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Journal of Personalized Medicine May 2024Pain perception, far from being a pathological mechanism, is a crucial protective stimulus to prevent additional injuries. Any disturbance in this complex system poses... (Review)
Review
INTRODUCTION
Pain perception, far from being a pathological mechanism, is a crucial protective stimulus to prevent additional injuries. Any disturbance in this complex system poses significant risks to individuals, affecting their quality of life and even their survival.
OBJECTIVE
This review aims to explore congenital insensitivity to pain, an extremely rare genetic disorder with an autosomal recessive pattern that results in the inability to perceive pain. We will focus on the well-known subtype, congenital insensitivity to pain with anhidrosis (CIPA). Our research seeks to update existing knowledge through a comprehensive literature review.
METHODOLOGY
The review employs a systematic literature review, analyzing various sources and scientific documents, primarily emphasizing CIPA. The review follows the PROSPERO protocol, registered under CRD42023394489. The literature search was performed on the Scopus, PubMed, and Cinahl databases.
RESULTS
Our review reveals secondary complications associated with CIPA, such as recurrent bone fractures, temperature insensitivity, self-mutilation, and, occasionally, intellectual disabilities. The limited available information underscores the need for expanding our knowledge.
CONCLUSIONS
In summary, CIPA, particularly, presents a significant medical challenge with adverse impacts on quality of life. Early diagnosis, education for families and healthcare professionals, and appropriate nursing care are essential for effective management. This review highlights the necessity of further research and awareness to enhance support for those affected.
PubMed: 38929791
DOI: 10.3390/jpm14060570 -
Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and... Jun 2024Despite fractures of Isolated Weber B being prevalent, there is a lack of clarity regarding the relative effectiveness of surgical versus conservative treatment. This... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Comparative Study
BACKGROUND
Despite fractures of Isolated Weber B being prevalent, there is a lack of clarity regarding the relative effectiveness of surgical versus conservative treatment. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the clinical effects and complications of surgical versus conservative treatment of the Isolated Weber B ankle fractures.
METHODS
This study involved thorough searches across multiple electronic databases, including PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, and Web of Science, to identify all relevant publications on Isolated Weber B ankle fractures repaired through surgical versus conservative treatment. Through a comprehensive meta-analysis, several outcomes were evaluated, including post-operative function, complications and reoperation rate.
RESULT
Six articles involving 818 patients who met the inclusion criteria. Among these participants, 350 were male and 636 were female. 651 patients received conservative treatment, while 396 underwent surgical intervention. The findings indicate no significant differences in OMAS, FAOQ, PCS, MCS scores, and return to work between surgical and non-surgical treatments for isolated Weber B ankle fractures. However, compared with surgical treatment, non-surgical treatment has a higher AOFAS score(MD = -5.31, 95% CI = [-9.06, -1.55], P = 0.20, I = 39%), lower VAS score(MD = 0.72, 95% CI = [0.33, 1.10], P = 0.69, I = 0%), lower complication rate (RR = 3.06, 95% CI = [1.58, 6.01], P = 0.05, I = 54%), and lower reoperation rate(RR = 8.40, 95% CI = [1.57, 45.06], P = 0.05, I = 67%).
Topics: Humans; Ankle Fractures; Treatment Outcome; Conservative Treatment; Female; Male; Reoperation; Postoperative Complications; Adult
PubMed: 38858737
DOI: 10.1186/s13018-024-04835-4 -
JSES International May 2024Various plate types are used in the surgical treatment of displaced midshaft clavicle fractures. These plates can be positioned in different locations on the clavicle,... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Various plate types are used in the surgical treatment of displaced midshaft clavicle fractures. These plates can be positioned in different locations on the clavicle, although no studies to date have elucidated optimal plate type and location of fixation. This systematic review compares the functional outcomes and complications in the management of displaced midshaft clavicle fractures using plate fixation by stratifying by both plate type and location.
METHODS
A systematic review according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines was conducted to identify all papers reporting functional outcomes, union rates, and/or complications using plates for the management of midshaft clavicle fractures. Multiple databases and trial registries were searched from inception until March 2022. A meta-analysis was conducted for functional outcomes and type of complication, stratified by plate type (locking, compression, or reconstruction) and location (superior or anteroinferior). Pooled estimates of functional outcome scores and incidence of complications were calculated using a random effects model. Risk of bias and quality were assessed using the risk of bias version 2 and ROBINS-I (Risk Of Bias In Non-randomised Studies - of Interventions) tools. The confidence in estimates were rated and described according to the recommendations of the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations) working group.
