Evaluation of anterior segment parameters using Scheimpflug technology during the Valsalva maneuver in patients with keratoconus / Avaliação de parâmetros do segmento anterior usando a tecnologia Scheimpflug durante a manobra de Valsalva em pacientes com ceratocone

ABSTRACT Purpose: This study aimed to explore the effects of the Valsalva maneuver (VM) on ectatic corneas during anterior segment tomography scans using a Scheimpflug camera. Methods: This prospective observational study included 100 eyes of 50 patients with bilateral keratoconus (KC). Anterior segment tomography was first performed when the patients were in a resting position and immediately repeated as the participant performed VM. Scheimpflug images were taken using a Pentacam®. Results: The mean age of the participants was 24.14 ± 6.59 years. Of the 100 eyes included in the study, 7% had stage 1 KC, 47% had stage 2 KC, 32% had stage 3 KC, and 14% had stage 4 KC. The indices of KC were not significantly affected by VM. Similarly, no statistically significant differences were found between the stages of KC, or with the mean pachymetric progression index during VM. Pupil diameter showed a statistically significant increase during VM (p=0.017). There was a statistically significant decrease in the anterior chamber angle measurement during VM (p=0.001). Maximum curvature power in the front of the cornea decreased more during VM in stage 4 KC than for the other stages (p=0.014). Conclusions: No changes associated with VM were found in the KC indices or the stage of the disease. However, an increase in pupil diameter and a decrease in anterior chamber angle value were found. These changes were comparable to values obtained from previous studies performed on normal corneas.

RESUMO Objetivo: Este estudo tem como objetivo explorar os efeitos da manobra de Valsalva (VM) na córnea ectásica durante a varredura tomográfica do segmento anterior usando a câmera de Scheimpflug. Métodos: Foi conduzido estudo observacional, prospectivo envolvendo 100 olhos de 50 pacientes que apresentavam ceratocone (KC) bilateral. Tomografia do segmento anterior foi realizada inicialmente quando os pacientes estavam em posição de repouso e imediatamente depois, no curso de VM. Imagens de Scheimpflug foram feitas usando Pentacam®. Resultados: A média de idade dos participantes foi 24,14 ± 6,59 anos de idade. Dos olhos incluídos no estudo, 7% apresentava KC estágio 1,47% apresentava estágio 2,32% apresentava estágio 3, e 14% apresentava estágio 4. Índices de KC não foram significativamente afetadas pela VM. Não houve diferenças estatisticamente significativas com o estágio do KC, e o índice médio de progressão paquimétrica durante a VM. O diâmetro da pupila (PD) mostrou aumento estatisticamente significativo durante a VM (p=0,017). Houve diminuição estatisticamente significativa na medida do ângulo da câmara anterior durante a VM (p=0,001). O poder máximo de curvatura anterior da córnea no KC estágio 4 diminuiu mais do que os outros estágios durante o VM (p=0,014). Conclusões: Não foram encontradas alterações nos índices KC e no estágio da doença por causa da VM. Verificou-se que houve aumento na PD e uma diminuição no valor do ângulo da câmara anterior. Estas alterações foram comparáveis aos valores obtidos a partir de estudos realizados em córneas normais.

Dynamic changes in optic disc morphology, choroidal thickness, anterior chamber parameters, and intraocular pressure during Valsalva maneuver / Mudanças dinâmicas na morfologia do disco óptico, espessura da coroide, parâmetros de câmara anterior e pressão intraocular durante a manobra de Valsalva

ABSTRACT Purpose: To investigate the effects of the Valsalva maneuver (VM) on optic disc morphology, choroidal thickness, and anterior chamber parameters. Methods: This prospective observational study included 60 eyes of 60 healthy subjects. The anterior chamber parameters, including central corneal thickness (CCT), anterior chamber depth (ACD), anterior chamber angle (ACA), anterior chamber volume (ACV), pupil diameter (PD), axial length (AL), subfoveal and peripapillary choroidal thickness, optic disc parameters, and intraocular pressure (IOP), were measured at rest and during VM. Results: VM did not have any significant influence on AL, subfoveal and peripapillary choroidal thickness, optic disc area, rim area, cup area, cup-to-disc area ratio, vertical cup-to-disc ratio, rim volume, cup volume, and nerve head volume measurements (for all; p >0.05). IOP and PD significantly increased during VM (for both; p <0.001). VM significantly decreased CCT, ACD, ACA, and ACV values (for all; p <0.001). Moreover, the optic nerve cup volume decreased and the horizontal cup-to-disc ratio significantly increased during VM (for both; p <0.05). Conclusions: VM may cause transient changes in IOP, optic disc morphology, and anterior chamber parameters.

