Hospitals In France Research Articles

Risk of Infective Endocarditis in Patients with Spinal Surgical Site Infection and Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia.

Context: Surgical site infection (SSI) is responsible for significant morbidity, prolonged hospital stays, and increased costs. Infectious endocarditis (IE) is a rare but serious complication of bacteremia, particularly that resulting from Staphylococcus aureus SSI. The VIRSTA score predicts the risk of IE and determines the priority of transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) in patients with S. aureus bacteremia. The aim of the study was to (1) assess the performance of the VIRSTA score and (2) determine the usefulness of TTE in S. aureus bacteremia related to spinal SSI. Materials and Methods: We carried out a retrospective study of consecutive patients with spinal SSI and S. aureus bacteremia at two university hospitals in France (Bordeaux and Tours) from January 2009 to January 2023. We collected the patients' clinical and surgical characteristics at baseline, VIRSTA score items, TTE results, and medicosurgical management. The associations of these parameters with IE were assessed using the chi-square test and logistic regression models. Results: Of 82 patients with spinal SSI and S. aureus bacteremia, only 1 (1.21%) developed IE. Thirteen patients did not benefit from TTE during hospitalization and were considered free of IE after clinical follow-up. Diabetes mellitus (p < 0.04) and the presence of severe sepsis or septic shock (p < 0.03) were significantly associated with the presence of IE in this population. Conclusions: Incidence of IE in patients with spinal SSI and S. aureus bacteremia is low. The VIRSTA score has high sensitivity but is not accurate for identifying patients at high risk for IE and systematic performance of TTE is complex and not useful in this setting. Level of Evidence: IV.

Iatrogenic emboli during mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke: comparison between stent retriever technique and contact aspiration-a retrospective case-control study.

Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) is an effective treatment for acute ischemic stroke from large vessel occlusion (LVO). While embolization to a new territory (ENT) after MT is well-documented, data on embolization in the same distal territory (EDT) are limited. Achieving modified Treatment In Cerebral Infarction (mTICI) 3 reperfusion presents significant clinical benefits over mTICI 2b/2c, necessitating strategies to reduce both ENT and EDT. Previous studies suggest higher rates of EDTs with contact aspiration compared with stentrievers. However, comprehensive comparison studies in clinical practice are scarce. This study compares the rates of overall clot emboli (OCE) between these MT strategies. A retrospective, multicenter observational study was conducted at four university hospitals in France from January 2015 to November 2019. Adult patients (≥18 years) with acute ischemic stroke due to LVO, treated with either contact aspiration (ADAPT, A Direct Aspiration First Pass Technique) or stentrievers, specifically using the Embotrap device to maintain sample homogeneity, were included. Digital subtraction angiography was used for imaging, with two independent, blinded reviewers assessing OCE post-first MT pass. Propensity score full matching and independent sample testing were employed to evaluate OCE after the first MT pass. A significant difference in OCE rates was observed between contact aspiration and stentriever techniques, with the stentriever technique resulting in fewer embolic events compared with ADAPT, based on a propensity score analysis that accounts for key confounding factors. A statistically significant reduction in embolic events was observed with the stentriever technique compared with contact aspiration. These results suggest that the stentriever method may offer a safer profile in terms of embolic risk for LVO interventions, and should be considered over contact aspiration when embolic risk is a primary concern, while also considering individual patient factors.

Defining neighborhood walkability for children in the ELFE cohort study

Abstract Background Although walkability is known to be associated with obesity in adults, there is a paucity of data evaluating the association of walkability and health outcomes in children. In particular, little is known regarding the possible association with children’s mental health. Methods We used data from the Etude Longitudinale Française depuis l’Enfance (ELFE) cohort study. Participating mothers gave birth in 2011 in a representative sample of 320 maternity hospitals in mainland France. This pilot study is limited to participants in Paris and children at 5.5 years old. Walkability is defined by three parameters: population density (defined by census data), street connectivity (defined by intersection density), and land-use mix (entropy index). To approximate walkable areas, 500-meter street-network buffer zones were created around each participants address using a geographic information system. Children’s mental health was assessed using parent-reported Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire at age 5.5 years. Results There was a total of 280 children in this pilot study. On measures of land-use mix, we found a mean of 0.79 (SD: 0.12), representing high accessibility. Residential and intersection density were highly correlated (p &amp;lt; 0.01). The walkability index demonstrated high variability among participants (mean: 10.6; SD: 10.44; range: -1.67 - 30.59). Conclusions Developing a walkability index is a multifactorial measure to describe a children’s neighborhood environment. Future work includes determining the association with children’s mental health disorders, while accounting for individual and neighborhood variables. This ecological model can inform social epidemiology and contextual disparities in children’s health. Key messages • Little is known about neighborhood walkability and the association with children’s mental health. • Using objective measures to calculate neighborhood composition and help elucidate this relationship.