RESULTS
Forty-five studies were included in the systematic review and 43 were included in the meta-analysis. Depending on plate type and location, pooled Constant-Murley Scores ranged from 89.23 to 93.48 at 12 months. Nonunion rates were 3% (95% confidence interval [CI] 1-6) for superior locking plates (GRADE Low). Rates of any complication (nonunion, hardware failure, hardware irritation, wound dehiscence, keloid, superficial infection, deep infection, delayed union, malunion, and/or persistent pain) by plate type and location ranged from 3% to 17% (GRADE Very Low to Moderate). Superior compression plates had the highest incidence of any complications (17% [95% CI 5-44], GRADE Very Low), while anterior inferior compression plates had the lowest incidence of any complication (3% [95% CI 0-15], GRADE Very Low). Hardware irritation was the most reported individual complication for superior locking plates and superior compression plates, 11% (95% CI 7-17, GRADE Low) and 11% (95% CI 3-33, GRADE Very Low), respectively.
CONCLUSION
Although most studies were of low quality, studies reporting functional outcomes generally showed good functional results and similar incidence of any complication regardless of plate type and location. There is no evidence of a plate and location combination to optimize patient functional outcomes or complications. We were unable to reliably evaluate union rates or individual complications for most plate types stratified by location.
PubMed: 38707570
DOI: 10.1016/j.jseint.2024.01.007 -
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.... Apr 2024Recalcitrant bone nonunion and osseous defect treatment is challenging and often requires vascularized bone transfer. The medial femoral condyle flap has become an...
BACKGROUND
Recalcitrant bone nonunion and osseous defect treatment is challenging and often requires vascularized bone transfer. The medial femoral condyle flap has become an increasingly popular option for reconstruction. The study aims at reviewing its different applications and synthesizing its surgical outcomes.
METHOD
A systematic review including all studies assessing surgical outcomes of free medial femoral condyle flap for bone reconstruction in adults was conducted on January 31, 2023. Flap failure and postoperative complications were synthesized with a proportional meta-analysis.
RESULTS
Forty articles describing bony reconstruction in the head and neck, upper limb, and lower limb areas were selected. Indications ranged from bony nonunion and bone defects to avascular bone necrosis. Multiple flaps were raised as either pure periosteal, cortico-periosteal, cortico-cancellous-periosteal, or cortico-chondro-periosteal. A minority of composite flaps were reported. Overall failure rate was 1% [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.00-0.08] in head & neck applications, 4% in the lower limb (95% CI, 0.00-0.16), 2% in the upper limb (95% CI, 0.00-0.06), and 1% in articles analyzing various locations simultaneously (95% CI, 0.00-0.04). Overall donor site complication rate was 4% (95% CI, 0.01-0.06). Major reported complications were: femoral fractures (n = 3), superficial femoral artery injury (n = 1), medial collateral ligament injury (n = 1), and septic shock due to pace-maker colonization (n = 1).
CONCLUSION
The medial femoral condyle flap is a versatile option for bone reconstruction with high success rates and low donor site morbidity.
PubMed: 38596574
DOI: 10.1097/GOX.0000000000005708 -
North American Spine Society Journal Mar 2024The treatment of spine metastases continues to pose a significant clinical challenge, requiring the integration of multiple therapeutic modalities to address the... (Review)
Review
Combination radiofrequency ablation and vertebral cement augmentation for spinal metastatic tumors: A systematic review and meta-analysis of safety and treatment outcomes.
BACKGROUND
The treatment of spine metastases continues to pose a significant clinical challenge, requiring the integration of multiple therapeutic modalities to address the multifactorial aspects of this disease process. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and vertebral cement augmentation (VCA) are 2 less invasive modalities compared to open surgery that have emerged as promising strategies, offering the potential for both pain relief and preservation of vertebral stability. The utility of these approaches, however, remains uncertain and subject to ongoing investigation.This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluates the available evidence and synthesize the results of studies that have investigated the combination of RFA and VCA for the treatment of spinal metastases, with the goal of providing a comprehensive and up-to-date assessment of the efficacy and safety of this therapeutic approach.
