Patient Record System Research Articles

Prognostic value of soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) in patients admitted with acute heart failure

Abstract Introduction The inflammatory marker, soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR), has emerged as a promising prognostic biomarker of heart failure (HF). Higher levels of suPAR in plasma are indicative of hospital readmissions and mortality. Currently little is known about suPAR-values upon admission in patients with acute heart failure (AHF). Purpose This study investigates the prevalence of elevated suPAR and prognostic value in patients hospitalized with AHF. Methods In this prospective cohort study, all patients ≥ 18 years old admitted at the Emergency Department at a large University Hospital in Denmark, were consecutively included from March 10, 2020, to March 31, 2022. The follow-up period was 365 days. The biomarker suPAR was measured in all patients upon admission (median time from admission to suPAR measurement was two hours (IQR 3: 3,9-6,9)). Patient data was extracted from the electronic patient record system, and a cardiologist adjudicated whether the patients had AHF. Patients were stratified according to validated cut-off values of suPAR above or below 6 ng/mL. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox Regression were used to assess the association between suPAR levels and one-year mortality outcomes. Results A total of 408 (5%) AHF patients, from a total population of 6,715, were included in the study. 40 patients were excluded due to missing suPAR-values and the final analysis comprised of 368 AHF patients. Among AHF patients upon admission, the mean suPAR value was 6.2 ng/mL (standard deviation [SD] = 4.8 ng/mL), and non-AHF patients had a mean value of 4.5 ng/mL (SD = 3.1 ng/mL). A suPAR level above 6 ng/mL was significantly associated with mortality (figure 1), log-rank test p-value < 0.0001. Furthermore, Cox regression analysis demonstrated that elevated suPAR levels were independently associated with increased risk of mortality with a hazard ratio (HR): 2.09 (95% CI: 1.59-2.90), p-value < 0.001 after adjusting for potential confounders: age, sex, atrial fibrillation, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, and Creatinine levels. Conclusion The inflammatory biomarker suPAR measured upon hospital admission in AHF patients is significantly associated with one-year mortality in patients admitted with AHF. The potential of suPAR as a valuable prognostic marker in AHF is offering clinicians a tool to identify high-risk patients and tailor management strategies, accordingly, thereby improving patient outcomes.Figure 1 - 1 year mortality

Obstructive hydrocephalus due to developmental venous anomalies: a pediatric imaging case series.

Developmental venous anomalies are a rare cause of obstructive hydrocephalus in the pediatric population. In this study, we present the most extensive case series of DVA-induced obstructive hydrocephalus in the pediatric population. We thoroughly describe the imaging findings related to this uncommon entity and comprehensively discuss its clinical presentation and management strategies. The goal is to alert pediatric neuroradiologists to consider this rare condition in the differential diagnosis of hydrocephalus, particularly during prenatal screening or in pediatric cases. The electronic patient record systems of 2 tertiary care children's hospitals were reviewed to identify pediatric patients with confirmed DVAs leading to obstructive hydrocephalus. Age at diagnosis, gender, MRI findings (including location of the obstruction), clinical presentation, and symptoms were recorded. Data on treatment and follow-up imaging were also collected. The search yielded 5 cases of pediatric patients with DVA-induced obstructive hydrocephalus. The mean age at diagnosis of the DVA was 2.9 years (range: 0-7 years), and in two cases, ventriculomegaly was diagnosed in utero during prenatal cranial ultrasound screenings. In all patients, the DVA caused stenosis of the aqueduct of Sylvius, and one case presented with multiple DVAs. Although aqueductal stenosis caused by a DVA is rare, it is crucial to consider it in the differential diagnosis of hydrocephalus during prenatal screening or in the pediatric population. Brain MRI, especially post-contrast T1WI, and SWI sequences are particularly valuable for visualizing the typical "caput medusae" appearance of DVAs and detecting associated complications such as hemorrhages.

Introducing a Framework for Surgical Discharge Summaries to Improve Accuracy and Succinctness in a Busy District General Hospital.