Patient Safety and Perception of Quality in University Dental Hospitals: A French National Survey

Objectives Patient safety is poorly developed in dentistry. The aim of this study was to evaluate the level of patient safety perception and quality culture in French university dental hospitals. Methods A national survey was performed using a questionnaire that was sent electronically to dental students, teachers, senior professionals, and paramedics of the university dental clinics that volunteered to participate. The profile of the respondents, their involvement in quality teams, the occurrence of adverse events, and the organization of the department were explored. Results Of the 17 university dental hospitals in France, 15 volunteered to participate, representing 681 respondents (65.9% students, 26.9% dentists, 3.7% paramedics, and 3.5% residents). Despite 58% of the respondents being aware of the procedure for declaring adverse events, only 28% of them had ever declared at least one. All professionals were aware of the high incidence of adverse events in their clinics. The perception of well-being and organization was low, especially for the items “adequation between tasks and number of professionals” and for “task organization.” The perception of “team spirit and feeling of respect” was good. Conclusions The survey highlighted the need for courses and meetings on patient safety and quality, but also the good perception of dental care providers regarding patient safety. The lack of materials and of human resources emerged as a key point for improving patient safety in university dental hospitals. Nonetheless, communication was also perceived as very important and could be improved without incurring costs and through internal solutions.

A Familiar Working Environment Influences Surgeon's Stress in the Operating Room: A Multi-Specialty Prospective Cohort Study.

To determine the influence of operating room familiarity on surgeon stress. Regulating surgeon stress may improve patient safety. This study evaluated how assisting surgeon and operating room familiarity influence intraoperative heart rate variability among surgeons. Attending surgeons from seven specialties within four university hospitals in France were enrolled from 11/01/20-12/31/21. Vagal tone, an indicator of stress derived from heart rate variability, was assessed during the first five minutes after incision using the root mean square of successive differences (RMSSD). Higher RMSSD values indicate greater vagal tone. Team familiarity was quantified as the cumulative time the attending and assisting surgeons had operated together in the past, while operating rooms in which the surgeon conducted >10% of their operations were termed familiar. The effect of each on the RMSSD was assessed via a linear mixed-effect model adjusting for the random effect of the surgeon and possible confounders. Overall, 643 surgeries performed by 37 surgeons were included. Median surgeon age was 49 years, 29(78.4%) were male, and 22(59.5%) were professors. Surgeons spent an average of 21.2 hours with the assisting surgeon prior to surgery and conducted 585(91.0%) of their operations in a familiar operating room. For every 10 additional hours spent operating together, ln(RMSSD) significantly increased by 0.018 (95%CI: 0.003 to 0.033, P=0.016). Familiar operating rooms also tended to increase surgeon ln(RMSSD) [0.098 (95%CI: -0.007 to 0.203, P=0.068)]. Familiar assisting surgeons, and potentially operating rooms, increased surgeon vagal tone. Maintaining a stable operating room environment may improve surgeon stress and patient care.

Advancements in Managing Pure Ductal Carcinoma In Situ: An 18-Year Artificial Intelligence-Aided Analysis of 998 Patients

IntroductionThe integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in oncological diseases has opened new avenues for early cancer detection, accurate risk assessments, and personalized treatment protocols. The objective of our study was to describe the shift in the treatment indications and prognosis of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) in a prospective cohort of 998 patients managed over 18 years at a single University Hospital in France. MethodsThis analysis included all patients managed for DCIS at the University Hospitals of Strasbourg between January 14, 2002, and December 18, 2019, from the prospective SENOMETRY cohort, which initially included 9599 patients with both in situ and invasive breast cancer. Data were analyzed using Onconum, an AI-based natural language processing tool, to extract structured information from medical records. ResultsThe incidence of DCIS remained stable at 65 new cases per year. The mean age at diagnosis increased from 55 years in 2002 to 61 years in 2019. There was a significant rise in high-grade DCIS (DIN3) cases from 25% to 35%. The re-excision rate decreased from 57% in 2002 to 18% in 2019. Most DCIS cases were managed with breast-conserving surgeries (682), while total mastectomies accounted for 385 cases. Sentinel lymph node biopsy was performed in 39% of cases, primarily in high-grade and multifocal DCIS. Specific mortality was 0%, with a recurrence rate of 2.2%, predominantly invasive and occurring earlier in high-grade DCIS. Discussion: Over 18 years, there has been a notable shift in the clinicopathological characteristics of DCIS, with an increase in patient age at diagnosis and higher histopathological grades. Therapeutic management evolved significantly, with reduced surgical margins and fewer adjuvant treatments, while maintaining low and stable recurrence rates. AI significantly enhanced data extraction and analysis efficiency, contributing to better clinical decision-making. ConclusionThe study confirms the possibility of therapeutic de-escalation in DCIS, supported by AI-driven data analysis, allowing individualized treatment approaches and leading to optimized patient outcomes.