RESUMO Objetivo: Investigar os efeitos da manobra de Valsalva (VM) sobre a morfologia do disco óptico, a espessura da coroide e parâmetros câmara anterior. Métodos: Estudo observacional, prospectivo incluiu 60 olhos de 60 indivíduos saudáveis. Os parâmetros da câmara anterior, incluindo da espessura central da córnea (CCT), profundidade da câmara anterior (ACD), ângulo da câmara anterior (ACA), volume de câmara anterior (ACV), diâmetro da pupila (PD), comprimento axial (AL), espessura da coroide subfoveal e peripapilar, parâmetros de disco óptico e pressão intraocular (IOP) foram medidos em repouso e durante VM. Resultados: A VM não apresentou influência significativa em AL, espessura da coroide subfoveal e peripapilar, área de disco óptico, área da rima neural, área da escavação, relação da área escavação-disco, a relação vertical escavação-disco, volume da rima neural, volume da escavação, medidas de volume cabeça do nervo (para todos; p >0,05). IOP e PD aumentaram significativamente durante VM (para ambos; p <0,001). A VM diminuiu os valores CCT, ACD, ACA e ACV significativamente (para todos; p <0,001). Além disso, o volume da escavação do nervo óptico diminuiu e a razão horizontal escavação-disco aumentou significativamente durante VM (para ambos; p <0,05). Conclusões: A VM pode causar alterações transitórias na pressão intraocular, na morfologia do disco óptico e em parâmetros câmara anterior.

Cardiac Autonomic Adjustments During Baroreflex Test in Obese and Non-Obese Preadolescents / Ajustes Autonômicos Cardíacos Durante Teste Barorreflexo em Pré-Adolescentes Obesos e Não Obesos

Abstract Background: Recent studies have shown changes in cardiac autonomic control of obese preadolescents. Objective: To assess the heart rate responses and cardiac autonomic modulation of obese preadolescents during constant expiratory effort. Methods: This study assessed 10 obese and 10 non-obese preadolescents aged 9 to 12 years. The body mass index of the obese group was between the 95th and 97th percentiles of the CDC National Center for Health Statistics growth charts, while that of the non-obese group, between the 5th and 85th percentiles. Initially, they underwent anthropometric and clinical assessment, and their maximum expiratory pressures were obtained. Then, the preadolescents underwent a constant expiratory effort of 70% of their maximum expiratory pressure for 20 seconds, with heart rate measurement 5 minutes before, during and 5 minutes after it. Heart rate variability (HRV) and heart rate values were analyzed by use of a software. Results: The HRV did not differ when compared before and after the constant expiratory effort intra- and intergroup. The heart rate values differed (p < 0.05) during the effort, being the total variation in non-obese preadolescents of 18.5 ± 1.5 bpm, and in obese, of 12.2 ± 1.3 bpm. Conclusion: The cardiac autonomic modulation did not differ between the groups when comparing before and after the constant expiratory effort. However, the obese group showed lower cardiovascular response to baroreceptor stimuli during the effort, suggesting lower autonomic baroreflex sensitivity.

Resumo Fundamento: Estudos recentes revelaram alterações no controle autonômico cardíaco de pré-adolescentes obesos. Objetivo: Avaliar as respostas de frequência cardíaca e modulação autonômica cardíaca de pré-adolescentes obesos durante esforço expiratório constante. Métodos: Estudaram-se 10 pré-adolescentes obesos e 10 não obesos com idades entre 9 e 12 anos. O índice de massa corporal dos obesos esteve entre os percentis 95 e 97 das curvas do gráfico do National Center for Health Statistics, enquanto o de não obesos, entre os percentis 5 e 85. Inicialmente, realizaram-se avaliações antropométrica e clínica, e as pressões expiratórias máximas foram obtidas. A seguir, os pré-adolescentes foram submetidos a um esforço expiratório constante correspondendo a 70% das pressões expiratórias máximas por 20 segundos, com registro da frequência cardíaca 5 minutos antes e depois do esforço, e durante o mesmo. A variabilidade e os valores de frequência cardíaca foram analisados em um software. Resultados: Os índices da variabilidade da frequência cardíaca não diferiram ao serem comparados antes e depois do esforço expiratório constante intra- e intergrupos. Os valores da frequência cardíaca diferiram (p < 0,05) durante o esforço, sendo a variação total nos não obesos de 18,5 ± 1,5 bpm e nos obesos, 12,2 ± 1,3 bpm. Conclusão: A modulação autonômica cardíaca não diferiu entre os grupos antes e depois do esforço expiratório constante. No entanto, o grupo de obesos mostrou menor resposta cardiovascular ao estímulo barorreceptor durante o esforço, o que sugere menor sensibilidade autonômica barorreflexa.

Proposal Intensity Adequacy of Expiratory Effort and Heart Rate Behavior During the Valsalva Maneuver in Preadolescents / Proposta de Adequação da Intensidade do Esforço Expiratório e Comportamento da Frequência Cardíaca Durante a Manobra de Valsalva em Pré-Adolescentes

Background: When performing the Valsalva maneuver (VM), adults and preadolescents produce the same expiratory resistance values. Objective: To analyze heart rate (HR) in preadolescents performing VM, and propose a new method for selecting expiratory resistance. Method: The maximal expiratory pressure (MEP) was measured in 45 sedentary children aged 9-12 years who subsequently performed VM for 20 s using an expiratory pressure of 60%, 70%, or 80% of MEP. HR was measured before, during, and after VM. These procedures were repeated 30 days later, and the data collected in the sessions (E1, E2) were analyzed and compared in periods before, during (0-10 and 10-20 s), and after VM using nonparametric tests. Results: All 45 participants adequately performed VM in E1 and E2 at 60% of MEP. However, only 38 (84.4%) and 25 (55.5%) of the participants performed the maneuver at 70% and 80% of MEP, respectively. The HR delta measured during 0-10 s and 10-20 s significantly increased as the expiratory effort increased, indicating an effective cardiac autonomic response during VM. However, our findings suggest the VM should not be performed at these intensities. Conclusion: HR increased with all effort intensities tested during VM. However, 60% of MEP was the only level of expiratory resistance that all participants could use to perform VM. Therefore, 60% of MEP may be the optimal expiratory resistance that should be used in clinical practice. .

