Level Of Patient Satisfaction Research Articles

Surgical Removal of Fat Nodules Formed in the Tear Trough After Autologous Fat Grafting.

Autologous fat grafting is a common treatment for tear trough deformities. This procedure involves a potential complication of fat nodule formation, leading to abnormal bulging of the lower eyelid. However, limited information exists about this complication, and an effective treatment is lacking. The present study aimed to present a novel surgical approach for the removal of fat nodules caused by autologous fat grafting in the tear trough. This retrospective study included 33 patients who underwent surgery for the removal of fat nodules formed after autologous fat grafting. The procedure was performed using a conjunctival approach, allowing exposure and removal of all fat nodules in the anterior septal space, with the method adapted according to the severity of the deformity. A total of 66 eyelids were treated surgically, including 30 (45.45%) with mild nodular deformity, 23 (34.85%) with moderate nodular deformity, and 13 (10.70%) with severe nodular deformity. A second surgical procedure was required on 3 eyelids (4.56%). The main complications of the surgery were conjunctival congestion (21.21%), and localized depression (18.18%), bruising (12.12%). Among the patients, 29 (87.88%) were satisfied and 4 (12.12%) were dissatisfied with the treatment results. Conjunctival approach surgery is an effective method of removing fat nodules formed after autologous fat grafting in the tear trough, with good results and high levels of patient satisfaction. This approach enables the effective management of a common complication of autologous fat grafting and may enable the wider application of autologous fat grafting in the periorbital region. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Correction of the Tuberous Breast with Fat Grafting and Implant: Techniques, Evaluation with BREAST-Q, and Preliminary Results.

The correction of tuberous breast deformity with fat grafting has gained popularity in recent years, but it remains unclear whether this new technique can produce patient satisfaction levels comparable to those achieved with implant-based correction. This study aimed to compare patients' satisfaction and quality of life using the BREAST-Q questionnaire after correction of tuberous breast deformity with fat grafting and implants. Twenty-four patients (36 breasts) were included in our study. Thirteen patients (15 breasts) had a correction with lipofilling (mean 2.67 interventions) and 11 patients (21 breasts) had an implant-based correction (mean 1 intervention). Both fat and implant treatments showed statistically significant improvements in breast satisfaction (p value=0.001, 0.002, respectively), psychosocial (p value=0.003, 0.003, respectively), and sexual satisfaction (p value=0.008, 0.002, respectively) between the pre-treatment and post-treatment stages. However, the only statistically significant differences between the treatments were observed in the physical condition pre-treatment (p value=0.008) and sexual condition post-treatment (p value=0.030). The outcome of both treatments was not statistically different. Furthermore, the outcome exhibited a statistically significant positive linear relationship with breast satisfaction for both treatments. This study suggests that lipofilling can achieve breast and outcome satisfaction comparable to that of implants, although this parity in results comes at the cost of more interventions. These preliminary results lend support to the notion that, as surgeons have access to two equally effective techniques, it is crucial to provide appropriate guidance to patients to ensure their satisfaction. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Can narrow-diameter implants enhance patient-reported outcomes for mandibular implant-retained overdentures?

