Prospective Case Series Study Research Articles

Ultrasound-Guided Sialendoscopy Surgery for Parotid Sialolithiasis Using Yttrium Aluminum Garnet (YAG)-Holmium Laser: A Prospective Case Series.

Parotid sialolithiasis is a common condition in middle-aged individuals, with most cases occurring in the submandibular and sublingual glands, followed by the parotid glandsand minor salivary glands. The treatment of salivary gland stones, particularly those of the parotid glands, remains challenging. Endoscopic surgery using a yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG)-holmium laser for parotid sialolithiasis is a minimally invasive approach that provides effective treatment for patients. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of the endoscopic laser treatment of parotid sialolithiasis a YAG-holmium laser. A prospective case series study was conducted on 21 patients diagnosed with salivary gland stones in the parotid gland based on clinical features and imaging findings (includingultrasound and computed tomography scans), from March 2022 to March 2024.These patients underwent sialendoscopy surgery using a YAG-holmium laser and were evaluated for surgical results at 2, 4, and 12 weeks. Cases with completely reduced symptoms accounted for 90.5%, whereas cases with partially reduced symptoms accounted for 9.5%. The ultrasound image of the salivary gland after surgery was significantly improved compared to that before surgery. After three months of surgery, most patients (90.5%) were satisfied. The postoperative complication rate was 14.3%, which included scarring at the opening of the salivary gland and in the salivary duct. Sialendoscopic surgery using a YAG-holmium laser for parotid sialolithiasis is a minimally invasive surgical intervention that leaves no scarring, reduces the risk of complications as seen inopen surgery, and shortens the postoperative care time for patients.

Cure rate of low-risk superficial basal cell carcinoma treated with topical 5-fluorouracil

Background: Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common cancer in the world making this condition a public health issue. Superficial BCC (sBCC) is a subtype with indolent behavior. The gold standard treatment is the surgical resection, however, sBCC can be treated with more cost-effective noninvasive therapies such as 5% 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU). The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical cure rate, tolerability and satisfaction levels on patients featured intermediate pigmented skin in the treatment of low-risk superficial basal cell carcinoma with topical 5% 5-FU. Methods: A prospective case series study was conducted between June 2014 and August 2018 at the dermatology service of Hospital de San José in Bogotá, Colombia with histologically-proven superficial BCC lesions. Lesions were treated with topical 5% 5-FU twice daily for up to 8 weeks. A follow-up evaluation was conducted at weeks four and eight during treatment. Follow-up was planned to be conducted every three months. Results: The study included 19 patients with 23 biopsy-proven sBCC lesions. Twenty-two lesions completed treatment with 5% 5-FU cream. The follow-up period ranged between 7 and 48 months and the median follow-up time was 38 months (IQR 21-48). All study patients featured intermediate or higher pigmented skin. Clinical cure was achieved in 95.45% of treated lesions. Conclusions: The efficacy rate of 5% 5-FU for 8 weeks treatment for sBCC located in intermediate and low-risk areas was 95% offering high levels of patient satisfaction with an outstanding tolerability profile.

The Value of Endoscopic Exposure of Round Window in Cochlear Implant via Facial Recess

