Multi-angle laser device improves novice learning of C-arm fluoroscopy for lumbar spine surgery.

PURPOSE: This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and satisfaction of using a multi-angle laser device (MLD) for C-arm fluoroscopy to assist novice learners during lumbar spine surgery. METHODS: Forty novice learners were randomly assigned to Group A using an MLD-equipped C-arm or Group B using a traditional C-arm. Both groups performed X-ray fluoroscopy on a lumbar spine model in supine and rotated positions. Time, number of shots, and deviation from the target were compared. A questionnaire was used to assess the learning experience. RESULTS: Group A required less time (13.66 vs. 25.63 min), and fewer shots (15.05 vs. 32.50), and had a smaller deviation (22.9% vs. 61.5%) than Group B (all p<0.05). The questionnaire revealed higher scores in Group A for comfort, efficiency, and knowledge mastery (all p<0.05). CONCLUSION: The MLD significantly improves novice learning of C-arm fluoroscopy during lumbar spine surgery.

Evaluation of left ventricular function, rotation, twist and untwist in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a disease with an autosomal-dominant pattern of inheritance associated with a variety of disease courses, age of onset, symptom severity, left ventricular outflow obstruction and risk for sudden cardiac death. Left ventricular systolic function is typically normal in most HCM patients using conventional echocardiographic indexes; however, myocardial systolic and diastolic function are reduced, and the mechanism of myocardial dysfunction remains unclear. Echocardiography is an invaluable tool for the diagnosis and assessment of hemodynamic condition, evaluation of therapy and outcome, and follow-up of patients with HCM. The recent advent of speckle tracking imaging provides a novel index for the noninvasive assessment of left ventricular myocardial dysfunction, and has been confirmed by many studies. A search for original articles focusing on HCM and its associated twist and untwist mechanisms was performed in the MEDLINE and PubMed databases with no date restrictions. All articles identified were English-language, full-text publications. The reference lists of identified articles were also searched for additional articles and reviews.