Fundamento: Durante a manobra de Valsalva (MV), os valores de resistência expiratória utilizados por adultos são os mesmos aplicados em pré-adolescentes. Objetivo: Analisar as respostas da frequência cardíaca (FC) de pré-adolescentes durante a MV e propor nova metodologia para eleição da resistência expiratória. Métodos: Submeteram-se 45 pré-adolescentes com idades entre 9 e 12 anos à avaliação das pressões expiratórias máximas (PEmáx). Valores de 60%, 70% e 80% dessas PEmáx foram selecionados para ser aplicados nas MV, mantidas por 20 s. Batimentos cardíacos foram registrados antes, durante e após a manobra. Trinta dias após, todos os procedimentos foram repetidos, e os dados da primeira (A1) e da segunda (A2) avaliações foram comparados. As análises foram feitas com testes não paramétricos, destacando-se os momentos antes, durante (0-10 s e 10-20 s) e após as manobras. Resultados: Os 45 pré-adolescentes conseguiram realizar adequadamente a manobra à resistência de 60% da PEmáx, enquanto apenas 38 (84,4%) e 25 (55,5%) a realizaram com resistências de 70% e 80% da PEmáx, respectivamente. Os deltas de FC 0-10 s e 10-20 s, calculados durante o esforço, foram significativamente maiores quanto maior foi o esforço expiratório, revelando efetiva resposta autonômica cardíaca durante a manobra. Entretanto, o estudo sugere que essas intensidades não devam ser empregadas. Conclusão: A FC se elevou em todas as intensidades de esforço testadas durante a MV, porém somente quando foi realizada com resistência expiratória de 60% da PEmáx é que todos os participantes conseguiram realizá-la, sugerindo ser a intensidade ideal para ser empregada na prática clínica. .

Muscarinic antibodies and heart rate responses to dynamic exercise and to the Valsalva maneuver in chronic chagasic patients / Anticorpos muscarínicos e resposta da frequência cardíaca ao exercício dinâmico e a manobra de Valsalva na doença de Chagas crônica

We have studied the cardiac chronotropic responses to the Valsalva maneuver and to dynamic exercise of twenty chronic chagasic patients with normal left ventricular function and no segmental wall abnormalities by two-dimensional echocardiogram. The absolute increase in heart rate of the patients (Δ = 21.5 ± 10 bpm, M±SD) during the maneuver was significantly diminished when compared to controls (Δ = 31.30 ± 70, M±SD, p = 0.03). The minimum heart rate (58.24 ± 8.90 vs. 62.80 ± 10, p = 0.68) and the absolute decrease in heart rate at the end of the maneuver (Δ = 38.30 ± 13 vs. Δ = 31.47 ± 17, p = 0.10) were not different from controls. The initial heart rate acceleration during dynamic exercise (Δ = 12 ± 7.55 vs. Δ = 19 ± 7.27, M±SD, p = 0.01) was also diminished, but the heart rate recovery during the first ten seconds was more prominent in the sero-positive patients (Median: 14, Interquartile range: (9.75-17.50 vs. 5(0-8.75, p = 0.001). The serum levels of muscarinic cardiac auto-antibodies were significantly higher in the chagasic patients (Median: 34.58, Interquartile Range: 17-46.5, Optical Density) than in controls (Median: 0, Interquartile Range: 0-22.25, p = 0.001) and correlated significantly and directly (r = 0.68, p = 0.002) with early heart rate recovery during dynamic exercise. The results of this investigation indirectly suggest that, the cardiac muscarinic auto-antibodies may have positive agonist effects on parasympathetic heart rate control of chagasic patients.