Ziftomenib in relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukaemia (KOMET-001): a multicentre, open-label, multi-cohort, phase 1 trial

Ziftomenib (KO-539) is an oral selective menin inhibitor with known preclinical activity in menin-dependent acute myeloid leukaemia models. The primary objective of this study was to determine the recommended phase 2 dose in patients with relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukaemia based on safety, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and preliminary activity. KOMET-001 is a multicentre, open-label, multi-cohort, phase 1/2 clinical trial of ziftomenib in adults with relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukaemia. Results of the phase 1 study, conducted at 22 hospitals in France, Italy, Spain, and the USA, are presented here and comprise the dose-escalation (phase 1a) and dose-validation and expansion (phase 1b) phases. Eligible patients were aged 18 years or older, had relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukaemia, and had an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 2 or less. For phase 1a, patients (all molecular subtypes) received ziftomenib (50-1000 mg) orally once daily in 28-day cycles. For phase 1b, patients with NPM1 mutations or with KMT2A rearrangements were randomly assigned (1:1) using third-party interactive response technology to two parallel dose cohorts (200 mg and 600 mg ziftomenib). Primary endpoints were maximum tolerated dose or recommended phase 2 dose in phase 1a, and safety, remission rates, and pharmacokinetics supporting recommended phase 2 dose determination in phase 1b. Analyses were performed in all patients who received at least one dose of ziftomenib (modified intention-to-treat population). Phase 1a/1b is complete. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04067336, and the EU Clinical Trials register, EudraCT 2019-001545-41. From Sept 12, 2019, to Aug 19, 2022, 83 patients received 50-1000 mg ziftomenib (39 [47%] were male and 44 [53%] were female). Median follow-up was 22·3 months (IQR 15·4-30·2). Of 83 patients, the most common grade 3 or worse treatment-emergent adverse events were anaemia (20 [24%]), febrile neutropenia (18 [22%]), pneumonia (16 [19%]), differentiation syndrome (12 [15%]), thrombocytopenia (11 [13%]), and sepsis (ten [12%]). Overall, 68 of 83 patients had serious adverse events, with two reported treatment-related deaths (one differentiation syndrome and one cardiac arrest). Differentiation syndrome rate and severity influenced the decision to halt enrolment of patients with KMT2A rearrangements. In Phase 1b, no responses were reported in patients treated at the 200 mg dose level. At the recommended phase 2 dose of 600 mg, nine (25%) of 36 patients with KMT2A rearrangement or NPM1 mutation had complete remission or complete remission with partial haematologic recovery. Seven (35%) of 20 patients with NPM1 mutation treated at the recommended phase 2 dose had a complete remission. Ziftomenib showed promising clinical activity with manageable toxicity in heavily pretreated patients with relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukaemia. Phase 2 assessment of ziftomenib combination therapy in the upfront and relapsed or refractory setting is ongoing. Kura Oncology.

Low dose lenalidomide versus placebo in non-transfusion dependent patients with low risk, del(5q) myelodysplastic syndromes (SintraREV): a randomised, double-blind, phase 3 trial