A systematic review and meta-analysis. To evaluate and compare stability and functionality between narrow and standard implant-retained mandibular overdentures in edentulous patients from multiple perspectives. Assessments included clinical parameters [survival rate (SR) and marginal bone loss (MBL)], along with patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) including patient satisfaction and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL). The study protocol followed PRISMA criteria for reporting reviews and meta-analyses. Using appropriate keywords, electronic search was conducted in each of the following databases: Medline, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, and Scopus, up to July 22, 2022. There were no restrictions based on language, publication type, or publication date. Additionally, ongoing studies were explored in ClinicalTrials.gov and WHO ICTRP, while cross-references in each selected study were manually examined. The eligible studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or controlled clinical trials (CCTs) comparing narrow implants (diameter ≤ 3.5 mm) to standard implants (diameter > 3.5-4.5 mm) retaining mandibular overdentures in edentulous patients. Excluded were studies with unclear implant diameter information, fewer than 5 patients per group, observational studies, reviews, and laboratory studies. Two authors independently conducted study selection, data collection, and analysis, resolving any discrepancies through discussion with a third author. Methodological quality was assessed using RoB-2 and ROBINS-I tools. Implant SR and MBL measurements at final follow-up were recorded, while patient satisfaction and OHRQoL were evaluated using visual analogue scale (VAS-100) and oral health impact profile (OHIP) questionnaire, respectively. After duplicate removal, 782 publications and 83 registered clinical trials were identified, of which 26 were eligible for full-text assessment. Ultimately, the quantitative evaluation included 12 publications from 8 independent studies: 4 parallel design RCTs and 4 CCTs. Risk of bias assessment revealed variations among the studies, with only one study being rated as having low risk. The follow-up periods ranged from 1 to 3 years. Meta-analysis showed no significant difference in SR and MBL between narrow and standard implant groups (p = 0.29 and p = 0.93, respectively), with considerable heterogeneity (I2 = 100% and I2 = 78%, respectively). Regarding PROMs, the narrow implant group showed significantly higher levels of patient satisfaction (mean difference (MD): 8.18; 95% CI: 5.83 to 10.53; p < 0.00001; I2 = 36%) and exhibited a significant improvement in OHRQoL (MD: -4.36; 95% CI: -6.83 to -1.89; p < 0.001; I2 = 55%) compared to the standard implant group. For implant-retained mandibular overdentures, the use of narrow implants is associated with comparable SR and MBL, along with higher patient satisfaction and better OHRQoL improvement as compared to standard implants, offering a viable alternative option for patients with diminished alveolar bone width.

From Awareness to Action: Clinicians and the Health Care of Deaf Patients

High levels of patient satisfaction are critical in health care and allow patients to feel more satisfied with their care and be more compliant overall. This idea is even more important in traditionally disenfranchised groups of people, such as Deaf patients, because satisfaction with medical encounters can translate into better health outcomes. This community possesses its own traditions, language, and culture, and health disparities here are apparent and often significant. Clearer communication in clinical encounters allows for more accessible health care. Barriers to effective communication are a major factor accounting for poorer health outcomes for Deaf individuals.

Immediate versus early loading of immediately placed bone-level tapered dental implants with hydrophilic surface in full arch maxillary rehabilitation: A pilot randomized clinical trial with 2-year follow-up.

This study aimed to compare implant stabilities between the immediate and early loaded, immediately placed bone-level tapered dental implants in the maxilla and to evaluate marginal bone loss (MBL), oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL), and patient satisfaction at a 2-year follow-up. A pilot, prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trial was conducted on 24 maxillary failing dentition patients. The bone-level tapered implants of 12 patients were immediately loaded with temporary restorations, while the other 12 patients did not receive any kind of temporization. Implant-supported screw-retained complete porcelain-fused-to-metal prostheses were delivered to all patients in the seventh postoperative week. The insertion torque values of implants assigned to the immediate and early loading groups were 33.0 ± 4.87 and 29.26 ± 8.31 Ncm, respectively. The dynamics of implant stability changes from implant placement up to a 2-year follow-up were similar for both groups (Penguin®, p = 0.268; Ostell®, p = 0.552), while the MBL was at submillimeter level. The cumulative implant survival rate was 91.80% for immediately loaded implants and 97.22% for early loaded implants, without significant difference (p = 0.162). The total score on the Oral Health Impact Profile questionnaire significantly decreased over time in both groups, indicating improvement in OHRQoL (p < 0.001), and the high level of patient satisfaction remained after 2 years of function regardless of a loading protocol. Both loading protocols, immediate and early, of six immediately placed bone-level tapered dental implants are an adequate treatment choice for fixed rehabilitation of the maxillary failing dentition.

The Application of Reverse Z-Plasty Design in Medial Canthal Skin Redundancy Reconstruction Surgery.