Foram estudadas as respostas cronotrópicas cardíacas à manobra de Valsalva e ao exercício dinâmico de vinte pacientes chagásicos com função ventricular esquerda normal e sem alterações da contractilidade segmentar por ecocardiografia bidimensional. O aumento absoluto da frequência cardíaca dos pacientes (Δ = 21,5 ± 10 bpm, M ± DP) durante a manobra de Valsalva foi significativamente menor quando se comparava ao grupo controle (Δ = 31,30 ± 70, p = 0,03). A frequência cardíaca mínima (58,24 ± 8,90 vs 62,80 ± 10, p = 0,68) e a diminuição da frequência cardíaca absoluta no final da manobra (Δ = 38,30 ± 13 vs Δ = 31,47 ± 17, p = 0,10) não foram diferentes em comparação com o grupo controle. A aceleração inicial da frequência cardíaca durante o exercício dinâmico (Δ = 12 ± 7,55 vs Δ = 19 ± 7,27, p = 0,01) também foi menor, mas a recuperação da frequência cardíaca, durante os primeiros dez segundos, foi maior no grupo sero-positivos [mediana:14 (intervalo interquartil: 9,75-17,50) vs 5 (0 - 8,75), p = 0,001]. Os níveis séricos de auto-anticorpos muscarínicos cardíacos foram significativamente maiores nos pacientes chagásicos do que no grupo controle [(mediana: 34,58 densidade óptica (intervalo interquartil 17 - 46,5) vs (mediana: 0, intervalo interquartil 0 - 22,25) p = 0,001] e a correlação é significativa e direta (r = 0,68, p = 0,002) com o início da recuperação da frequência cardíaca durante o exercício dinâmico. Os resultados desta investigação sugerem que indiretamente, os auto-anticorpos muscarínicos cardíacos, podem ter ação agonista positiva sobre o controle parassimpático da frequência cardíaca dos pacientes chagásicos.

Prognostic value of urethral mobility and valsalva leak point pressure for female transobturator sling procedure

PURPOSE: To analyze the influence of urethral mobility and Valsalva leak point pressure on postoperative outcomes of transobturator sling (TOT) for female stress urinary incontinence. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective cohort was conducted including 66 patients submitted to TOT from March 2006 to May 2009. Urethral hypermobility was defined as mobility ≥ 30º on Q-tip test, and Valsalva leak point pressure (VLPP) was classified as greater than 60 cmH2O or 60 and less on preoperative urodynamics. These parameters were compared through well defined postoperative objective and subjective success criteria. Intensity of urinary leakage and quality of life was analysed by ICIQ-SF. Statistical analysis was accomplished and the results rendered significant if p < 0.05. RESULTS: Mean follow up was 10 months (3 to 28). Mean age was 55 years (33 to 80), 70% were white and 30% African descendent, mean body mass index was 27 (21 to 38), average vaginal and abdominal deliveries were 2.8 and 0.5 respectively. A quarter had prior stress incontinence surgery. Patients with urethral hypermobility had higher objective success rates (98% versus 81.25%, p = 0.04). The subjective success rate was also greater in the hypermobility group (84% versus 62.5%), but statistical significance was not reached (p = 0.07). VLPP had no influence on either objective or subjective postoperative success rates (p = 0.17 and 0.34, respectively). In the subgroup analysis, those with low mobility and high VLPP had worse objective success rates in comparison to the group with hypermobility and low VLPP (p = 0.04) and also in relation to the remaining of the studied population. Other possible prognostic factors (previous surgery, mixed incontinence, gestational status) had no influence on success rates. CONCLUSIONS: High urethral mobility, regardless of the sphincteric status indicated by VLPP, is a favorable prognostic factor for tension-free transobturator tape procedure. No relationship was demonstrated between postoperative success rates and VLPP.

The Valsalva maneuver duration during labor expulsive stage: repercussions on the maternal and neonatal birth condition / Duração da manobra de Valsalva durante o período expulsivo do parto: repercussões maternas e nas condições neonatais de nascimento

OBJECTIVES: This cross-sectional study was designed to examine the effects of the Valsalva Maneuver (VM) and its duration on the acid- base equilibrium of the neonate and its maternal repercussions during the expulsive stage of labor, after standard breathing and pushing instructions were given. METHODS: A convenience sample of women with low risk pregnancy (n=33; mean age 22.5±3.7y and gestational age 38.1±1.12wks) and their newborns were studied during the expulsive stage of vaginal labor. Coaching consisted of standard recommendations for breathing including prolonged VMs coordinated with pushing. Maternal outcomes included the need for uterus fundal pressure maneuver and episiotomy, perineal trauma and posture. Neonatal outcomes included blood gases sampled from the umbilical cord, and Apgar scores. Data were analyzed with the Fisher's exact test, chi-square test, and Pearson correlation coefficient. RESULTS: None of the maternal outcomes were associated with VM duration. With respect to neonatal outcomes, increased VM duration was associated with reduced venous umbilical pH (r=-0.40; p=0.020), venous base excess (r=-0.42; p=0.014) and with arterial base excess (r=-0.36; p=0.043). Expulsive stage time was negatively associated with umbilical venous and arterial pH. CONCLUSIONS: VM duration during fetal expulsion in labor negatively affects fetal acid-base equilibrium and potentially the wellbeing of the neonate. Our results support the need to consider respiratory strategies during labor, to minimize potential risk to the mother and neonate.