Abstract Background Cochlear implantation (CI) has been considered as the best treatment in patients with severe to profound hearing loss unaidable with hearing aids. The main value of endoscope-assisted cochlear implantation is improved visibility of the RW and reduced risk of complications, especially in patients with congenital malformations. Aim of the Work The aim of the present study was to assess the value of endoscopic assisted CI surgery via facial recess approach without elevating tympanic anulus. Methods This Prospective case series study non-randomized sample was performed on a total of 50 patients with severe to profound hearing loss unaidable with hearing aids undergoing unilateral endoscopic assisted cochlear implant surgery with round window electrode insertion at Ain Shams University hospitals from April 2020 till March 2022 and approved 94/2020MD by an ethical committee before the start of the recruitment. Results 50 CI operations with endoscopic assistance were prospectively evaluated. There were 23 male (46%) and 27 female (54%) patients. The majority of the cases were children (41 cases, 82%). Of those 50 patients, 39 (78%) were prelingually hearing impaired. Four cases (8%) had various inner ear abnormalities. The standard mastoidectomy and Posterior Tympanotomy (PT) approach were used for all cases. Med-El (FLEX28TM; FLEX24TM Med-El, Innsbruck, Australia), Advanced Bionics (AB)Mid-Scala Electrode and CochlearTM (NUCLEUS® CI422 WITH SLIM STRAIGHT, NUCLEUS® CI24RE CONTOUR ADVANCETM, Sydney, Australia) implants were used. Endoscope-assisted visualization of the RW region through the PT was performed in all cases Rigid endoscopes with 0o and 30o (1.9, 2.7 and 4 mm in width, 11 and 6 cm in length) and an HD (high-definition) camera system (Karl Storz, Tuttlingen, Germany) were used for the endoscopic evaluation. The RW region was visualized and identified by inserting the endoscope through the PT without elevating the tympanic annulus. Then we switched to the microscope and drilled the RW niche (tegmen) using both hands until a circumferential view of the RW membrane is obtained. After proper exposure, the electrode was inserted through an opening in the RW membrane mostly under microscopical vision. Endoscopic identification of the RW through the PT enabled us to perform regular surgery in all cases. The current study concludes the difference between microscopic exposure and endoscopic exposure represented by Saint Tomas classification regarding round window exposure found that endoscopic exposure of round window classification is better represented by downgrading in the classification of round window exposure as type I 29(58%), type IIa 18(36%) type IIb 3 (6%) Non were type III by endoscopic exposure compared to microscopic exposure of round window is a type I 7(14%), type II 14(28%), type IIb 22(44%) and type III 7 (14%). Conclusion As evident from the current study, Endoscopy proved a great value in exposure and identification of RW in CI surgery through posterior tympanotomy approach, especially in difficult cases. Endoscopic-assisted CI through facial recess could be easily done using 1.9mm 0-degree endoscopy even in cases e narrow PT or rotated cochlea

Prospective case series study on the use of a novel analgosedation protocol for ultrasound-guided catheterization in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

Our study represents the very first step towards the design of a validated protocol for analgosedation during ultrasound-guided CICC insertion in NICU. • Critically ill newborns admitted to Neonatal Intensive Care Unit often require a centrally inserted central catheter. • Achieving an appropriate level of sedation and analgesia is paramount for procedure success and patient safety, avoiding the potential risks associated with excessive deep sedation. • The use of this new protocol for analgosedation is able to achieve a good level of sedation and pain control without significant adverse event. • Ultrasound-guided CICC insertion can be performed even in non-ventilated newborns.

Prospective case series study on the survival rates of occlusal polymethyl methacrylate veneers as a semipermanent therapy in patients with severe pathologic tooth wear.

To evaluate the survival rate of minimally invasive semipermanent occlusal polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) onlays/veneers in previous temporomandibular disorder (TMD) patients with severe tooth wear and with a loss of vertical dimension after up to 7 years. This case series was designed as a follow-up evaluation with consecutive patient recruitment. All patients bearing the indication for this kind of rehabilitation were treated by the same clinician using the same adhesive methodology. The study included 22 patients (3 males/19 females), with a mean [SD] age of 50.7 [11.6] years. Controls followed within the first 4 weeks (and subsequently as required). Failure criteria included damage by fracture, chipping, and retention loss. Survival rates were determined based on the Kaplan-Meier analysis. 328 semipermanent occlusal/incisal veneers were included (142 maxillary/186 mandibular teeth). Almost 80% of the restorations were in place and in function when starting the follow-up treatment after 180 days; failures predominantly occurred within the first 3 to 6 months but proved reparable. Depending on the patients' priorities, scheduled replacements followed successively, and more than 65% did not show repair or any renewal needs for more than 360 days. Within the limitations of this study the survival rates of occlusal veneers made of PMMA were sufficiently high to allow for consecutive treatment of the respective teeth by means of permanent restorations while preserving the restored vertical dimension. In patients with severe tooth wear and a TMD history, semipermanent restorative therapy with occlusal PMMA onlays/veneers would seem a noteworthy option.

A Case Series Study Assessing an Equity-Focused Implementation of Self-Monitoring Blood Pressure Programs Using Telehealth.

