Level Of Evidence 2b Research Articles

Relationship of stroke risk and hearing loss in African Americans: The Jackson Heart Study.

To evaluate the relationships among measures of stroke risk and hearing in an African American cardiovascular study cohort. Prospective cohort study. The relationships between stroke risk profiles and hearing of 1,107 individuals from a cohort of African Americans were assessed. Several different hearing pure-tone averages (PTAs) were constructed representing different frequency regions of hearing, namely PTA low, PTA mid, and PTA high. Stroke risk profiles were calculated using validated 10-year cardiovascular disease risk scores. Gamma regression analyses were performed for each PTA given as a continuous variable with change in stroke risk score. Logistic regression analyses, presented as odds ratios, were performed with hearing loss defined as any PTA >25 dB hearing level. Stratification models were analyzed for age quarterlies and among sex. Single unit increases of stroke risk percentage were found to be predictive of increases in all PTA threshold levels in gamma regression analyses for the overall pooled sample. The relationship was influenced by age, where fewer significant relationships were observed at higher ages. When analyzed with respect to stroke risk categories, using low risk as the reference group, there was found to be a significant association between stroke risk and hearing loss in the medium- and high-risk groups, with a stronger relationship in the high-risk group for all PTA threshold levels. This study provides evidence that stroke risk has a positive predictive relationship with hearing pure-tone threshold. 2b. Laryngoscope, 128:1438-1444, 2018.

Effectiveness of edema management techniques for subacute hand edema: A systematic review

Study DesignSystematic review. IntroductionProlonged hand edema can have detrimental effects on range of motion and function. There is no consensus on how best to manage traumatic subacute edema. This is the first systematic review which examines the clinical effectiveness of edema treatments on hand volume. Purpose of the StudyThe purpose of this systematic review was to examine the evidence of effectiveness of treatments for sub-acute hand edema. MethodsA literature search of AMED, CINAHL, Embase, and OVID MEDLINE (from inception to August 2015) was undertaken. Studies were selected if they met the following inclusion criteria: randomized controlled or controlled trials in adults who have subacute swelling after a recent upper limb musculoskeletal trauma or cerebral vascular attack or after surgery. Two independent assessors rated study quality and risk of bias using the 24-point MacDermid Structured Effectiveness Quality Evaluation Scale (SEQES). ResultsTen studies met the inclusion criteria. Study quality ranged from 23 to 41 out of 48 points on the SEQES. A total of 16 edema interventions were evaluated across the studies. Due to heterogeneity of the patient characteristics, interventions, and outcomes assessed, it was not possible to pool the results from all studies. Therefore, a narrative best evidence synthesis was undertaken. There is low to moderate quality evidence with limited confidence in the effect estimate to support the use of manual edema mobilization methods in conjunction with standard therapy to reduce problematic hand edema. ConclusionManual edema mobilization techniques should be considered in conjunction with conventional therapies, in cases of excessive edema or when the edema has not responded to conventional treatment alone; however, manual edema mobilization is not advocated as a routine intervention. Level of Evidence2b.

Assessing manual dexterity: Comparing the WorkAbility Rate of Manipulation Test with the Minnesota Manual Dexterity Test

Study DesignCross-sectional study. IntroductionThe WorkAbility Rate of Manipulation Test (WRMT), an adaptation of the Minnesota Manual Dexterity Test (MMDT), contains a revised board and protocols to improve its utility for therapy or fitness assessment. Purpose of the StudyTo describe the development and preliminary psychometric properties of WRMT. MethodsSixty-six healthy participants completed MMDT and WRMT in a random order followed by a user experience survey. We compared tests using repeated-measures analysis of variance, test-retest reliability, and examined agreement between tests. ResultsDespite the similarities of these 2 instruments, the different administration protocols resulted in statistically different score distributions (P < .001). Results supported good test-retest reliability of WRMT (placing test ICC = 0.88-0.90 and turning test ICC = 0.68-0.82). The WRMT correlated moderately with MMDT (r = 0.81 in placing test and r = 0.44-0.57 in turning test). Bland-Altman plot showed that the differences in completion time were 3.8 seconds between placing tests and 19.6 (both hands), 0.3 (right hand), and 3.9 (left hand) seconds between turning tests. Overall, participants felt that the instruction of WRMT was easier to follow (44%) and preferred its setup, color, and depth of the test board (49%). Time required to complete 1 panel of 20 disks correlated highly with the time needed to finish a complete trial of 60 disks in both MMDT (r = 0.91-0.97) and WRMT (r = 0.88-0.95). ConclusionsCaution is warranted in comparing scores from these 2 test variants. Level of Evidence3b.

