxo e oferece esperança de melhoria dos desfechos em pacientes com doença renal crônica. Embora algumas controvérsias cerquem os achados do estudo, incluindo preocupações sobre a generalização e as causas de óbito, é essencial reconhecer o desenho do estudo e seus principais desfechos. O estudo CONVINCE, parte do projeto HORIZON 2020, inscreveu 1.360 pacientes e demonstrou a superioridade da hemodiafiltração na redução da mortalidade por todas as causas em geral, bem como em subgrupos específicos de pacientes (idosos, HD de curta duração, não diabéticos e aqueles sem problemas cardíacos). Curiosamente, demonstrou-se que a hemodiafiltração teve um efeito protetor contra infecções, incluindo a COVID-19. Pesquisas futuras abordarão sustentabilidade, efeitos de escalonamento da dose, identificação de subgrupos especialmente propensos a se beneficiar e a relação custo-benefício. No entanto, por ora, os achados apoiam fortemente uma adoção mais ampla da hemodiafiltração na terapia renal substitutiva, marcando um avanço significativo na área.

Patients with longstanding psoriatic arthritis can achieve DAPSA remission or low disease activity and it correlates to better functional outcomes: results from a Latin-American real-life cohort

Abstract Background Patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) experience reduced physical function and impaired quality of life. Better patient-reported functional outcomes are found when lower disease activity is achieved. Objectives To evaluate the variation of physical function by HAQ-DI over time in PsA patients treated with standard therapy in a real-life setting: to verify predictors of achieving a minimum clinically important difference (MCID) in function by HAQ-DI (ΔHAQ-DI ≤ − 0.35) and to measure the impact of achieving REM/LDA on long-term function by HAQ-DI. Methods This is a longitudinal analysis of a real-life retrospective cohort. Data from PsA patients with at least 4 years of follow-up in the PsA clinic from 2011 to 2019 were extracted from electronic medical records. The variations of physical function by HAQ-DI and disease activity by DAPSA over time were calculated. A multivariate hierarchical regression model was applied to verify predictors of MCID in HAQ-DI. A comparison of HAQ-DI variation between patients with DAPSA REM, LDA, moderate and high disease activity was made using the generalized estimating equation model (GEE), adjusted by Bonferroni test. The Spearman correlation method was applied to verify the correlation of ΔDAPSA and ΔHAQ-DI over time. Statistical analysis was performed in SPSS program version 21.0. Results Seventy-three patients were included in the analysis. Physical function measured by HAQ-DI was determined by PsA disease activity measured by DAPSA (p < 0.000). A moderate and statistically significant correlation between ΔDAPSA and ΔHAQ-DI was observed (rs = 0.60; p < 0.001). Only patients in DAPSA REM demonstrated a constant decline in HAQ-DI scores during the follow-up. White ethnicity and older age at baseline were predictors for not achieving MCID in HAQ-DI [RR 0.33 (0.16-0.6795% CI p = 0.002) and RR 0.96 (0.93-0.9895% CI p < 0.000), respectively, while higher scores of HAQ-DI at baseline were predictors of achieving MCID [RR 1.71 (1.12-2.6095%CI p = 0.013)]. Conclusion In PsA, patients who maintained DAPSA REM/LDA over time had better long-term functional outcomes. Higher HAQ-DI scores at baseline, non-white ethnicity and younger age were predictors for achieving a clinical meaningful improvement of HAQ-DI.

Digital analysis of unilateral ptosis repair: external levator advancement vs. Müller's muscle conjunctival resection

ABSTRACT Purpose: Evaluation of lid contour and marginal peak point changes to compare outcomes of external levator advancement and Müller's muscle conjunctival resection surgery in unilateral ptosis. Methods: We reviewed the charts of unilateral ptosis patients who underwent external levator advancement or Müller's muscle conjunctival resection. Eyelid contour analysis was conducted on preoperative and 6-month postoperative digital images. This was performed with the multiple margin reflex distances technique, measuring the vertical distance from a line intersecting the center of the pupil to the eyelid margin at 10 positions at 2 mm intervals. The marginal peak point changes were analyzed digitally using the coordinates of the peak point according to the pupil center. Each position's mean distance was compared preoperatively, postoperatively, and with the fellow eyelid. Results: Sixteen patients underwent external levator advancement and 16 patients had Müller's muscle conjunctival resection. The mean margin reflex distance was improved by both techniques (1.46 vs. 2.43 mm and 1.12 vs. 2.25 mm, p=0.008 and p=0.0001 respectively) and approached that of the fellow eyelid (2.43 vs. 2.88 and 2.25 vs. 2.58 mm, p=0.23 and p=0.19, respectively). However, statistically significant lid margin elevation was limited to between the N6 and T6 points in the external levator advancement group. Whereas, significant elevation was achieved along the whole lid margin in the Müller's muscle conjunctival resection group. The marginal peak point was shifted slightly laterally in the external levator advancement group (p=0.11). Conclusions: Both techniques provide effective lid elevation, however, the external levator advancement's effect lessens toward the canthi while Müller's muscle conjunctival resection provides more uniform elevation across the lid margin. The margin reflex distance alone is not sufficient to reflect contour changes.