OBJETIVOS: O presente estudo de corte transversal teve como objetivo avaliar os efeitos da Manobra de Valsalva (MV) e sua duração no equilíbrio ácido-básico fetal e nas repercussões maternas durante o período expulsivo do parto, após instrução respiratória padronizada. MÉTODOS: Uma amostra de conveniência em gestantes de baixo risco (n=33, média de idade 22,5±3.7 anos e idade gestacional 38.1±1.12 semanas) e seus neonatos foi avaliada durante o período expulsivo do parto vaginal. O treinamento consistiu em recomendações padronizadas para respiração, incluindo MV prolongadas associadas ao puxo. Os desfechos maternos incluíram o uso da manobra de pressão para o fundo do útero, episiotomia, trauma perineal e postura. Os desfechos neonatais incluíram análise dos gases sanguíneos do cordão umbilical e valores de Apgar. Os dados foram analisados por meio do teste exato de Fisher, teste qui-quadrado e Coeficiente de Correlação de Pearson. RESULTADOS: Nenhum dos desfechos maternos foi associado com a duração da MV. No entanto, em relação aos desfechos neonatais, o aumento da duração da MV foi associado com redução do pH venoso umbilical (r=-0,40; p=0,020) e excesso de base (r=-0.42; p=0.014) e com o excesso de base arterial (r=-0,36; p=0,043). O tempo do período expulsivo do parto foi negativamente associado com o pH venoso e arterial. CONCLUSÕES: A duração da MV durante esse período do parto interfere negativamente no equilíbrio ácido-básico fetal e potencialmente no bem-estar do neonato. Esses resultados fornecem suporte para a necessidade de os fisioterapeutas considerarem estratégias de orientações respiratórias para o puxo durante o trabalho de parto para minimizar potenciais riscos para a mãe e o neonato.

Cardiovascular responses to passive static flexibility exercises are influenced by the stretched muscle mass and the Valsalva maneuver

BACKGROUND: The respiratory pattern is often modified or even blocked during flexibility exercises, but little is known about the cardiovascular response to concomitant stretching and the Valsalva maneuver (VM) in healthy subjects. OBJECTIVES: This study evaluated the heart rate (HR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), and rate-pressure product (RPP) during and after large and small muscle group flexibility exercises performed simultaneously with the VM. METHODS: Asymptomatic volunteers (N = 22) with the following characteristics were recruited: age, 22 ± 3 years; weight, 73 ± 6 kg; height, 175 ± 5 cm; HR at rest, 66 ± 9 BPM; and SBP at rest, 113 ± 10 mmHg. They performed two exercises: four sets of passive static stretching for 30 s of the dorsi-flexion (DF) of the gastrocnemius and the hip flexion (HF) of the ischio-tibialis. The exercises were performed with (V+) or without (V-) the VM in a counterbalanced order. The SBP and HR were measured, and the RPP was calculated before the exercise session, at the end of each set, and during a 30-min post-exercise recovery period. RESULTS: The within-group comparisons showed that only the SBP and RPP increased throughout the sets (p<0.05), but no post-exercise hypotension was detected. The between-group comparisons showed that greater SBP increases were related to the VM and to a larger stretched muscle mass. Differences for a given set were identified for the HR (the HFV+ and HFV- values were higher than the DFV+ and DFV- values by approximately 12 BPM), SBP (the HFV+ value was higher than the DFV+ and DFV- values by approximately 12 to 15 mmHg), and RPP (the HFV+ value was higher than the HFV- value by approximately 2000 mmHGxBPM, and the HFV+ value was higher than the DFV+ and DFV- values by approximately 4000 mmHGxBPM). CONCLUSION: Both the stretched muscle mass and the VM influence acute cardiovascular responses to multiple-set passive stretching exercise sessions.

Effect of two pushing techniques [Valsalva's maneuver and spontaneous pushing] during the second stage of labor on maternal and neonatal conditions as well as the progress of labor in nulliparous women

The second stage of labor has provided debates concerning when maternal pushing efforts should begin and how long they should last for, in order to safeguard maternal and neonatal wellbeing. Therefore, the aim of study was to contrast the effect of two pushing techniques [Valsalva's Maneuver and Spontaneous Pushing] during the Second Stage of Labor on maternal and neonatal conditions as well as the progress of labor in Nulliparous Women. The study was conducted at El- Shatby Maternity University Hospital throughout a period of three months, using a cross-sectional analytical design on purposeful sample of [60] women was further subdivided randomly into two groups, a study group were Valsalva's Maneuver was applied for them and a control group were Spontaneous Pushing is redemonstrated by them. Data were collected through an assessment sheet covering socio-demographic and obstetric characteristics of women enrolled in the study sample plus the examination of women during labor. An observation form for birth outcomes was also used for evaluation of the effect of the two selected pushing techniques on maternal condition such as, [degree of perineal tearing, and blood loss more than 500 mL]. neonatal condition was evaluated through items including, [Apgar scores at I and 5 mm]. As well as progress of labor based on length of the second stage of labor. The main study findings showed that, there was a statistically significant differences between the Valsalva and Spontaneous Pushing groups in relation to incidence of extended episiotomy with tears, Apgar scoring at first minute and length of second stage ad expulsions phase of labor with positive results to the spontaneous pushing group. No statistical significant difference was found regarding incidence of post-partum hemorrahg and Apgar scoring at fifth minute. Moreover, the study concluded that, Spontaneous Pushing efforts are accompanied by adequate labor progress and result in less perineal trauma. In the light of the study results, it is recommended that further examination of the common practice of encouraging women to bear down spontaneously during the second stage, responding to their involuntary urge, is recommended

A study to determine whether the anterior and posterior vibrating lines can be distinguished as two separate lines of flexion by unbiased observers: a pilot study.