Self-monitoring blood pressure (SMBP) programs are an evidence-based hypertension management intervention facilitated through telehealth. SMBP programs can provide a continuum of care beyond a clinical setting by facilitating hypertension management at home; however, equitable access to SMBP is a concern. To evaluate the implementation of telehealth SMBP programs using an equity lens in 5 federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) in Massachusetts (MA). A prospective case series study. Five FQHCs. The MA Department of Public Health (MDPH) selected 5 FQHCs to implement SMBP programs using telehealth. FQHCs were selected if their patient population experiences inequities due to social determinants of health and has higher rates of cardiovascular disease. Each of the 5 FQHCs reported data on patients enrolled in their SMBP programs totaling 241 patients examined in this study. SMBP programs implemented through telehealth. Systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure. Approximately 53.5% of SMBP participants experienced a decrease in blood pressure. The average blood pressure decreased from 146/87 to 136/81 mm Hg. Among all patients across the 5 FQHCs, the average blood pressure decreased by 10.06/5.34 mm Hg (P < .001). Blood pressure improved in all racial, ethnic, and language subgroups. Five MA FQHCs successfully implemented equitable telehealth SMBP programs. SMBP participants enrolled in the programs demonstrated notable improvements in their blood pressure at the conclusion of the program. A flexible, pragmatic study design that was adjusted to meet unique patient needs; engaging nonphysician team members, particularly community health workers; adapting health information technology; and partnerships with community-based organizations were critical facilitators to program success.

Effectiveness of Injectable Platelet-Rich Fibrin Therapy in Alopecia and Facial Rejuvenation: A Systematic Review.

Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) has gained attention in regenerative medicine for its potential to enhance tissue repair and regeneration. Its application in dermatology, particularly for treating alopecia and facilitating facial rejuvenation, is of significant interest but requires systematic evaluation. This review aims to systematically assess the effectiveness of injectable PRF therapy in treating alopecia and facial rejuvenation procedures. We searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science for studies published up to 2023 that involved injectable PRF for alopecia and facial rejuvenation. Eligible studies included prospective cohorts, original studies, case series, and retrospective studies that reported clinical outcomes. Key outcomes were improved hair growth for alopecia and skin texture, elasticity, and appearance for facial rejuvenation. Seven studies met the inclusion criteria, encompassing 130 patients. For alopecia, three studies reported a noticeable improvement in hair density and growth. For facial rejuvenation, four studies demonstrated moderate to significant improvements in skin texture and elasticity and a reduction in facial wrinkles and lines, confirmed by both subjective assessments and objective measurements such as VISIA® skin analysis. Injectable PRF therapy shows promise in treating androgenetic alopecia and enhancing facial esthetics, indicating its potential as an effective treatment option in regenerative dermatology. However, further research involving larger sample sizes, control groups, and longer follow-ups is required to validate these findings and establish standardized treatment protocols.

Clinical and radiographic performance of late placed and early loaded dental implants with a conditioned hydrophilic surface in posterior mandible sites: A prospective case series with an 8.5- to 9.5-year follow-up.

To assess the clinical outcomes by means of implant and prosthetic survival of late placed and early loaded implants with a hydrophilic, moderately rough surface for partially edentulous patients after a follow-up of 8.5 to 9.5 years. A prospective case series study involving 15 patients with single, late placed and early loaded implants in the posterior mandible was performed. Clinical and radiographical parameters, including biological and technical complications and patient satisfaction, were assessed. From an initial sample of 15 patients, 12 were included. A total of 16 implants were observed. After a mean follow-up of 9 years and 7 months (SD ± 3.8 months), implant success and survival rate were 100%. The prosthetic survival rate was 100%, and the prosthetic success rate was 93.8% since a major chipping was observed. No biological complications were observed, and the mean modified plaque index was 0.03 (SD ± 0.09) with a mean probing pocket depth of 2.95 mm (SD ± 0.09). A mean marginal bone level (MBL) of 0.04 mm (SD ± 0.88) and a mean VAS of 9.42 (SD ± 0.90) for patient satisfaction were recorded. Late placed and early loaded implants with a moderately rough endosseal surface are a reliable option for rehabilitating partially edentulous patients. An implant survival rate of 100% and a prosthodontic success rate of 93.8% were observed. Patient satisfaction scores were high and peri-implant hard and soft tissues remained healthy. The study findings should be carefully interpreted because of the small sample.