To investigate the clinical outcomes of reverse Z-plasty in the reconstruction of epicanthal fold. We conducted a retrospective analysis on clinical data from patients who underwent medial canthal skin redundancy reconstruction surgery from September 2019 to January 2023. The surgical procedure involved a preoperative design for the incision line, suborbicularis oculi dissection to create a muscle flap, and the use of a reverse Z-flap for the reconstruction of the lateral canthal fold. Postoperative follow-up assessments focused on the intercanthal distance, positional changes of the medial canthus point, alterations in the medial canthus angle, and patient satisfaction levels. The statistical evaluation was carried out utilizing paired t-tests, with a P-value of less than 0.05 denoting statistical significance. Postsurgery, the lacrimal prominences were less exposed, and inner canthal angles naturally reshaped. Inconspicuous scarring with diminished reverse Z-plasty marks was noted within 3 months. The average ICD has increased by 3 to 6mm, corresponding to elongation ratios of 9.09% to 28.30%. Preoperatively, the ICD averaged 31.25±2.32mm, expanding postoperatively to 35.19±2.26mm. The canthal angle enlarged significantly from 49.031±6.627 to 62.188±6.662. Inner canthal points shifted notably postsurgery, with a decrease in x-value and an increase in y-value, signalling a movement upwards and away from the nose. Patient satisfaction is high. The reverse Z-plasty technique has proven to be an effective approach for reconstructing the epicanthal fold. The clarity and precision of the incision design, coupled with the stability of postoperative results, demonstrate that this method can reliably achieve successful epicanthal fold reconstruction.

Comparison of recurrence rate of primary pterygium using conjunctival autograft with sutures versus suture-free approach.

Objective: To compare the recurrence rate of primary pterygium treated with conjunctival autograft (CAG) using sutures versus a suture-free approach. Methodology: From July 2022 to December 2022, a quasi-experimental study was carried out at the Institute of Ophthalmology, Liaquat University of Medical &amp; Health Sciences Jamshoro. A total of 110 patients with primary pterygium underwent treatment with conjunctival autograft using sutures or a suture-less/glue-free approach, under local anaesthesia. The patients were monitored for 12 months after surgery to assess recurrence and complications, and all procedures were performed by a single surgeon. Data was collected and analyzed on SPSS version 22. Result: The study included 110 patients with pterygium, mostly males (71.81%) and from rural areas, with the nasal location being the most common. Group A had 3 recurrences at 3 and 6 months, while Group B had 4 recurrences at similar intervals. Group A had fewer complications, including graft oedema, retraction, granuloma, and giant papillary conjunctivitis, while Group B had three cases of retraction. The recurrence rate was found to be 5.08% and 7.70% with and without sutures (P value ≥ 0.53) respectively. Conclusion: The excision of primary pterygium using conjunctival autograft with sutures or suture-free/glue-free methods are safe and uncomplicated procedure that results in lower levels of induced astigmatism, improved cosmetic appearance, no tissue loss, reduced recurrence of pterygium, and decreased risk of, scleral thinning, granuloma formation. Suture-free conjunctival autograft results in less postoperative manifestation like discomfort foreign body sensation, shorter surgery time, and high levels of patient satisfaction compared to conjunctival autograft with sutures. Key words: Primary pterygium, autograft and pterygium. recurrence rate of pterygium, suture with pterygium.