Lenalidomide is the standard of care for patients who are transfusion dependent with chromosome 5q deletion (del[5q]) myelodysplastic syndromes. In the SintraREV trial, we aimed to investigate whether an early intervention of low lenalidomide doses for 2 years could delay transfusion dependency in patients with anaemia who were not transfusion dependent. This randomised, double-blind, phase 3 trial, was conducted at 22 sites (University Hospitals) in Spain, France, and Germany. Eligible patients were aged 18 years or older diagnosed with low-risk or intermediate-1-risk del(5q) myelodysplastic syndromes with non-transfusion-dependent anaemia (according to the IPSS), were erythropoietin-stimulating agents naive, and had an ECOG performance status of 2 or less. Patients were randomly assigned (2:1) by means of a telephone system to receive lenalidomide 5 mg daily in 28-day cycles versus placebo for 2 years. The primary endpoint was time to transfusion dependency based on blinded independent central review. Analysis were by intent-to-treat (ITT) and evaluable population. Safety analyses included all participants who received at least one dose of treatment. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01243476) and EudraCT (2009-013619-36) and is complete. Between Feb 15, 2010, and Feb 21, 2018, 61 patients were randomly assigned to receive lenalidomide (n=40; two did not receive treatment) or placebo (n=21). The median age was 72·2 (IQR 65·4-81·9) years, 50 (82%) patients were female, and 11 (18%) were male. The median follow-up time was 60·6 (IQR 32·1-73·9) months. Regarding primary endpoint, median time to transfusion dependency was not reached (95% CI not applicable) in the lenalidomide group versus 11·6 months (95% CI 0·00-30·11) in the placebo group (p=0·0027). Lenalidomide significantly reduced the risk of transfusion dependency by 69·8% (hazard ratio 0·302, 95% CI 0·132-0·692; p=0·0046). The most frequent treatment-related adverse event was neutropenia, occurring in 24 (63%) of 38 patients in the lenalidomide group (grade 3 and 4 in 17 [45%] patients and one [3%], respectively) and in four (19%) of 21 patients in the placebo group (grade 3 in one [5%] patient). Thrombocytopenia was detected in seven (18%) of 38 patients receiving lenalidomide (grade 3 in two [5%] patients). Regarding the non-haematological toxicity, skin disorders (rash nine [23%] of 38 patients) were the most frequently described toxicities among patients receiving lenalidomide, being grade 3 in one (3%) of 38 patients. 19 serious adverse events were reported in 13 patients, 18 in the lenalidomide group and one in the placebo group, five of which were potentially related to the study drug. No treatment-related deaths were identified. An early approach with low doses of lenalidomide across two years delays the time to transfusion dependency and improves the rate and quality of the responses, with a manageable safety profile in patients who are non-transfusion dependent with del(5q) low-risk myelodysplastic syndromes. Bristol Myers Squibb.

Continuation vs Discontinuation of Renin-Angiotensin System Inhibitors Before Major Noncardiac Surgery

Before surgery, the best strategy for managing patients who are taking renin-angiotensin system inhibitors (RASIs) (angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers) is unknown. The lack of evidence leads to conflicting guidelines. To evaluate whether a continuation strategy vs a discontinuation strategy of RASIs before major noncardiac surgery results in decreased complications at 28 days after surgery. Randomized clinical trial that included patients who were being treated with a RASI for at least 3 months and were scheduled to undergo a major noncardiac surgery between January 2018 and April 2023 at 40 hospitals in France. Patients were randomized to continue use of RASIs (n = 1107) until the day of surgery or to discontinue use of RASIs 48 hours prior to surgery (ie, they would take the last dose 3 days before surgery) (n = 1115). The primary outcome was a composite of all-cause mortality and major postoperative complications within 28 days after surgery. The key secondary outcomes were episodes of hypotension during surgery, acute kidney injury, postoperative organ failure, and length of stay in the hospital and intensive care unit during the 28 days after surgery. Of the 2222 patients (mean age, 67 years [SD, 10 years]; 65% were male), 46% were being treated with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors at baseline and 54% were being treated with angiotensin receptor blockers. The rate of all-cause mortality and major postoperative complications was 22% (245 of 1115 patients) in the RASI discontinuation group and 22% (247 of 1107 patients) in the RASI continuation group (risk ratio, 1.02 [95% CI, 0.87-1.19]; P = .85). Episodes of hypotension during surgery occurred in 41% of the patients in the RASI discontinuation group and in 54% of the patients in the RASI continuation group (risk ratio, 1.31 [95% CI, 1.19-1.44]). There were no other differences in the trial outcomes. Among patients who underwent major noncardiac surgery, a continuation strategy of RASIs before surgery was not associated with a higher rate of postoperative complications than a discontinuation strategy. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03374449.

Linezolid in enterococcal urinary tract infection: a multicentre study.