Clinical application of a novel separated magnetic controlled forceps assisted single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Objective: To explore the application value of a novel separated magnetic-controlled forceps in transumbilical single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC). Methods: This is a prospective case series study. Data from patients who underwent SILC at the Department of General Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Medical University from March to August 2023 were prospectively collected, based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. All patients underwent cholecystectomy assisted by a novel separated magnetic-controlled forceps. Surgical time, intraoperative blood loss, the need for additional incisions during surgery, and the length of hospital stay were recorded to assess surgical difficulty and effectiveness. Postoperative pain scores and complications were documented to evaluate the safety of the procedure. The collaboration experience of the surgeon and assistant was evaluated using a 5-point Likert scale to assess the feasibility of this surgical approach. Informed consent was obtained from all patients in accordance with medical ethical regulations. Patients were followed up through outpatient visits or telephone calls, with follow-up at 7 days and 1 month after surgery, and evaluation of incisional scar healing and completion of satisfaction questionnaires. Follow-up was conducted until September 30, 2023. Results: A total of 45 patients were included in the study,including 19 males and 26 females,aged (42.7±4.2)years(range:32 to 61 years). The difficulty of the operation was evaluated as grade 1 or 2 in 38 cases(84.4%) and grade 3 in 7 cases(15.6%). Operation time was (37.3±5.3) minutes(range: 25 to 80 minutes),and intraoperative blood loss(M(IQR)) was 17.8(35.0) ml (range:10 to 60 ml). All surgical procedures proceeded smoothly without intraoperative incidents, and the overall satisfaction of the surgeon and assistants was high. All patients underwent successful day surgery management and were discharged within 48 hours of hospitalization. The postoperative pain scores at 1, 7, and 30 days were 3 (4), 1 (3), and 0 (2), respectively. The follow-up time was 5.0(2.2) weeks (range: 3 to 7 weeks), with no occurrence of grade 3 to 4 adverse reactions, and the patients were satisfied with the cosmetic effect of the umbilical incision. Conclusions: The novel separated magnetic-controlled forceps can be applied in transumbilical SILC. It has the advantages of convenient operation, and patients are satisfied with the surgical results.

Uneven Corneal Epithelial Redistribution After Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Lenticule Intrastromal Keratoplasty in Correcting Moderate-to-High Hyperopia.

To evaluate the characteristic of corrective epithelial thickness after femtosecond laser-assisted lenticule intrastromal keratoplasty (LIKE) to correct moderate-to-high hyperopia. The prospective case series study of the LIKE procedure was performed to correct moderate-to-high hyperopia. The epithelial thickness map was generated by anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) in the corneal central 9-mm zone. Keratometry and corneal higher order aberrations were analyzed by Pentacam (Oculus Optikgeräte GmbH) preoperatively and postoperatively. In the 26 eyes of 13 participants who underwent the LIKE procedure for moderate-to-high hyperopia, the attempted spherical equivalence (SEQ) was +6.50 ± 1.09 diopters (D). Compared to the preoperative epithelial thickness maps, the postoperative epithelial thickness had become significantly thinner in the central 5-mm zone; the difference was 6 to 7 µm. The paracentral epithelium performed nonuniform remodeling; the thinnest epithelial thickness was located in the inferotemporal section, which has the greatest difference from the superonasal; the difference between these two was approximately 3 µm. Through correlation analysis, it was found that the sections with thinner epithelium were significantly related to corneal curvature and corneal vertical coma. The LIKE procedure can be used to correct moderate-to-high hyperopia. This study further indicated the epithelial remodeling characteristic after the LIKE procedure: the central and paracentral corneal epithelial thickness becomes thinner, and the epithelial thickness distributes non-uniformly, which may be the important factor of the postoperative curvature asymmetric distribution and induction of corneal vertical coma. [J Refract Surg. 2024;40(5):e321-e327.].

Evaluation of a guideline for supportive anthroposophic therapies for hospitalised children with acute gastroenteritis – A prospective case series study

ObjectiveEven though several German children’s hospitals offer integrative, anthroposophic medical therapies in addition to the standard medical care, guidelines for these anthroposophic therapies are still rare. Therefore, we investigated the feasibility of implementing a published, consensus-based guideline for the treatment of children with acute gastroenteritis (aGE) with anthroposophic therapies in the community hospital Herdecke. DesignA prospective case series of paediatric patients (≤18 years) with an aGE admitted to the department of integrative paediatrics of the community hospital Herdecke was conducted. Demographic, clinical and therapeutic data was recorded at initial presentation and at follow-up visits. Physicians were surveyed with a questionnaire to evaluate feasibility of implementing the guideline. ResultsSixty-two patients (0–15 years; 22 male, 40 female) were included in the case series. All patients received some form of anthroposophic therapy. The most frequently used remedies were Geum urbanum, Nux vomica and Bolus alba comp. Treating physicians showed a high adherence to the expert-based consensus guideline in their prescribed therapies. All physicians stated that they were familiar with the guideline and used the recommendation to inform their therapy decision. Suitability for daily use and effectiveness in treating the main symptoms of aGE were highly scored by the physicians. ConclusionThe consensus-based guideline of anthroposophic therapies for aGE in children was successfully implemented and found to be useful for physicians in clinical practice.