Influence of pain duration and severity on oral health-related quality of life and patient satisfaction during adult treatment with clear aligners

BackgroundThis study aims to compare the impact of pain on quality of life and patient satisfaction during treatment with aligners.MethodsNinety-four subjects in active treatment were invited to answer self-reported questions concerning pain severity and duration, occurrence of other signs and symptoms, and level of satisfaction with their treatment. Also, the OHIP-14 questionnaire was applied to assess patients’ OHRQoL.ResultsNinety-four patients (49 women and 45 men) answered the survey. Pain duration of 1–3 days was reported by 69.1% of patients (n = 60). For those who reported pain (n = 84), it was considered mild severity by 42.9% and moderate by 52.4%. Almost sixty-four percent of the sample were very satisfied with the aligner’s aesthetics (n = 60) and forty-nine percent were satisfied with treatment in general (n = 46). Mean OHIP-14 score was 3.36 ± 2.54. OHRQoL was significantly associated with pain severity, whereas patients who reported having experienced moderate pain presented a significantly higher mean OHIP-14 score than those who reported having experienced mild pain (3.92 ± 1.93 and 2.69 ± 2.83, respectively; p = 0.036). The “psychological discomfort” OHIP-14’s domain was the most influenced by the level of pain.ConclusionPain severity significantly influenced OHRQoL, in adult patients under treatment with clear aligners. However, high levels of patient satisfaction were reported, regardless of pain duration or severity.

Electromyographic Evaluation of Masseter and Temporalis Muscle Activity in Distal Extension Edentulous Patients After Replacing with Implants—A Prospective Clinical Trial

Aim: To assess the changes in muscle activity after replacing the missing teeth or teeth with implants in distal extension edentulous patients and to evaluate the patient’s satisfaction levels. Materials and Methods: This was a single-group experimental study, based on convenience sampling with a sample size of 40 patients. Only unilateral mandibular distal extension edentulous sites were included and endo-osseous dental implants were placed in delayed protocol. Electrical activities of the masseter and temporalis muscles were recorded at rest and clench before, immediately, and one month after the cementation using electromyography. Patient satisfaction was analyzed through a questionnaire. Descriptive statistics an inferential statistics with repeated measures of ANOVA followed by the Bonferroni post hoc test were done to analyze the study data. P value &lt; .05 would be considered statistically significant for all the analyses. Results: Right temporalis showed significantly higher surface electromyography (sEMG) activity at one-month post cementation than baseline at rest and clench. Similarly, the left temporalis has shown significant sEMG activity at one-month post cementation than baseline at clench. However, there was no statistical difference with the right and left masseter. The implant-supported prosthesis was well received by the majority of patients. Conclusion: Definitive improvement in the electrical activity of the temporalis before and after the replacement of prosthesis was noticed with positive patient satisfaction levels with implant-supported prosthesis.

Integrating Spatial and Non-Spatial Dimensions to Evaluate Access to Rural Primary Healthcare Service: A Case Study of Songzi, China

Access to rural primary healthcare services has been broadly studied in the past few decades. However, most earlier studies that focused on examining access to rural healthcare services have conventionally treated spatial and non-spatial access as separate factors. This research aims to measure access to primary healthcare services in rural areas with the consideration of both spatial and non-spatial dimensions. The methodology of study is threefold. First, the Gaussian two-step floating catchment area (G-2SFCA) method was adopted to measure spatial access to primary healthcare services. Then, a questionnaire survey was conducted to investigate non-spatial access factors, including demographic condition, patient’s household income, healthcare insurance, education level, and patient satisfaction level with the services. After that, a comprehensive evaluation index system was employed to integrate both spatial and non-spatial access. The empirical study showed a remarkable disparity in spatial access to primary healthcare services. In total, 78 villages with 185,137 local people had a “low” or “very low” level of spatial access to both clinics and hospitals. For the non-spatial dimension, the results depicted that Songzi had significant inequalities in socioeconomic status (e.g., income, education) and patient satisfaction level for medical service. When integrating both spatial and non-spatial factors, the disadvantaged areas were mainly located in the eastern and middle parts. In addition, this study found that comprehensively considering the spatial and non-spatial access had a significant impact on results in healthcare access. In conclusion, this study calls for policymakers to pay more attention to primary healthcare inequalities within rural areas. The spatial and non-spatial access should be considered comprehensively when the long-term rural medical support policy is designated.