Supraspinatus tendon micromorphology in individuals with subacromial pain syndrome

Study DesignCross-sectional cohort. IntroductionTendon collagen organization can be estimated by peak spatial frequency radius (PSFR) on ultrasound images. Characterizing PSFR can define the contribution of collagen disruption to shoulder symptoms. Purpose of the StudyThe purpose of this was to characterize the (1) supraspinatus tendon PSFR in participants with subacromial pain syndrome (SPS) and healthy controls; (2) PSFR between participants grouped on a tendon visual quality score; and (3) relationship between PSFR with patient-reported pain, function, and shoulder strength. MethodsParticipants with SPS (n = 20) and age, sex, and arm-dominance–matched healthy controls (n = 20) completed strength testing in scaption and external rotation, and patient-reported pain, and functional outcomes. Supraspinatus tendon ultrasound images were acquired, and PSFR was calculated for a region of interest 15 mm medial to the supraspinatus footprint. PSFR was compared between groups using an independent t-test and an analysis of variance to compare between 3 groups for visually qualitatively rated tendon abnormalities. Relationships between PSFR with pain, function, and strength were assessed using Pearson correlation coefficient. ResultsSupraspinatus tendon PSFR was not different between groups (P = .190) or tendon qualitative ratings (P = .556). No relationship was found between PSFR and pain, functional loss, and strength (P > .05). ConclusionsCollagen disruption (PSFR) measured via ultrasound images of the supraspinatus tendon was not different between participants with SPS or in those with visually rated tendon defects. PSFR is not related to shoulder pain, function, and strength, suggesting that supraspinatus tendon collagen disorganization may not be a contributing factor to shoulder SPS. However, collagen disruption may not be isolated to a single region of interest. Level of Evidence3b: case-control study.

Upper limb functional capacity of working patients with osteoarthritis of the hands: A cross-sectional study

Study DesignA cross-sectional design was used. IntroductionLittle is known about the effects of osteoarthritis of the hands (OAH) on work ability in working patients with OAH. Purpose of the StudyThe study aimed to analyze the differences in upper limb functional capacity (ULFC) between working patients with OAH and healthy workers and to evaluate variables associated with ULFC and with self-reported disability (SRD) in working patients with OAH. MethodsForty-one patients performed the ULFC Evaluation (ULFCE) and also completed 2 SRD measures. The patients' results were compared with the ULFCE results of 82 matched healthy workers from a reference database. Three sets of multivariate regression analyses were used to reveal the predictors of ULFC and SRD. ResultsPatients scored 12%-45% lower on all ULFCE tests (P values ranging from P P Discussion Working patients with OAH had a considerably lower ULFC compared with healthy workers. Female gender and the presence of OAH predicted lower ULFC. Pain and lower finger strength predicted worse scores on SRD. Conclusion(s)In the case of professionals advising working patients with OAH, our results suggest that a careful evaluation of the ULFC and SRD is warranted. Subsequently, advice regarding exercises or adjustments at work can be given. Level of Evidence3b.

High prevalence of same-sex twins in patients with cloacal exstrophy: Support for embryological association with monozygotic twinning

PurposePrevious studies have hypothesized that cloacal exstrophy may be caused by errors early in embryological development related to monozygotic twinning. This study reports the prevalence of twins in a large cohort of patients with cloacal exstrophy. MethodsPatients with cloacal exstrophy treated 1974–2015 were reviewed for reports of multiple gestation or conjoined twinning. The genetic sex of the patient and their twin, and any mention of anomaly in the twin were recorded. Neither placental exam nor genetic testing results were available to definitively determine zygosity. ResultsOf 71 patients, 10 had a live born twin (14%), all of whom were of the same genetic sex as the affected patient. One additional patient's twin suffered intrauterine fetal demise, and another patient had a conjoined heteropagus twin. None of the twins were affected by exstrophy–epispadias complex. The rate of twin birth in this cohort was 4.4–7.7 higher than that reported by the Centers for Disease Control in the general population time period (P<0.001), with a striking preponderance of same-sex pairs. ConclusionsThe highly significant prevalence of same-sex twin pairs within this cohort supports the hypothesis that the embryogenesis of cloacal exstrophy may be related to errors in monozygotic twinning. Level of evidence2b