Background Discharge summaries (TTOs) are essential documents in the effective communication between primary and secondary care, particularly in conveying critical post-discharge instructions to patients. Inconsistencies and omissions in TTOs can significantly undermine patient outcomes and disrupt continuity of care. This is particularly relevant to surgical patients, who often require specific follow-up care such as the removal of clips or drains shortly after discharge. Following the recent transition from paper-based to electronic records at a busy district general hospital (Royal Blackburn Hospital, Blackburn), the quality of TTOs was noted to be substandard.This quality improvement project aimed to enhance the accuracy and clarity of surgical TTOs. Methods A targeted framework was developed in collaboration with local consultants and the consideration of national guidelines to guide the content of surgical TTOs, focusing on five essential components: Reason for Admission, Intervention, Surgical Details, Discharge Plan, and Follow-up Instructions. Initial retrospective data analysis includedTTOs (n=60) across five surgical wards, evaluating their quality against the framework. The framework was then introduced via educational initiatives and integrated into the hospital's electronic patient record (EPR) system (CERNER). The impact of these interventions was assessed through data collection after two Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles. Results Baseline data highlighted significant deficiencies; 42 (70%) of TTOs were missing at least one key element, with missing follow-up details most often the reason. Many TTOs also included excessive or inappropriate information, and their format varied greatly depending on individual writing styles. Following the first PDSA cycle and the introduction of the framework, the numberof TTOs containing all essential data points increased by 14 (30% increase), while those missing two or more elements decreased by 16 (48% decrease). After the second cycle, further improvements were observed, with the number of TTOs missing one or more data points decreased by 6 (21%). Despite the overall progress, follow-up information continued to be the most frequently omitted element. Feedback from resident doctors was positive and the unanimous opinion was that the framework improved not only the quality of TTOs, but also how efficiently they were written. Conclusions Implementing a standardised framework significantly improved the quality of surgical TTOs, particularly by increasing the inclusion of critical information. These results are encouraging. However, anecdotal evidence suggests there is a lack of training in writing TTOs at both undergraduate and foundation levels. Ongoing efforts are required to address these areas to ensure a sustained improvement in quality.

Comparing the technical quality and clinical outcomes of root canal treatment on immature permanent incisors in children: a retrospective evaluation of three bioceramic plug materials.

To assess the technical quality and clinical outcomes of non-surgical endodontic treatment of immature permanent incisor teeth with three different bioceramic plug materials and highlight variables which may influence treatment and quality outcomes. This cross-sectional analysis forms part of a retrospective service evaluation of the technical quality and clinical outcome of orthograde root canal treatment carried out in the Paediatric Dentistry Department of Charles Clifford Dental Hospital (United Kingdom). Twenty-five cases were identified chronologically, using the electronic patient record system, for three bioceramic plug materials: Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA), Biodentine, and TotalFill Putty. All radiographs were analysed using standard conditions. Intra- and inter-examiner agreement was calculated using Kappa and weighted Kappa tests. Data were collected using a data collection tool, entered into Microsoft Excel, and analysed using descriptive statistics, exploratory analysis with Chi-squared tests, and multivariable analyses (logistic regression). At 12-month review, the success rate for each apexification material was MTA (84%), Biodentine (88%), and TotalFill Putty (92%). MTA had the highest frequency of post-operative coronal discolouration, with Biodentine most associated with apical extrusion. A number of variables and trends that affect the clinical outcome were identified, including the presence of pre-operative resorption, the number of operators involved in treatment, the number of appointments to complete treatment, as well as how non-use of local anaesthetic during apical plug placement had no adverse effect on technical quality or clinical outcome. MTA, Biodentine, and TotalFill Putty are highly effective apexification materials which produce excellent clinical outcomes. As such, logistical and situational factors, such as continuity of care from operators with increased levels of experience, skill and ability, rather than material choice, may be more prognostic regarding the technical quality and clinical outcome of immature endodontic treatment. Further high-quality evidence is required.

WP1.9 - An audit of prophylactic antibiotic use in elective inguinal hernia repair

Abstract Aims National guidance states that antibiotic prophylaxis is not indicated in low-risk patients undergoing inguinal hernia repairs and that high-risk patients require a single dose. This audit aimed to compare the use of prophylactic antibiotics by general surgeons in a district general hospital performing elective inguinal hernia repair, to the current national guidance. The rate of post-operative wound infection was also recorded. Method All patients who underwent an elective inguinal hernia repair in the six months between January and June 2023, were identified retrospectively via the hospital database. Data was collected via the electronic patient record system on whether patients were prescribed antibiotics prophylactically at the time of surgery. Data was also collected on patient demographics including sex, age, BMI and rate of post-operative wound infection. Results The patient cohort was 94% male with an average age of 64. 94.79% of repairs were open. 53.33% of patients received antibiotics in line with national guidelines. Overall, 50.00% of patients in this audit had prophylactic antibiotics. The rate of post-operative wound infection was 1.04%, with 0% in patients who received prophylactic antibiotics and 2.08% in those who did not, which is not a statistically significant difference (P = 0.175). Conclusions Current evidence for antibiotic use is weak and therefore auditing local practice is essential in antibiotic stewardship. This audit is limited by the reliance on accurate record keeping, with regards to antibiotic prescribing and documentation of post-operative wound infections. Furthermore, patients may have had post-operative wound infections managed in the community setting.

