Evaluating Public Perceptions and Attitudes Toward Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Cross-Sectional Study in Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND: Total knee arthroplasty is a surgical procedure used to address knee conditions, including osteoarthritis, that cause persistent pain and impaired joint function. While total knee arthroplasty is effective, misconceptions and knowledge gaps exist among the general public, particularly in Saudi Arabia. METHODS: This cross-sectional study, conducted in Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia, utilized an online survey to assess public perception of total knee arthroplasty. A questionnaire was developed, validated, and administered to participants aged 18 and above with a history of chronic knee pain. Data were analyzed for associations between knowledge and perception scores and sociodemographic factors. RESULTS: Out of 704 participants, the majority exhibited poor knowledge (74.1%) of total knee arthroplasty. Factors influencing knowledge included age, education, income, knowing someone who had total knee arthroplasty, hearing about total knee arthroplasty, receiving total knee arthroplasty information, and awareness of total knee arthroplasty indications. Sociodemographic characteristics such as gender, marital status, and perceptions about total knee arthroplasty prevalence did not significantly impact knowledge scores. CONCLUSION: This study reveals a significant knowledge and perception gap among the public in Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia, regarding total knee arthroplasty. Tailored education initiatives for patients with chronic knee pain are urgently needed to dispel misconceptions and provide accurate information about total knee arthroplasty. Collaborative efforts between policymakers, healthcare providers, and public health authorities are essential for improving public understanding, enhancing healthcare decision-making, and reducing the burden on healthcare systems.

A Cross-Sectional Study on Awareness and Knowledge of Sleeve Gastrectomy in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND: Obesity is a global health concern associated with a plethora of chronic diseases. Genetic and lifestyle factors play a pivotal role in its development, making it a significant challenge for healthcare systems worldwide. In this context, sleeve gastrectomy has emerged as a prominent bariatric surgical intervention, but the level of awareness and knowledge regarding its indications and complications in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia is underexplored. METHODS: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted over one year, from January 2022 to December 2022. The study aimed to assess the level of awareness among adults residing in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia regarding the indications and potential complications associated with sleeve gastrectomy. The study utilized random sampling and distributed a well-designed questionnaire in both English and Arabic. The questionnaire, validated for reliability, covered demographic data, general knowledge of sleeve gastrectomy, awareness of its indications, and knowledge of potential complications. RESULTS: The study included 1730 participants, with a majority in the 18-25 age group, predominantly female, and possessing a bachelor's degree. Awareness of sleeve gastrectomy was remarkably high, with 99% of respondents having heard of it, but only 50.1% accurately recognized the correct body mass index range for classifying obesity. Knowledge scores revealed 61.7% with poor knowledge, 31% with moderate knowledge, and 7.2% with good knowledge levels. Only 56.1% correctly identified the indications for sleeve gastrectomy. While participants displayed awareness of common complications, such as nutritional deficiencies, knowledge gaps persisted. CONCLUSION: This study exposes significant gaps in awareness and knowledge regarding sleeve gastrectomy, particularly concerning its indications and potential complications. It underscores the urgent need for targeted educational initiatives and active healthcare provider engagement in disseminating accurate information. Bridging these knowledge gaps through tailored public health campaigns can empower individuals to make informed decisions about the management of obesity.

Isolated Capitulum-Trapezoid Coalition: An Unusual Cause of Wrist Pain.

Chronic wrist pain presents a diagnostic challenge, demanding a comprehensive understanding of its multifactorial etiology. This case report focuses on wrist coalition, an infrequent orthopedic condition characterized by abnormal articulations between carpal bones, often associated with prolonged wrist discomfort. A 45-year-old man with a two-year history of persistent left wrist pain, with no previous history of trauma or systemic illness, had a localized tenderness in the left carpal region with a restricted range of motion, and diminished grip strength on physical examination. Initial investigations, including autoimmune profiles and plain radiographs, were inconclusive. Magnetic resonance imaging ultimately identified a coalition between the capitulum and the trapezoid. A multidisciplinary team recommended a conservative approach, resulting in a positive response and symptomatic improvement during follow-up. This case report contributes valuable insights to the limited literature on isolated capitulum and trapezoid coalition, highlighting the significance of considering such rare orthopedic entities in the comprehensive evaluation of chronic wrist pain.