Predicting time to full enteral nutrition in children after significant bowel resection

PurposeParenteral nutrition (PN) contributes to considerable morbidity in children after significant bowel resection. This study evaluates the utility of clinical variables in predicting time to independence from PN. MethodsAfter IRB approval, a retrospective review (1999–2012) of 71 children who were on PN for >6weeks after intestinal resection and successfully weaned was performed. Clinical characteristics were evaluated to determine the relationship to time to full enteral nutrition. P-values<0.05 were significant. ResultsMost children had necrotizing enterocolitis (56%), intestinal atresia (20%), or gastroschisis (11%) with a median small bowel length of 55cm (IQR, 35–92cm). The duration of PN was independent of the etiology of intestinal loss, presence of the ileocecal valve or colon, or location of anastomosis, but was strongly associated with small bowel length (<0.01) and percent of expected small bowel based on gestational age (GA) (median 50%, <0.01). In general, children who had 25–50% of their small bowel were dependent on PN for at least 2years compared to approximately 1year for those with 51–75%. ConclusionThe duration of PN dependence in children after major bowel resection is best predicted by remaining small bowel length and can be estimated using a linear regression model. Level of evidence2b.

Follistatin-like 1 expression is decreased in the alveolar epithelium of hypoplastic rat lungs with nitrofen-induced congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Background/purposePulmonary hypoplasia (PH), characterized by incomplete alveolar development, remains a major therapeutic challenge associated with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). Follistatin-like 1 (Fstl1) is a crucial regulator of alveolar formation and maturation, which is strongly expressed in distal airway epithelium. Fstl1-deficient mice exhibit reduced airspaces, impaired alveolar epithelial cell differentiation, and insufficient production of surfactant proteins similar to PH in human CDH. We hypothesized that pulmonary Fstl1 expression is decreased during alveolarization in the nitrofen-induced CDH model. MethodsTimed-pregnant rats received nitrofen or vehicle on gestational day 9 (D9). Fetal lungs were harvested on D18 and D21 and divided into control−/nitrofen-exposed specimens. Alveolarization was assessed using morphometric analysis techniques. Pulmonary gene expression of Fstl1 was determined by qRT-PCR. Immunofluorescence-double-staining for Fstl1 and alveolar epithelial marker surfactant protein C (SP-C) was performed to evaluate protein expression/localization. ResultsRadial alveolar count was significantly reduced in hypoplastic lungs of nitrofen-exposed fetuses with significant down regulation of Fstl1 mRNA expression on D18 and D21 compared to controls. Confocal-laser-scanning-microscopy revealed strikingly diminished Fstl1 immunofluorescence and SP-C expression in distal alveolar epithelium of nitrofen-exposed fetuses with CDH-associated PH on D18 and D21 compared to controls. ConclusionsDecreased expression of Fstl1 in alveolar epithelium may disrupt alveolarization and pulmonary surfactant production, thus contributing to the development of PH in the nitrofen-induced CDH model. Level of evidence2b (Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine, Oxford).

Downregulation of KCNQ5 expression in the rat pulmonary vasculature of nitrofen-induced congenital diaphragmatic hernia

PurposePulmonary hypertension (PH) is a common complication of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). Voltage-gated potassium channels KCNQ1, KCNQ4, and KCNQ5 are expressed by rodent pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells, contributing to their vascular tone. We hypothesized that KCNQ1, KCNQ4, and KCNQ5 expression is altered in the pulmonary vasculature of nitrofen-induced CDH rats. MethodsAfter ethical approval (REC913b), time-pregnant rats received nitrofen or vehicle on gestational day (D)9. D21 fetuses were divided into CDH and control group (n=22). QRT-PCR and western blotting were performed to determine gene and protein expression of KCNQ1, KCNQ4, and KCNQ5. Confocal microscopy was used to detect these proteins in the pulmonary vasculature. ResultsRelative mRNA level of KCNQ5 (p=0.025) was significantly downregulated in CDH lungs compared to controls. KCNQ1 (p=0.052) and KCNQ4 (p=0.574) expression was not altered. Western blotting confirmed the decreased pulmonary KCNQ5 protein expression in CDH lungs. Confocal-microscopy detected a markedly diminished KCNQ5 expression in pulmonary vasculature of CDH fetuses. ConclusionsDownregulated pulmonary expression of KCNQ5 in CDH lungs suggests that this potassium channel may play an important role in the development of PH in this model. KCNQ5 channel activator drugs may be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of PH in CDH. Level of evidence2b (Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine, Oxford)