CONTEXT: By convention, the posterior palatal seal area is located on the palate between the anterior and posterior vibrating lines. However, there are opposing views on whether the anterior and posterior vibrating lines can be distinguished as two separate lines of flexion. AIMS: The study was carried out to determine whether the anterior and posterior vibrating lines can be distinguished as two separate lines of flexion by unbiased observers. A second part of the study was formulated to evaluate whether the palpatory method correlated with the nose-blowing method in locating the anterior line of flexion. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-three dental undergraduate clinical students were selected as observers. Twenty-three edentulous patients were randomly selected. The students were asked to record the anterior and posterior vibrating line on one patient each using two differently colored marking pencils. Also, the anterior vibrating line was marked by the palpatory method (using T burnisher) using a third colored marking pencil. The marked lines were then transferred onto the previously made impression of modeling plastic. RESULTS: Of the 23 recorders used in the study, 19 could locate separate anterior and posterior lines of flexion. In 4 cases, the anterior and posterior lines of flexion coincided and were not distinct. In 20 cases, the palpatory method produced a line anterior to the line located by the Valsalva maneuver. CONCLUSIONS: The anterior and posterior vibrating lines could be located by the undergraduate students as two separate lines of flexion when the appropriate action was elicited for each of them; and the palpatory method produced a line slightly anterior to the anterior vibrating line located by the Valsalva maneuver.

Preoperative Valsava leak point pressure may not predict outcome of mid-urethral slings: analysis from a randomized controlled trial of retropubic versus transobturator mid-urethral slings

OBJECTIVE: To test the hypothesis that preoperative Valsalva leak point pressure (VLPP) predicts long-term outcome of mid-urethra slings for female stress urinary incontinence (SUI). MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred and forty-five patients with SUI were prospectively randomized to two mid-urethra sling treatments: Tension free vaginal tape (TVT) or transobturator tape (TOT). They were followed-up at 3, 6, 12 months post-operatively and then annually for the primary outcome variable, i.e. dry or wet and secondary outcome variables such as scores on the urogenital distress inventory (UDI-6) and the impact of incontinence on quality of life (IIQ-7) questionnaire as well as patient satisfaction as scored on a visual analogue scale (VAS). Preoperative VLPP was correlated with primary and secondary outcome variables. RESULTS: Mean follow-ups were 32 + 12 months (range 12-55) for TVT and 31 + 15 months (range 12-61) for TOT. When patients were analyzed according to VLPP stratification, 95 (65.5 percent) patients showed a VLPP > 60 cm H2O and 50 (34.5 percent) patients had a VLPP < 60 cm H2O. The overall objective cure rates were 75.8 percent for patients with VLPP > 60 cm H2O and 72 percent for those with VLPP < 60 cm H2O (p < 0.619). No significant differences in objective cure rates emerged when patients were stratified for pre-operative VLPP and matched for TOT or TVT procedures: VLPP > 60 cm H2O (82 percent vs. 68.9 percent p < 0.172); VLPP < 60 cm H2O (68 percent vs. 76 percent p < 0.528). CONCLUSIONS: When patients were stratified for preoperative VLPP (< or > of 60 cm H2O), preoperative VLPP was not linked to outcome after TVT or TOT procedures.

Intra-abdominal pressure measurement during ultrasound assessment of women with stress urinary incontinence: a novel model

OBJETIVO: Determinar a influência da pressão intra-abdominal na avaliação ultra-sonográfica da junção uretrovesical (JUV) e uretra proximal (UP) em mulheres com incontinência urinária de esforço (IUE). MÉTODOS: Este é um estudo de corte transversal prospectivo realizado na Unidade de Pesquisa em Incontinência Urinária (UPIU) da Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (UFPE). Trinta e seis mulheres queixando-se de IUE foram submetidas a aferições ultra-sonográficas perineais da JUV e UP com a bexiga praticamente vazia (< de 50 ml de urina) simultaneamente a medições da pressão intra-abdominal (PIA). Para tal foi utilizado um aparelho de ultra-som ALOKA com um transdutor vaginal de 7MHz. Com o intuito de medir a PIA, utilizamos o equipamento de urodinâmica Uromaster MPX616 conectado a um catéter retal de 10Fr com um balão sensível à pressão. RESULTADOS: A idade média das participantes foi de 46,4 ± 10,2 anos. No esforço máximo, a média de PIA foi de 99,3 ± 51,8 cmH20, variando de 7 a 193 cmH20, e a mediana foi de 99,5 cmH20. Vinte e oito de 31 pacientes com hipermobilidade da JUV (90,3%) facilmente a revelaram com uma PIA acima 40 cmH20. Não houve associação significativa entre a média de PIAs aferidas no esforço máximo e os parâmetros estudados. A PIA na realidade induziu a um alongamento significativo do comprimento da uretra proximal acima de 14 mm até um ponto de corte acima de 80 cmH2O, muito provavelmente para aumentar a resistência e características pressóricas uretrais, assim evitando a perda urinária. Entretanto, todas as 19 mulheres com tais características já as apresentavam com uma PIA > 40 cmH2O. CONCLUSÃO: Não há necessidade de se aferir rotineiramente a PIA nas avaliações ultra-sonográficas da JUV e UP em mulheres com IUE com a bexiga praticamente vazia.