Few data have been published on the efficacy of linezolid in enterococcal urinary tract infection (e-UTI). The aims of this study were to describe the characteristics of patients with enterococci UTI treated with linezolid, and to evaluate the efficacy and the tolerance of linezolid treatment. An observational multicentre retrospective study was conducted in 5 hospitals in France. Patients were included if they met the following criteria: ≥18 years, clinical and microbiological criteria for enterococcal UTI and linezolid treatment > 48h. Primary outcome was clinical failure. Eighty-one patients were included between January 2015 and December 2021. The median age was 73.0 [64; 83] years and 47 (58%) were men. The median Charlson comorbidity index was 3.00 [2; 6]. E. faecium was reported in 65 (80%) cases and E. faecalis in 26 cases (32%). Polymicrobial infections occurred in 41 (51%) cases. No enterococci was resistant to vancomycin. Before linezolid prescription an empiric antimicrobial treatment was started in 48 (59%) cases and was effective against enterococci in 19/48 (39.5%) patients for a median of 3.5 days [2.0; 4.0]. The median duration of linezolid antibiotic treatment was 13 days [10; 14]. Three adverse events were reported, none were serious but one led to discontinuation of treatment. Treatment failure was reported in 2 cases (2.5%). This study provides evidence for efficacy and safety of linezolid in enterococcal UTI.

New guidelines reduce the risk of hospitalization for adult patients with uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria: An observational, multicenter, retrospective French study

ObjectivesWe aimed to evaluate the impact of malaria declaration year (before or after 2017) on the frequency of hospitalization in metropolitan France of patients with uncomplicated non-vomiting P.falciparum malaria. Patients and methodsAn observational, multicenter, retrospective study was carried out, using the database from the French National Reference Centre for Malaria. Descriptive analysis and multivariate analysis by logistic regression were performed using the multiple imputation by chained equation method to handle missing data. ResultsMore than 2000 (2184) uncomplicated non-vomiting P.falciparum malaria cases were recorded. Our multivariate analysis showed an association between the year 2018 and reduced risk of hospitalization (OR: 0.89; 95% CI: 0.81–0.97). ConclusionCompared to 2016, during 2018 we observed a trend toward ambulatory care for patients presenting with uncomplicated non-vomiting P.falciparum malaria.

Aborted pancreatoduodenectomy after extensive vascular dissection in patients with pancreatic cancer: a word of caution.

Difficulties in distinguishing fibrosis from tumor in borderline and locally advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) justify surgical exploration to assess resectability. This issue is especially relevant after neoadjuvant treatments (NAT) prior to pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) although outcomes of aborted PD are unknown. This study aimed to evaluate early outcomes after aborted PD in patients with PDAC. Data were collected over a ten-year period, in three University Hospitals in France. Perioperative patient management was similar. The causes of intraoperative PD abortions were recorded, and outcomes of patients who underwent early (metastases, carcinomatosis) and late (following extensive vascular dissection) PD abortion were compared. Of 774 PD for PDAC, 131 (17%) were aborted. 97 (74%) patients underwent early PD abortion due to carcinomatosis (n = 14; 14%), liver metastases (n = 32; 33%), aortocaval lymph node invasion (n = 28; 29%) and massive vascular extension (n = 23; 24%). Late PD abortion occurred after extensive vascular dissection in 34 (26%) patients due to invasion of the common hepatic (n = 16; 47%), superior mesenteric (n = 5; 15%) and right hepatic (n = 1; 3%) arteries and nonreconstructable venous invasion (n = 12; 35%). Patients who underwent late PD abortion had higher rates of overall morbidity (n = 22; 65% vs n = 27; 28%, p = 0.0001), severe complications (n = 14; 41% vs n = 11; 11%, p = 0.0005), mortality (n = 4; 12% vs n = 0; 0%, p = 0.003). They also had higher rates of delayed gastric emptying (n = 11; 32% vs n = 6; 6%, p = 0.0003), deep space infections (n = 10; 29% vs n = 7; 7%, p = 0.002), wound infections (n = 5; 15% vs n = 4; 4%, p = 0.05), and bleeding (n = 8; 24% vs n = 0; 0%, p < 0.0001). Aborted PD after extensive vascular dissection has high morbidity and mortality rates. Appropriate information and counseling should be delivered to patients with borderline/locally advanced PDAC considered for PD.

Bulbar muscle impairment in patients with late onset Pompe disease: Insight from the French Pompe registry.