Lateral skull base surgery in a pediatric population: A 25-year experience in a referral skull base center

ObjectiveTo analyze the pathology and surgical outcomes of lateral skull base (LSB) procedures in a pediatric population. Study designRetrospective case review in a referral skull base center. MethodsCharts of pediatric patients who underwent defined LSB procedures from 1983 to 2015 for various pathologies were evaluated at our center. A systematic review of literature was performed and our results were compared with the literature. Results63 patients presented with 65 diseased ears. The mean age was 13 years. 29 (44.6%) presented with hearing loss and 28 (44.4%) and chronic otorrhea. The most common pathology was petrous bone cholesteatoma (27, 42.5%) followed by vestibular schwannoma (10, 15.8%). Subtotal petrosectomy (24, 35.8%) was the most common surgical procedure followed by, transotic (18, 26.8%). The facial nerve function was preserved in 45 (67.1%) and the hearing in 28 (41.7%) cases respectively. No major complications, including mortality was encountered in our series. ConclusionIn rare and extensive pathologies involving the skull base in a pediatric population, the surgeon is posed with the dilemma of trying to achieve facial and hearing preservation while dealing with total tumor clearance. Mastery over LSB procedures can ensure complete disease clearance with optimal functional outcomes. Level of evidence2b.

Do salivary bypass tubes lower the incidence of pharyngocutaneous fistula following total laryngectomy? A retrospective analysis of predictive factors using multivariate analysis

Salivary bypass tubes (SBT) are increasingly used to prevent pharyngocutaneous fistula (PCF) following laryngectomy and pharyngolaryngectomy. There is minimal evidence as to their efficacy and literature is limited. The aim of the study was to determine if SBT prevent PCF. The study was a multicentre retrospective case control series (level of evidence 3b). Patients who underwent laryngectomy or pharyngolaryngectomy for cancer or following cancer treatment between 2011 and 2014 were included in the study. The primary outcome was development of a PCF. Other variables recorded were age, sex, prior radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy, prior tracheostomy, type of procedure, concurrent neck dissection, use of flap reconstruction, use of prophylactic antibiotics, the suture material used for the anastomosis, tumour T stage, histological margins, day one post-operative haemoglobin and whether a salivary bypass tube was used. Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed. A total of 199 patients were included and 24 received salivary bypass tubes. Fistula rates were 8.3% in the SBT group (2/24) and 24.6% in the control group (43/175). This was not statistically significant on univariate (p value 0.115) or multivariate analysis (p value 0.076). In addition, no other co-variables were found to be significant. No group has proven a benefit of salivary bypass tubes on multivariate analysis. The study was limited by a small case group, variations in tube duration and subjects given a tube may have been identified as high risk of fistula. Further prospective studies are warranted prior to recommendation of salivary bypass tubes following laryngectomy.

Thiol/disulfide homeostasis as a novel indicator of oxidative stress in obstructive sleep apnea patients.

The aim of the present study was to assess thiol/disulfide (SS) homeostasis as a novel indicator of oxidative stress in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and to investigate the effect of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy on oxidative parameters. Prospective clinical study. A total of 104 subjects, 44 in an OSA group and 60 in two control groups (control simple snoring group, control OSA group) were included. The levels of parameters were measured using the Erel and Neselioglu method in patients with moderate or severe OSA before and after CPAP therapy. The serum native thiol (SH) and total SH levels as well as the %SH/total SH ratio were significantly lower (P < 0.05) in OSA patients compared to controls, and the SS level and %SS/SH and %SS/total SH ratios were significantly higher (P < 0.05). After CPAP therapy, the native SH level and %SH/total SH ratio were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than before CPAP therapy, and the SS level and %SS/SH and %SS/total SH ratios were significantly lower (P < 0.05). Significant negative correlations were evident between the apnea/hypopnea index (AHI) and the native SH level and %SH/total SH ratio (P < 0.05) before CPAP therapy; and significant positive correlations were seen between the AHI and the %SS/SH and %SS/total SH ratios but not with the SS level. We found that oxidative stress was increased and CPAP therapy had a positive effect in patients with moderate or severe OSA. 3b. Laryngoscope, 127:E244-E250, 2017.