Teste de Valsalva ortostático no refluxo venoso / Upright Valsalva's test in venous reflux

OBJETIVO: Determinar se a modificação proposta pelos autores no teste de Valsalva proporcionou ganho de sensibilidade, especificidade e acurácia no diagnóstico do refluxo em relação ao teste realizado na posição supina, quando comparados com a flebografia, utilizada como padrão-ouro. MÉTODO: Cento e sessenta e um pacientes com insuficiência venosa crônica (C4, 5 ou 6E P A SDP P R ) foram examinados prospectivamente. Os pacientes foram submetidos à avaliação hemodinâmica, incluindo o teste de Valsalva supino padrão e o novo teste de Valsalva ortostático. A flebografia descendente foi utilizada como padrão-ouro, com a qual os testes foram comparados. Foi criada uma curva ROC (Receiver Operator Characteristic) para determinação do limite superior da normalidade do novo teste. Os valores obtidos para sensibilidade, especificidade e acurácia de cada um dos testes foram comparados entre si, utilizando o teste de comparação de porcentagens de Dunn. Foi adotado o nível de significância de 5 por cento. RESULTADOS: O teste de Valsalva supino padrão atingiu uma sensibilidade de 65 por cento, especificidade de 81 por cento e acurácia de 66 por cento, enquanto o teste de Valsalva ortostático atingiu uma sensibilidade de 80 por cento (P < 0,01), especificidade de 63 por cento (P = 0,43) e acurácia de 78 por cento (P < 0,05). CONCLUSÃO: A modificação no teste de Valsalva proposta pelos autores determinou melhor sensibilidade e acurácia, sem decréscimo significante na especificidade, provando ser útil na avaliação do refluxo da insuficiência venosa crônica.

OBJECTIVE: To test sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of the modified upright Valsalva's test described by the authors for diagnosing the reflux, when compared to phlebography, which is used as gold standard. METHOD: One hundred sixty one patients with chronic venous insufficiency (C4, 5 or 6E P A SDP P R) were prospectively examined. The patients were submitted to hemodynamic evaluation, including the standard supine Valsalva's test and the new modified upright Valsalva's test. Descending phlebography was used as a gold standard, to which the hemodynamic tests were compared. A ROC curve (Receiver Operator Characteristic) was plotted to determine the upper limit of normality for the new test. The observed sensitivity, specificity and accuracy values of each test were compared using Dunn's test. The significance level of 5 percent was adopted. RESULTS: The standard supine Valsalva's test reached a sensitivity of 65 percent, specificity of 81 percent and accuracy of 66 percent, whereas the upright Valsalva's test reached a sensitivity of 80 percent (P < 0.01), specificity of 63 percent (P = 0.43) and accuracy of 78 percent (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The modification in the Valsalva's test proposed by the authors seems to determine better sensitivity and accuracy without significant decrease in specificity, proving to be useful in reflux evaluation of chronic venous insufficiency.

Digitized QT dispersion by the Valsalva Maneuver in Hypertensive Patients

BACKGROUND: Hypertension is an important risk factor for sudden cardiac death, of which the incidence increases with increases in blood pressure. Prolonged QT dispersion has been identified to indicate increased risk of life-threatening ventricular arrhythmia and sudden cardiac death. In this study, QT dispersion was investigated in hypertensive patients during the strain phase of the Valsalva maneuver. METHODS: The study population included 75 subjects: 25 with normal blood pressure (Control), 25 with stage I hypertension (Group A), and 25 with stage II hypertension (Group B). Electrocardiography for QT dispersion was recorded at 25 mm/sec paper speeds before and during the Valsalva maneuver. RESULTS: The patients in Group B were significantly older than the controls (p< 0.05). Differences in sex, smoking, diabetes, angina, and hyperlipidemia were not statistically significant between the three groups. The basal QT dispersion was 25.3 +/- 18.3 ms in the controls, 39.0 +/- 17.8 ms in Group A, and 36.8 +/- 18.8 ms in Group B. The QT dispersion was significantly higher in group A patients than the controls (p< 0.05). In Group B only, a significant increase in QT dispersion was observed during the Valsalva maneuver, compared to conditions prior to the Valsalva maneuver (p< 0.05). CONCLUSION: The conditions that increase intrathoracic pressure may increase QT dispersion and severe hypertensive patients should avoid these conditions.

Effect of yoga on cardiovascular system in subjects above 40 years.

This study was conducted to examine the effect of yoga on cardiovascular function in subjects above 40 yrs of age. Pulse rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure and Valsalva ratio were studied in 50 control subjects (not doing any type of physical exercise) and 50 study subjects who had been practicing yoga for 5 years. From the study it was observed that significant reduction in the pulse rate occurs in subjects practicing yoga (P<0.001). The difference in the mean values of systolic and diastolic blood pressure between study group and control group was also statistically significant (P<0.01 and P<0.001 respectively). The systolic and diastolic blood pressure showed significant positive correlation with age in the study group (r1 systolic= 0.631 and r1 diastolic = 0.610) as well as in the control group (r2 systolic = 0.981 and r2 diastolic = 0.864). The significance of difference between correlation coefficient of both the groups was also tested with the use of Z transformation and the difference was significant (Z systolic= 4.041 and Z diastolic= 2.901). Valsalva ratio was also found to be significantly higher in yoga practitioners than in controls (P<0.001). Our results indicate that yoga reduces the age related deterioration in cardiovascular functions.