Short-term outcomes of posterior surgery for thoracolumbar spinal metastasis

Purpose The purpose of the work is to evaluate the postoperative quality of life, neurological condition, and ambulatory status of patients with spinal metastases treated surgically during the first year after surgery in countries with limited resources. Methods This was a prospective case series study. All patients with spinal metastasis and indicated for surgery, presented to our facility from 2020 to 2021 were included in the study. Clinical evaluation includes visual analog score (VAS) for back pain, the Frankel grading system for neurological assessment, the Tokuhashi severity and survival score for predicting the expected patient survival period, and the 5Q-ED score for assessment of quality of life. Results This study included 30 patients with thoracolumbar spine metastasis who underwent surgery, 21 males and 9 females in the age range of between 18 and 72 years with a median value of 49.17 ± 13.272 years. Five patients died within 6 months postoperatively due to advanced malignancy, while the remaining 25 patients were followed-up for at least 1 year. Conclusion Surgical treatment for metastatic spinal tumor can improve quality of life in a substantially high percentage of patients with acceptable complication rates in a limited resource setting. Spinal surgery for metastatic cancer significantly reduces pain and is effective in preserving neurological function over short-term follow-up with acceptably low morbidity. The Tokuhashi score (especially primary site of malignancy) had a significant effect on overall survival.

Reinfections of COVID-19 with and Without Fourth Dose of Bivalent mRNA Vaccine in the Period from October 2022 to October 2023 in a General Medicine Office in Toledo (Spain)

Background: Clinical-epidemiological differences between cases of covid-19 reinfections in people vaccinated with the 4th dose of bivalent mRNA versus cases of covid-19 reinfections in people not vaccinated with the 4th dose of bivalent mRNA are unknown. Objective: Compare the cases of covid-19 reinfections in people vaccinated with the 4th dose with bivalent mRNA vaccines versus cases of covid-19 reinfection in people not vaccinated with the 4th dose. Methodology: An observational, longitudinal and prospective case series study of adult patients with covid-19 reinfections in general medicine from October 1, 2022 to October 1, 2023. Results: 12 covid-19 reinfections were included in the period from October 2022 to October 2023. Of them, 5 were in people with fourth vaccine dose of bivalent mRNA and 7 in people without fourth vaccine dose of bivalent mRNA. There were no statistically significant differences by sex, age, psychosocial factors, severity of infection, symptoms, or in the comparison of chronic diseases by groups. A statistically significant difference was only found in the total presence of chronic diseases: 100% in covid-19 reinfections with fourth vaccine dose of bivalent mRNA versus 29% in covid-19 reinfections without fourth vaccine dose of bivalent mRNA. Conclusion: In the context of general medicine in Toledo (Spain), reinfections are rare, but the presence of chronic diseases represents a significant risk factor for covid-19 reinfections even if these people have fourth vaccine dose of bivalent mRNA. However, number of reinfections was possibly underestimated. The results should be taken with caution due to the small number of covid-19 cases included.

Dry eye symptoms are prevalent in moderate-severe COVID-19, while SARS-COV-2 presence is higher in mild COVID-19: Possible ocular transmission risk of COVID-19

PurposeTo evaluate the correlation between dry eye symptoms and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection and to assess the real-time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT‒PCR) of severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) from the conjunctival swab. MethodsA prospective observational case series study was conducted of all suspected and confirmed COVID-19 patients from Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital (RSCM) and the Universitas Indonesia Hospital (RSUI). On the first day of the visit (day 0), systemic clinical symptoms and naso-oropharyngeal (NO) RT‒PCR results will classify all subjects as non-, suspected, or confirmed (mild, moderate, and severe) COVID-19. In all patients, we determined the dry eye symptoms based on the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) and followed up 7(day 7) and 14 days (day 14) after the first visit. When it was technically possible, we also examined the objective dry eye measurements: tear meniscus height (TMH), noninvasive Keratograph® break-up time (NIKBUT), and ocular redness. Additionally, we took conjunctival swab samples for SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR in all patients. ResultsThe OSDI scores for 157 patients decreased across days 0, 7, and 14 (median (interquartile range): 2.3 (0–8), 0 (0–3), and 0 (0-0), p value < 0.0001 (D0 vs D14). The moderate-severe COVID-19 group had a higher OSDI score than the other groups at median D0 (15.6 vs 0–2.3), p value < 0.0001 and this pattern was consistently seen at follow-up D7 and D14. However, dry eye complaints were not correlated with the three objective dry eye measurements in mild-moderate COVID-19 patients. NO RT‒PCR results were positive in 32 (20.4%) patients, namely, 13 and 19 moderate-severe and mild COVID-19 patients, respectively. Positive RT‒PCR results were observed in 7/157 (4.5%) conjunctival swab samples from 1 in non-COVID-19 group and 6 in mild group. ConclusionIn the early phase of infection, COVID-19 patients experience dry eye symptoms, which have no correlation with objective dry eye measurements. SARS-CoV-2 in conjunctival swab samples can be detected in patients with normal-to-mild COVID-19, which shows the risk of ocular transmission.