A Brazilian series utilizing the SMASH-U system for etiologic classification of intracerebral hemorrhage / Classificação etiológica de pacientes admitidos com hemorragia intracerebral utilizando a escala SMASH-U: uma série brasileira

Abstract Background Understanding the causes of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is crucial for effective treatment and preventing recurrences. The SMASH-U scale is a suggested method for classifying and predicting the outcomes of ICH. Objective To describe the SMASH-U classification and outcomes by etiology in patients admitted to a comprehensive stroke center in São Paulo, Brazil. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients admitted to the hospital or outpatient clinic between April 2015 and January 2018. Two stroke neurologists evaluated the SMASH-U classification, and patients with incomplete medical records were excluded. Results Out of the 2000 patients with a stroke diagnosis evaluated, 140 were included in the final analysis. The mean age was 57.9 (± 15.5) years, and 54.3% were male. Hypertension was the most frequent etiology, accounting for 41.4% of cases, followed by amyloid angiopathy (18.5%) and structural lesions (14.1%). Structural lesions were more common among women and patients under 45 years old. Favorable outcomes were observed in 61% of patients with structural lesions, compared to 10% of patients with medication-related etiologies. Conclusion This study provides important evidence regarding the etiological classification of Brazilian patients with ICH. Hypertension and amyloid angiopathy were the most frequent causes, while structural lesions and systemic diseases were more common in younger patients.

Resumo Antecedentes Compreender as causas da hemorragia intracerebral (HIC) é crucial para o tratamento eficaz e prevenção de recorrências. A escala SMASH-U é um método sugerido para classificar e prever os resultados da HIC. Objetivo Descrever a classificação SMASH-U e os resultados por etiologia em pacientes admitidos em um centro de acidente vascular cerebral (AVC) em São Paulo, Brasil. Métodos Foi realizada uma análise retrospectiva de pacientes admitidos no hospital ou ambulatório entre abril de 2015 e janeiro de 2018. Dois neurologistas especializados em doenças cerebrovasculares avaliaram a classificação SMASH-U e pacientes com prontuários incompletos foram excluídos. Resultados Dos 2000 pacientes com diagnóstico de AVC avaliados, 140 foram incluídos na análise final. A idade média foi de 57,9 (±15,5) anos e 54,3% eram do sexo masculino. A hipertensão foi a etiologia mais frequente, correspondendo a 41,4% dos casos, seguida pela angiopatia amiloide (18,5%) e lesões estruturais (14,1%). As lesões estruturais foram mais comuns em mulheres e pacientes com menos de 45 anos. Resultados favoráveis foram observados em 61% dos pacientes com lesões estruturais, em comparação com 10% dos pacientes com etiologias relacionadas a medicamentos. Conclusão Este estudo fornece evidências importantes sobre a classificação etiológica de pacientes brasileiros com HIC. A hipertensão e a angiopatia amiloide foram as causas mais frequentes, enquanto lesões estruturais e doenças sistêmicas foram mais comuns em pacientes mais jovens.

Effect of anxiety and depression levels on pregnancy outcome

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine the effect of anxiety and depression on pregnancy outcome in couples receiving in vitro fertilization treatment. METHODS: A total of 102 couples (102 females and 102 males) with unexplained infertility were included in the study. Personal Information Form was used to collect data, Case Follow-up Form to record the treatment process, and Spielberger's State-Trait Anxiety Inventory and Beck Depression Inventory to measure the anxiety and depression levels of couples. Couples were measured twice: before treatment and on oocyte pickup day. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference between the anxiety and depression levels and oocyte count of women (p>0.05). There were statistically significant differences between State-Trait Anxiety Inventory level and sperm count and between BID level and sperm motility (p<0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between the anxiety and depression levels and pregnancy outcomes of women (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: Anxiety and depression had no effect on pregnancy outcome. More studies are needed to investigate the effect of anxiety and depression on pregnancy outcome in unexplained infertility.

Prevalence and clinical consequences of Hepatitis C virus infection in patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

ABSTRACT Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality among hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HCT) recipients. In Brazil, its occurrence in HCT recipients remains undetermined. We now report on HCV prevalence in HCT recipients and its clinical consequences. The medical records of all HCT recipients seen at Hospital das Clinicas, Sao Paulo University Medical School, from January 2010 to January 2020 were reviewed to determine HCV serostatus. A retrospective analysis of medical charts was undertaken on all seropositive cases to determine HCV genotype, presence of liver fibrosis, co-infections with other viruses, previous treatments, and clinical evolution of liver pathology after HCT. Of the 1,293 HCT recipients included in the study, seven (0.54%) were HCV antibody-positive and five (0.39%) were also viremic for HCV-RNA. Four of these individuals had moderate to severe liver fibrosis (METAVIR F2/F3) and one was cirrhotic. Two of the viremic patients developed acute liver dysfunction following transplantation. All patients had their acute episode of liver dysfunction resolved with no further complications. Four of the viremic patients were treated for HCV infection with direct acting agents (DAA). Information regarding HCV treatment was lacking for one of the viremic HCV patients due to loss of follow up. Sustained anti-virologic responses were observed in three cases after the use of DAA. The detection of HCV in hematological adults undergoing HCT and its successful treatment with DAA highlight the necessity of testing for HCV both prior to and following transplantation.