Acetabular fracture in India: An epidemiological study

IntroductionAcetabular fractures, resulting from high-energy trauma, present significant orthopaedic challenges. Despite their rarity, the incidence of these fractures is rising, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of their epidemiological characteristics, especially in diverse populations like India. MethodsThis retrospective study analyzed data from 3643 patients across four level-1 trauma centers in India (North 1, North 2, West, and South) from January 2001 to December 2019. Prior ethical approval was obtained from the respective institutions. Data were collected using the computerized patient record system (CPRS) and included patients with complete clinical and radiological records. Only patients with full radiological data were included, comprising standard anteroposterior radiograph, Judet views on radiographs, and computed tomography scan of the pelvis. The study evaluated the demographic characteristics, fracture patterns and surgical approaches. ResultsThe majority of patients were males (84.05 %) and the fractures were mostly seen in young individuals between 19 and 40 years’ age group (44.9 %), followed by 41–60 years (42.3 %). Associated bony or other system injuries were seen in 53.42 % of patients, with pelvic injuries being the most common (9.8 %). Posterior wall fractures were the most frequent (20.7 %), while anterior wall fractures were the least common (0.8 %). Operative management was employed in 82 % of cases, with the Kocher-Langenbeck approach being the most commonly employed (42.5 %). ConclusionHigh-velocity trauma remains the commonest cause of acetabular trauma in India, primarily affecting young male individuals. Pelvic fractures are the most commonly associated injuries. Posterior wall fractures are the commonest type of acetabular fracture, and the Kocher-Langenbeck approach is the commonly adopted surgical approach.

Magnetic resonance imaging and clinical features of Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome: A 10-year review from a dedicated specialist centre.

To correlate the clinical history with imaging findings of women with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome. Retrospective cohort study. A UK IOTA and ESGO-certified tertiary referral centre for disorders of reproductive development. All patients with a diagnosis of MRKH and who had undergone an MRI pelvis between 1 January 2011 and 31 April 2021 were included. MRI images were analysed by specialist gynaecological radiologists. Clinical data was extracted from an electronic patient record system. Statistical analysis was computed in R (version 4.1.2), R base stats package and ggstatsplot (v0.5.0). Clinical history and predefined imaging features. One hundred and thirty-four patients were included. Median age at MRI was 18 years (10-64 years). Half (48.2%) of women presenting had a history of pain, most often abdominal (84.6%) or vaginal (9.2%). Remnants were identified in 91.8% of women (n = 123). 4.5% of women had imaging features of endometriosis (n = 6). Women with a functional remnants were significantly more likely to experience pain (p < 0.001). Pain history was not strongly associated with ectopic ovarian position. Common gynaecological pathology such as endometriosis, ovarian cysts and fibroids were also identified. We identify that majority of women with MRKH will have uterine remnants with a connecting fibrous band, and an ectopic ovarian position 44.0% of cases. Abdominal pain was significantly associated with functional remnants on MRI. Further work is required to identify how other gynaecological pathology impacts women with MRKH.

2254 Improving the quality and breadth of advance care planning discussions on gerontology wards in an acute London trust

Abstract Introduction Advance care planning (ACP) offers people the opportunity to plan their future care whilst they have capacity to do so and is supported by national guidance. Decisions regarding future care are more likely to be individualised and holistic when patients and their significant others are involved. This QI project aimed to address this by increasing the frequency of ACP discussions being offered and recorded on gerontology wards in an acute London Trust. Method A multi-professional steering group was established to improve ACP using PDSA methodology. A new ACP toolkit, training programme and electronic flowsheet (within the hospital’s patient record system) were implemented. ACP documentation quality was audited on gerontology wards pre and post implementation (over one to four months respectively). Data was compared using Pearson’s Chi-squared test. Results ACP flowsheets were completed by junior and senior doctors, and clinical nurse specialists in frailty and palliative medicine. The initial audit found disparity between documented topics of ACP conversations, with cardiopulmonary resuscitation recommendations being most discussed. Post implementation, 24 ACP flowsheets were reviewed, showing that more ACP topics were documented where these conversations were had; preferred place of death increased from 24% to 60% (p 0.011); treatment escalation plan increased from 41% to 75% (p 0.014); preferred place of care increased from 59% to 71% (p 0.066). Topics not showing significant improvement in documentation (despite inclusion in the flowsheet) were spiritual needs, information needs and prognostic discussion, broader social needs and what was most important to the patient. Conclusion The implementation of an electronic ACP flowsheet improved documented ACP conversations in some topics, guiding healthcare professionals to deliver care that aligns with peoples’ wishes and preferences. Documented conversations became easier to access, review and audit. Work is still needed to promote ACP conversations being centralised around what matters most to patients.