METHODS
A literature search was conducted using the electronic databases PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and Scopus from their inception to May 4th, 2022 in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Studies were included if they met the following criteria: 1) spine metastases treated with RFA in combination with VCA, 2) available data on at least one outcome (i.e., pain palliation, complications, local tumor control), 3) prospective or retrospective studies with at least 10 patients, and 4) English language. Meta-analyses were conducted in R (R Foundation for Statistical Computing; Vienna, Austria), using the package.
RESULTS
In the 25 included studies, a total of 947 patients (females=53.9%) underwent RFA + VCA for spinal metastatic tumors. Out of 1,163 metastatic lesions, the majority were located in the lumbar region (585/1,163 [50.3%]) followed by thoracic (519/1,163 [44.6%]), sacrum (39/1,163 [3.4%]), and cervical (2/1,163 [0.2%]). 48/72 [66.7%] metastatic lesions expanded into the posterior elements. Preoperative pathologic vertebral fractures were identified in 115/176 [65.3%] patients. Between pre-procedure pain scores and postprocedure pain scores, average follow-up (FU) was 4.41±2.87 months. Pain scores improved significantly at a short-term FU (1-6 months), with a pooled mean difference (MD) from baseline of 4.82 (95% CI, 4.48-5.16). The overall local tumor progression (LTP) rate at short-term FU (1-6 months) was 5% (95% CI, 1%-8%), at mid-term FU (6-12 months) was 22% (95% CI, 0%-48%), and at long-term FU (>12 months) was 5% (95% CI, 0%-11%). The pooled incidence of total complications was 1% (95% CI, 0%-1%), the most frequent of which were transient radicular pain and asymptomatic cement extravasation.
CONCLUSIONS
The findings of this meta-analysis reveal that the implementation of RFA in conjunction with VCA for the treatment of spinal metastatic tumors resulted in a significant short-term reduction of pain, with minimal total complications. The LTP rate was additionally low. The clinical efficacy and safety of this technique are established, although further exploration of the long-term outcomes of RFA+VCA is warranted.
PubMed: 38510810
DOI: 10.1016/j.xnsj.2024.100317 -
World Journal of Emergency Surgery :... Mar 2024Operative treatment of traumatic rib fractures for better outcomes remains under debate. Surgical stabilization of rib fractures has dramatically increased in the last... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
Operative treatment of traumatic rib fractures for better outcomes remains under debate. Surgical stabilization of rib fractures has dramatically increased in the last decade. This study aimed to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) to assess the effectiveness and safety of operative treatment compared to conservative treatment in adult patients with traumatic multiple rib fractures.
METHODS
A systematic literature review was performed according to the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses guidelines. We searched MEDLINE, Scopus, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and used the Cochrane Risk-of-Bias 2 tool to evaluate methodological quality. Relative risks with 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated for outcomes: all-cause mortality, pneumonia incidence, and number of mechanical ventilation days. Overall certainty of evidence was evaluated with the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach, with trial sequential analysis performed to establish implications for further research.
RESULTS
From 719 records, we included nine RCTs, which recruited 862 patients. Patients were assigned to the operative group (received surgical stabilization of chest wall injury, n = 423) or control group (n = 439). All-cause mortality was not significantly different (RR = 0.53; 95% CI 0.21 to 1.38, P = 0.35, I = 11%) between the two groups. However, in the operative group, duration of mechanical ventilation (mean difference -4.62; 95% CI -7.64 to -1.60, P < 0.00001, I = 94%) and length of intensive care unit stay (mean difference -3.05; 95% CI -5.87 to -0.22; P < 0.00001, I = 96%) were significantly shorter, and pneumonia incidence (RR = 0.57; 95% CI 0.35 to 0.92; P = 0.02, I = 57%) was significantly lower. Trial sequential analysis for mortality indicated insufficient sample size for a definitive judgment. GRADE showed this meta-analysis to have very low to low confidence.
CONCLUSION
Meta-analysis of large-scale trials showed that surgical stabilization of multiple rib fractures shortened the duration of mechanical ventilation and reduced the incidence of pneumonia but lacked clear evidence for improvement of mortality compared to conservative treatment. Trial sequential analysis suggested the need for more cases, and GRADE highlighted low certainty, emphasizing the necessity for further targeted RCTs, especially in mechanically ventilated patients.
SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION
UMIN Clinical Trials Registry UMIN000049365.