Late onset Pompe disease (LOPD) is a rare neuromuscular disorder caused by a deficit in acid alpha-glucosidase. Macroglossia and swallowing disorders have already been reported, but no study has focused yet on its frequency and functional impact on patients' daily life. We reviewed 100 adult LOPD patients followed in 17 hospitals in France included in the French national Pompe disease registry. The Swallowing Quality of Life Questionnaire and the Sydney Swallow Questionnaire were completed by patients, and a specialist carried out a medical examination focused on swallowing and assigned a Salassa score to each patient. Respiratory and motor functions were also recorded. Subgroup analysis compared patients with and without swallowing difficulties based on Salassa score. Thirty-two percent of patients presented with swallowing difficulties, often mild but sometimes severe enough to require percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (1%). Daily dysphagia was reported for 20% of our patients and aspirations for 18%; 9.5% were unable to eat away from home. Macroglossia was described in 18% of our patients, and 11% had lingual atrophy. Only 15% of patients presenting with swallowing disorders were followed by a speech therapist. Swallowing difficulties were significantly associated with macroglossia (p = 0.015), longer duration of illness (p = 0.032), and a lower body mass index (p = 0.047). Swallowing difficulties in LOPD are common and have significant functional impact. Increased awareness by physicians of these symptoms with systematic examination of the tongue and questions about swallowing can lead to appropriate multidisciplinary care with a speech therapist and dietitian if needed.

Acid sphingomyelinase deficiency in France: a retrospective survival study

BackgroundAcid sphingomyelinase deficiency (ASMD) or Niemann–Pick disease types A, A/B, and B is a progressive, life-limiting, autosomal recessive disorder caused by sphingomyelin phosphodiesterase 1 (SMPD1) gene mutations. There is a need to increase the understanding of morbidity and mortality across children to adults diagnosed with ASMD.MethodsThis observational retrospective survey analysed medical records of patients with ASMD with retrievable data from 27 hospitals in France, diagnosed/followed up between 1st January 1990 and 31st December 2020. Eligible records were abstracted to collect demographic, medical/developmental history, and mortality data. Survival outcomes were estimated from birth until death using Kaplan–Meier survival analyses; standardised mortality ratio (SMR) was also explored.ResultsA total of 118 medical records of patients with ASMD (type B [n = 94], type A [n = 15], and type A/B [n = 9]) were assessed. The majority of patients were males (63.6%); the median [range] age at diagnosis was 8.0 [1.0–18.0] months (type A), 1.0 [0–3] year (type A/B), and 5.5 [0–73] years (type B). Overall, 30 patients were deceased at the study completion date; the median [range] age at death for patients with ASMD type A (n = 14) was 1 [0–3.6] year, type A/B (n = 6) was 8.5 [3.0–30.9] years, and type B (n = 10) was 57.6 [3.4–74.1] years. The median [95% confidence interval (CI)] survival age from birth in patients with ASMD type A and type A/B was 2.0 [1.8–2.7] years and 11.4 [5.5–18.5] years, respectively. Survival analysis in ASMD type B was explored using SMR [95% CI] analysis (3.5 [1.6–5.9]), which showed that age-specific deaths in the ASMD type B population were 3.5 times more frequent than those in the general French population. The causes of death were mostly severe progressive neurodegeneration (type A: 16.7%), cancer (type B: 16.7%), or unspecified (across groups: 33.3%).ConclusionsThis study illustrated a substantial burden of illness with high mortality rates in patients with ASMD, including adults with ASMD type B, in France.

The relative effectiveness of a high-dose quadrivalent influenza vaccine versus standard-dose quadrivalent influenza vaccines in older adults in France: a retrospective cohort study during the 2021–2022 influenza season

ObjectivesHigh-dose quadrivalent influenza vaccine (HD-QIV) was introduced during the 2021/2022 influenza season in France for adults aged ≥65 years as an alternative to standard-dose quadrivalent influenza vaccine (SD-QIV). The aim of this study is to estimate the relative vaccine effectiveness of HD-QIV vs. SD-QIV against influenza-related hospitalizations in France. MethodsCommunity-dwelling individuals aged ≥65 years with reimbursed influenza vaccine claims during the 2021/2022 influenza season were included in the French national health insurance database. Individuals were followed up from vaccination day to 30 June 2022, nursing home admission or death date. Baseline socio-demographic and health characteristics were identified from medical records over the five previous years. Hospitalizations for influenza and other causes were recorded from 14 days after vaccination until the end of follow-up. HD-QIV and SD-QIV vaccinees were matched using 1:4 propensity score matching with an exact constraint on age group, sex, week of vaccination, and region. Incidence rate ratios were estimated using zero-inflated Poisson or zero-inflated negative binomial regression models. ResultsWe matched 405 385 HD-QIV to 1 621 540 SD-QIV vaccinees. HD-QIV was associated with a 23.3% (95% CI, 8.4–35.8) lower rate of influenza hospitalizations compared with SD-QIV (69.5/100 000 person years vs. 90.5/100 000 person years). Post-matching, we observed higher rates in the HD-QIV group for hospitalizations non-specific to influenza and negative control outcomes, suggesting residual confounding by indication. DiscussionHD-QIV was associated with lower influenza-related hospitalization rates vs. SD-QIV, consistent with existing evidence, in the context of high SARS-CoV-2 circulation in France and likely prioritization of HD-QIV for older/more comorbid individuals.