2354 Clinical assessment and documentation of delirium in older patients undergoing vascular surgery: a quality improvement project

Abstract Introduction The Centre for Perioperative Care recommends the assessment and documentation of delirium using a validated tool such as the 4-AT in older people undergoing surgery. Aim This quality improvement project (QIP) aimed to improve the assessment and documentation of delirium in patients aged 65 and above following vascular surgery in a tertiary centre. Methods Patients aged ≥65 years who had undergone vascular surgery were identified and data was collected with access to the electronic patient record system. Analysis was carried out using Microsoft Excel and SPSS. Following baseline measurements taken in August 2023, 1 plan-do-study-act (PDSA) cycle was completed between September 2023–January 2024. Baseline measures Baseline data collected between August 1-31st 2023 identified 51 patients, of which delirium was screened using the 4-AT tool in 39.2% (n = 20), on average 90 hours post-operatively. The 4-AT was never documented in a consultant-led surgical post-operative review (100%, n = 51). There were clinical concerns of post-operative delirium documented in 7 patients, with the 4-AT documented in 5 of those cases. Intervention Interventions included stakeholder discussions to identify key barriers in the assessment and documentation of delirium, multidisciplinary team education and poster reminders across the ward. These were introduced between November–December 2023. Results Post-intervention results reviewed between 10th-31st January 2024 showed that the 4-AT was used to screen for delirium in 61.9% of patients (n = 13), on average 45 hours post-operatively. The 4-AT was never documented in a consultant-led surgical post-operative review. In addition, 2 patients developed delirium post-operatively with the 4-AT reported in both cases. Conclusions This QIP has demonstrated a marked improvement in compliance with national guidelines on the assessment of delirium, highlighting the impact of multidisciplinary education in improving the perioperative clinical pathway for older people undergoing surgery. Future PDSA cycles will focus on improving the documentation of 4AT in the post-operative surgical review.

Creating a health informatics data resource for hearing health research

BackgroundThe National Institute of Health and Social Care Research (NIHR) Health Informatics Collaborative (HIC) for Hearing Health has been established in the UK to curate routinely collected hearing health data to address research questions. This study defines priority research areas, outlines its aims, governance structure and demonstrates how hearing health data have been integrated into a common data model using pure tone audiometry (PTA) as a case study.MethodsAfter identifying key research aims in hearing health, the governance structure for the NIHR HIC for Hearing Health is described. The Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership (OMOP) was chosen as our common data model to provide a case study example.ResultsThe NIHR HIC Hearing Health theme have developed a data architecture outlying the flow of data from all of the various siloed electronic patient record systems to allow the effective linkage of data from electronic patient record systems to research systems. Using PTAs as an example, OMOPification of hearing health data successfully collated a rich breadth of datapoints across multiple centres.ConclusionThis study identified priority research areas where routinely collected hearing health data could be useful. It demonstrates integration and standardisation of such data into a common data model from multiple centres. By describing the process of data sharing across the HIC, we hope to invite more centres to contribute and utilise data to address research questions in hearing health. This national initiative has the power to transform UK hearing research and hearing care using routinely collected clinical data.

Examination of Cases Who Admitted to the Emergency Department of a Mental Health Hospital in 2020

Objective: This study aimed to retrospectively examine the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of cases who admitted to the emergency department of a mental health hospital in 2020. Material and Methods: Cases who admitted to the emergency department of XXX Mental Health and Diseases Hospital between 01.01.2020 and 31.12.2020 were included. Sociodemographic and clinical data of the cases were accessed through the patient record system. Results: The total number of applications to the XXX MHDH emergency department between the specified dates was 7071 [5262 (74.4%) male and 1809 (25.6%) female].Sixty-four percent of the cases admitted through the Social Security Institution and 28% through the Ministry of Justice. Seven thousand fifty-five cases (99.7%) were the Republic of Turkey citizens. Three thousand two hundred fifty-four (46.0%) of the cases were evaluated within the scope of medical examination, 1599 (22.6%) were injection, 156 (2.2%) were involuntary hospitalization, and 1887 (26.7%) were judicial illegal substance screening. While 5877 (83.1%) of the cases left the emergency department after examination, 1194 (16.9%) were hospitalized at XXX MHDH. Two thousand one hundred forty-six (30.3%) of the cases were diagnosed with general psychiatric examination, 866 (12.2%) were anxiety spectrum disorders, 1464 (20.7%) were schizophrenia spectrum disorders, and 1658 (23.4%) were bipolar spectrum disorders. A statistically significant difference was found between male and female cases in terms of health insurance (p