Difference Between Cardiopulmonary Bypass Time and Aortic Cross-Clamping Time as a Predictor of Complications After Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting

ABSTRACT Introduction: Along with cardiopulmonary bypass time, aortic cross-clamping time is directly related to the risk of complications after heart surgery. The influence of the time difference between cardiopulmonary bypass and cross-clamping times (TDC-C) remains poorly understood. Objective: To assess the impact of cardiopulmonary bypass time in relation to cross-clamping time on immediate results after coronary artery bypass grafting in the Registro Paulista de Cirurgia Cardiovascular (REPLICCAR) II. Methods: Analysis of 3,090 patients included in REPLICCAR II database was performed. The Society of Thoracic Surgeons outcomes were evaluated (mortality, kidney failure, deep wound infection, reoperation, cerebrovascular accident, and prolonged ventilation time). A cutoff point was adopted, from which the increase of this difference would affect each outcome. Results: After a cutoff point determination, all patients were divided into Group 1 (cardiopulmonary bypass time < 140 min., TDC-C < 30 min.), Group 2 (cardiopulmonary bypass time < 140 min., TDC-C > 30 min.), Group 3 (cardiopulmonary bypass time > 140 min., TDC-C < 30 min.), and Group 4 (cardiopulmonary bypass time > 140 min., TDC-C > 30 min.). After univariate logistic regression, Group 2 showed significant association with reoperation (odds ratio: 1.64, 95% confidence interval: 1.01-2.66), stroke (odds ratio: 3.85, 95% confidence interval: 1.99-7.63), kidney failure (odds ratio: 1.90, 95% confidence interval: 1.32-2.74), and in-hospital mortality (odds ratio: 2.17, 95% confidence interval: 1.30-3.60). Conclusion: TDC-C serves as a predictive factor for complications following coronary artery bypass grafting. We strongly recommend that future studies incorporate this metric to improve the prediction of complications.

4-domain sports prom translation and cultural adaptation into portuguese / 4-domain sports prom: traducción y adaptación cultural al portugués / 4-domain sports prom: tradução e adaptação cultural para a língua portuguesa

ABSTRACT Introduction: The literature presents several scientifically validated and cross-culturally adapted questionnaires in the area of orthopedics and Sports Medicine scientifically validated and cross-culturally adapted. However, they are anatomically specific, and do not consider the specific needs of athletes. The "4-Domain PROM for Orthopedic and Sports Medicine" (4-Domain Sports PROM) is the first questionnaire, in the literature (International Journal of Sports Medicine - 2021), designed to assess athletes and highly active sports practitioners, and their specificities. physical and psychological. It comprises four domains: athlete without injury, after sports injury, expectation of treatment, athlete's assessment of the treatment received. Objectives: This work aims to carry out the translation and cross-cultural adaptation (TCA) to the Portuguese language. Methods: The questionnaire was self-administered by 50 participants, regular physical and sports activities practitioners. The translation and cultural adaptation process involved six steps: translation; synthesis; back translation; pre-test; review by the Expert Committee, clinical application and author approval of the original version. The Equivalence of translation and relevance of questionnaire items were evaluated. RESULTS: The Portuguese version of the 4-DOMAIN SPORTS PROM had a translation equivalence of 0.94, and item relevance was 0.98, while the percentage of agreement between patients for understanding was 0.98. Conclusion: The translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the 4 Domain Sports PROM into the Portuguese version proved to be understandable and reproducible in all questionnaire domains (agreement above 90% and content validity index of 100%) to assess the treatment of the population of athletes and regular sports practitioners. Level of Evidence II; A cross-sectional qualitative study.

RESUMEN Introducción: La literatura presenta varios cuestionarios científicamente validados y transculturalmente adaptados en el área de la ortopedia y Medicina del Deporte. Sin embargo, son anatómicamente específicos y no consideran las necesidades específicas de los atletas. El "4-Domain PROM for Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine" (4-Domain Sports PROM) es el primer cuestionario, en la literatura (International Journal of Sports Medicine - 2021), diseñado para evaluar atletas y practicantes de deportes altamente activos, y sus especificidades físicas y psicológicas. Comprende cuatro dominios: atleta sin lesión, después de una lesión deportiva, expectativa de tratamiento, evaluación del atleta sobre el tratamiento recibido. Objetivos: El objetivo de este trabajo es realizar la traducción y adaptación transcultural (TCA) a la lengua portuguesa. Métodos: El cuestionario fue autoadministrado por 50 participantes, practicantes habituales de actividades físicas y deportivas. El proceso de traducción y adaptación cultural involucró seis pasos: traducción; síntesis; traducción inversa; prueba previa; revisión por el comité de expertos; aplicación clínica y aprobación del autor de la versión original. Se evaluaron la equivalencia de traducción y la relevancia de los ítems del cuestionario. Resultados: La versión portuguesa del 4-DOMAIN SPORTS PROM tuvo una equivalencia de traducción de 0,94 y la relevancia de los ítems fue de 0,98, mientras que el porcentaje de acuerdo entre los pacientes para la comprensión fue de 0,98. Conclusión: La traducción y adaptación transcultural del 4-DOMAIN SPORTS PROM al portugués amplía las posibilidades de evaluar los diferentes momentos que involucran el tratamiento de lesiones deportivas, ya que este cuestionario fue diseñado para capturar datos sobre la percepción de los pacientes antes de la lesión, después de la lesión, expectativa y evaluación del trato recibido en deportistas y practicantes habituales de actividad física. Nivel de Evidencia II; Estudio Cualitativo Transversal.