ANALYSIS OF THE DIMENSIONS OF HEALTH SERVICE QUALITY ON PATIENT SATISFACTION AT ROYAL PRIMA MARELAN HOSPITAL IN 2024

One indicator of quality in health services is patient satisfaction, where high-quality health services will generally create a high level of patient satisfaction, leading to loyalty to health services. The study aimed to analyze the dimensions of Health Service Quality toward Patient Satisfaction at Royal Prima Marelan Hospital in 2024. The method used in this research is quantitative non-experimental with a descriptive approach (cross-sectional survey) and associative analysis. The population was 318 people, and the sample determination used Slovin so that the sample size was 197, rounded up to 200 samples, with incidental sampling technique-data analysis using univariate, bivariate (Chi-Square), multivariate (multiple logistic regression Enter method). The results of the Chi-Square analysis obtained the variables of Physical Evidence (p-value 0.004), reliability (p-value 0.006), Responsiveness (p-value 0.008), assurance (p-value 0.004), empathy (p-value 0.002) have a p-value ≤ 0.05 with a significant level of 0.05. It is concluded that the most influential variable is the empathy variable, with a p-value of 0.000 &lt;0.05. The OR value obtained is 10.224, meaning that ease of relationship, good communication, and understanding of the needs of patients have an opportunity of 10.224 times to increase patient satisfaction at Royal Prima Marelan Hospital in 2024. KEYWORDS: quality, satisfaction, patient, empathy

P056 Patient Satisfaction Survey of a Newly Set-Up Fast Track Giant Cell Arteritis Service in a District General Hospital

Abstract Background/Aims Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA) is a multisystem, large and medium artery vasculitis, which results in significant comorbidity, even mortality. Prompt diagnosis is a pivotal first step in its effective management. To that effect, we set up a fast track service in Eastbourne District General Hospital (EDGH) for a one-stop-shop assessment of GCA referrals with Ultrasound Doppler. Fifteen months from service commencement, we embarked on assessing patient satisfaction of our service users. This exercise could provide vital insight into the effectiveness of our new service, and thus drive improvement. Furthermore, it is well established that patient satisfaction is associated with improved outcomes in patient care, be it due to improved compliance, engagement with the service, or overall better understanding of the underlying condition. Aims 1. To assess overall level of patient satisfaction of our new fast track GCA service against a number of internally set criteria; 2. To improve the effectiveness of the service based on feedback from the actual service users; 3. To improve the level of satisfaction of patients coming through the GCA service. Methods We set up a dedicated GCA clinic aiming to see patients within five days of referral. In order to assess overall patient satisfaction of the service, we formulated a questionnaire-based survey that was posted to 99 service users. We assessed five areas overall: appointment allocation process; staff attitude; information supplied; advice line effectiveness; overall satisfaction. Data were collected and analysed on Microsoft Excell. No patient identifiable details were collected. Results Out of the 99 feedback forms that were sent out, 51 were returned completed within the survey period. The appointment allocation process was assessed as “excellent” by 95% of responders, and “satisfactory” by 5%. Staff received 98% “excellent” rating. Information provided to the patient was assessed as 91% “excellent”, 8% “satisfactory”, and 1% “poor”. Response to advice line inquiries received 54% “excellent”, 18% “satisfactory”, and 2% “poor” rating (26% of responders answered “non-applicable”). Finally, overall satisfaction was rated at 93%, with, crucially, no service user providing a “poor” rating. Conclusion We conducted a patient survey to assess overall satisfaction of our new fast track GCA pathway, ultimately aiming at improving our service. The overwhelming majority of the feedback was positive, but we focused and acted on suggestions. Following the survey, we have a) designed a GCA “passport” with useful information for newly diagnosed patients; b) revisited the advice line with a modified information leaflet for this service; c) endeavoured to optimise the referrals process via education sessions on GCA for Hospital and Primary Care clinicians. Following a period of intervention, we will be reassessing patient satisfaction, aiming to continue improving our service. Disclosure A. Hall: None. P. Kamperidis: None. H. Perera: None. S. Panthakalam: None.