Enterococcal Bacteremia outbreaks during SARS-COV-2 in Intensive Care Unit (ICU): The role of Strain Identification

Background: An unprecedented burden of morbidity and mortality has been reported in patients admitted to healthcare facilities with SARS-COV-2 infection globally since March 2020. A higher incidence of ICU-acquired bloodstream infection has been described with the cumulative risk increased with the length of ICU stay, use of steroids, anti-inflammatory agents, and indwelling catheters. Additionally, SARS-COV-2 infection may increase the risk of bacteremia from gastrointestinal flora such as Enterococcus species by disrupting the gastrointestinal barrier and microbiome. Methods: We aimed to investigate the outbreaks of Enterococcus bacteremia in patients with SARS-COV-2 infection and included patients aged&gt;18 years admitted to the ICU at the Oklahoma City Veterans Affairs Medical Center who were infected with SARS-COV-2 and were identified as having positive blood cultures for Enterococcus faecalis, Enterococcus faecium including vancomycin-resistant species and other bacterial or candida species between March 1, 2020, to March 9, 2022. We collected the following data: duration of hospitalization including ICU stay, unit and room location during the hospital stay, blood culture collection date and results, duration, and site of central line placement, duration of ventilation, administration of antimicrobials and COVID-19 directed therapeutics using computerized patient record system (CPRS). We sent 10 E. faecalis and 12 E. Faecium isolates for genetic analysis. DNA was sequestered from each isolate and multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) was performed by amplifying 7 regions of the E. faecalis genome and 7 regions of the E. faecium genome by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Resulting amplicons were sequenced and allele type for each gene region and overall sequence type was determined using MLST database (http://pubmlst.org). Results: There were 22 episodes of enterococcal bacteremia in a 3-month duration in the ICU in 20 patients of which 17 were associated with another episode with the same strain (Figure-1-2). Central line placement was noted in 18/22 episodes. Genetic analysis by multi-locus sequence typing of enterococcal bacterial strains was performed by the Public Health Reference Laboratory, Palo Alto. Similar strains were localized to patients in the same geographical region in the ICU (Figure 3). The isolates from 2 other patients who presented with the same strain of Enterococcus but were never hospitalized at the same time during the COVID-19 pandemic were localized to another hospital where both had received care at different times. Conclusion: Higher rates of enterococcal bacteremia were reported during the SARS-COV-2 pandemic. Geographical proximity with strained infection control measures accounted for ICU outbreaks seen in our tertiary care setup.

Outcomes of primary total hip arthroplasty in patients with Ehlers Danlos Syndromes.

The Ehlers Danlos Syndromes (EDS) are inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern and patients classically present with hypermobility, skin hyper-elasticity, blood vessel fragility and atrophic scarring. Due to hypermobility, disorders such as joint pain and early arthritis are common. The aim of this study was to assess clinical and radiological outcomes of total hip arthroplasty (THA) in patients with EDS treated in a high volume orthopaedic centre. A search was performed of the electronic patient record system at our institution from 1998 - 2019 using the search terms 'EDS' or 'Danlos' and 'arthroplasty'. Over the 22-year study period, there were approximately 32,000 primary THAs performed at our institution. We collated demographic information including age, gender, BMI, smoking history and medical comorbidities. Implant type, bearing surfaces and size was also documented, with clinical and radiological assessment at last known follow up. A total of n=5 primary THAs were identified in n=4 patients at a median follow-up of 3 years. All patients were female with a median age of 68 (SD 18.9) years and a median BMI of 30.7 (SD 4.5). The majority of patients were smokers, and had a chronic history of low back pain (n=3, 75%). Uncemented implants were used on n=3 occasions with the remainder being hybrid (n=2). Femoral head size ranged from 28mm to 44mm. One patient had a post-operative surgical wound erythema that resolved within 48 hours of onset, otherwise there were no significant wound complications. To date, there have been no documented dislocations, with all patients having satisfactory clinical and radiological outcome at last known follow up. This study demonstrates that total hip arthroplasty can be safely performed in patients with a diagnosis of EDS, with no significant complications in the intermediate term.