RESUMO Introdução: A literatura apresenta diversos questionários cientificamente validados e adaptados transculturalmente na área de na Ortopedia e Medicina Esportiva validados cientificamente e adaptados transculturalmente. Entretanto, eles são anatomicamente específicos, e não consideram as necessidades especificas dos atletas. O "4-Domain PROM for Orthopedic and Sports Medicine" (4-Domain Sports PROM) é o primeiro questionário, na literatura (International Journal of Sports Medicine - 2021), concebido para avaliar atletas e praticantes de esportes altamente ativos, e suas especificidades físicas e psicológicas. Ele compreende quatro domínios: atleta sem lesão, após lesão esportiva, expectativa do tratamento, avaliação do atleta sobre o tratamento recebido. Objetivos: O objetivo deste trabalho é realizar a tradução e a adaptação transcultural (TCA) à língua portuguesa. Métodos: O questionário foi autoadministrado por 50 participantes, praticantes regulares de atividades físicas e esportivas. O processo de tradução e adaptação cultural envolveu seis etapas: tradução; síntese; retrotradução; pré-teste; revisão pelo comitê de experts; aplicação clínica e aprovação do autor da versão original. Foi avaliado a Equivalência da tradução e relevância de itens do questionário. Resultados: A versão em português do 4-DOMAIN SPORTS PROM apresentou equivalência da tradução de 0,94 e relevância dos itens foi de 0,98, enquanto a porcentagem de concordância entre os pacientes para compreensão foi de 0,98. Conclusão: A tradução e adequação cultural do 4-DOMAIN SPORTS PROM para língua portuguesa mostrou-se compreensível e reprodutibilidade adequada em todos os domínios do questionário (concordância acima de 90% e Índice de Validade de Conteúdo de 100%) para avaliar o tratamento de população de indivíduos atletas e praticantes regulares de esportes. Nível de Evidência II; Estudo Qualitativo Transversal.

Long-term visual acuity results from cataract surgery and its association with self-reported visual function: Catquest applicability / Resultados acuidade visual a longo prazo da cirurgia de catarata e sua associação com função visual autorreferida: aplicabilidade do Catquest

ABSTRACT Purposes: This study aimed to determine the association of the long-term refractive outcomes of cataract surgery with self-reported visual function obtained using Catquest-9SF. Methods: Patients recruited from the cataract outpatient clinic of VER MAIS Oftalmologia underwent a complete ophthalmologic examination. Patients who were diagnosed with cataract with indications for phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation received the Catquest-9SF questionnaire before and after surgery at 30 days and 1 year. Results: A total of 133 patients were recruited, but 32 patients were lost to follow-up; finally, data from 101 patients (48 men, 53 women) were analyzed. The crude variance explained by the data was 69.9%, and the unexplained variance in the first contrast was 2.39 eigenvalues (>2); thus, these results are different from those expected from random data. The people separation index was 2.95 (>2), and the people trust value was 0.9 (>0.8). These indices were evaluated in the assessment of skill levels. Visual acuity was the main variable that correlated with the Catquest score. Conclusions: The Catquest-9SF translated into Portuguese proved to be a one-dimensional and psychometrically valid tool to assess visual dysfunction in patients with cataract, and it is successful in objectively quantifying improvements after surgery. The results of this tool could be predictive and concordant of visual acuity improvement.

RESUMO Objetivo: Associar os resultados refrativos a longo prazo da cirurgia de catarata e a função visual autorreferida pelo questionário Catquest-9SF. Métodos: Paciente recrutados no ambulatório de catarata da VER MAIS Oftalmologia, foram submetidos a exame oftalmológico completo. Após diagnóstico de catarata com indicação de tratamento cirúrgico com facoemulsificação e implante de lente intraocular, o questionário foi aplicado antes da intervenção, 30 dias após cirurgia e 1 ano após, novamente. Resultados: Foram recrutados 133 pacientes. No decorrer do seguimento, 32 pacientes foram perdidos e ao final foram analisados os dados de 101 pacientes, dos quais 48 foram homens e 53 foram mulheres. A variância bruta explicada por dados foi de 69,9% e a inexplicada em primeiro contraste por 2,39 eigenvalores, sendo maior que 2, o que nos mostra que são resultados differentes dos esperados de dados aleatórios. O índice de separação de pessoas foi de 2.95 (>2) e o valor de confiança de pessoas foi de 0,9 (>0,8). Estes índices são os valores mínimos aceitáveis na diferenciação de níveis de habilidade. Acuidade visual foi a principal variável correlacionada com o score do Catquest. Conclusões: O Catquest-9SF traduzido para o português se demonstrou unidimensional e uma ferramenta psicometricamente válida para avaliar disfunção visual em pacientes com catarata, além de ter tido sucesso para quantificar objetivamente melhoras após a intervenção cirúrgica. Essa ferramenta pode ser utilizada como preditiva e concordante da melhora da acuidade visual.

Is there a relationship between the first-day results of anti-VEGF therapy for macular edema due to vascular diseases and longterm outcomes? / Há alguma relação entre os resultados do primeiro dia de terapia anti-VEGF para edema macular devido a doenças vasculares e o resultado a longo prazo?