Optional management of failed endovascular intervention for infrainguinal arterial occlusive disease

Introduction Endovascular treatment is increasingly chosen as the first option for treating infrainguinal peripheral arterial disease. Although open surgical bypass provides the most durable option for limb salvage, it has substantial morbidity and mortality. Aim The aim of the study is to determine the causes of failure of endovascular intervention and treatment modalities of failed endovascular intervention and results of each modality. Patients and methods A prospective case series study that addresses the outcomes of managing 40 patients with chronic limb ischemia due to femoropopliteal disease treated by endovascular intervention, and the intervention was failed. Causes of failure within 30 days were analyzed. Results We had 13 (27.5%) females and 27 (72.5%) males; their age ranged from 45 to 77 years with a mean of 62.20±7.44. Presentation with rest pain: three (7.5%) patients, minor tissue loss: 18 (45%) patients, major tissue loss: 19 (47.5%) patients the length of lesion was between 5 and 10 cm in three (7.5%) patients and more than 10 cm in 37 (92.5%) patients. Runoff in anterior tibial artery: 23 (57.5%) patients, posterior tibial artery: 19 (47.5%) patients, and peroneal artery: 15 (37.5%) patients. We had no complications in 26 (65%) patients, failure to pass in 12 (30%) patients, and distal embolization in two (5%) patients as intraprocedural complications. During the 30-day follow-up: Acute stent thrombosis in 7 (17.5%) cases, flow-limiting dissection in 8 (20%) cases, residual stenosis in 3 (7.5%) cases, acute thrombosis in 2 (5%) cases, missed iliac lesions in 2 (5%) cases, post-procedural distal arterial tree embolization in 2 (5%) cases, and clinical failure was the cause in 2 (5%) cases. The management was: Redo endovascular in 18 (45%) patients, surgical bypass in 14 (35%) patients, primary amputation in six (15%) patients, and medical treatment in two (5%) patients. After 6 months follow-up limb salvage was in 57.5% of the cases with transmetatarsal amputation in 69.6% of them and major amputation was in 42.5% of the cases Conclusion Failed endovascular intervention procedures within 30 days were associated mainly with long lesions. So, surgical bypass appeared to be superior to endovascular intervention for long lesions. Improvements in endovascular equipment and angioplasty technique might ultimately improve the outcome results and decrease the failure rate of endovascular interventions

Mobile medial pivot (lateral slide)-type total knee arthroplasty exhibited different motion patterns between under anaesthesia and weight-bearing condition.

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA), which has medial pivot and mobile-bearing mechanisms, has been developed and clinically used. However, the in vivo dynamic kinematics of the mobile medial pivot-type TKA (MMPTKA) is unclear. This study analysed the in vivo kinematics of MMPTKA in weight-bearing and nonweight-bearing conditions. The study included 10 knees that underwent primary TKA using MMPTKA. After TKA, lateral view radiographs of the knee in full extension, 90° of flexionand passive full flexion were taken under general anaesthesia in the nonweight-bearing condition. At least 6 months postoperatively, knee motion during squatting from a weight-bearing standing position was observed using a flat-panel detector and analysed using the three-dimensional-to-two-dimensional image registration technique. Under anaesthesia: in passive full flexion, the anteroposterior (AP) locations of the femoral component's medial and lateral distal points were 10.2 and 16.0 mm posterior, and the rotational angles of the femoral component's X-axis (FCX) and insert were 8.1° external rotation and 18.5° internal rotation to full extension, respectively. Squatting: the AP translations of the femoral component's medial and lateral most distal points were 2.2 and 6.4 mm, and the rotational angles of the FCX and insert were 5.7° and 1.6° external rotation, respectively. Significant differences were observed in the AP translation of the femoral component's medial and lateral most distal points and changes in the insert's rotational angle when comparing under anaesthesia and squatting. The kinematics of the insert in MMPTKA was significantly influenced by loading and muscle contraction. The femoral component exhibited substantial external rotation and posterior translation under anaesthesia, which may contribute to achieving an optimal range of motion. The insert remained relatively stable during squatting and minimal rotation was observed, indicating good stability. MMPTKA was expected to demonstrate rational kinematics by incorporating mobile and medial pivot mechanisms. Level IV,prospective biomechanical case series study.