Long-term results of the Duhamel technique are superior to those of the transanal pullthrough: A study of fecal continence and quality of life

Background/purposeThe Duhamel and transanal pull-through (TAPT) techniques have been commonly used for the treatment of children with Hirschsprung disease (HD). However, despite adequate treatment, some patients present with fecal incontinence that severely affects the quality of life (QoL) and lead to psychiatric disorders. The objectives of the present study were to evaluate, through previously adapted questionnaires, the incidence of fecal incontinence and the quality of life (QoL) of children with HD who underwent Duhamel or TAPT techniques. In addition, we compared the incidence of fecal incontinence and QoL indices in these patients with those in healthy children. Materials/methodsThe Fecal Continence Index (FCI) questionnaire and the questionnaire for the Assessment of Quality of Life in Children and Adolescents with Fecal Incontinence (AQLCAFI) were used in this study. A series of 41 patients with HD were divided into 2 groups according to the utilized surgical technique: the Duhamel group (20 patients) and the TAPT group (21 patients). The patients were compared with a control group of 59 healthy children. ResultsIn the control group, 25 (42.4%) children had good continence and 34 (57.6%) had normal continence. In contrast, among patients with HD, 4 (9.8%) had poor fecal continence, 11 (26.8%) had fair continence, 18 (43.9%) had good continence, and 8 (19.5%) had normal continence. The QoL of children with HD was globally impaired in all domains of the AQLCAFI as well as in the FCI, when compared with the QoL of healthy children (P=0.001). The comparison between children who underwent surgery with the Duhamel technique and those who underwent surgery with TAPT technique showed similar outcomes according to the FCI. However, the results were inferior in patients who underwent TAPT technique according to the AQLCAFI questionnaire (P=0.003), lifestyle (P=0.006), behavior (P=0.01), depression (P=0.01), and embarrassment (P=0.003). ConclusionThe QoL and the FCI were impaired in patients who underwent surgery for correction of HD compared with healthy children; however, the impairment in QoL was greater in patients who underwent TAPT technique. Level of evidence2B.

Effects of a stretching protocol for the pectoralis minor on muscle length, function, and scapular kinematics in individuals with and without shoulder pain

Study DesignParallel-group intervention with repeated measures. IntroductionShortening of the pectoralis minor (PM) may contribute to alterations in scapular kinematics. Purpose of the StudyTo evaluate the effects of a stretching protocol on function, muscle length, and scapular kinematics in subjects with and without shoulder pain. MethodsA sample of 25 patients with shoulder pain and 25 healthy subjects with PM tightness performed a daily stretching protocol for 6 weeks. Outcome measures included Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire, PM length, and scapular kinematics. ResultsDisabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores decreased (P < .05) in the patient group at post-intervention. No differences (P > .05) were found for PM length in both groups. Scapular anterior tilt increased (P < .05) at 90° of flexion in the healthy group. DiscussionThis study demonstrated that a daily home stretching protocol significantly decreases pain and improves function in subjects with shoulder pain. The mechanism responsible for these improvements does not appear directly related to PM muscle length or scapula kinematics, suggesting that other neuromuscular mechanisms are involved. ConclusionThe PM stretching protocol did not change the PM length or scapular kinematics in subjects with or without shoulder pain. However, pain and function of the upper limbs improved in patients with shoulder pain. Level of Evidence2b.

Modifying Kinect placement to improve upper limb joint angle measurement accuracy

Study DesignRepeated measures. IntroductionThe Kinect (Microsoft, Redmond, WA) is widely used for telerehabilitation applications including rehabilitation games and assessment. Purpose of the StudyTo determine effects of the Kinect location relative to a person on measurement accuracy of upper limb joint angles. MethodsKinect error was computed as difference in the upper limb joint range of motion (ROM) during target reaching motion, from the Kinect vs 3D Investigator Motion Capture System (NDI, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada), and compared across 9 Kinect locations. ResultsThe ROM error was the least when the Kinect was elevated 45° in front of the subject, tilted toward the subject. This error was 54% less than the conventional location in front of a person without elevation and tilting. The ROM error was the largest when the Kinect was located 60° contralateral to the moving arm, at the shoulder height, facing the subject. The ROM error was the least for the shoulder elevation and largest for the wrist angle. DiscussionAccuracy of the Kinect sensor for detecting upper limb joint ROM depends on its location relative to a person. ConclusionThis information facilitates implementation of Kinect-based upper limb rehabilitation applications with adequate accuracy. Level of Evidence3b