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate early changes after the first antivascular endothelial growth factor injection for macular edema secondary to diabetic retinopathy and retinal vein occlusion and the relationship between longterm outcomes. Methods: The study enrolled patients who received anti-vascular endothelial growth factor injections for treatment-naive macular edema due to retinal vein occlusion and diabetic retinopathy. The central macular thickness was measured at baseline, post-injection day 1, week 2, and month 1, and at the last visit using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. A good response was defined as a central macular thickness reduction of ≥10% on post-injection day 1. Patients were reassessed at the last visit with regard to treatment response on post-injection day 1 based on the favorable anatomic outcome defined as a central macular thickness <350 µm. Results: In total, 26 (44.8%) patients had macular edema-retinal vein occlusion and 32 (55.2%) had macular edema-diabetic retinopathy. The mean follow-up time was 24.0 (SD 8.5) months. A statistically significant decrease in the central macular thickness was observed in both patients with macular edema-retinal vein occlusion and macular edema-diabetic retinopathy after antivascular endothelial growth factor injection therapy (p<0.001 for both). All patients with macular edema-retinal vein occlusion were good responders at post-injection day 1. All nongood responders at post-injection day 1 belong to the macular edema-diabetic retinopathy group (n=16.50%). The rate of hyperreflective spots was higher in nongood responders than in good responders of the macular edema-diabetic retinopathy group (p=0.03). Of 42 (2.4%) total good responders, one had a central macular thickness >350 µm, whereas 5 (31.2%) of 16 total nongood responders had a central macular thickness >350 µm at the last visit (p=0.003). Conclusion: The longterm anatomical outcomes of macular edema secondary to retinal vein occlusion and diabetic retinopathy may be predicted by treatment response 1 day after antivascular endothelial growth factor injection.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar as alterações precoces após a primeira injeção de anticorpos antifator de crescimento endotelial vascular (anti-VEGF) em casos de edema macular secundário à retinopatia diabética e oclusão da veia da retina e a relação entre essas alterações e o resultado a longo prazo. Métodos: Foram incluídos no estudo pacientes que receberam uma injeção de antifator de crescimento endotelial vascular para edema macular, virgem de tratamento e devido à oclusão da veia retiniana ou a retinopatia diabética. A espessura macular central foi medida no início do tratamento e no 1º dia, 2ª semana e 1º mês após a injeção, bem como na última visita, através de tomografia de coerência óptica de domínio espectral. Definiu-se uma "boa resposta" como uma redução ≥10% na espessura macular central no 1º dia após a injeção. Os pacientes foram reavaliados na última visita com relação à resposta ao tratamento no 1º dia após a injeção, com base em um resultado anatômico favorável, definido como uma espessura macular central <350 µm. Resultado: Foram registrados 26 (44,8%) pacientes com edema macular e oclusão da veia da retina e 32 (55,2%) com edema macular e retinopatia diabética. O tempo médio de acompanhamento foi de 24,0 meses (desvio-padrão de 8,5 meses). Foi observada uma diminuição estatisticamente significativa da espessura macular central após o tratamento antifator de crescimento endotelial vascular tanto em pacientes com edema macular e oclusão da veia retiniana quanto naqueles com edema macular e retinopatia diabética (p<0,001 para ambos). Todos os pacientes com edema macular e oclusão da veia retiniana responderam bem no 1º dia pós-injeção. Todos os que responderam mal no 1º dia pós-injeção pertenciam ao grupo com edema macular e retinopatia diabética (n=16,50%). A presença de manchas hiperrefletivas foi maior nos pacientes que responderam mal do que naqueles que tiveram boa resposta no grupo com edema macular e retinopatia diabética (p=0,03). Um dos 42 (2,4%) pacientes com boa resposta total teve espessura macular central >350 um, enquanto 5 (31,2%) do total de 16 pacientes com resposta ruim apresentaram espessura macular central >350 µm na última visita (p=0,003). Conclusão: O resultado anatômico de longo prazo do edema macular secundário à oclusão da veia retiniana e à retinopatia diabética pode ser previsto pela resposta ao tratamento no 1º dia após a injeção de antifator de crescimento endotelial vascular.

The Brazilian version of the High-Activity Arthroplasty Score: cross-cultural adaptation

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The High Activity Arthroplasty Score (HAAS) is a self-administered questionnaire, developed in British English, that reliably and validly measures the levels of sports activities in patients following hip and knee arthroplasty surgery. OBJECTIVE: To cross-culturally adapt the HAAS to Brazilian Portuguese language. DESIGN AND SETTING: A cross-sectional study was conducted at a public university hospital in Brazil. METHODS: The Brazilian version of the HAAS was created through a six-step process: translation, synthesis, committee review, pretesting, back-translation, and submission to developers. The translation step was conducted by two independent bilingual translators, both native speakers of Brazilian Portuguese. The back-translation was performed by an independent translator, a native speaker of British English. To ensure the questionnaire's comprehensibility, 46 volunteers (51% men; average age 34-63) participated in the pre-testing step. RESULTS: The cross-cultural adaptation process necessitated modifications to certain terms and expressions to achieve cultural equivalence with the original HAAS. CONCLUSION: The HAAS has been translated from English into Brazilian Portuguese and culturally adapted for Brazil. The validation process for HAAS-Brazil is currently underway.

Autopsy findings of fatal retroperitoneal hemorrhage after traumatic rupture of bilateral renal angiomyolipoma

ABSTRACT The present work reports the autopsy findings of a unique case characterized by fatal retroperitoneal hemorrhage following the traumatic rupture of bilateral renal angiomyolipomas. Renal angiomyolipomas are generally benign tumors with an unpredictable clinical course, ranging from asymptomatic to sudden rupture and hemorrhagic shock. They may be associated with genetic disorders such as tuberous sclerosis complex. The case under investigation is unprecedented in the medical literature due to its bilateral nature and fatal outcome. Autopsy analysis revealed an extensive retroperitoneal hemorrhage originating from bilateral ruptured tumors. Microscopic examination found features consistent with bilateral renal angiomyolipoma. Circumstantial information identified a traffic accident before the death, considering it as the cause of the tumors' traumatic rupture. In this case, due to the severity of the situation, immediate medical measures—such as fluid resuscitation, coagulopathy correction, and surgical treatment, which are usually lifesaving—could not be performed. This led to the patient being declared dead at the scene of the crash.