Effectiveness of 4th doses of bivalent mRNA vaccine in reinfections from October 2022 to October 2023 in a general medicine office in Toledo (Spain)

Background: The effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccine in preventing reinfections is uncertain and there is little community-level research published at this time. Objective: To compare the cases of COVID-19 reinfections in vaccinated versus not vaccinated 4th dose people with bivalent mRNA vaccines and assess the effectiveness of this vaccine booster. Methodology: An observational, longitudinal, and prospective case series study of adult patients with COVID-19 reinfections in general medicine from October 1, 2022, to October 1, 2023. The 4th dose vaccine COVID-19 effectiveness was calculated as 1 - [COVID-19 cases incidence of reinfection with 4th dose vaccine / COVID-19 cases incidence of reinfection without 4th vaccine dose] × 100. Results: 12 COVID-19 reinfections were included. Of them, 5 were in people with a fourth vaccine dose of bivalent mRNA and 7 were in people without a fourth vaccine dose of bivalent mRNA. The population vaccinated with the 4th dose was estimated at 1,133 people. The population without a 4th dose was estimated at 867 people. The 4th dose of bivalent mRNA vaccine effectiveness to prevent reinfections calculated on the total number of cases of reinfections in vaccinated and unvaccinated was 30%. The 4th dose of bivalent mRNA vaccine effectiveness to prevent reinfections calculated on population denominators of the total number of people vaccinated or not, was 46%. Conclusion: In the context of general medicine in Toledo (Spain), the 4th dose of bivalent mRNA vaccine effectiveness to prevent reinfections was modest. However, these results should be interpreted with caution because of the few cases included and possible underreporting.

Clinical observation of the intraocular distribution characteristics of indocyanine green after epiretinal membrane peeling using a fluorescence detection system developed in Python

Objective: To utilize a Python-based fluorescence area detection system to observe and quantitatively analyze the intraocular distribution characteristics and metabolic patterns of Indocyanine Green (ICG) following epiretinal membrane peeling. Methods: A prospective case series study was conducted on patients with idiopathic epiretinal membrane undergoing vitrectomy at West China Hospital of Sichuan University from March 2019 to March 2021. ICG staining was applied during surgery for peeling the epiretinal membrane and internal limiting membrane. Patients were followed up at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months postoperatively, with assessments including best-corrected visual acuity, intraocular pressure, fundus photography, near-infrared fundus fluorescence imaging (NIR-FF), and optical coherence tomography (OCT). A Python-based ICG intraocular metabolism detection system was developed to measure the residual area of ICG fluorescence on NIR-FF, predict the ICG metabolic pattern equation, and correlate it with postoperative visual acuity and peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness. Results: A total of 64 patients (64 eyes) were included, with an average age of 64.6±8.4 years, including 25 males (39.1%) and 39 females (60.9%). Preoperative NIR-FF images showed no ICG strong fluorescence. At 1 week postoperatively, diffuse ICG strong fluorescence appeared in the posterior pole, and the internal limiting membrane removal area exhibited a ring-like weak fluorescence. Over time, ICG strong fluorescence was observed along the vascular arch and nerve fiber trajectory, gradually diminishing toward the optic disc, with residual ICG fluorescence still visible at the optic disc at 1 year. The Python-based ICG fluorescence area detection system effectively measured intraocular residual ICG area. A predictive equation for the 12-month residual ICG area was constructed through linear regression analysis (Residual ICG area=0.22 × Residual ICG area at 6 months, R2=16%, P=0.002). Except for a negative correlation between the ICG residual area at 1 month and postoperative visual acuity (P=0.017, r=-0.195), no correlation was found between intraocular ICG fluorescence residual area and postoperative visual acuity or peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness at other follow-up times (all P>0.05). Conclusions: In patients with idiopathic epiretinal membrane undergoing ICG staining for internal limiting membrane peeling, ICG exhibits characteristic metabolic processes in the eye, with strong fluorescence along the vascular arch and nerve fiber trajectory, gradually converging toward the optic disc over time. The Python-based ICG fluorescence area detection system provides a clear display of the intraocular distribution characteristics of ICG after epiretinal membrane peeling and serves as a tool for predicting the metabolic patterns of ICG in the eye.