Application and effect of tension-reducing suture in surgical treatment of hypertrophic scar

PurposeTo investigate the application and effectiveness of tension-reducing suture in the repair of hypertrophic scars.MethodsA retrospective analysis of clinical data was conducted on 82 patients with hypertrophic scars treated at the Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital from September 2021 to December 2022. Patients were operated with combination of heart-shaped tension-reducing suturing technique and looped, broad, and deep buried (LBD) suturing technique or conventional suture method. Outcomes of surgical treatment were assessed before and 6 months after surgery using the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) and the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS).ResultsImprovements were achieved on scar quality compared to that preoperatively, with a reduction in scar width (1.7 ± 0.6 cm vs. 0.7 ± 0.2 cm, P < 0.001). Assessment using the POSAS and VSS scales showed significant improvements in each single parameter and total score compared to preoperative values (P < 0.05). The Combination method group achieved better score in total score of VSS scale, in color, stiffness, thickness and overall opinion of PSAS scale, and in vascularity, thickness, pliability and overall opinion of OSAS scale.ConclusionThe amalgamation of the heart-shaped tension-reducing suturing technique and the LBD suturing technique has shown promising outcomes, garnering notably high levels of patient satisfaction in the context of hypertrophic scar repair. Patients have exhibited favorable postoperative recoveries, underscoring the clinical merit and the prospective broader applicability of this approach in the realm of hypertrophic scar management.

Minimally invasive sacroiliac joint fusion secondary to lumbosacral fusion: clinical and functional results at 2 years of follow-up

Introduction: Degenerative sacroiliac (SI) joint syndrome is known to be more common after lumbosacral fusion. While this diagnosis is suspected based on various clinical criteria and diagnostic tests, it is confirmed with a diagnostic nerve block. If conservative treatment fails, SI joint fusion through a minimally invasive approach is a useful palliative approach for patients at a treatment crossroads. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and functional results at 2 years postoperative after minimally invasive SI joint fusion in patients with SI joint syndrome following lumbosacral fusion.Materials and Methods: We carried out a single-center retrospective study of patients operated between June 2017 and October 2020. Included were patients who had a confirmed diagnosis of SI joint syndrome after lumbosacral fusion surgery, who underwent SI joint fusion and had at least 2 years’ follow-up. The primary outcome was the improvement in lumbar and radicular pain on a numerical rating scale (NRS). The secondary outcomes were the functional scores (Oswestry and SF-12) along with the level of patient satisfaction. Our study population consisted of 54 patients (41 women, 13 men) with a mean age of 59 years (27–88). Thirty-one of these patients were operated on both sides (85 fusions in all). The patients had undergone a mean of 3 lumbar surgeries (1–7) before the SI fusion.Results: The lumbar and radicular NRS were 8.4 (7-10) and 5.1 (2-10) preoperatively and 5.2 (0-8) and 3.0 (0-8) at 2 years postoperatively, which was a reduction of 37% and 42% (p<0.001), respectively. The Oswestry score went from 69.4 (52-86) preoperatively to 45.6 (29-70) at 2 years, which was a 33% improvement (p < 0.001). Eighty-six percent of patients were satisfied or very satisfied with the surgery.Discussion: After minimally invasive SI joint fusion, the patients in this study had clear clinical and functional improvements. Previous publications analyzing the results of SI joint fusion found even more improvement, but those patients were relatively heterogenous; in our study, only patients who had a history of lumbosacral fusion were included.Conclusion: Minimally invasive SI joint fusion helped patients who developed SI joint syndrome after lumbosacral fusion to improve clinically and functionally.Level of evidence: IV, Retrospective study

0606 Post Market Surveillance from Precision OAT Cases Indicates High Levels of Patient and Provider Satisfaction

0606 Post Market Surveillance from Precision OAT Cases Indicates High Levels of Patient and Provider Satisfaction

Ceramic-on-Ceramic Total Hip Arthroplasty Using a Double Tapered, Proximally Coated Stem: 15 to 24-year Clinical and Radiologic Follow-up