Topics: Adult; Humans; Rib Fractures; Length of Stay; Thoracic Injuries; Pneumonia; Respiration, Artificial; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
PubMed: 38504282
DOI: 10.1186/s13017-024-00540-z -
General Hospital Psychiatry 2024Long COVID can include impaired cognition ('brain fog'; a term encompassing multiple symptoms) and mental health conditions. We performed a systematic review and... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
OBJECTIVE
Long COVID can include impaired cognition ('brain fog'; a term encompassing multiple symptoms) and mental health conditions. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to estimate their prevalence and to explore relevant factors associated with the incidence of impaired cognition and mental health conditions.
METHODS
Searches were conducted in Medline and PsycINFO to cover the start of the pandemic until August 2023. Included studies reported prevalence of mental health conditions and brain fog in adults with long COVID after clinically-diagnosed or PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection.
FINDINGS
17 studies were included, reporting 41,249 long COVID patients. Across all timepoints (3-24 months), the combined prevalence of mental health conditions and brain fog was 20·4% (95% CI 11·1%-34·4%), being lower among those previously hospitalised than in community-managed patients(19·5 vs 29·7% respectively; p = 0·047). The odds of mental health conditions and brain fog increased over time and when validated instruments were used. Odds of brain fog significantly decreased with increasing vaccination rates (p = ·000).
CONCLUSIONS
Given the increasing prevalence of mental health conditions and brain fog over time, preventive interventions and treatments are needed. Research is needed to explore underlying mechanisms that could inform further research in development of effective treatments. The reduced risk of brain fog associated with vaccination emphasizes the need for ongoing vaccination programs.
Topics: Adult; Humans; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome; Mental Health; Prevalence; COVID-19; SARS-CoV-2; Mental Fatigue
PubMed: 38447388
DOI: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2024.02.009 -
BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders Mar 2024This meta-analysis aims to investigate the efficacy of early rehabilitation on patients who have undergone surgery for distal radius fractures (DRFs) with palmar... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
This meta-analysis aims to investigate the efficacy of early rehabilitation on patients who have undergone surgery for distal radius fractures (DRFs) with palmar plating, focusing on multiple outcome measures including upper limb function, wrist function, back extension mobility, pain levels, and complications.
METHODS
A rigorous search strategy adhering to the PRISMA guidelines was employed across four major databases, including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library. Studies were included based on stringent criteria, and data extraction was performed independently by two reviewers. Meta-analysis was conducted employing both fixed-effect and random-effects models as dictated by heterogeneity, assessed by the I statistic and chi-square tests. A total of 7 studies, encompassing diverse demographic groups and timelines, were included for the final analysis.
RESULTS
The meta-analysis disclosed that early rehabilitation yielded a statistically significant improvement in upper limb function (SMD -0.27; 95% CI -0.48 to -0.07; P < 0.0001) and back extension mobility (SMD 0.26; 95% CI 0.04 to 0.48; P = 0.021). A notable reduction in pain levels was observed in the early rehabilitation group (SMD -0.28; 95% CI -0.53 to -0.02; P = 0.03). However, there were no significant differences in wrist function (SMD -0.13; 95% CI -0.38 to 0.12; P = 0.36) and complications (OR 0.99; 95% CI 0.61 to 1.61; P = 0.96).
CONCLUSIONS
Early rehabilitation post-DRF surgery with palmar plating has been found to be beneficial in enhancing upper limb functionality and back extension mobility, and in reducing pain levels. Nevertheless, no significant impact was observed regarding wrist function and complications.
Topics: Humans; Pain; Upper Extremity; Wrist; Wrist Fractures; Wrist Joint
PubMed: 38443916
DOI: 10.1186/s12891-024-07317-0 -
BMC Urology Mar 2024The forgotten ureteral stents (FUS) is one of the late complications of stent placement. This systematic review summarized different aspects of FUS and focused on the...
BACKGROUND
The forgotten ureteral stents (FUS) is one of the late complications of stent placement. This systematic review summarized different aspects of FUS and focused on the problems and solutions related to FUS.
METHODS
This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) statement. PubMed® and Embase® were searched from inception until October 1st, 2022. Eligible studies were those defining FUS as a stent unintentionally left in situ longer than at least 2 months.