Efficacy of percutaneous transhepatic variceal embolization alone or in combination with partial splenic embolization in treatment of portal hypertensive hemorrhage in liver cirrhosis： A Meta-analysis / 临床肝胆病杂志

ObjectiveTo investigate the efficacy of percutaneous transhepatic variceal embolization （PTVE） alone or in combination with partial splenic embolization （PSE） in the treatment of portal hypertensive hemorrhage in liver cirrhosis through a meta-analysis. MethodsThis study was conducted according to PRISMA guideline， with a PROSPERO registration number of CRD42023396690. Wanfang Med Online， CNKI， CBM， VIP Databases， PubMed， Embase， the Cochrane Library， and Web of Science databases were searched for articles on PTVE alone or in combination with PSE in the treatment of portal hypertensive hemorrhage in liver cirrhosis published up to December 23， 2022. The articles were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria， and related data were extracted. The RevMan 5.4.1 statistical analysis software was used to perform the meta-analysis. ResultsEight articles were finally included， with a total sample size of 592 cases， among which there were 316 cases in the PTVE+PSE group and 276 cases in the PTVE group. The meta-analysis showed that compared with the PTVE group， the PTVE+PSE group had significantly lower postoperative portal vein pressure （standardized mean difference ［SMD］=-1.75， 95% confidence interval ［CI］： -2.33 to -1.16， P<0.05）， postoperative diameter of the portal vein （SMD=-0.87， 95%CI： -1.64 to -0.10， P<0.05）， postoperative rebleeding rate （odds ratio ［OR］=0.17， 95%CI： 0.11 — 0.28， P<0.05）， mortality rate （OR=0.13， 95%CI： 0.04 — 0.37， P<0.05）， and incidence rate of postoperative portal hypertensive gastrointestinal disease （OR=0.17， 95%CI： 0.07 — 0.45， P<0.05］， as well as a significantly higher postoperative platelet level （SMD=0.79， 95%CI： 0.52 — 1.06， P<0.05）， while there were no significant differences between the two groups in the incidence rates of postoperative ascites. ConclusionCompared with PTVE alone， PTVE combined with PSE can effectively reduce the rebleeding rate and mortality rate of portal hypertensive hemorrhage in liver cirrhosis， the incidence rate of portal hypertensive gastrointestinal disease， and portal vein pressure， and it can also shorten the diameter of the portal vein and increase platelet level. Therefore， it is an effective interventional method for the treatment of portal hypertension hemorrhage in liver cirrhosis.

A comparative study on the functional outcomes of patients who underwent internal versus external fixation for Tibial Plateau fractures two years post-surgery

Introduction@#Tibial plateau fractures are due to high energy trauma brought about by axial compression forces and associated varus or valgus component. @*Objective@#Patients diagnosed with tibial plateau fractures from January to December 2018 treated with internal vs. external fixation will be described according to their Schatzker classification. The study further aims to compare the functional outcomes between the two groups in terms of surgery done. @*Methods@#A chart review determined the distribution of demographics. The Modified Rasmussen Score (MRS) was used to determine the clinical and radiographic parameters after taking a new knee radiograph and assessment from the rehabilitation department. The MRS determined the functional outcomes of the said patients. Ethical considerations and proper informed consent were upheld after being reviewed by the hospital’s research committee. @*Results@#Out of 48 patients, 35 underwent internal fixation via open reduction using plates and/or screws, while 13 underwent external fixation using hybrid external fixator. The demographic profile showed mostly males between ages 20 to 49 years old. Most cases were due to vehicular accidents affecting the left lower extremity. In terms of Schatzker classification, the most common was type VI. The computed mean MRS of the internal fixation group was 30.43 while the external fixation group was 30.00, generally showing no significant difference. @*Conclusion@#Surgical intervention of tibial plateau fractures aims for anatomic reduction using internal or external fixation. There was no significant difference on the functional outcome of the two groups despite classifying the respondents according to Schatzker type, hence we can conclude that external fixation be chosen as the treatment of choice for tibial plateau fractures when properly indicated.

How to build measurable treatment goals? A taxonomy of outcome criteria for vocal intervention monitoring

Introduction: The complexity of the vocal phenomenon hinders the therapist's ability to quickly and effectively monitor the achievements obtained by the patient through vocal intervention. The assessment of therapeutic progress relies on the therapist's capability to utilize valid, reliable, and meaningful outcome criteria. Aim: Develop a conceptual framework of outcome criteria to be used in the treatment plans designed by speech-language pathologists for patients with vocal complaints. Methodology: Qualitative, conceptual, and model-type research in which a critical review is conducted through a non-probabilistic theoretical sampling of the theoretical models of therapy treatment plans, the outcome criteria involved and their relevance to voice intervention. Building upon this, a taxonomy of outcome criteria is proposed for verifying therapeutic progress in voice therapy. Results: A conceptual outcome criteria framework is proposed. This model incorporates quantitative, qualitative, and mixed criteria to monitor the diverse aspects of vocal function in the context of voice intervention. Conclusion: The model provides a precise guide to assess the results achieved by the patient in vocal intervention through treatment goals.