Responsiveness of the active wrist joint position sense test after distal radius fracture intervention

Study DesignProspective cohort study. IntroductionThe active wrist joint position sense (JPS) test has been determined to be a clinically useful test for assessing wrist sensorimotor (SM) status after distal radius fracture (DRF). Its responsiveness is yet to be determined. Purpose of the StudyPrimary study aim was to determine the active wrist JPS test responsiveness to detect change in wrist SM status at 8 and 12 weeks after DRF treatment intervention. Secondary aims were to compare group (nonsurgical, surgical, high, and low pain) test responsiveness; compare pain-level group participants test scores; determine the relationship between test minimal clinically important difference (MCID) value and function; compare functional outcomes across assessment times; and determine the Patient Global Impression of Change Scale intrarater reliability. MethodsA total of 33 male and female participants were tested at baseline, 8, and 12 weeks after nonsurgical (n = 13) and surgical (n = 20) DRF treatment interventions. Distribution-based analysis encompassed both group- (ie, effect size, standardized response mean) and individual-based (ie, minimum detectable change) statistical indices. Anchor-based analysis determined the MCID value by linking test scores to the Patient Global Impression of Change Scale. ResultsThe active wrist JPS test is highly responsive based on effect size (8 weeks = 1.53 and 12 weeks = 2.36) and standardized response mean (8 weeks = 1.57 and 12 weeks = 2.14). Statistically significant minimum detectable change values were 4.28° and 4.94° at 8 and 12 weeks, respectively. Clinically meaningful MCID values were 5.00° and 7.09° at 8 and 12 weeks, respectively. Between treatment type and pain-level group responsiveness levels were not significantly different. High-pain participants demonstrated significantly greater JPS deficit. Test MCID values and function were significantly associated. DiscussionThis is the first study to determine the active wrist JPS test responsiveness as reflected by its group- and individual-based statistical indices following DRF surgical and non-surgical interventions among low- and high-pain level participants. The statistical analysis approach, which was used to determine the aforementioned variables of the active wrist JPS test, is consistent with current research. This study’s strengths included its design, methodology, and statistical approach. The study findings must be interpreted, however, within the content of several methodological limitations. ConclusionsThe active wrist JPS test was determined to be highly responsive to detect wrist SM status change at 8 and 12 weeks regardless of treatment type or pain level. Clinicians can use this test with confidence to measure clinically meaningful SM impairment after DRF treatment. Level of Evidence2b

Effects of health literacy on treatment outcome and satisfaction in patients with mallet finger injury

Study DesignProspective cohort. IntroductionPatient comprehension of their injury, its treatment, and health care provider's instructions plays an important role in health management and recovery from trauma. Purpose of the StudyThis study investigates the effects of health literacy (the ability to obtain, process, and understand health information needed to make appropriate health decisions) on treatment outcomes and satisfaction in patients with mallet finger injuries. MethodsA total of 72 patients who had been treated with an orthosis for an acute mallet finger injury were enrolled in this prospective study. Health literacy was measured according to the newest vital sign during the initial visit, and adherence according to the treatment protocol was rated at week 7 when orthotic intervention was ceased. At 6 months, a follow-up visit was conducted to assess the extensor lag, treatment satisfaction, and disability (through the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score). Bivariate and multivariable analyses were performed to determine whether patient demographics, injury characteristics, and health literacy factors accounted for following outcomes: extensor lag, satisfaction, and disability. ResultsThe newest vital sign scores were moderately correlated with patient adherence and age. Extensor lag was associated with an increase in age, poor adherence, and low health literacy, and these 3 factors accounted for 28% of the variation in the extensor lag. A greater disability was associated with poor adherence, which accounted for 12% of the variance in disability. Lower treatment satisfaction was associated with low health literacy and poor adherence, and these 2 factors accounted for 21% of the variation in treatment satisfaction. Discussion and ConclusionsLimited health literacy was associated with poor adherence in orthosis care for mallet finger injuries and led to poorer treatment outcomes in terms of extensor lag and treatment satisfaction. Level of Evidence2B

Eccentric Exercises Reduce Hamstring Strains in Elite Adult Male Soccer Players: A Critically Appraised Topic.