The Different Surgical Approaches to Maxillofacial Reconstruction after Ballistic Trauma.

Ballistic trauma to the face is a challenge, combining complex bone injury with severe soft tissue loss. The various surgical methods available are influenced by the extent of injuries. This study compares different operative modalities and their outcomes with different variables, aiming to define the ideal therapeutic approach. We retrospectively compared reconstructive modalities used to treat facial ballistic trauma cases at Hôtel-Dieu de France Hospital, Beirut, Lebanon, for a 12-year span. Statistical analysis was used to determine correlation between several factors and satisfactory results. Eighteen patients were included, with varying degrees of bone and soft tissue loss. After conservative debridement, fractures were treated by different modalities: open reduction and internal fixation, maxillomandibular fixation, and osteosynthesis with a reconstruction plate. Although primary closure was sufficient in 10 cases, severe loss of tissues was reconstructed with a fibular free flap in five cases, radial free forearm flap in two cases, and free parascapular flap in one case. Two others received an iliac bone graft as secondary reconstruction. The average follow-up was 2.45 years. Most cases achieved good aesthetic and functional results after several secondary operations, with few late complications. Early reconstruction and younger patients were associated with better outcomes. We favor early debridement and reconstruction. Free flaps were ideal for extensive tissue loss. Bone grafting was needed secondarily. A single surgical procedure seldom led to satisfactory functional and aesthetic outcomes, and secondary operations were inevitable.

Effectiveness of pediatric asthma education program in the context of a general hospital in France: A retrospective real-life study

ObjectiveTo assess the feasibility and effectiveness of a pediatric asthma education program delivered in the context of a French suburban general hospital. DesignMonocentric retrospective study including children with asthma in Melun, Île-de-France, from January to December 2019. Data collected concerned asthma management, symptoms, education, and knowledge. ResultsWe included 262 patients with a median age of 4.5 years. Asthma education (AE) was taught to 226 (86 %) children, 36 with minimal education (ME), 155 (69 %) with an unstructured asthma education program (USEP) and 71 (31 %) a structured asthma education program (SEP). Patients with an SEP had better knowledge of the disease and its treatment as compared with those with a USEP or ME (p < 0.05). Lung function was evaluated for 70 % of children with ME, 90 % with a USEP (p = 0.144) and 77 % an SEP (p = 0.455). Allergy testing was assessed for 42 % of children with ME, 69 % a USEP (p = 0.020) and 57 % an SEP (p = 0.185). Almost all children with USEP (93 %) and SEP (94 %) also had a written asthma action plan as compared with 49 % of the children with ME (p < 0.001). Also, 76 % of children with ME did not have an asthma follow-up as compared with 37 % with a USEP and 52 % an SEP. Overall, 69 % of children with ME had at least one hospitalization within the year as compared with 32 % with a USEP (p = 0.001) and 59 % an SEP (p = 0.506). ConclusionsAn asthma education program delivered in a general hospital resulted in increased disease knowledge for children and their caregivers, together with reduced acute interventions.

Prevalence and prognosis of patients with MASLD-related cirrhosis after an ICU hospitalization in France: A single-centre prospective study.

The prevalence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD)-related cirrhosis has been increasing these last decades. There are no data regarding the prevalence of MASLD-related cirrhosis in intensive care unit (ICU). Prospective single-centre study in a cohort of patients hospitalized in the ICU of Hepatology La Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital between January 2019 and September 2021. We analysed three groups of patients: MASLD-cirrhosis (alcohol ≤210 g for men and 140 g weekly for women), ALD (alcohol-related liver disease, alcohol>140 g weekly for women or >210 g for men)-cirrhosis alone and MetALD (metabolic and alcohol-related liver disease)-cirrhosis. Endpoints were 1-year transplant-free survival (TFS), further acute decompensation (AD) and re-admission. A total of 410 patients were hospitalized, and 315 analysed: 39 in MASLD, 160 in ALD and 116 in MetALD groups. The global prevalence was 10% for MASLD, 41% ALD and 29.7% for MetALD. Patients in the MASLD group were significantly older (65 vs. 57 and 59 years, p < 0.001), and had lower Child-Pugh (8 vs. 11 vs. 10, p < 0.001) and MELD score (17 vs. 22 vs. 21, p < 0.001). The 1-year TFS was not different between groups (53% vs. 54% vs. 54%, p = 0.96). Cardiovascular mortality was <5% in all groups. The 1-year probability of developing hepatic encephalopathy was significantly higher in the MASLD group (73% vs. 27% and 21%, p < 0.001). There was no difference regarding the development of other complications between groups. MASLD or MetALD was responsible for 1/3 of the causes of cirrhosis in the ICU. MASLD-related cirrhosis is as severe as ALD-related cirrhosis. Liver transplantation should be rapidly discussed.