Primary Pterygium Excision Surgery: Analysis of Risk Factors and Clinical Outcomes.

Purpose To evaluate clinical outcomes of primary pterygium excision surgery and analyze risk factors for pterygium recurrence. Setting Eye Treatment Centre, Cornea and External Diseases Service, Whipps Cross Hospital, London, United Kingdom. Methods Retrospective case series of eyes undergoing primary pterygium excision between August 2017 and July 2022. Patients who underwent "pterygium excision" documented in the electronic patient record system were identified. Patients with recurrent pterygium and those lost-to-follow-up were excluded. The duration of follow-up, type of surgery performed (primary conjunctival closure, conjunctival autograft, and amniotic membrane transplantation), recurrences with respect to the type of surgery performed, and postoperative complications were collected and analyzed. Results In total, 83 eyes (from 79 patients) were included. The mean age of our patient cohort was 59.3 ± 5.9 years. The most common ethnic distribution was Black Caribbean (15.7%). Conjunctival autograft was performed in 76 eyes (91.6%), primary conjunctival closure was performed in five eyes (6%) and amniotic membrane transplantation was performed in two eyes (2.4%). The recurrence rate with conjunctival autograft was 1.3% with a median time to recurrence of 2.98 months. Recurrence was significantly more common in patients below the age of 40 years (p=0.03). Recurrence was not significantly associated with gender (p=0.23), ethnicity (p=0.17), or grade of surgeon (p=0.38). Conclusion Our findings demonstrate the effectiveness of conjunctival autograft with fibrin glue fixation for the surgical management of primary pterygium. Recurrence was found to be significantly more common in patients under the age of 40 years old. However, recurrence was not associated with ethnicity,gender, or surgeon grade.

Raised intraocular pressure after immediate sequential bilateral cataract surgery with EyeCee one intraocular lens

PurposeThe Medicine and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) reported cases of high intraocular pressure (IOP) after implantation of affected batch numbers of EyeCee One intraocular lens (EC1IOL). In our institution we offered Immediate Sequential Bilateral Cataract Surgery (ISBCS) with EC1IOL and here we examine the rate of raised IOP, management of cases and outcomes of this group. DesignRetrospective case series review. MethodsA search of our electronic patient record system identified 27 patients who had ISBCS with EC1IOL. Patients with IOP ≥30 mmHg at a post op visit were identified as the “spike” group and a case series review performed. Results43 eyes (27 patients) had an affected batch number of EC1IOL implanted during ISBCS, 16 patients had an affected lens in both eyes and 11 in one eye. 7% (3 eyes of 3 patients) had a post op IOP spike (average 51.9 mmHg) at a post-op visit felt to be EC1IOL related. Patients required immediate treatment, an average of 3.33 regular topical IOP lowering agents and 5 outpatient appointments. Using the fellow eye as a control comparison, 2 out of the 3 eyes in the spike group had less visual improvement. 1 eye in the spike group lost 0.2 LogMAR lines. ConclusionsWe found a greater rate EC1IOL related IOP spikes than the MRHA reports. There was a trend towards less visual gain post operatively in patients who had a spike, but due to small numbers meaningful statistical analysis cannot be performed. Surgical intervention was not required in this cohort.

Does dysautonomia contribute to inappropriate sinus tachycardia in patients with post-COVID-19 syndrome?