RESULTS
Total 147 studies with 1292 patients were finally included. The mean indwelling time of FUS was 33.5 months (range from 3 months to 32 years). The most common initial cause for stent placement was adjunct treatment to urolithiasis (79.2%). The major forgetting reasons were patient-related (83.9%), which included poor compliance, lapse in memory, and misconceptions about the necessity of timely removal. Primary presenting complaints were flank pain (37.3%), lower urinary tract symptoms (33.3%), and hematuria (22.8%). Encrustation (80.8%) and urinary tract infections (40.2%) were the most common complications detected in patients with FUS. Computed tomography evolving as a preferred imaging test (76.1%) was indispensable for evaluating encrustation, migration, fracture and other complicated situations in patients with FUS. Besides, evaluation of kidney function and infection status was also of great importance. Multiple and multimodal procedures (59.0%) were often necessitated to achieve the stent-free status, and were mostly endoscopic procedures. Cystoscope was most commonly used (64.8%). Retrograde ureteroscopy (43.4%) and antegrade stent removal (31.6%) were often used when dealing with more complicated situations. Extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (30.4%) was often used as adjunctive to other endoscopic procedures, but it sometimes failed. The decision regarding the choice of treatment is based on the volume and site of encrustation, the direction of migration, the site of fracture, kidney function and other urinary comorbidities.
CONCLUSIONS
FUS not only pose hazard to patients' health, but also impose a huge economic burden on medical care. Thorough preoperative evaluation is fundamental to developing the treatment strategy. The management of FUS should be individualized using different treatment modalities with their advantages to minimize patients' morbidities. Prevention is better than cure. Strengthening health education and setting a tracking program are of great importance to the prevention of FUS.
Topics: Humans; Cystoscopes; Fractures, Bone; Hematuria; Lithotripsy; Ureteroscopy; Urolithiasis; Foreign Bodies; Stents
PubMed: 38443863
DOI: 10.1186/s12894-024-01440-9 -
Medicine Mar 2024This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of Taohong Siwu Decoction (THSWD) combined with low molecular weight heparin (LMWH), as well as... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
Effectiveness of Taohong Siwu decoction in the prevention of deep vein thrombosis in hip surgery patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
BACKGROUND
This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of Taohong Siwu Decoction (THSWD) combined with low molecular weight heparin (LMWH), as well as THSWD alone, on the incidence of Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), D-dimer levels, prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), visual analogue scale (VAS) pain score, and calf swelling in patients undergoing hip fracture or replacement surgery, compared to LMWH.
METHODS
According to the predefined inclusion criteria, we conducted a comprehensive search for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining the efficacy of THSWD combined with LMWH or THSWD compared to LMWH in patients with hip fractures or undergoing replacement surgery. The search was performed across multiple databases including China National Knowledge Internet, WanFang, Sinomed, Duxiu, PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar, Cochrane, and Web of Science from their inception until December 2023. Additionally, relevant literature references were retrieved and hand searching of pertinent journals was conducted. The methodological quality assessment of the included trials was carried out following the guidelines outlined in the Cochrane Handbook. Review Manager 5.4 was applied in analyzing and synthesizing.
RESULTS
A total of 18 RCTs with 1353 patients were included. The results of meta-analysis showed that compared with the control group, the combined group had a better effect on the incidence of DVT [RR = 0.32, 95% CI(0.17, 0.58; P = .0002], D-dimer [SMD = -5.88, 95% CI(-7.66, -4.11); P < .00001], VAS [MD = -1.16, 95% CI(-1.81, -0.50); P = .0005], Calf circumference difference [MD = -0.56, 95% CI(-1.05, -0.08); P = .02]. There was no significant difference in PT and APTT between the combined group and the control group. Meta-analysis results show that the D-dimer, incidence of DVT, PT, and APTT did not significantly differ between the THSWD and the LMWH groups.
CONCLUSION
This meta-analysis shows that compared with LMWH, THSWD combined with LMWH has a better efficacy in the treatment of DVT after hip surgery, without a significant increase in the incidence of adverse events. Additionally, the combined therapy can also reduce D-dimer, VAS, and swelling. However, due to the limitations of the included studies (such as small sample size and low-quality evidence), the results need to be further verified in more rigorous multicenter clinical trials with a large sample size.
Topics: Humans; Anticoagulants; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Heparin, Low-Molecular-Weight; Venous Thrombosis; Multicenter Studies as Topic; Drugs, Chinese Herbal
PubMed: 38428876
DOI: 10.1097/MD.0000000000037241