Effects of Losartan on Patients Hospitalized for Acute COVID-19: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) down-regulates angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, potentially increasing angiotensin II. We hypothesized that losartan compared to usual care decreases mortality and is safe in patients hospitalized with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We aimed to evaluate the effect of losartan versus usual care on 28-day mortality in patients hospitalized for acute COVID-19. Eligibility criteria included adults admitted for acute COVID-19. Exclusion criteria were hypotension, hyperkalemia, acute kidney injury, and use of angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors within 7 days. Participants were randomized to losartan 25-100 mg/day orally for the hospital duration or 3 months or the control arm (usual care) in 29 hospitals in Canada and France. The primary outcome was 28-day mortality. Secondary outcomes were hospital mortality, organ support, and serious adverse events (SAEs). The trial was stopped early because of a serious safety concern with losartan. In 341 patients, any SAE and hypotension were significantly higher in the losartan versus usual care groups (any SAE: 39.8% vs 27.2%, respectively, P = .01; hypotension: 30.4% vs 15.3%, respectively, P < .001) in both ward and intensive care patients. The 28-day mortality did not differ between losartan (6.5%) versus usual care (5.9%) (odds ratio, 1.11 [95% confidence interval, .47-2.64]; P = .81), nor did organ dysfunction or secondary outcomes. Caution is needed in deciding which patients to start or continue using ARBs in patients hospitalized with pneumonia to mitigate risk of hypotension, acute kidney injury, and other side effects. ARBs should not be added to care of patients hospitalized for acute COVID-19. NCT04606563.

From Reporting to Improving: How Root Cause Analysis in Teams Shape Patient Safety Culture.

Given the increasing focus on patient safety in healthcare systems worldwide, understanding the impact of Continuous Quality Improvement Programs (QIPs) is crucial. QIPs, including Morbidity and Mortality Conferences (MMCs) and Experience Feedback Committees (EFCs), have been identified as effective strategies for enhancing patient safety culture. These programs engage healthcare professionals in the identification and analysis of adverse events to foster a culture of safety (ie the product of individual and group value, attitudes, and perceptions about quality and safety). This study aimed to determine whether patient safety culture differed regarding care provider participation in MMCs and EFCs activities. A cross-sectional web-only survey was conducted in 2022 using the Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture (HSOPS) among 4780 employees at an 1836-bed, university-affiliated hospital in France. We quantified the mean differences in the 12 HSOPS dimension scores according to MMCs and EFCs participation, using Cohen d effect size. We performed a multivariate analysis of variance to examine differences in dimension scores after adjusting for background characteristics. Of 4780 eligible employees, 1457 (30.5%) participated in the study. Among the respondents, 571 (39.2%) participated in MMCs or EFCs activities. Participants engaged in MMCs or EFCs reported significantly higher scores in six out of twelve HSOPS dimensions, particularly in "Nonpunitive response to error", "Feedback and communication about error", and "Organizational learning" (Overall effect size = 0.14, 95% confidence interval = 0.11 to 0.17, P<0.001). Notably, involvement in both MMCs and EFCs was associated with higher improvements in patient safety culture compared to non-participation or singular involvement in either program. However, certain dimensions such as "Staffing", "Hospital management support", and "Hospital handoffs and transition" showed no significant association with MMCs or EFCs participation, highlighting broader systemic challenges. The study confirms the positive association between participation in MMCs or EFCs and an enhanced culture of patient safety, emphasizing the importance of such programs in fostering an environment conducive to learning, communication, and nonpunitive responses to errors. While MMCs or EFCs are effective in promoting certain aspects of patient safety culture, addressing broader systemic challenges remains crucial for comprehensive improvements in patient safety.