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements None. Introduction Post-COVID-19 syndrome (PCS) refers to a wide spectrum of health issues experienced by individuals who have previously had COVID-19, starting three months after acute COVID-19 and enduring for a minimum of two months. Approximately 20% of PCS patients encounter inappropriate sinus tachycardia (IST), defined as the mean 24-hour heart rate greater than 90 bpm. IST is often accompanied by symptoms including palpitations and breathlessness that hinder patients in their daily tasks. Previous research has suggested that dysautonomia, a dysfunction in the autonomic nervous system, might underlie most PCS symptoms. Yet, its role in the development of IST within the context of PCS has not been fully investigated. Purpose This retrospective study examines IST prevalence and cardiovascular symptoms in PCS patients. It also assesses cardiac autonomic function through analysing the time and frequency fluctuations between successive heart rates, termed heart rate variability, to investigate the role of dysautonomia in the development of IST in PCS. Methods Patients who continued to experience PCS symptoms 12 weeks after their initial SARS-CoV-2 infection were referred to a multidisciplinary PCS unit at our hospital. Using our electronic patient record system, we identified 685 eligible patients who underwent 24-hour Holter monitoring between March 2020 and February 2023. After excluding patients with various conditions that could affect heart rate, we performed a comparative sub-analysis on 524 patients, dividing them into two age- and gender-matched groups of IST (n=100) and non-IST (n=424). The ECG data extracted from the 24-hour Holter records of these patients were entered into the KUBIOS software for HRV analysis and assessment of sympathetic and parasympathetic activity which could indicate cardiac dysautonomia. Demographic data was analysed using basic descriptive statistics and a chi-square test between the two groups. The normality of each parameter was tested using the Shapiro-Wilk test. Using Mann-Whitney and unpaired t-tests, we statistically analysed the differences between the IST and non-IST groups on the GraphPad Prism software. Results The LF/HF ratio was significantly higher in the IST group (2.78 ± 1.89) compared to the non-IST group (2.15 ± 1.93, p&amp;lt;0.001). The sympathetic nervous system (SNS) index was significantly higher in the IST group (1.50 ± 0.77 versus -0.13 ±0.70, p&amp;lt;0.001), whilst the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) index was significantly lower in the IST group (-1.75 ± 0.65 versus -0.16 ± 1.61, p&amp;lt;0.001). Conclusions In PCS patients with IST, cardiac dysautonomia leads to a shift in the cardiac sympathovagal balance towards PNS and subsequently increased SNS activity, with a more pronounced effect on the parasympathetic side. Addressing dysautonomia and promoting parasympathetic activity could thereby improve PCS diagnostic and treatment strategies to restore a balanced autonomic regulation of the heart.

An evaluation of antimicrobial prophylaxis for transrectal prostate biopsies: A potential stewardship target

Transrectal prostate biopsy (TRPB) is a common procedure used to obtain a prostate biopsy. Although generally safe, complications may occur including infection. Preprocedural antimicrobial prophylaxis is recommended to minimize risk of subsequent infection. This study is a retrospective chart review via the computerized patient record system from January 1, 2018 to February 28, 2022. The study included patients who underwent a TRPB at the Western New York, Syracuse, or Albany Stratton Veterans Affairs Healthcare Systems. This study included a total of 932 patients who underwent TRPB. Postoperative infection occurred in 3.2% (n=30) of patients within 14days of the TRPB. Of the 30 patients who developed an infection, 30% (n=9) resulted in bacteremia. For the 932 patients evaluated, 24 different antibiotic regimens were used, none of which followed guideline recommendations. None of the regimens were found to have an impact on rates of subsequent infection. The results of this study suggest a need for guideline adherence. There was no benefit to using the guideline-discordant regimens as they were not associated with a decreased risk of infection, and in many cases exposed patients to unnecessarily broad and prolonged antibiotic regimens.

E062 Nailfold capillaroscopy: its application in routine clinical practice

Abstract Background/Aims Nailfold capillaroscopy (NFC) is a non-invasive tool to evaluate the structural microvascular abnormalities found in systemic sclerosis (SSc). NFC allows for the visualization of the capillary bed at the nailfold, providing valuable insights into the structure and function of these capillaries. NFC helps differentiate primary from secondary Raynaud’s phenomenon (RP). Abnormal NFC is included in the 2013 American College of Rheumatology (ACR)/European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) classification criteria and due to its predictive value of developing SSc is included in the Very Early Diagnosis of SSc (VEDOSS) criteria. Dudley Group NHS FT runs a consultant-led service supported by a specialty trainee where clinical review is carried out alongside NFC using video capillaroscopy. Patients can be referred to this clinic from rheumatology or respiratory colleagues. Methods We audited all patients who had attended a monthly NFC clinic between September 2021 and October 2023. We reviewed clinical letters and electronic patient record system and collected details of: demographics; immunology; clinical characteristics; reason for attending the clinic; NFC findings; and diagnosis. NFC findings were classified as normal or abnormal (to include scleroderma pattern and non-specific changes). Data was analysed using excel for individual variables and their comparison with nailfold capillaroscopy results. Results We identified 80 patients, of which 63 (79%) were females and median age was 54.5 years. ANA was positive in 64 (80%) patients, SSc and myositis immunology blots were positive in 41 (51%) and 4 (5%) respectively. Clinical characteristics included RP in 71 (89%) and interstitial lung disease (ILD) in 17 (21%). The reasons for attending the NFC clinic were categorised as: to exclude secondary causes of RP (52; 65%); to aid diagnosis of suspected SSc (23; 29%); surveillance of known SSc (5; 6%). NFC was normal in 42 patients. In the 38 patients where NFC was abnormal the clinical diagnosis was categorised as: primary RP (8; 10%); SSc spectrum of disease (17; 21%); and another CTD (20; 25%). Of patients with SSc spectrum of disease: 24% (4/17) had a diagnosis of VEDoSS; 47% (8/17) Limited Cutaneous SSc; and 29% (5/17) Diffuse SSc. The presence of RP and ANA was not significantly different in patients with abnormal NFC. There was a non-significant association between the presence of ILD and abnormal NFC. 9/17 (52%) patients with ILD had an abnormal NFC compared to 18/63 (29%) patients without ILD (p = 0.059). Conclusion NFC is a simple procedure in conjunction with a clinical review to enhance the early diagnosis of SSc and exclusion of secondary Raynaud’s. It supports education and training as a tool for learning as being part of the curriculum. Disclosure S.A. Tabassum: None. K.M.J. Douglas: None. E. Udeshika: None.