IntroductionTotal hip arthroplasty implant choice profoundly affects survivorship, complications, and failure modes. This study evaluates the long-term (average 18 year) outcomes of ceramic-on-ceramic hip arthroplasty using uncemented shells and stems. Despite an impressive 20-year cumulative percent revision (CPR) of 5.9%, the hydroxyapatite proximally coated femoral components evaluated in this study have seen declining use since 2003. MethodsA review of 349 consecutive total hip arthroplasties from 1999 to 2007 were matched to 272 cases with registry data. A survivorship analysis included 274 hips (Group A) after excluding patients lost to follow-up and navigated cases. Group B comprised 135 patients who had complete datasets spanning a minimum of 15 years. ResultsKaplan-Meier analysis identified a 95.6% survivorship plateau at 16 to 24 years, with no significant impact from age, sex, component size, or original pathology. In Group B, EuroQol-5 Dimensions-5 Levels (EQ5D5L) scores indicated favorable outcomes in mobility, self-care, activities, pain/discomfort, and anxiety/depression, with an EQ5D Visual Analogue Score (VAS) mean of 79.24. Functional scores, including the Harris Hip Score (HHS), Oxford Hip Score (OHS), and Forgotten Joint Score (FJS), showed positive outcomes. Radiologic assessments revealed no osteolysis or loose components, with a mean Engh score of 21.69. Dorr classification identified bone quality variations.Better Engh scores corresponded to higher levels of patient satisfaction. Age at surgery was correlated with better functional scores, while sex influenced various outcomes. ConclusionThis comprehensive study, spanning an average of 18.23 years, combined multiple patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) with extensive clinical and radiologic follow-up. It reported a notably high survivorship rate for this implant combination but highlighted the declining use of the hydroxyapatite proximally coated femoral stem used in this study, potentially facing withdrawal risks in Australia.

Long-term assessment of collagenase treatment for Dupuytren’s contracture: A 10-year follow-up study

BACKGROUND Enzymatic fasciotomy with collagenase clostridium histolyticum (CCH) has revolutionized the treatment for Dupuytren’s contracture (DC). Despite its benefits, the long-term outcomes remain unclear. This study presented a comprehensive 10-year follow-up assessment of the enduring effects of CCH on patients with DC. AIM To compare the short-term (12 wk) and long-term (10 years) outcomes on CCH treatment in patients with DC. METHODS A cohort of 45 patients was treated with CCH at the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint and the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint and underwent systematic re-evaluation. The study adhered to multicenter trial protocols, and assessments were conducted at 12 wk, 7 years, and 10 years post-surgery. RESULTS Thirty-seven patients completed the 10-year follow-up. At 10 years, patients treated at the PIP joint exhibited a 100% recurrence. However, patients treated at the MCP joint only showed a 50% recurrence. Patient satisfaction varied, with a lower satisfaction reported in PIP joint cases. Recurrence exceeding 20 degrees on the total passive extension deficit was observed, indicating a challenge for sustained efficacy. Significant differences were noted between outcomes at the 7-year and 10-year intervals. CONCLUSION CCH demonstrated sustained efficacy when applied to the MCP joint. However, caution is warranted for CCH treatment at the PIP joint due to a high level of recurrence and low patient satisfaction. Re-intervention is needed within a decade of treatment.

Optimizing Queue Management in Healthcare Settings: Enhancing Patient Satisfaction through Strategic Approaches

This study aims to investigate the interplay between queue management aspects (service quality, waiting time, waiting environment, queue discipline), and patient satisfaction within the healthcare context, while also assessing the impact of these factors on patient satisfaction levels. Employing a deductive approach, hypotheses were formulated and tested based on empirical data collected through a survey conducted in five hospitals across the Ampara district of Sri Lanka. A quantitative research design was adopted, utilizing a self-administered questionnaire distributed among 392 patients. Statistical analyses, including Pearson correlation and regression analysis, were conducted using SPSS 22nd version. The findings reveal significant correlations between queue management aspects and patient satisfaction, with service quality, waiting time, waiting environment, and queue discipline playing crucial roles. These insights contribute to a comprehensive understanding of factors influencing patient satisfaction in healthcare settings, informing targeted interventions for improving service delivery and patient experiences.