Introducción: La complejidad del fenómeno vocal dificulta que el/la terapeuta monitoree de manera rápida y eficaz los logros obtenidos por el/la usuario/a mediante la intervención fonoaudiológica. La evaluación del avance terapéutico depende de la habilidad del/la terapeuta para emplear criterios de medición válidos, confiables y significativos. Objetivo: Desarrollar un modelo teórico de criterios de logro para su consideración en la formulación de los objetivos operacionales en las planificaciones terapéuticas que emplean los profesionales fonoaudiólogos en la atención de usuarios/as que presentan queja vocal. Metodología: Investigación cualitativa, de tipo conceptual y modélica, en la que se lleva a cabo una revisión crítica de la literatura a través de un muestreo teórico no probabilístico de los modelos teóricos propuestos para la formulación y medición de objetivos en el contexto terapéutico y sus alcances respecto de la intervención vocal. A partir de ello, se propone una taxonomía de criterios de logro para la verificación del avance terapéutico. Resultados: Se propone una taxonomía organizada en torno a criterios de logro cuantitativos, cualitativos y mixtos, los que son propuestos para el monitoreo de diversos aspectos de la función vocal en el contexto de la intervención fonoaudiológica. Conclusión: El modelo proporciona una guía precisa para evaluar de manera efectiva el progreso y los resultados alcanzados por el/la usuario/a en el abordaje fonoaudiológico vocal a través de los objetivos operacionales planteados para la intervención.

Corrélation of EQ-5D and mRS in ischémie stroke: a multicenter cross-sectional study

Introduction: Assessing Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL), in addition to evaluating functional status in stroke patients could complement clinician practice. Objective: To assess HRQOL, applying EuroQol-5-dimensions (EQ-5D) in Colombian patients with stroke and correlating its results with the modified Rankin Scale (mRS). Methods: Analytical cross-sectional study in a cohort of ischemic stroke patients in Colombia at three months as a median follow-up (Q1: 1- Q3:3) after their event. We correlated EQ-5D domains, EQ-5D index, mRS with EQ-5D VAS score. We generated a simple linear regression robust model to evaluate the variability between using r2. Results: A total of 91 patients completed the EQ-5D questionnaire, with a mean age of 71.2 years; 59.3% were male. We identified an inverse correlation between EQ-5D VAS and EQ-5D domains with the highest for mobility (rs = -0.69) and the lowest for pain/discomfort (rs -0.52, p<0.001). The r2 ranged from 0.25 (pain/discomfort) to 0.47 (EQ-5D index). Patients with mRS ≥ 3 significantly reduced their EQ-5D VAS score by 25.64 points (95% CI -33.04, -18.24). Variability in EQ-5D VAS scores occurred by EQ-5D index (47%) and by mRS (34%). Conclusions: The correlation between EQ-5D and mRS was favorable. Although EQ-5D and mRS evaluated different spheres on stroke patients, applying the EQ-5D instrument in real-world clinical settings might contribute multidimensional information on how life is affected after a stroke. This kind of information serves to orientate rehabilitation strategies on specific domains such as depression, self-care, anxiety, and pain. This is especially relevant for patients with disabilities (mRS ≥ 3).

Introducción: La evaluación de la Calidad de Vida Relacionada con la Salud (CVRS) y el estado funcional de pacientes con Ataque Cerebrovascular (ACV), podría complementar la práctica clínica. Objetivo: Evaluar la CVRS, aplicando EuroQol-5-dimensiones (EQ-5D) en pacientes colombianos con ACV y correlacionar sus resultados con la escala de Rankin Modificada (mRS). Métodos: Estudio de corte transversal analítico anidado a una cohorte de pacientes con ACV isquémico en Colombia con mediana de 3 meses de seguimiento (Q1: 1- Q3:3) post-ictus. Correlacionamos los dominios del EQ-5D, índice EQ-5D y mRS con la puntuación de EQ-5D VAS. Generamos un modelo de regresión lineal simple para evaluar la variabilidad usando r2. Resultados: Un total de 91 pacientes con una edad media 71,2 años; 59,3 % hombres. Se encontró correlación inversa entre los dominios EQ-5D, mayor para movilidad (rs = -0,69) y menor para dolor/malestar (rs -0,52, p < 0,001). El r2 osciló entre 0,25 (dolor/malestar) y 0,47 (índice EQ-5D). Los pacientes con mRS ≥ 3 redujeron significativamente su puntuación EQ-5D VAS en 25,64 puntos (IC 95%: -33,04; -18,24). La variabilidad en las puntuaciones EQ-5D VAS se produjo por el índice EQ-5D (47 %) y por mRS (34 %). Conclusiones: La correlación entre EQ-5D y mRS fue favorable. Aunque EQ-5D y mRS evalúan diferentes esferas en los pacientes con ACV, la aplicación del EQ-5D en podría aportar información multidimensional sobre cómo se afecta la vida después de un ictus, así como orientar estrategias de rehabilitación en esferas como depresión, autocuidado, ansiedad y dolor; especialmente relevante para pacientes con discapacidades (mRS ≥ 3).