Correlation of autonomic indices with thyroid status.

The autonomic status in female thyroid patients was compared with healthy, age matched normal females taken as controls. The patients (29 +/- 7 years) were categorised into two groups: hyperthyroid and hypothyroid. The valsalva manoeuvre, standing to lying ratio (S/L ratio) and immediate heart rate response to standing (30:15 ratio) to assess the parasympathetic status while the galvanic skin response (GSR) was recorded to assess the sympathetic status. Statistical analysis was done using Student's t-test for comparing between the different groups and regression analysis were performed between autonomic indices and thyroid hormone levels. Although the mean values were not significantly different in hypothyroid and hyperthyroid patients, yet the correlation between autonomic function and thyroid hormone levels indicates a statistically significant difference (P-value<0.05), with the S/L ratio. The correlation was negative for log [T3] and log [T4], while it was positive for log [TSH]. This indicates that there is decreased parasympathetic activity with increased T3 and T4, which is in agreement earlier reports. The GSR, which is one of the measures of sympathetic activity, was found to be unaffected.

Avaliaçäo hormonal e de reflexos cardiovasculares em portadora de falência autonômica pura / Hormonal and cardiovascular reflex assessment in a female patient with pure autonomic failure

We report the case of a 72-year-old female with pure autonomic failure, a rare entity, whose diagnosis of autonomic dysfunction was determined with a series of complementary tests. For approximately 2 years, the patient has been experiencing dizziness and a tendency to fall, a significant weight loss, generalized weakness, dysphagia, intestinal constipation, blurred vision, dry mouth, and changes in her voice. She underwent clinical assessment and laboratory tests (biochemical tests, chest X-ray, digestive endoscopy, colonoscopy, chest computed tomography, abdomen and pelvis computed tomography, abdominal ultrasound, and ambulatory blood pressure monitoring). Measurements of catecholamine and plasmatic renin activity were performed at rest and after physical exercise. Finally the patient underwent physiological and pharmacological autonomic tests that better diagnosed dysautonomia.

Fibrinógeno y lípidos en estados disautonómicos cardiovasculares en DMNID / Fibrinogen al lipids in cardiovascular disautonomy in NIDM

La enfermedad isquémica aterosclerótica cardiovascular ocupa los primeros lugares de morbimortalidad general, y es causa principal de mortalidad en pacientes con diabetes mellitus no insulino dependiente (DMNID). Trastornos en la microcirculación favorecen los estados disautonómicos cardiovasculares, que potencialmente general muerte súbita diabéticos. Objetivo. Identificar estados asociados de comorbilidad (alteraciones de lípidos y fibrinógeno (FB) plasmáticos), con los trastornos de la neuropatía diabética autonómica cardiovascular (NDAC). Material y métodos. Se estudiaron 100 sujetos (50 enfermos de DMNID con más de cinco años de evolución y 50 controles sanos), de uno u otro sexo, de entre 45 y 60 años. Todos se sometieron a pruebas fisiológicas autonómicas y determinación de FB y lípidos séricos. Se buscó asociación mediante modelo de X² y correlación. Resultados. Se encontró una prevalencia de NDAC en 48 por ciento de los diabéticos varones y 32 por ciento de las mujeres enfermas. Niveles de FB inadecuados en 40 por ciento de los enfermos y 10 por ciento de los controles. Asociaciones significativas (p<0.005) para triglicéridos, colesterol, HgAIc, colesterol y C-LBD. Conclusiones. Es posible caracterizar el estado de comorbilidad que aguardan las variables estudiadas, permitiendo la estratificación pronóstica en la DMNID en relación a la NDAC

La reactividad de la musculatura bronquial en sujetos jóvenes: patrones en condiciones normales / Bronchial muscle reactivity in young healthy individuals: the pattern in normal conditions

Se analizan críticamente el método presentado en un trabajo anterior en el que se explora, de una manera sencilla, en el hombre, la reactividad de la musculatura de los broquios. Se presentan los resultados obtenidos con este método en 35 sujetos jóvenes sanos. El propósito fue el de encontrar valores que pudieron ser considerados como representativos de los patrones normales para individuos sanos, los cuales podrían servir de base para su comparación con los que se obtengan en los estudios de caso patológicos. Se discute la posibilidad de que la medida de la circunferencia torácica no presente un cambio proporcional de la capacidad pulmonar. Se presentan los resultados de los controles realizados en apoyo de este postulado, uno de los que sirvieron de base para la justificación del método. Se confirma que el músculo liso de los bronquios se encuentra en estado dinámico en las condiciones fisiológicas y que participa en la actividad refleja del sistema nervioso autónomo y en los estados emocionales. Se compara la actividad de este tipo de músculo con la de otros efectos autonómicos