What is the effect of eccentric exercises on hamstring strain prevention in adult male soccer players? Summary of Key Findings: Current literature was searched for studies of level 2 evidence or higher that investigated the effect of eccentric exercises in preventing hamstring strains in adult male soccer players. Three articles returned from the literature search met the inclusion criteria. A fourth article looked at differences in strength gains between eccentric and concentric hamstring strengthening exercises, but did not record hamstring strain incidence. A fifth article, a systematic review, met all the criteria except for the correct population. Of the 3 studies, 2 were randomized control trails and 1 was a cohort study. Clinical Bottom Line: There is robust supportive evidence that eccentric hamstring exercises can prevent a hamstring injury to an elite adult male soccer player. Therefore, it is recommended that athletic trainers and other sports medicine providers evaluate current practices relating to reducing hamstring strains and consider implementing eccentric exercise based prevention programs. Strength of Recommendation: All evidence was attained from articles with a level of evidence 2b or higher, based on the Center for Evidence-Based Medicine (CEBM) criteria, stating that eccentric exercises can decrease hamstring strains.

Surgical technique and post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage: a single institution's retrospective study.

Post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage is one of the most common complications of tonsillectomy. The rate varies with different methods. We retrospectively analyzed patients who underwent tonsillectomy in a period of two years. Two surgical methods, cold dissection and microscopically assisted bipolar tonsillectomy, were compared. 1007 patients were included in the study. Postoperative hemorrhage occurred in 116 patients (11.5%). By the cold dissection method, postoperative bleeding was noted in 86 patients (10.9%), while by the microscopic bipolar method in 30 patients (13.9%). A surgical hemostasis was required in 47 patients (5.9%) and 17 patients (7.9%), respectively. Concerning the time of occurrence of the first postoperative bleeding episode, we found that it occurred mainly on day 6 by the cold dissection technique (median=6, mean=5.84, SD=3.30), whereas by the bipolar technique the first episode occurred on day 5 (median=5, mean=5.27, SD=2.85). However, a statistical analysis did not show a significant difference. In conclusion, our study did not show a significant difference concerning the prevalence or the postoperative day of occurrence of the first bleeding episode after tonsillectomy when comparing the two methods, but recommendations concerning the duration of the in-hospital stay could be made. Each institution should perform its own individualized statistics concerning the occurrence of postoperative bleeding and should use a standardized documentation protocol. Level of evidence 3b.

Risk of sensorineural hearing loss with macrolide antibiotics: A nested case-control study.

To determine the association between a diagnosis of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) and the prescription of a macrolide antibiotic. Retrospective nested case-control study. From the LifeLink (IMS, Danbury, CT) health claims database, we randomly selected a cohort of subjects 15 to 60 years old from 2006 to 2014. Cases were identified as patients diagnosed with SNHL, each matched by age and calendar time to 10 controls selected from the same cohort. All macrolide prescriptions (erythromycin, azithromycin, clarithromycin, and telithromycin) were identified, and statistical comparison of usage was compared between cases and controls. Amoxicillin and fluoroquinolone antibiotics were used as positive controls to further investigate confounding by infection. Albuterol was used as a negative control because this is a drug class not expected to be associated with SNHL or with a confounding condition potentially causing SNHL. From a cohort of 6,110,723 subjects, we identified 5,989 cases of SNHL and 59,890 corresponding controls. The rate ratio for one prescription of a macrolide was 1.36 (95% confidence inteval [CI]: 1.24-1.49) and for multiple prescriptions was 1.66 (95% CI: 1.42-1.94). Similar rate ratios were observed with multiple prescriptions of amoxicillin and fluoroquinolones. A significant association between SNHL and macrolide use was likely due to confounding by indication for antibiotic treatment because the risk was also observed with fluoroquinolones and amoxicillin, antibiotics with no known ototoxic potential. Therefore, there does not appear to be an increased risk of SNHL in patients treated with macrolide antibiotics. 3b. Laryngoscope, 127:229-232, 2017.