Historia de la hipertensión arterial: revisión narrativa

Introducción: La medición de la presión arterial es uno de los procedimientos más realizados en la práctica clínica. La presente revisión narrativa pretende sintetizar los aspectos relevantes que rodearon la definición de la hipertensión arterial, el recorrido histórico del tratamiento de esta y el aporte de los estudios a la disminución de la mortalidad por enfermedad cardiovascular en el tiempo. Metodología: Revisión narrativa de la historia de la hipertensión arterial, desde el reconocimiento de la presión arterial alta como un factor asociado al riesgo cardiovascular y la evolución histórica del tratamiento hasta los hallazgos significativos del estudio SPRINT, publicado en 2015. Resultados: Hasta hace aproximadamente 50 años la hipertensión arterial era conocida como una patología esencial, es decir, esta condición no siempre fue considerada como una enfermedad. El descubrimiento de la presión sanguínea ha sido atribuido a Stephen Hales, poeta, orador y sacerdote nacido en Inglaterra. La primera medición de la presión sanguínea e incidentalmente de la presión del pulso la realizó en 1733 en animales. Se describe el origen de la presión arterial, la hipertensión arterial, el camino recorrido para el reconocimiento de esta condición como enfermedad y posteriormente su tratamiento, hasta llegar al estudio SPRINT en 2015, el cual fue contundente en demostrar el beneficio de reducir la cifra de presión arterial sistólica objetivo en una población no diabética. Conclusión: Los resultados de esta revisión narrativa exponen cómo el reconocimiento de la presión arterial alta como un factor de riesgo cardiovascular permitió el avance en la investigación científica para determinar el tratamiento y las cifras de presión arterial que favorecen la reducción de la mortalidad y morbilidad por esta causa.

Background: Blood pressure measurement is one of the most performed procedures in clinical practice. This narrative review aims to expose the relevant aspects surrounding the definition of arterial hypertension, the historical path of its treatment, and the contribution of studies to the decrease in mortality due to cardiovascular disease over time. Methodology: Narrative review of the history of arterial hypertension from recognizing high blood pressure as a factor associated with cardiovascular risk to the historical evolution of treatment up to the SPRINT study published in 2015. Results: Until about 50 years ago, arterial hypertension was known as an essential pathology; this condition was not always considered a disease. The discovery of blood pressure has been attributed to Stephen Hales, a poet, orator and priest born in England. The first measurement of blood pressure and incidentally pulse pressure was made in 1733 in animals. The origin of blood pressure, arterial hypertension, and the path travelled for recognizing this condition as a disease and later its treatment until reaching the SPRINT study in 2015, which demonstrated the benefit of reducing the target systolic blood pressure figure in a non-diabetic population. Conclusion: This narrative review demonstrates that the recognition of high blood pressure as a cardiovascular risk factor allowed progress in scientific research to determine the treatment and blood pressure figures that favor the reduction of mortality and morbidity from this cause.

Incidence and impacts of pain in intensive care units: systematic review / Incidência e impactos da dor em unidades de terapia intensiva: revisão sistemática

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: In Intensive Care Units (ICU), patients are exposed to multiple procedures that can be painful, and health professionals are not always aware of the pain in these patients. Inadequate pain assessment and management, in turn, has been associated with several adverse outcomes, including an increased rate of infection, prolonged mechanical ventilation, hemodynamic disturbances, delirium, and compromised immunity. Thus, this study aimed to summarize the scientific evidence about the incidence and impacts of pain in critically ill patients. CONTENTS: A systematic review of observational studies (Pubmed and EMBASE databases) was performed with predetermined eligibility criteria. In the 32 studies included, it was identified that 10.1% to 61% of patients had pain at rest and 27.4% to 94% during procedures. In addition, there was evidence of improvement in patient outcomes after using validated instruments for pain measurement, including decreased length of ICU stay, duration of mechanical ventilation, mortality, delirium, adverse events, and disease severity. CONCLUSION: Through the present study, it was observed that pain is a common phenomenon in ICU and that its identification and management constitute a realistic goal and depend on the evaluation. Furthermore, pain appears to be associated with worse clinical outcomes. Therefore, efforts must be made to provide comprehensive care for critically ill patients, aiming not only at their survival, but also at alleviating their suffering.

RESUMO JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: Nas Unidades de Terapia Intensiva (UTI) os pacientes são expostos a múltiplos procedimentos que podem ser dolorosos, e nem sempre os profissionais de saúde estão alertas para a dor nesses pacientes. A avaliação e o manejo inadequado da dor, por sua vez, têm sido associados a uma série de resultados adversos, incluindo aumento da taxa de infecção, ventilação mecânica prolongada, distúrbios hemodinâmicos, delírio e imunidade comprometida. Dessa forma, este estudo teve como objetivo sumarizar as evidências científicas acerca da incidência e dos impactos da dor em pacientes críticos. CONTEÚDO: Foi realizada uma revisão sistemática de estudos observacionais (bases de dados Pubmed e EMBASE) com critérios de elegibilidade predeterminados. Nos 32 estudos incluídos, foi identificado que de 10,1% a 61% dos pacientes apresentaram dor em repouso, e de 27,4% a 94% apresentaram dor durante os procedimentos. Além disso, houve evidências de melhora nos resultados dos pacientes após o uso de instrumentos validados para a mensuração da dor, incluindo diminuição do tempo de permanência na UTI, duração da ventilação mecânica, mortalidade, delírio, eventos adversos e gravidade da doença. CONCLUSÃO: Através do presente estudo foi observado que a dor representa um fenômeno comum nas UTI e que a sua identificação e manejo constitui uma meta realista e dependente da avaliação. Além disso, a dor parece estar associada a piores desfechos clínicos. Sendo assim, deve-se voltar esforços para o cuidado integral ao paciente crítico, objetivando não só sua sobrevivência, mas também o alívio do seu sofrimento.