Impact of technology on orthodontic practice

This paper explores the pivotal role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in transforming orthodontic practice, focusing on its profound impact on diagnosis, treatment planning, and patient care. AI-powered algorithms, coupled with machine learning techniques, have revolutionized orthodontic workflows, enhancing efficiency, precision, and patient outcomes. By analysing vast datasets, AI facilitates predictive modelling for treatment outcomes, aiding orthodontists in devising personalized treatment plans tailored to individual patient needs. Moreover, AI-driven image analysis techniques enable automated cephalometric analysis, intraoral scanning, and 3D imaging interpretation, significantly reducing diagnostic errors and streamlining treatment processes. Furthermore, AI-enabled virtual treatment simulations empower patients to visualize treatment outcomes and actively participate in decision-making processes. The integration of AI into orthodontic practice also extends to tele orthodontics, enabling remote monitoring and virtual consultations, thereby enhancing accessibility and convenience for patients. Despite the transformative potential of AI, challenges such as data privacy, algorithm bias, and the need for clinician training must be addressed to ensure its ethical and effective implementation. Nevertheless, the advent of AI heralds a new era in orthodontics, characterized by unprecedented levels of efficiency, accuracy, and patient satisfaction. This paper underscores the revolutionary impact of AI on orthodontic practice and highlights the opportunities and challenges associated with its integration into clinical workflows.

The Role of Human Factors in Maintaining Service Quality in Hospitals

The delivery of high-quality healthcare services is a multifaceted endeavor influenced by various factors, among which human factors play a pivotal role. This paper explores the significance of human factors in upholding service quality within hospital settings. Drawing upon interdisciplinary research from fields such as psychology, sociology, and healthcare management, it examines the intricate interplay between healthcare professionals, patients, and organizational structures. In today's healthcare landscape, where patient-centric care is increasingly emphasized, understanding the impact of human factors is paramount. One of the primary focuses is on patient satisfaction, which is not only influenced by clinical outcomes but also by the quality of interactions with healthcare providers. Effective communication between healthcare professionals and patients is essential for building trust, managing expectations, and ensuring informed decision-making. Moreover, the demeanor, empathy, and interpersonal skills of healthcare staff significantly contribute to patients' overall experience and satisfaction levels. Safety is another critical aspect of service quality in hospitals, and human factors play a central role in patient safety initiatives. Research has shown that the majority of adverse events in healthcare are attributable to human error, highlighting the importance of addressing factors such as fatigue, stress, and workload among healthcare professionals. Furthermore, teamwork and collaboration are vital for promoting a culture of safety, where healthcare providers work together cohesively to identify and mitigate risks, thereby enhancing patient outcomes and reducing preventable harm. Effective leadership within healthcare organizations is also instrumental in shaping service quality. Strong leadership sets the tone for organizational culture, values, and priorities, influencing the behavior and performance of healthcare staff. Leaders who prioritize patient-centered care, employee well-being, and continuous quality improvement foster an environment conducive to delivering high-quality services. To optimize service quality, hospitals must invest in staff training, development, and support programs. Ongoing education ensures that healthcare professionals stay abreast of the latest evidence-based practices, technological advancements, and regulatory requirements. Moreover, initiatives to promote staff well-being, such as employee assistance programs, work-life balance initiatives, and resilience training, are essential for preventing burnout and maintaining morale. In conclusion, human factors play a multifaceted role in maintaining service quality in hospitals, encompassing aspects such as communication, teamwork, leadership, and staff well-being. By recognizing the complexities of human interactions within healthcare systems and implementing targeted interventions, hospitals can enhance service delivery, improve patient outcomes, and cultivate a culture of excellence.