Cold Instruments, Warm Outcomes: A Decade of Supraglottoplasty in Managing Children with Moderate and Severe Laryngomalacia

Objective: The study aims to review the clinical outcomes of supraglottoplasty in moderate and severe laryngomalacia. Methods: This is a retrospective study. Demographic and clinical data of children diagnosed with moderate and severe laryngomalacia who underwent supraglottoplasty between 2012 and 2021 were retrieved from the computerized patient record system of Hospital Sultanah Bahiyah. The surgical procedure of supraglottoplasty was mainly performed with cold instrument, with occasional assistance from a microdebrider. Study outcome includes complete stridor resolution, weaning from tube feeding, and weaning from respiratory support post supraglottoplasty. Results: 124 children were included in the study. Complete stridor resolution was achieved in 64.51% (n=80) 1-month post-surgery and 86.29% (n=107) 3-months post-surgery. Half of the children with tube feeding pre-operatively could be weaned off to oral feeding within 1-month post-surgery. All the children with oral feeding maintained oral feeding post-surgery. All the children with no or low respiratory support (nasal prong oxygen) pre-operatively were able to be weaned down to room air within 1-month post-surgery. Within the group of children with high respiratory support (high-flow nasal cannula, non-invasive ventilation, and endotracheal intubation) pre-operatively, half were weaned down to room air within 1-month post-surgery. None of the children with isolated laryngomalacia required tracheostomy after supraglottoplasty. All laryngomalacia patients who required tracheostomy after supraglottoplasty were associated with either synchronous airway lesions or medical comorbidities. Only 3 cases (2.42%) required revision supraglottoplasty with a maximum of one revision. Conclusions: We conclude that supraglottoplasty contributes to substantial clinical improvement in moderate and severe laryngomalacia. Supraglottoplasty facilitated weaning down of respiratory support and tube feeding in laryngomalacia with respiratory difficulty and feeding intolerance.

The Emergency Medical Team Operating System — a vision for field hospital data management in following the concepts of predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine

In times where sudden-onset disasters (SODs) present challenges to global health systems, the integration of predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine (PPPM / 3PM) into emergency medical responses has manifested as a critical necessity. We introduce a modern electronic patient record system designed specifically for emergency medical teams (EMTs), which will serve as a novel approach in how digital healthcare management can be optimized in crisis situations. This research is based on the principle that advanced information technology (IT) systems are key to transforming humanitarian aid by offering predictive insights, preventive strategies, and personalized care in disaster scenarios. We aim to address the critical gaps in current emergency medical response strategies, particularly in the context of SODs. Building upon a collaborative effort with European emergency medical teams, we have developed a comprehensive and scalable electronic patient record system. It not only enhances patient management during emergencies but also enables predictive analytics to anticipate patient needs, preventive guidelines to reduce the impact of potential health threats, and personalized treatment plans for the individual needs of patients. Furthermore, our study examines the possibilities of adopting PPPM-oriented IT solutions in disaster relief. By integrating predictive models for patient triage, preventive measures to mitigate health risks, and personalized care protocols, potential improvements to patient health or work efficiency could be established. This system was evaluated with clinical experts and shall be used to establish digital solutions and new forms of assistance for humanitarian aid in the future. In conclusion, to really achieve PPPM-related efforts more investment will need to be put into research and development of electronic patient records as the foundation as well as into the clinical processes along all pathways of stakeholders in disaster medicine.