Incidence and Clinical Characteristics of COVID-19 Ophthalmopathy Following the Termination of Dynamic Zero COVID-19 Strategy in China

ABSTRACT Ocular involvement is not uncommon in patients with COVID-19. However, the incidence of COVID-19 ophthalmopathy in COVID-19 patients is still not clear. In this prospective case series study, we recruited 2445 consecutive cases presenting at Neuro-ophthalmology clinic of our Eye Center during the last resurgence of SARS-CoV-2 infection from 8 December 2022 to 15 March 2023 in China, 149 cases were diagnosed as COVID-19 ophthalmopathy, 87 cases were female, with a mean age of 43.2 years, and the mean follow-up time was 15.4 weeks. One hundred and twenty of 149 cases suffered from systemic symptoms mostly manifesting as fever, cough and muscle pain prior to or soon after ocular involvement. The most common COVID-19 ophthalmopathy was optic neuritis (51/149), followed by acute zonal occult outer retinopathy complex disease (31/149), uveitis (17/149), ocular mobility disorder-related (third, fourth, or sixth) cranial nerve neuritis (15/149), anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy (9/149), retinal artery occlusion (8/149), retinal microangiopathy including retinal haemorrhage and cotton wool spot (8/149), viral conjunctivitis (7/149), retinal vein occlusion (3/149), viral keratitis (2/149), ptosis (2/149), and other rare ocular diseases. Except 5 cases with central retinal artery occlusion, other 144 COVID-19 ophthalmopathy cases showed good response to steroid therapy. Our study revealed an incidence of 6.09% for COVID-19 ophthalmopathy in outpatients at our Neuro-ophthalmology clinic during last resurgence of COVID-19 in China, and demonstrated that SARS-CoV-2 infection could induce an initial onset or a relapse of ophthalmic diseases, and that ocular involvement might manifest as the initial or even the only presentation of COVID-19.

(091) Use of a Vibrating Device in the Management of Female Situational Anorgasmia: Prospective Case Series Study in Women from Southeastern Spain

Abstract Introduction Around 40 percent of women in Spain are unable to achieve orgasm during coital relations, although most can do so through other means. Many of these women do not seek treatment, even though this situation may affect their sexual and relational life. Female Orgasm Disorder (FOD) treatment has seen little innovation since the 1980s. The growing acceptance, technological development, and focus on diversity have contributed to the flourishing of the sex toy industry. This sector has enabled the development of therapeutic devices that have already demonstrated usefulness in addressing other female and male sexual dysfunctions, often making treatments more Accessible. However, more scientific studies are needed on this topic. Objective Present the results of the utility and safety of using a vibrating device in the management of situational female orgasm disorder (FOD) in a group of women from Spain. Methods A case report study of an observational, descriptive, prospective nature, involving 19 women undergoing treatment, that meet criteria for lifelong, situational FOD from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) was conducted in Murcia, Spain, from January 2022 to July 2023. Patients were 18 years or older, generally healthy as evidenced by medical history, were sexually active, in a current relationship of 3 months or longer, and participation was voluntary. Patients did not meet criteria for PTSD, psychosis or dissociative disorders, depression or bipolar disorders, were not pregnant or in menopause and did not use drugs known to interfere with sexual functioning. Main outcome measures were assessed using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) domain for orgasm at baseline and after 6 and 12 weeks, as well as the success rate of achieving orgasm during coital relations. Treatment consisted of an educational session where a vibrating device called Crescendo II® and its accompanying resource of different positions, Play Book was provided, along with instructions for using the device during coital relations. Results Patients had a mean age of 31.19 years (range 27–53). An improvement was observed in the average scores at six and twelve weeks in FSFI orgasmic domain, (mean pre = 1.62 (SD) = 0.42, mean post six weeks = 3.47 (SD) = 1.26, mean post twelve weeks = 3.43 (SD) = 1.25). The success rate (orgasm achievement during intercourse) at the end of the study was 90.47%. Conclusions This case series suggests that the use of a vibration device could be an effective and safe therapeutic option for female situational anorgasmia in addition to reducing the length and cost of treatment. Future research with experimental designs should confirm the clear potential of the use of these devices in treating FOD and clarify issues related to the most appropriate amplitude and frequency of vibration, as well as the possible long-term effects of using these types of vibration devices in patients. Disclosure Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Mysteryvibe.